OUR SEVEN BEST
Our seven best Aussie hotspots
Add these Australian destinations to your 2026 travel plans.
01 Atherton Tablelands
Queensland
The Atherton Tablelands in the Cairns hinterland is a region of stunning natural beauty. See picture-perfect waterfalls tumble through lush rainforest and take a refreshing dip in water-filled volcanic craters. Soar high above the trees on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, and ride the rails from the coast to the hilltop village of Kuranda aboard the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway.
02 Armidale
New South Wales
Armidale in NSW’s New England region is Australia’s highest city. Renowned for its autumnal splashes of colour, the city has an abundance of parks and gardens. Hikers can explore the mountain trails and precipitous gorges in the nearby Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, which is part of the Gondwana Rainforests UNESCO World Heritage area.
03 Canberra
Australian Capital Territory
A destination often overlooked in favour of the nearby snow country or Sydney, our nation’s capital hosts a fascinating collection of museums, galleries and public buildings. The Australian War Memorial is both a museum and a tribute to the many men and women who gave their lives serving the country. Visit Parliament House during question time to see democracy at its most energetic, and view more than 155,000 works of art at the National Gallery.
04 Launceston
Tasmania
Visitors to Launceston are drawn to dramatic Cataract Gorge, a mix of wilderness and gardens just a short drive from town. Take in gorge views from Alexandra Suspension Bridge or the scenic chairlift. Foodies can dine at the top-notch eateries that helped Launceston achieve a UNESCO City of Gastronomy listing.
05 Tiwi Islands
Northern Territory
Rich in Indigenous culture, Bathurst and Melville islands are hotspots for art, pottery, wood carvings and colourful textiles. Breathtaking coastal views and fiery sunsets are popular drawcards, and fishing tours keep the holiday lodges busy with anglers chasing barramundi, giant trevally and queenfish.
06 Albany
Western Australia
Picturesquely located on WA’s south coast, Albany is known for its well-preserved, 19th century architecture and spectacular coastal scenery. Despite its unfortunate moniker, Misery Beach in nearby Torndirrup National Park was named Tourism Australia’s best beach in 2022.
07 Mildura
Victoria
On the banks of the Murray River, Mildura is the centre of a major horticultural region and home to citrus orchards, extensive vineyards and several cellar doors. In the evening, head to Lock Island to follow artist Bruce Munro’s ethereal Trail of Lights installation. The weathered moonscape of Mungo National Park – a 90-minute drive north-east of town on an unsealed road – has revealed evidence of Indigenous culture dating back more than 40,000 years.
IMAGES: Getty, Tourism Australia.
