Top 5 Australian Winter Sun Holiday Destinations

Over the past few years, travelling has gotten more and more advanced. You book your flights online. You choose your destinations from the thousands available. More and more people are now looking for unusual destinations because travelling to far off places isn’t the hard part anymore. Also, many tourists like to travel to places which aren’t the usual travelling destinations. On an average Europe, Americas, Caribbean and Mediterranean are the tourist hotspots, but now tourists love to venture to far off destinations.

Australia is one such destination that if you are a tourist looking for the perfect holiday destination, then Australia is the perfect country for you. Just bear in mind that if you’re headed to Melbourne, Sydney or Perth, it’ll be winters. If you think that Australia has much less to offer than the other continents, you need to go there and look at it yourself. Queenland’s Gold Coast will spoil you completely.

The Gold Coast boasts beaches with five star hotels, beach side apartments, miles and miles of the greenest golf courses. With temperatures ranging from 9-21 degrees, even the mildly cold weather won’t be able to keep you inside for long. Popularly known as Australia’s favourite playground, the Gold Coast would be far from a disappointment.

Darwin, perched on a peninsula, is another spectacular destination. It’s the capital of the Northern Territory. If you’re in mood for some adventures, then book your flight right now. Darwin has a large harbour, twice the size of Sydney. Crocodiles, snakes and the trademark red earth are all there in surroundings of Australia. This would be your time to check out the iconic natural wonders of the great country.

If you are a history buff, then you can check out Darwin’s World War II history at the preserved sites including the ammunition bunkers, oil tunnels and air strips.

Cairns is a winter sun playground in the far north of Queensland. Full of different tours, activities and attractions, Cairns is one place you’ll never get bored of. Just like the typical north Queensland, Cairns has a balmy temperature and low rainfall. Your tour to Cairns will not be complete without a tour to the Great Barrier Reef or the Daintree Rainforest.

The Whitney Islands are a group of 74 lush green islands. The temperature hovers between 17 -26 degrees even in winters. The 10 deluxe resorts on eight of its islands, Whitney Islands will not let the tourists get bored. You can spend your day doing water sports or scuba diving, or better yet, go for a hike in Whitney’s deep and lush forests.

The climate of Broome does not feature summer or winter. It’s simple there, either wet season or the dry season. While in Broome, don’t forget to explore the amazing Kimberly Region, Mitchell Falls, and the Bungle Bungles, which are just some of the highlights of the great Western Australia. If you’re in Broome, a must-see sight is the Staircase to the Moon. On a cloudless night, you can see the reflection of the moon in the mud flats which makes it look like a stairway.

By: David R Hughes

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There is always time for a little reflection be it from the sun or sea or our interesting history…..

Strolling around Port Douglas today it is hard to imagine that it was once a wild frontier town filled with itinerant seamen and gold prospectors. The sleepy little village which still remembers its roaring days is now filled with cosmopolitan cafes, boutiques and well-heeled shoppers who insist on paying a visit to as many of Port’s famous restaurants and fashionable stores as possible.

There is a definite unreality and aloofness about Port Douglas these days, but is that not the ideal escape for the tourists’ otherwise dreary life in the big smoke.

Situated only 60 odd kms north of Cairns, Port Douglas was first established in 1877 when Christie Palmerston cut a road through the rainforest and down the mountain range.Born as Cristofero Palmerston Carandini in Victoria, Palmerston was one of those iconic characters who occupy the fascinating early history of the then undiscovered Far North Queensland, Australia.

Allegedly Palmerston headed for Far North Queensland in 1873 to join the Palmer River gold rush. However his fame came to him with the Hodgkinson River goldrush, when the track he cut from those goldfields to Port Douglas was his first.

Palmerston’s track was known affectionately as ‘The Bump’.

In the early days the settlement at Port Douglas was known as Island Point, Terrigal, Port Owen and Salisbury.

With the latter title derived from Lord Salisbury, the British Prime Minister at the time, this name went by the way after a visit by government officials who changed the town’s name in honour of the then Queensland Premier – John Douglas.

