Category Archives: Australia

Events and Festivals Not to Miss in Canberra

Be it the food, light shows, thrilling activities, flower displays or even hotted-up cars, the event and festival calendar of Canberra has it all to offer something for all sorts of travellers. Here is the list of some of the top events and festivals in Canberra:

The Truffle Festival

Held every year from the month of June to August, the Truffle Festival is an ultimate foodie event celebrated in the capital city of Canberra, which is also fast turning into the Truffle capital. Foodies can savour the flavours of wonderful truffle creations at local restaurants, bars, cafes and wineries. During the days of celebration, one would also get to enjoy the activities of specially-trained dogs sniffing the ground and discovering the hidden mushrooms with their unique senses. Events like travel hunts, tastings and degustation dinners are also held during the festival.

CanberraCanberra Day

Held on the second Monday in March, Canberra Day is celebrated as a public holiday for all people in the Australian Capital Territory since 1913. This day gives people an opportunity to bask in the beauty of the city and its rich diversity. One can delight in music, dance, various activities and exhibitions during the festival. Besides, the street food served on this day is truly a treat for foodies.

Winter Festival

A national event held over 3 weeks usually between June and July, Winter Festival is Canberra’s biggest celebration of winter. From ice skating and toboggan rides to slides and many other activities, the festival offers thrilling adventures for all age groups. There are a number of European style pop-up food stalls where foodies can try a variety of delicious cuisines. The entry to the festival is free for all but you will be charged for ice skating and other rides.

Floriade

Australia’s biggest celebration of spring, Floriade is a flower and entertainment festival held annually between September and October in the Commonwealth Park of Canberra. It is considered the most popular regular event for tourism in the Australian Capital Territory. Visitors get a chance to learn here superior gardening skills. Other attractions of the festival include demonstrations of culinary talent by famed chefs, musical performances and various kid activities. Besides, there are a number of affordable accommodation options close to the venue to stay at.

Nara Festival

Held one night in October each year, Nara Festival is a much-anticipated event in the Canberra community that celebrates the long standing relationship between sister-cities Canberra and Nara. A total of 2,000 candles are lit as the sun sets, forming a rich centrepiece at the event to show affection towards the sister city. Everything is presented here in true Japanese style by the people of Canberra. While traditional Japanese food and music are the major draws of the celebration, there are arrangements for Sumo wrestling as well.

Australia’s Top Festivals That are Popular All over the World

While Australia is popular as one of the world’s best tourist destinations due to its awe-inspiring scenery, seeming eternal shoreline and varied metropolis areas, the festivals and events here festivalare a major draw. Huge crowds of people from different parts of the world visit the country to be a part of some tremendous festivals and cultural events celebrated here.
Take a look at some of the top festivals celebrated in Australia:

Tropfest Australia

Founded in 1993, Tropfest Australia is renowned as the world’s largest short film and first global film festival attended by more than 70,000 spectators. It started as a screening for 200 people at the Sydney’s ‘Tropicana Caffe’ and is held at Parramatta Park every year. The event delights visitors with the screening of 16 finalists and red-carpet arrivals, and an award ceremony where the Tropfest winner is decided by a panel of industry and celebrity judges.

Melbourne Food and Wine Festival

Celebrated to promote the food and wine culture of Melbourne and Victoria, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival is held annually in March since 1993. A number of food lovers from far and wide visit the country to become a part of this fantastic gastronomic celebration. The festival continues for ten days and comprises 300 events throughout Victoria. Visitors can enjoy regional lunches, sample gourmet fare, attend master classes and explore an array of pop-up restaurants during the festival. A number of celebrity chefs and famous personalities also become a part of the celebration.

Perth International Arts Festival

Celebrated every year in Western Australia, Perth International Arts Festival is the longest running cultural festival of Australia popular all over the world. Visitors get a chance to enjoy a wonderful program of art without borders during the celebration. It is the oldest international arts festival in Australia comprised of contemporary and classic music, dance, theatre, visual arts and opera. You would love to enjoy several wonderful performances by an array of talented international and national artists drawing around 500,000 people each year.

