Category: Australia

Coolest Australian Music Festivals in Autumn/Winter 2018

The summer might be over but that doesn’t mean that the party stops in the Land Down Under. Quite the contrary, with beautiful weather gracing the Aussie continent all year round (or most of the time), the opportunities are numerous for a festival road trip around the country. So pack your bags, round up your posse, and grab a free campervan because you’re going on a tour around Australia, experiencing the sights, sounds, and shivers of the best festivals Australia has to offer in the following months.

Wide Open Space, 4th to 6th of May

If dwelling into the heart of Australia was your dream, then you definitely shouldn’t miss this magical cultural experience taking place in NT this fall. The Wide Open Space Festival celebrates the beauty life itself, expressed through breathtaking natural vistas, various musical performers, uniquely Australian art, and timeless cultural heritage.

Accompanied by numerous workshops and panels, the three-day festival offers a comprehensive, engaging, and immersive experience that will cleanse your mind, liberate your soul, and allow you to let yourself go in the beauty of the present moment. So be sure to visit Ross River Resort, 80 kilometres outside Alice Springs this fall.

Groovin the Moo, April 27th to May 12th 

This one will take you across Australia, so get ready, as the festival takes place in Wayville (Adelaide), Maitland (outside Newcastle in NSW), Canberra, Bendigo (VIC), Townsville (QLD), and Bunbury (south of Perth). Groovin the Moo features national and international artists ranging in styles and genres, from R’n’B through electronic beats and house, to a mix of everything, so the festival has something for everyone. If you are looking to have an amazing time listening to the energetic, irresistible beats, don’t skip the festival’s headliners such Cosmo’s Midnight, Alex Lahey, Duke Dumont, and many more.

Big Pineapple Music Festival, 26th of May

Less than an hour and a half car ride north of Brisbane is Sunshine Coast, the host of a truly magical one-day camping even known as the Big Pineapple Music Festival, gathering artists from around the country and beyond. This is another one for all of you nature lovers out there looking to chillax in pristine tree-lined surroundings while listening to the innovative beats from numerous performers ranging from energetic and wild all the way to “chill, dude” type of laid-back. The friendly atmosphere radiating from performers and crowds alike will make you wish the day (and night) would never end.

Happy Daze Festival, 1st to 3rd of June

Defined as so much more than a music event, the Happy Daze Festival is a cultural experience celebrating art and mindful living. This is not just a place where you want to party all night long, this is the place where you also are to grow, learn, connect with yourself and others, and leave as a better earthling.

Along with numerous concerts, you can enjoy art installations, various mindful workshops, and a myriad of activities on a daily basis. Some of the headliners this year will be The Strides, Fat Picnic, Talpa, Mickey Space, and many more, so be sure to grab your tickets while they’re still available.

Splendour in the Grass, 20th to 22nd of July

Held in the North Byron Parklands, Splendour in the Grass is one of Australia’s biggest festivals and an established host of top-line performers hailing from across the globe. This is the festival you don’t want to miss this season, as some of the biggest stars in the music industry such as Kendrick Lamar and Lorde will be gracing the stage. But great music is not the only thing this world-renowned festival has to offer, as you can visit the science tent, enjoy a good laugh at the Splendour comedy club, and enjoy a myriad of other activities that will leave you yearning for more when the time comes to pack your bags!

When the summer ends, so does the partying, at least for the rest of the world – but not in the Land Down Under. Actually, the party is just about to begin, so be sure to grab your tickets in time, plan your route, and take a free transfer car in order to live out a cultural adventure of a lifetime across beautiful Australia.

 

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5 Top Hidden Beaches Around the Great Ocean Road

They are some world-famous beaches around the Great Ocean Road that shouldn’t be missed. Not only that there are some other beauties you must experience, such as the Twelve Apostles, the Otway Rainforest, and the beautiful beachside town of Lorne.

However, sometimes you want the chance to explore something a little bit different or unknown. We have put together some of our favourite hidden gems along the Great Ocean Road, that only the locals know about.

Milanesia Beach

Milanesia beach is a can be a little bit  difficult to reach, but it certainly worth the effort.  You need to walk 14 kilometres (8.6 miles) to reach this beautiful beach. Along the way, you pass through stunning farmlands and rugged cliffs that lead to the breath-taking views of this area. Our first time here we learnt that several dinosaur footprints were found in this area.