An amazing collection of historic photographs can be viewed at both The Newport on Macrossan and with cocktail in hand at the restored Court House Hotel on the corner of Macrossan Street and Wharf Street. See a taste of the history of Port Douglas.

Dive north this October for a little reflection in Port Douglas before the big wet

season which is due to arrive anytime between December 2005 through to March 2006.

Within weeks of its establishment the town was booming. There were an estimated 50 tent pubs, a bakery, a general store and rough accommodation. People poured in on their way to the diggings. By mid-1878 there were 21 permanent hotels and a local newspaper, the town had been surveyed, lots of land were for sale, and the mail was being delivered from Port Douglas to Thornborough on the goldfields. Early the following decade the town had a population of 8000 and had overtaken Cairns as the most important port on the north Queensland coast.

Just like its rise Port’s decline was rapid. The gold started to run around 1886 and the miners moved on to Papua and New Guinea.

Port Douglas, however, remained the port for the sugar mill at Mossman until 1958.

Today the sugar cane comprises a shrinking part of the district.

The majority of the land has been or is in the process of being subdivided to make way for the demand in “lifestyle blocks” and residential housing. Recently released to the market is the land at Cooya Beach aptly named “Cane”. With prices starting at $115,750 these property allotments could be referred to as – never to be seen again prices!!

By: Patrick Belcher

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What is a Sydney holiday without sightseeing? You definitely have to take in the many beautiful sights that every visitor to Sydney should not miss out on. There are a number of sights that people will recommend you see since these sights are synonymous with Sydney and its popularity as a tourist destination. Among the sights you should not miss are the famous Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour, and the Rocks.

The Sydney Opera House is the premiere sightseeing destination that you often see on Sydney Australia postcards and even on those for Australia in general. The massive building that was finished in 1973 has seen millions of visitors come and go through its walls and has seen countless outstanding performances presented in it as well. You can take a guided tour of the structure or explore it as you will.

Sydney Harbour is not exactly a place you just go to but more of something that should be explored. Take a cruise along the Harbour and see the numerous sights that are found along the usual cruise routes. These routes often include a view of the Opera House from the water and the Harbour Bridge.

The Rocks is more than just a place to visit but is a place with many sights to take in on your Sydney holiday. The sights you can take in here include the Sussanah Place, the Military Museum, Cadman’s Cottage, and a lot of other museums. The Rocks is a pretty historic place to visit so prepare to absorb the past of Sydney as you walk through its pebbled streets. Don’t forget to bring your camera.

Beaches, Beaches, and More Beaches

Since Sydney is a city found near the water, it is not surprising for you to want to check out the beaches here. There are a few popular beaches that both the locals and visitors frequent. There is Bondi beach that is considered a surfer’s paradise. Rolling waves and high tides make it an ideal destination for those who enjoy the thrilling sport. For those who do not surf, the boardwalk is just as enjoyable a place for them to visit with its many attractions.

Other beaches that you might find near your Sydney accommodation include Brighton Beach, Manly Beach, and Newport Beach. Each beach has its own charming set-up for picnics, barbecues, and water sports. There are also playgrounds for your children to enjoy, as well as shops to buy knick-knacks and souvenirs from. Be sure to hit any of these lovely shores before you say goodbye to lovely Sydney, Australia.

Where to Find Good Food

No holiday is complete without your trying out the local cuisine, and a Sydney holiday is no exception. Check out the many delicacies and palate-tempting offerings that some of the more popular restaurants in the city have to offer. Some of the best restaurants may be just a short distance from your Sydney accommodation, like the Catalina, which is found in Lyne Park, or the Quay Restaurant, which offers diners a splendid view of the Harbour as well as the Opera House. Each restaurant features a different kind of menu for discerning tastes, with seafood being one of the best sellers here.

