Stunning places to visit this autumn
The days are getting shorter and cooler which means it’s the perfect time to book a ticket to one of nature’s greatest shows – the transformation of green landscapes into a patchwork of fiery hues.
But while the beauty of autumn can be appreciated anywhere, there are some locations that punch above their weight when it comes to spectacular scenery. So whether it’s an all-out trip to see the famous ‘turning of the fagus’ in Tasmania or simply hopping on a train from Sydney to Wentworth Falls, here are some of the best autumn destinations to explore.
1. The Snowy Mountains, NSW
Breathe in crisp mountain air, take in the view of the Snowy Mountains, and put your feet up at Jindabyne Holiday Park, which overlooks Lake Jindabyne’s calm and scenic foreshore.
If you love the idea of spending your day fly fishing, hiking to the highest point in Australia, or spending an afternoon on a long walk around Lake Jindabyne, this is the place for you.
2. Wentworth Falls, NSW
They might be famous for appearing ‘blue’ from a distance but in autumn the Blue Mountains explode into a kaleidoscope of reds, golds and oranges. Wentworth Falls is one of the best spots to take in this dramatic transformation, with the interconnecting archway of deciduous trees on Sinclair Crescent being especially eye-catching. Throw in a quaint, picturesque village full of boutique stores, stone bridges, and great places to eat and you have the perfect place for a daytrip.
3. Macedon Ranges, Victoria
Mount Macedon is sometimes known as the “green heart of Victoria” and in autumn it slowly transforms from deep green into a captivating mix of dusty red and orange. There are more than 30km of walking trails to explore, meaning you have ample opportunity to marvel at nature’s vibrant colours and, if you’re lucky, you’ll spot some wildlife too. Cute cafes and cosy wineries with cellar doors are scattered around the Macedon Ranges, making this a perfect day trip from Melbourne.
4. The South Coast, NSW
If you are looking for a place to wear out the kids while you and your other half enjoy a much-needed break in the ocean air, you’ve found it at NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort.
Located just three hours from Canberra (where you can stop in to see the tree-lined Grant Crescent, Canberra’s prettiest street), Merimbula offers crystal-clear waters and sandy white beaches – no wonder the locals refer to it as the ‘gem of the Sapphire Coast’!
5. Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
The turning of Tasmania’s famous fagus trees is something everyone needs to witness at least once in their lifetime. An ancient tree that can trace its roots back to the Gondwana era, the fagus is Tasmania’s only winter-deciduous native tree and every April/May it puts on spectacular and flamboyant display. One of the best places to view the fagus in its full autumnal glory is Cradle Mountain, with a kayak tour on Dove Lake providing a unique and close-up perspective of this incredible rust-coloured natural phenomenon.
6. Bright, Victoria
Nestled in the foothills of Victoria’s Alpine region, Bright is renowned for its towering plumes of golden foliage. Nearby Beechworth and Myrtleford are equally stunning, and every year thousands of Aussies flock to the region to watch the trees shake off their summer coats and create drifts of multicoloured landscapes. Bright even hosts its own Autumn Festival – a 10 day celebration of colour, produce and community. Visit in late April to also explore the Wandi Nut Festival, the Open Gardens, historical tours and the Autumn Art Exhibition at the Bright Art Gallery.
6. Barossa, SA
As one of Australia’s best-known and most-lauded wine regions, the Barossa is a fantastic destination to visit year round, but in autumn it takes on a special edge. Shorter days and cooler temps lend a cosy vibe and it’s also grape-picking season with many wineries offering experiences where you can join in. Afterwards, sipping a bold red or crisp white while taking in the reds and oranges of a hillside vineyard sounds pretty idyllic to us.
7. Coffs Coast, NSW
Discover pristine Arrawarra Beach just north of Coffs Harbour at Darlington Beach Holiday Resort. The park is a dream location to reconnect with family, and its eco-friendly status makes it a nature lover's paradise.
Begin your day watching the sunrise on the beach and keep an eye out for friendly native animals including kangaroos and koalas. The Coffs Coast offers endless activities, such as mountain biking, visiting the marine park, checking out the skyline from the Forest Sky Pier, or even a simple picnic.
8. Strahan, Tasmania
Set on the banks of Macquarie Harbour and surrounded by nature, Strahan is a perfect destination for a Tasmanian wilderness holiday. And in addition to watching the leaves change colour, you can journey back in time in this historic settler’s village.
With Ocean Beach and the mighty Southern Ocean on one side, and the UNESCO Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area on the other, you'll won’t find yourself at a loss for places to explore in Strahan.
9. Noosa, QLD
Noosa in autumn, you say? Absolutely! A visit during the cooler months will help you avoid the holiday crowds, better to appreciate its immaculate beaches, and go adventuring in a way the broiling summer sun won’t allow.
It’s the perfect time to hike through Noosa National Park or head to the nearby Glasshouse Mountains to trek their epic peaks.
If relaxation is more your thing, hire a boat, float along the Noosa River, and watch the fish swim by as you enjoy the cooling breeze.
10. Myall Lakes, NSW
National Parks, with their unspoiled wilderness and birdsong soundtrack, provide a unique opportunity to calm your mind, and relax and rejuvenate your body.
Myall Shores is a holiday park situated in the centre of Myall Lakes National Park, which is on the world-renowned Ramasar List of Wetlands of International Importance. There, you'll share a habitat with kangaroos, wallabies, possums, koalas, and hundreds of bird species.
Since the park is situated next to Myall Shores Lake, there’s also the option to take part in all your favourite water-sport activities.