This hidden beach has a plethora of wildlife and wild plants to take in. It’s located near Blanket Bay, be sure to take the time to walk to Parker Inlet which is near Blanket Bay Road.

To find Milanesia Beach,  head southwest out  Lavers Hill Township. Keep an eye out for a sign indicating Milanesia beach, from the car pack you will find lots of signage all the way to the beach. Simply follow it too and discover this hidden beauty.

Parker Inlet

Parker Inlet is a unique little spot. It is where a freshwater river and a stunning bay meet. The inlet is sheltered in a hidden cove in-between Blanket Bay and Cape Otway light station. However, it can be quite a walk to it with some 300 steps.

Whenever we visited we found that it was only ever a few families and a new fly fisher there. This means you can swim in peace as well as explore the inlet. In spring you will find the entire inlet covered in wildflowers in bloom, which are a magnificent array of colours.

Parker River is often just a shallow and easily crossed stream. However, do be careful we have seen it run high and fast following heavy rains and high tides. So make sure check the weather forecast before you head out to this beach.

Rivernook Beach

If you want to head some quiet on the Great Ocean Road then this is our top pick. It has some of the best views of the coast. This beach is also famous for fishing. So you if you enjoy throwing in a line, head to the local shop, they have a huge array of bait. We also managed to catch some for dinner at Rivernook.

If you want to head to Rivernook Beach, head east on the Old Coach Road coming from Princeton. On this road, you will an find a path the veers off of the Great Ocean Walk that will take you to this spectacular secluded beach.
Station Beach

Although the locals are certainly well aware of Station Beach, only a few travellers have what it takes to reach this beautiful beach. To get there, you’ll need to go west from Cape Otway, you will hit a marked trail that will take you there. It’s about a 90-minute walk to this secluded beach, so make sure you take some snacks with you.

When you arrive at Station Beach, you’ll be able to see Rainbow Falls and explore the many rock ledges that can be found here. You can also search for hidden treasures and simply enjoy your time away from the busier beaches along the Great Ocean Road.

If you’ve got the time for the 90-minute walk it takes to get to this hidden gem. This beautiful beach is perfect for explorers and adventurers. Here, you will find Rainbow Falls, which features incredible rock ledges. Or, you can fossick for treasures that can be discovered in this scenic location.
Urquats Bluff Beach

This is another amazing hidden set of beaches around the Great Ocean Road. It’s so off the beaten path, in fact, that you’ll want to make sure you pack a lunch as they no vendors in this area.

Halfway arriving from Fairhaven, you’ll find the picturesque Urquhart Bluff. It sits on a stretch of coastline riddled with rugged reefs, eroding bluffs and limestone cliffs. You will see the bluffs rise 20m to 50m. There is a collection of 12 inviting beaches that have a wild vibe with their impressive headlands.

The first five beaches stretch out in an endless stretch of golden sands and turquoise waters.  It can be difficult to reach however there a car park at the bluff, or you can enter via the beach access tracks at the Point Road Knight end of the shoreline.
If you plan on heading to the Great Ocean Road (which you must) you will notice how busy it gets. Now you have some local knowledge on the hidden gems you have to seek out. Some are a little more difficult than others, but trust us, it worth the effort.

Brittnay is an Aussie and one half of the The Travelling House Sitters. She lived in London for the past two years before making the move to back to Melbourne. She managed to squeeze in 21 trips to Europe & Africa in that time (including lots of cheese, wine & beaches).  Find out where will Jay & Britt will end up next by following them at The Travelling House Sitters or on Instagram @thetravellinghousesitters.

Romantic Summer Getaways in South Australia

With summer finally here, couples across Aussie Land are setting the plans for their summer season escapades in motion. And so should you, if you want to rekindle the flame with your significant other and score some much-needed points in the game of long-term love and happiness.

Fortunately for you, Australia is second to none when it comes to romantic sightseeing and lodging opportunities, so all it takes is your soul mate and a free transfer car to make your journey a breeze. Let’s dive in!

Wallaroo and the Yorke Peninsula

Just a two-hour drive north from beautiful Adelaide, the small coastal town of Wallaroo and the iconic Yorke Peninsula await your adoration. And rightfully so. The quaint little workers’ town is home to numerous wonderful lodgings, restaurants and cafes, but where this place truly shines is its nearby beaches and two caravan parks with beachside cabins.