By: Beverly Maniago

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From Kakadu National Park to Darwin extends an area known as the ‘top end’ of Australia. It is where warm weather, stunning contrasting outback terrain and delicate vegetation and unique fauna merge, to provide an eco-system vacant of modern society, making it another of the great places to stay in Australia.

Water-lilies drift on billabongs, flocks of magpie geese and cockatoos hang suspended in thermal currents, with caves and rock faces embellished in ancient aboriginal art becoming artefacts from an age passed.

Kakadu – owned by the Aboriginal people – covers approximately 20,000 square kilometres of some of Australia’s most untamed and alluring wilderness. Scattered with rainforest alcoves, forest swamps and dwarf scrubland, Kakadu is home to some of Australia’s most exclusive and rare animal species. However, caution must be taken when exploring this magnificent expanse because the crocodiles that also live here are occasionally prone to chewing on the odd foolish tourist who doesn’t follow their tour guide’s safety instructions!

Ignorant Tourists beware!

Climate ranges from about 19 degrees celsius in July (dry-season) and up to a maximum of about 30 degrees, with a minimum of 25 degrees in January (wet-season) and up to 32 degrees maximum.

Two of the easiest-to-get-to rock-art sites are Ubirr and Nourlangie Rock, with many of the paintings being over 60,000 years old. Luxury travel in the top end is via 4WD with some of the most stunning sites to be seen by pre-arranged and guided safari tours.

Several of the more well known ones are:

Guliyambi East Alligator River Cruises – which show the stark contrast of the landscape and denotes the scenic river setting Magela Cultural and Heritage Tour – which journeys across isolated and restricted areas and allows you to experience aboriginal culture at its rawest Dreamtime Safaris – Stay with the Tablon tribe as they demonstrate their way of life in an exclusive luxury camp setting which provides alternative accommodation

Should you be a collector of rare Aboriginal art, then several art galleries that you can not afford to miss while in Darwin are Aboriginal Fine Arts, Cultural Images, Ampiji, and Indigenous Creations, while Kakadu has The Marrwuddi Gallery and Warradjan Cultural Centre.

Luxury accommodation in the top end includes a tree-top wilderness retreat in the tropical rainforests on the shore of Seven Spirit Bay and the beachside resort of Skycity in Darwin.

Simply Lush (www.simplylush.com) can direct you to either of these spots, and others still, with the click of a button.

By: James Lush

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Tasmania is an island off the South Eastern coast of Australia, separated from the main land by the Bass Strait. Tasmania is the name of the island as well as being one of the seven Australian states. Sometimes referred to as the Natural State, or the Island of Inspiration, almost 40 percent of Tasmania’s land is preserved as a World Heritage Listed area. This temperate island paradise boasts 20 national parks, and the mild sunny climate makes this a prosperous region for making fine foods and wine.

The capitol of Tasmania is Australia’s second oldest city, Hobart. With the River Derwent running through it and Mount Wellington just behind, Hobart does not lack charm and beauty. Many of the historic colonial houses and buildings in Hobart have been preserved, and are now used as restaurants, art studios, cafes and boutique hotels.

Some of the most popular attractions in Hobart include:

• Bonorong Wildlife Center offers visitors the chance to interact with native animals, including koalas, Tasmanian devils, kangaroos, emus and wombats. Open year round, except for national holidays. Tours run twice daily.

• Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens are located near the city center and are home to historic plant collections and a large number of significant trees, some dating back to the nineteenth century. Open year round except for Christmas day and Good Friday. Admission is free!

• Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is a great place to find out about Tasmania’s history, including its Aboriginal heritage. Also features traveling art exhibits. Open year round. Admission is free!

• Salamanca Place is Hobart’s entertainment hotspot, offering a wide variety of shopping, restaurants, galleries, pubs and nightlife. It is home to the famous Salamanca Market, which is open every Saturday.

• Kayak tours are one of the best, and perhaps most interesting way to see Hobart. Dozens of tour companies offer these tours year round. Most are about 2 hours long.

