The Land Down Under is certainly filled with amazing destinations. In fact, the country is so vast that many of the best locations have slipped through the cracks when it comes to attracting visitors. If you’re planning a road trip around this great nation, here are some of the most underrated sites that Australia has to offer. While you will probably have your heart set on visiting places like Sydney, Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef, at least try and fit in some of these lesser-known locations. They offer much in the way of nature, culture and beauty without the tourist crowds.
The Grampians, VIC
About three and a half hours from Melbourne, this spectacular mountain range offers plenty for the avid nature lover. Well-known amongst the locals, international visitors should certainly put time in for a visit to enjoy the area’s:
- Scenic lookouts
- Bushwalking trails
- Plentiful wildlife
- Beautiful wildflowers
Situated amongst this amazing landscape are plenty of fine restaurants and camp grounds. A trip to The Grampians in your campervan will expose you to stunning scenery, fine dining, and the warm hospitality we’ve all come to expect from the Australian people.
Hinchinbrook Island, QLD
Covering 399 square kilometres, this is Australia’s largest island national park. It can be reached as a daytrip from the coastal town of Cardwell, and boasts plenty for the outdoor enthusiast. With walking trails, isolated stretches of sand, and numerous waterfalls, there is plenty to see and do on the island. Those looking for a longer stay there can park their motorhomes in Cardwell and camp out on the island instead. Just be sure to book in advance as some treks are restricted to a certain number of hikers.
Wilpena Pound, SA
Found in The Flinders Ranges, about 400 km from Adelaide, Wilpena Pound is a massive mountain amphitheatre that has to be seen to be believed. Getting there requires some good quality campervan hire in Australia as it is quite a trek. The distance is well worth it though, as the landscapes here cannot be replicated elsewhere. As well as bushwalking, the area also boasts 4WD tours and scenic air flights. Visitors can also learn about the culture of the local Aboriginal people who have been there for tens of thousands of years.
Karijini National Park, WA
For those looking for somewhere spectacular that’s really off the beaten track, pay a visit to Karijini National Park. Found 1,400 km north of Perth (a two or three day drive), getting there is half the adventure. Once you’re there though, you’ll gain access to a host of sights and activities including:
- Bushwalks (beginner to expert)
- Landscape & wildlife photography
- Swimming in the creeks & waterholes
One of the highlights of the region is the many gorges that criss-cross the area. Not only do these offer amazing natural surroundings, they are also quite pleasant when it comes to taking a dip.
Whites Beach, NSW
Although Whites Beach is found close to Byron Bay, a major travellers’ destination, it is still relatively unknown when it comes to package tourists. Visitors need to park their campervan and walk a few hundred metres to this secluded seaside location. Whether you’re looking for a great place to go swimming away from the crowds or simply want a quiet place to sunbathe, this is the destination for you. When planning your next road trip, adding Whites Beach to your itinerary is a smart idea.
Of course, we can’t cover all of the underrated locations that Australia has to offer. This should give you a good idea of what’s out there when it comes to enhancing your next Aussie journey however.
About the Author: Kate Powell is a freelance writer from Travel Car Centre, a reputable provider of campervan hire in Australia. They have a wide range of vehicles that include hatchbacks and 4x4s.
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