You can stay at the Beachhouse at Wallaroo overlooking the picture perfect view of the Spencer Gulf, from where you can explore the town or spend your days lounging about at the famous North Beach. Be sure to venture deeper into the Yorke Peninsula as well, as there will be numerous unique sightseeing opportunities waiting for you.

Port Elliot and the Fleurieu

image2 (1)This time an hour’s drive south from Adelaide, Port Elliot is one of those small towns that has managed to preserve its historic charm, and is just perfect for romantic getaways. You’ll have everything you need to make your intimate escapade a success: the quaint bookshops and cafes, the roiling waves crashing up against the golden beaches and, of course, the magnificent views.

Be sure to walk along the picturesque scenery of Horseshoe Bay, stopping by for a romantic nightcap at the Flying Fish Restaurant & Café overlooking the ocean. While at Port Elliot, don’t forget to take your car to some of the romantic nature getaways across the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Waikerie and the Murray

image3All right, this location is nowhere near the coast, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not a wonderful place to spend your summer escapade. In fact, its breathtaking riverside scenery overlooking the Murray River might just be the perfect place for lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life.

The Waikerie Hotel Motel is the place to stay if stellar service and beautiful accommodation is what you’re after. During your stay, you can visit the Hart, Ross, and Maize Island lagoons. Sailing up and down the Murray River is a must, as well.

Coffin Bay and the Eyre Peninsula

image4 (1)The Eyre Peninsula is home to many natural wonders and of course, Coffin Bay, a small town renowned for its fishing opportunities, but also for its neighbouring National Park that awaits your exploration and inevitable adoration. The national park is home to magnificent natural sceneries, entailing surf beaches, soaring cliffs, and coastal bushland. Coffin Bay town is famous for its oysters, so be sure to try out this famous aphrodisiac during your stay.

Semaphore in Adelaide

Image5 (1)Adelaide is a beautiful, thriving city with no shortage of excitement awaiting in the urban jungle. However, there is a place where you can go on a true summer getaway – the suburb of Semaphore. Located just twenty minutes from the heart of the city, the previously working class suburb has seen quite a few changes in recent years, with the scenery portraying a more cosmopolitan vibe imbued with life and vigour at every corner.

There are plenty of fine dining restaurants around, with beautiful lodgings at the Semaphore Blue Apartments overlooking St Vincent Gulf.

Robe and the Southeast

Image6Finally, Robe is a small town located in the Limestone Coast, not a four-hour drive south from Adelaide. Robe has managed to preserve its charm, yet with a sophisticated, upscale twist. This is the place where people go to pamper their loved ones and spend unforgettable moments staring at the sunset from the Harbour View Motel. The town itself is jam-packed with activities, from restaurants and cafes, to live shows and movie theatres.

As you can see, South Australia has a lot to offer during the summer season, especially if you’re looking to find your own peaceful place under the stars. Have you started packing yet?

 

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Exploring the Wonders of the Great Tropical Drive

Springtime is finally upon us and the time is better than ever to plan your very own escapade into the rich natural wonders of Australia. Fortunately, you are not left to dwell in the realm of uncertainty, as we’ll be taking you through some of the most magnificent drives, routes and destinations on this adventure.

Here are the wonders of the Great Tropical Drive you must work into your itinerary this season. Mind you, Queensland is a vast country, so you’ll need reliable transportation, as a free transfer car, to move around like we did. Let’s get down to it.

Great Barrier Reef Drive

Image1Your journey begins at Cairns and takes you up north along the bath of the coastal drive all the way to Port Douglas and the famous Great Barrier Reef. You’ll pass through some amazing places and gems of mother nature such as Trinity Beach, Palm Cove and the breathtaking Ellis Beach, with wonderful diving opportunities waiting for you at the Reef itself from Port Douglas.

Palm Cove to Port Douglas

Be sure to make a stop at Palm Cove on your exploration route to Port Douglas, and even spend the night in a charming, quaint environment overlooking the breathtaking golden beachside scenery and the Double Island. The Town is perfect for a romantic getaway and staying at the Palm Cove Tropic Apartments imposes itself as a logical choice to this end.

Port Douglas to Daintree Village

Image2Next stop on your adventure: the amazing Daintree Village. Here you’ll get the chance to learn about aboriginal culture of the Kuku Yalanji tribe who have preserved their history and identity to this very day. When heading to the Daintree National Park, be sure to stop at the freshwater swimming holes at Mossman Gorge.