• Walking tours can be a fun way to see this scenic city. There are many different tour options available, one to suit just about everyone, including historic tours, coastal walks, treasure hunts and ghost tours.

Mount Wellington stands right behind the city of Hobart. When it is not covered in snow, there are many walking trails to explore its heavily forested slopes. Near the top is an enclosed look out which provides spectacular views of the city below.

Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs are located approximately 80 miles south of Hobart. The richly decorated cave is one of the few caves in Australia formed by dolomite. It began forming over 40 million years ago. Admission to the Cave Tour also includes use of the thermal spring pools, changing rooms, hot showers and barbeques for the day. Open year round.

Port Arthur Historic Site is the best preserved convict settlement in Australia. Every feature of this historic site has a story to tell. Besides the historic buildings, Port Arthur also features magnificent gardens, guided tours and a restaurant and café. It is open every day of the year, except Christmas.

The Cradle Mountain – Lake St. Claire National Park is one of the most popular and beautiful natural areas in Tasmania. The park contains a network of walking trails and paths, many of them leading to lookout points with breathtaking views below. There are many picnic areas complete with barbeques throughout the park.

Vineyards and Wineries. Tasmania has over 60 vineyards and wineries, spanning over seven wine regions, mainly on the east side of the state. The wines produced in Tasmania include Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling and Pinot Noir, just to name a few. Many of the wineries offer tours and free wine tastings.

Look for our series of articles on the six other states of Australia including Victoria, New South Wales, Northern Territory, South Australia, Western Australia and Queensland.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your dream vacation to Australia!

By: Trisha Garbrick

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Are you thinking about having your family vacation in the great Outback? If so, you probably will want to learn about some of the kid-friendly hotels in the area. After all, when traveling with the kids, you have to make sure they are not only safe and secure, but also having a good time. In order to select suitable hotels in Sydney, Australia for children, it is important to inquire about specific amenities set especially aside for kids and teenagers.

You’ll find that there are plenty of programs at an assortment of hotels in Sydney that are geared specifically towards the younger set. The best hotels that will really keep the kids happy will offer libraries, supervised activities, sports, specialized tours, and outdoor adventures. If you and your spouse want to have some time to yourselves, it is equally important to find out which Sydney hotels offer facilities for children or on-site babysitting services.

So which hotels in Sydney have the best rates, the most entertaining activities, the kid-friendly meals, and the easiest access to interesting sites such as the Sydney Aquarium or the Taronga Zoo? To get you started, here’s a list of some accommodations:

Four Seasons Sydney: If you want historic surroundings and more child activities than you can shake a stick at, try the Four Seasons Sydney. They also have fun day trips and friendly babysitting services.

Intercontinental Sydney: As far as Sydney Australia hotels are concerned, when you’re located right next to the Royal Botanic Gardens, it doesn’t get much better for a wide-eyed kid in a new world. The inside of the hotel offers three different restaurants and a heated indoor swimming pool that lets children play “Marco Polo” until the sun sets on the breathtaking views of the Sydney Harbour.

Rydges Cronulla Sydney: Lots of exciting attractions are close at hand if you stay in this hotel, including the Royal National Part, Captain Cook’s landing at Kurnell, and Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Arts Centre Sydney Tramway Museum. On top of that, you’ll have lots of opportunities to go diving, surfing, and swimming in the waves.

But wait, there’s more.

By: Jessica P

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The Glass House Mountains and the spectacular countryside aren’t the only attractions of a Sunshine Coast holiday just north of Brisbane, Australia. Another viewing adventure is nearby. Just off the coast in the crystal blue Pacific waters another adventure awaits. Every year from June to November more than 9000 humpback whales make the journey northward from Antarctica and winter in the warm waters off Queensland.

Getting to see a humpback whale is one of nature’s most amazing experiences. These creatures are giants. Humpbacks are the world’s fifth largest whale, and they are beautiful to behold. The humpback whale can be nearly seven times the size of an African elephant. But he humpbacks aren’t content to merely allow you to watch them. Humpbacks like to entertain their fans. You can see and hear a fascinating show. Whales have as many as 40 different tones, and while you’re listening to the symphony you can watch them soar out of the water before crashing back and diving below, leaving turbulent seas in their wake.

