We’ve narrowed down our favourites on the list of Australia’s best-kept secrets. While these attractions may be locally popular, you’re not likely to read them on any must-see tourism lists - so it’s a pretty safe bet you’ll experience something truly magical.
Snowy Mountains, New South Wales
The Snowy Mountains aren’t exactly a secret, but they’re often overlooked in favour of Australia’s endless beaches. Many people don’t know that Australia has an alpine range - and it’s called the Australian Alps! Here you’ll find snow (and skiing) in winter, but visit during other seasons and experience luscious mountain plum-pine forests, creeks, glacial lakes and wild horses. There are plenty of places to stay, eat and drink across the region’s townships, and each welcomes travellers with open arms.
Umpherston Sinkhole, South Australia
You may not think a sinkhole is a great place to visit, but in this case, you’d be wrong. This sinkhole at Mt Gambier in South Australia is now a jaw-dropping sunken garden populated by possums that you can feed every night at dusk. The product of a collapsed limestone cave, the Umpherston Sinkhole is today furnished with beautiful hanging vines, terraced botanic gardens and plenty of local wildlife. It’s open to visitors year-round.
Crystal Shower Falls, New South Wales
If you head to Coffs Harbour and then up to Dorrigo National Park, you’ll find something phenomenal. Crystal Shower Falls is a rare waterfall you can walk behind. Fresh water falls directly in front of a deep cavern, which means you can fulfil a lifelong dream of standing behind a waterfall looking out onto the world! The surrounding rainforest is none too shabby, either - a six kilometres loop walk will have you hiking beneath a thick green canopy while surrounded by birdsong. We can think of nothing better.
Tarkine Wilderness, Tasmania
The Tarkine Wilderness is Australia’s largest cool temperate rainforest, but it’s been a well-kept secret for a long time now. Located in the west of Tasmania, you can walk, drive or be guided through the rainforests, river landscapes and rugged coastlines at your own leisure. The extraordinary natural beauty of this region is unparalleled, and every cave system and sinkhole is practically begging to be explored.
Murchison River Gorge, Western Australia
Located in Kalbarri, Western Australia, the Murchison River Gorge meanders through the midwest for about 80 kilometres and is at some points almost 130 metres deep. Travellers can see the red and white striped sandstone gorge from the top at the newly-unveiled Kalbarri National Park Skywalk - which extends further out from the cliff face than the skywalk at the Grand Canyon! But those who want to get up close and personal will have the most phenomenal experiences - deep down below, hiking trails wander through the chasm by creeks and rock pools as the colossal amber cliffs rise above on either side. It has to be seen to be believed.
If you are keen to hit the road and seek out some hidden gems, reach out to Travellers Choice today to find out more about what's on offer!