Daintree Village to Cape Tribulation

Just a one-and-a-half hour drive to the north lies your next stop, Cape Tribulation, a remote coastal area within Daintree National Park. There are numerous activities waiting for you here, from boat tours to the Great Barrier Reef to trekking trails to Mount Sorrow. For those of you in need of a little adrenaline boost, be sure to head out to one of the numerous zip lining spots in the area.

Cooktown

Image3Heading further up north, you will find the quaint, stunning countryside surrounding the ever-charming Cooktown. From here, you can venture back through time into the colonial days and the ancient aboriginal cultures of the region, as well. Explore the town by visiting the statue of Captain James Cook, as well as the numerous historic buildings and museums where tales of different indigenous cultures await.

Tully to Mission Beach

The next part of the adventure will take you south to a small town of Tully, situated in the Cassowary Coast Region. Here you will have the chance to unpack for a while at Beds on Bryant, as you will be exploring the Mount Mackay National Park to the east, and the Tully National Park to the west, before heading out to greet the small town of Mission Beach and its magnificent beaches and lookouts.

Paluma

Image4Further down south lies the Paluma Range National Park, from where you will be able to visit the city of Townsville, and even spend a couple of days exploring the urban area. While at Paluma, be sure to visit the breathtaking sceneries of Jourama Falls, Crystal Creek and Lake Paluma itself.

Kirrama Range Road

Your last, and probably one of the most impressive destinations on this adventure, is the Blencoe Falls located in the Girrngun National Park, accessed via Kirrama Range Road. This is truly a unique wildlife experience, as you will be staying at the Blencoe Falls Camping Area, from where you can trek your way to the famous Blencoe Fall Lookout. Don’t forget your camera and your camping equipment (or even rent a free campervan, for that matter).

Springtime is the time to be travelling and exploring the vastness of the Great Tropical Drive. We have listed some of the spots on this immense route, but you are bound to make many other exciting discoveries along the way.   

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Visiting Northern Territory in Late 2017: A Family-friendly Guide

There is no shortage of adventure in the Land of Oz, and the Northern Territory is the perfect place to be this spring. In case you didn’t’ know, it is the driest season up North, making it the perfect time to visit what this amazing, scarcely populated wonderland has to offer.

And boy, does it have it all. It is the perfect place to take your entire family on a prolonged vacation, or even a weekend picnic, although one short trip is not enough to live out its wonders. Let me show you how to create lifetime memories in the vast regions of Australia’s Northern Territory.

Exploring Arnhem Land

Arnhem LandImbued with timeless Aboriginal culture and spanning over 97,000 square kilometres, Arnhem Land borders the famous Kakadu National Park in the northern region of NT. The untouched natural areas will allow you to spend the entire day trekking and exploring the magnificent wildlife regions, and even settle down in breathtaking wilderness lodges in the area. Although scarce, you can find accommodation if you book in advance, and then head out to popular fishing spots at Port Essington where you will be able to enjoy stunning sunsets and dine on freshly caught seafood.

Aboriginal Rock Art at Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National ParkKakadu National Park is home to untouched aboriginal art, where you will not only be able to learn about the vast cultural heritage of these native ancestors, but also explore the park’s breathtaking scenery portrayed by wetlands and high waterfalls.

Take a guided tour around the most notable aboriginal areas, learn about the natives’ art and cultural heritage, and don’t forget to visit the famous Gunwarddehwardde lookout, which provides impressive views of both Kakadu’s escarpment and Nourlangie Rock.

The Crocosaurus Cove

Crocosaurus CoveGet up close and personal with some of Australia’s most dangerous and magnificent reptiles at Crcosaurus Cove, in the heart of Darwin. When visiting the Top End and Darwin, there is no missing the thrill and adventure of swimming with crocodiles, taking pictures with baby reptiles and taking a tour of the reptile house among numerous other croc shows and displays. A true family treat.

For those feeling especially brave, you will have the opportunity to test your courage in the Cage of Death, Australia’s only crocodile dive, available for your kids as well, so make sure you bring your camera in order to create some hilarious family videos!

The Islands of Smiles

Tiwi IslandsThe Tiwi Islands offer a unique opportunity to venture off the coast of Australia to experience true Aboriginal artisanship at work and witness the rituals of the islands’ totem pole burial ceremonies. There is no better place to learn about the language and history of the island’s indigenous people, and the only way to get there is by taking a tour with Sealink Northern Territory or the Tiwi Design.