Researchers studying the humpback whale have learned that the whales have a complex method of communication, and some scientists even believe they have a level of intelligence on par with that of humans. Evidence of this can be seen as well has heard, particularly in the care mothers give to their young. Some of these wondrous sites unfold so close it seems just an arm’s length away. Imagine being so close to a whale blow that you can feel the spray. Imagine being able to look into the eyes of such a massive and magnificent creature.

Humpback whales may have the lead roles in the show, but they aren’t the only performers. Dolphins are also stars of the pageant, and they are not at all shy. Imagine seeing a whale interacting with a group of dolphins. Sharks and turtles often make more than a mere cameo appearance, and this fantastic aquatic cabaret unfolds in the Sunshine Coast’s brilliant waters – waters warm enough for swimming year round.

Another type of whale can also be spotted taking a Sunshine Coast holiday and presents a rare treat. Those embarking on humpback whale watching tours occasionally see white whales. These beautiful creatures are unforgettable. Yet as magical as an appearance of a white whale may seem, nothing can upstage the humpbacks themselves.

Whale watching wasn’t always the main interaction between humans and whales. In fact, only in recent years has whale watching become a popular activity. As recently as the 1960s whales were slaughtered by the thousands. The whales seem to understand that times have changed, and they are becoming more and more accustomed to the sight of adoring fans in whale watching boats. Whereas once the whales once might have fled oncoming vessels, they now seem attracted to the boats full of adoring fans.

Before venturing out into the azure blue waters on your Sunshine Coast holiday,it’s best to plan ahead. Whale watching is becoming more and more popular every season, and the tours fill quickly. You don’t want to miss this grand opportunity.

By: Roger Laganin

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Sydney is one of the most beautiful harbor cities in the world and has truly developed to accommodate international travelers from across the globe. It is a cosmopolitan city that has managed to retain the charm of its historic past.

The contemporary structures of the Sydney Harbor Bridge, the expanse of the Darling Harbor and the sheer magnificence of Sydney Opera House are complemented by the cobbled streets of The Rock’s District which is the historical part of Sydney.

Sightseeing in Sydney

On your visit to Sydney you will truly be amazed by the options available for indulging in outdoor activity or enjoying the cosmopolitan culture offered by the city. You can climb to the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge or take the tour of the Sydney Opera House, and even enjoy a recital at the Opera House.

If you are the adventurous kind you can surf at Bondi Beach with the experts, or visit the koalas in the Taronga Park Zoo and cuddle them! Whatever your plan, Sydney has bridges, ballet and beaches where you are sure to enjoy your time and make lifetime memories during your trip to Sydney.

Accommodation Options

After a day spent exploring the historical sites or the contemporary architecture and beaches in Sydney you can relax in the comfort of your spacious apartment and perhaps prepare a wholesome meal to enjoy in the comfort of your room.

There are a variety of highly equipped serviced apartments scattered around the city of Sydney allowing you to choose one in the neighborhood that you would like to reside in during your short stay in the country. Whether you are businessman, tourists or relocating to the country to start a new job or educational pursuit, apartments in Sydney offer a better option for living as they are cheaper than a room in Sydney hotels. Also, they offer facilities like weekly housekeeping, linen change and laundry for a fraction of the cost in hotels.

You can have safety, comfort, privacy and also control your expenses by living in Sydney serviced apartments. The entire apartment functions as an independent unit and you can enjoy the equipment available in the premises, unlike hotel rooms which have limited items and options and are quite costly.

Accommodations in Sydney are managed by a trained staff who aim to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Most of the concierge in the serviced apartment are locals and are trained to help out-of-towners to make the most of their trip to Sydney.

