Time for a tipple or two and adventures in the Barossa Valley. Pic: Cameron Bloom (supplied by SATC).
Are you feeling the winter blues and want to escape for a little while? The great thing about Australia is the landscape is so vast and versatile, there are Aussie winter adventures to suit every traveller. You could go for a trip to the snow, rug up beside a fireplace and indulge in top drops. You could even escape the cold altogether and head north for the tropical islands.
Hire a vehicle from your nearest capital city and embark on one of these top Aussie winter adventures.
Thredbo
Southeastern Australia’s Snowy Mountains are paradise for anyone who loves the snow. Enjoy the fresh winter air while zipping through the country’s longest ski runs. The ski resort attracts thousands of daring skiers and snowboarders every year. Another good thing about making Thredbo as your winter snow destination, is you can admire panoramic views from Australia’s highest mountain as you ride up the Kosciuszko Express chairlift.
Broome
Leave winter behind and venture north for a warm winter holiday. This coastal town in Western Australia has a lot of charm. From sunrise to sunset you can enjoy gorgeous scenery of one of Australia’s best beaches, Cable Beach. It’s also the gateway to the scenic Kimberly region. You won’t believe it’s winter back home as you explore pristine waterfalls and gorges.
Central Australia
Whenever people think of outback Australia they think scorching heat, non-stop flies and an air conditioner running all day. This may be the case during the summer months, but many people don’t realise winter in Central Australia can actually get quite cool at night, but still pleasant during the day. It makes it a great time of year to do outdoor hiking activities around Alice Springs and Uluru.
Barossa Valley
Rug up in your winter woollies and head for the Barossa Valley. It’s only an hour northeast of Adelaide, which makes it the perfect weekend getaway destination. It’s a particularly nice place to spend a weekend in winter, sipping wine, nibbling on cheese and sampling great winter dishes. Plonk yourself next to a roaring fire and you’re all set for a blissful weekend of relaxation.
Hepburn Springs
Treat yourself to the ‘healing waters’ of historic Hepburn Springs. Drive an hour and a half northwest of Melbourne so you can rest and rejuvenate with natural relaxation techniques. The town is home to Australia’s largest concentration of mineral springs, which are said to be good for your health. Indulge in a massage or take a session at a local spa and wellness centre. It’s just what you need to rid yourself of the winter blues!
BRIANNA PIAZZA