The two islands, Bathurst and Melville that make the Tiwi Islands, also known as Islands of Smiles, present the best opportunity to not only inspire a sense of appreciation for the Aboriginal art in your kids, but to also ravel in the majestic and almost fairy-tale like scenery of the region.

Ride the Uluru Camel Tour

CamelsLocated near the south border of the Northern Territory lies the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, a small sanctuary and a truly spiritual place made easily accessible by carparks and roads that lead to the summit. The best experience comes on camelback though, as you can take a guided tour around the park riding friendly camels and learning about these magnificent creatures and the history of the national park itself along the way.

The Northern Territory is vast and although you could organize alternative forms of transportation, getting a free car or campervan is by far the cheapest way to navigate the region with ease. Be sure to hit up the region during the winter months to experience it in all of its glory and create lifelong memories imbued with the true spirit of Australia.

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Arnhem Land

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Crocosaurus Cove

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South-Western Australia: Spring Campervan Explorations

Taking a road trip to Western Australia is a grand feat on its own, and it’s best to take tackle it one region at a time, as you wouldn’t want to quit your job to spend a year or two constantly on the road. Yes, WA is too vast to be challenged all at once, but luckily there are more than plenty of adventures waiting for you in the southwest region. In fact, the region is so vast and intricate, it’s best to get a free campervan in order to navigate the destinations quickly and with ease. Here are the most breathtaking places to explore in south-western Australia this spring.

Fitzgerald River National Park

Fitzgerald RiverThe oncoming spring makes the perfect setting to get away from the hectic nature of the big cities and imbue your mind, body and soul with the wonders of nature. And your first stop is the Fitzgerald River National Park.

This national park is one of the most significant natural reserves in Australia, a home to nearly 20% of Western Australia’s flora species, many of which thrive only within its boundaries. It is one the largest and most botanically significant national parks in Australia.

Proceed down to Albany

AlbanyAlbany is a small coastal town located to the west of Fitzgerald River Park and is the cultural, natural and gourmet centre of the region. While springtime is best spent exploring the great outdoors, you shouldn’t skip a trip to this vibrant city, where you will be able to take a breather, visit its landmarks and enjoy its art scene, taking a tour at the Albany Entertainment Centre and a stroll down its charming Boatshed Markets.

Be sure to stay at the Albany Camping and Fishing grounds to maintain your connection with the great outdoors, right at the city’s doorstep. Before continuing you road trip adventure, you can dine out at some of the most charming restaurants in the city.

Go up to Lake Magenta

Recherche ArchipelagoLocated no more than three hours to the north lies a little piece of heaven called Lake Magenta Nature Reserve. The nature reserve is a wildlife sanctuary worth visiting on your tour down South Australia, and you can take the Chester Pass Rd from Albany to the outskirts of the reserve where you can camp at Lake Magenta and explore its unique beauty on foot.

Follow the path to Frank Hann

Frenchman PeakAfter you’ve revelled in its beauty for a while, it’s time to get back on the road towards Frank Hann National Park. You can take the Newdegate Ravensthorpe Rd through the magnificent Lake King Nature Reserve and then continue down the road bearing the King’s name towards the national park.

Once there, you can lower your anchor and spend a few days exploring its natural wonders, although keep in mind that the entire region is untouched Aussie nature, and if you want to spend more than a day there, you will need to bring the necessary amenities with you. Be sure to bring plenty of water, solar chargers and fuel so as not end up stranded.

Make Cape le Grand your Final Stop

Lucky Bay
Lucky Bay

You want to end your road trip with a bang, and what better way to finish an adventure down under than by exploring a heavenly beach devoid of human life forms and filled with breathtaking nature and marine life.

Bear in mind, although you will be able to find a secluded piece of heaven just for you, Cape le Grand is a popular destination, and you will also have the opportunity to enjoy beach sports, organized camping and surfing, and hiking up to Frenchman Peak. That is of course, if you remembered to pack the best hiking pants for men along with some serious boots. Once there, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the park and islands in the Recherche Archipelago.

Taking a campervan road trip in the southwest of Australia will give you a chance to properly explore all of its natural wonders and cherish the experience for years to come. You should see this roadmap as an inspiration, as I’m sure you’ll discover plenty of other hidden treasures along the way.

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Fitzgerald River

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