Sydney is not an economical city to reside in and especially if you are with the family or business group. Serviced apartments can be the ideal solution to your accommodation needs, as you can use the facilities of the in-house business center, fitness center, gymnasium and swimming pool.

Furthermore, if you want to conduct meetings you do not need to hire meeting rooms as you would in a hotel in Sydney. Instead you can conduct meetings in the privacy of your apartment for as long as you require. Your family would also appreciate the comfort of a home away from home.

By: Brad Alson

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Leaving Barkly Homestead Roadhouse behind, we are heading towards The Three Ways Roadhouse, where the Barkly and Stuart Highways meet in the Northern Territory. It is a drive of 180kms.

It is extremely hot with temperatures soaring to 43 degrees and as our Mazda T3500 bus does not have air-conditioning, we are suffering. The best time to travel in this area is through the winter months from April to September. October to April is hot and wet and creeks and rivers can rise suddenly, causing flash floods.

It would be wise to never attempt to cross through this water unless you are familiar with the depth and flow, and are confident of the road surface being in good condition. Assume nothing to travel safely.

We are travelling in late November as we have a house-sit to get to in Alice Springs. As my hubby and I love travelling and house-sitting, combining the two is great.

Yet another road train is passing us. A prime mover can be 53.5 mtres, carry about 115.5 tonnes of freight, with up to four trailers long. Driving the bus and towing our 18ft caravan means we sit at a steady pace of 80-100kms, but the speed limit is set at 130km/hr on the Barkly and Stuart Highways. Rural roads are designated 110km/hr unless otherwise signposted. As the bitumen roads are fairly wide, it is best to stay on them when passing a truck.

However, travellers should drive at a speed that suits the vehicle, road, weather conditions and their own driving experience. When driving on unsealed roads, sudden rainfall can quickly change the conditions and both sealed and dirt roads can be cut. Be prepared with extra food, water and essential spare parts when travelling in remote areas. We have a mobile phone with a tall antenna mounted on the caravan and a UHF radio in the bus for communications.

We arrive at the intersection and turn right for about 50mtres where The Three Ways Roadhouse sits. You can either head north to Darwin (962kms) or south to Alice Springs (533kms).

Our next stop is Tennant Creek, which is 25kms south. We find the Battery Hill Mining Centre 1.5kms east of town along Peko Road. This underground mine has working machinery, lighting and displays, and authentic sounds which instilled in us the spirit of the early gold miners. Ray, our very informative host, gives us a fantastic tour while being entertaining with all his life long experiences as a hard working miner in an underground gold mine.

Battery Hill is also the Tennant Creek Visitor Information Centre so find out more information on the area by talking to the staff. Be sure to ask directions to the award winning Nyinkka Nyurnyu Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Some of the staff are Aboriginal, so should be able to pronounce it for you.

Here you can meet local Warumungu people and listen to their stories. The gallery features ever changing exhibitions and presents marvellous insights of contempory Aboriginal life, history, cultural activities and art. We see outstanding interpretive displays demonstrating the Warumungu relationship with the land, family, bush resources and bush tucker.

We travel another 130kms south, and call into the icon of the Barkly, Karlu Karlu known as the Devil’s Marbles, which are 10 minutes north of Wycliffe Well Holiday Park. The Devil’s Marbles are amazing and I am happy to take lots of photos. After driving around a short loop, we come back to the Stuart Highway.

Wycliffe Well Holiday Park is very different and unusual with murals everywhere throughout their caravan park. What delights us most is the peaceful bush setting, and the very friendly couple who manage the park.

It is also known as the ‘UFO Capital of Australia’, due to so many sightings of strange lights and crafts. After a Chinese meal in the cafe, cooked by a Chinese couple, we eagerly read the UFO newspaper clippings that cover the walls. Scattered throughout the park are statues of The Hulk, Elvis Presley and The Phantom. Very unusual.

There are about a dozen Aboriginal people congregated outside the store, as their community store was broken into last night and it is shut for repairs. They have driven to Wycliffe Well Holiday Park to buy their supplies. Unfortunately, one of them is very drunk and is politely refused any more alcohol. He retreats outside and revs his car loudly after getting it bogged in heavy sand in the nearby river bed. Not surprisingly, the motor blows up.

A beautiful morning to wake up to and we wander along the train tracks to the recreation lake that is home to several ducks and geese. Train tracks? Yes,the park owner has installed a small train to entertain the visitors with during the tourist season.

We say goodbye to the friendly staff as we must keep on our way to Alice Springs for our next interesting adventure.

By: Patricia Lilly

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What better way to totally relax and enjoy your luxury Australian holiday than to immerse yourself in a range of treatments at a spa and retreat? With so many spas appearing lately it can be difficult to know which ones really deliver what they promise, where you are sure to come away from your holiday feeling relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated. So here are our choice of the Top 5 Australian Spa and Retreat Holidays:

1. Camp Eden

Camp Eden is renowned as one of the very best health retreats in Australia. Located in the magnificent Gold Coast hinterland of south east Queensland, Camp Eden offers more than 60 experiences to ensure you find peace and serenity.

These treatments include a range of holistic therapies, lifestyle enhancement packages and spa beauty therapies, along with Camp Eden’s own specialities. Camp Eden doesn’t just focus on the immediate benefits of their treatments; they encourage total lifestyle changes, enabling the benefits to last more than just a few days – hopefully for a lifetime.

2. Hepburn Springs, Peppers Springs Retreat

Hepburn Springs is another of Australia’s leading retreats, nestled in the grounds of Peppers Springs Retreat near Daylesford, Victoria. This is the perfect location for those who like the luxury only offered by a five star resort.

This health spa offers a range of three open-air mineral plunge pools, both warm and cool, along with steam rooms, relaxation areas – both indoor and outdoor – and an infra-red Detox Box. In addition to these, Hepburn Springs guests can indulge in a variety of traditional spa treatments.

Peppers Springs Retreat is a glamorous, Art-Deco style retreat where guests can truly indulge, refresh and come away feeling like a million dollars.

3. Salus Per Aquum Spa, Palazzo Versace

Located on the glorious Gold Coast in south east Queensland is the magnificent Palazzo Versace – the perfect location for a luxurious travel experience. The Palazzo Versace is marvellously decorated with the Italian style of marble and gold leaf.

The 5 star resort has its own unique spa, the Salus Per Aquum, with a distinctive Roman spa culture. Guests can indulge in steam and sauna rooms, a bathing pool and spa baths. There are also a variety of opulent spa treatments including the Salus Per Aquum spa’s signature treatment – the 90-minute Salus Signature Facial. Iridology and acupuncture are also available, provided by qualified therapists.

Palazzo Versace is favoured by celebrities visiting the Gold Coast and is well known as the ultimate in extravagance.

4. Gaia Retreat and Spa, Byron Bay

Situated in the picturesque Byron Bay Hinterland is the superb Gaia Retreat and Spa. This peaceful retreat tailors your stay with them to your individual needs. Gaia provides a wide range of treatments and therapies, including various packages, all in a tranquil resort style setting. With a focus on total health and well-being, Gaia offers a selection of tasty organic foods, along with s full day spa and health spa, health and fitness options and unique artistic classes and packages.

5. Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa

Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa is a majestic country manor set amongst the World Heritage listed Blue Mountains National Park. With stunning views of the Blue Mountains, this is a perfect place to relax and pamper yourself with various spa treatments.

At the centre of the spa is a graceful indoor heated pool. There are also several treatment rooms and a relaxation area. Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort and Spa prides itself on being eco-sensitive, using skin care products that are free from preservatives where possible. Another difference at this spa is that couples are encouraged to enjoy treatments together, with ‘couples’ packages available – perfect for a luxury honeymoon.

Whether you prefer to retreat to an extravagant five star resort or to a hinterland haven, these top 5 Australian spa and retreat holidays are sure to leave you feeling totally pampered and ready to take on the world!

By: Karen Cooke

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