WOMADelaide

WOMADelaide (World of Music, Arts and Dance) is a world-renowned open-air festival held in Adelaide’s stunning Botanic Park. Introduced in 1992, this award-winning celebration draws acts

Music Fest

from across the globe to come and play, and takes place every year for four days. Around 20,000 people become a part of this exciting festival every year and delight in amazing performances by up to 500 artists from across the globe. KidZone, Taste the World, The Planet Talks, the Global Village and the Electro lounge are some major highlights of the festival.

Woodford Folk Festival

The most celebrated folk festival of Australia, Woodford Folk Festival is held near the semi-rural town of Woodford. Every year around 125,000 people and over 2000 local, national and international performers become a part of the festival. The festival continues for six days from 27th December to 1st January with a tremendous fire event on New Year’s Day. It comprises more than 430 events, ranging from street theatre, concerts, films and writers’ panels to folk medicine, debates, parades and craft workshops.

 

Visit These Five Zoos in Australia for a Wonderful Wildlife Experience

kangaroosAustralia is one of the world’s best holiday destinations where travellers can enjoy abundant wildlife experiences. Be it the kangaroos, quokkas, koalas, pandas, cassowaries or crocodiles, you can spot an array of unique wildlife at these five best zoos in the country:

australian-wildlife

Australia Zoo

An hour-drive from Brisbane, Australia Zoo is known to be the most interactive conservation destination on earth. Situated on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, the zoo has a range of animals including tigers and plenty of crocodiles. Here visitors can hand-feed a kangaroo, cuddle a koala and spot a saltwater crocodile. Besides, visitors would love to discover the zoo’s newest addition, Bindi’s Island and spot lemurs and tortoises.

Adelaide Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in Australia, Adelaide Zoo is an iconic tourist attraction of Adelaide. It is home to 2500 animals and 250 species of exotic and native mammals, reptiles, fish and birds, and is the only place in Australia where you can witness giant pandas. Situated on the city fringe near Botanical Park, the zoo has a large open area where visitors can spot pandas munching away on fresh stalks of bamboo. Besides, there are a lot of unusual native stars including short-beaked echidnas, long-nosed potoroos and quokkas to discover.

Melbourne Zoo

Also known as the Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens, Melbourne Zoo is the oldest zoo of Australia. You can spot over 320 animal species including Asian elephants here. The zoo boasts a butterfly greenhouse, reptile house, lion gorge, an orangutan sanctuary, aviary and a treetop canopy for monkeys and apes, drawing the attention of wildlife lovers from all around.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

The first and the largest koala sanctuary of the world, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a popular tourist destination in Brisbane. Recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records, it opened as a refuge for injured koalas in 1927 and is now home to over 130 koalas. This sanctuary is an ideal place for those who want to cuddle a koala, hand feed kangaroos and meet other native species such as platypuses, Tasmanian devils, wallabies, echidnas and dingos.

Taronga Zoo

Lying on the shores of the world’s most beautiful harbours, Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo is an amazing wildlife spot, visited by a large number of tourists. There are more than 4,000 animals to spot in the zoo and you can also enjoy fantastic views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline from here. The daily bird and seal shows are sure to delight visitors. A number of tours are offered here including the VIP Aussie Gold Tour of native animals, the keeper-led Wild Australia Experience and many more.

Top Things to do in Adelaide, Australia

Adelaide,-Australia

South Australia’s capital, Adelaide is a stylish city with a rich cultural heritage. Nestled between the hills and the ocean, the city promises a lovely holiday experience in Australia where travellers can take in the delights of terrific architecture, scenic outdoors, boutique shopping and a lot more.

Discover the beauty of Adelaide Botanic Garden

The city boasts terrific natural wealth and the Adelaide Botanic Garden portrays that spectacularly. Established in 1855, it is a peaceful retreat that features a fenced garden on North Terrace. History enthusiasts can treat their eyes to the wrought iron gates at east end of North Terrace and some remarkable heritage structures in the garden. The Palm House and the Museum of Economic Botany are a major draw among them. Nature lovers would love to explore the National Rose Trail Garden, a lovely spot that flaunts various international varieties of rose.

Visit Carrick Hill to take a peek at Australian heritage

If you wish to experience the rich heritage of Australia, head to the Carrick Hill, a wonderful historic property at the foot of the Adelaide Hills. One of the few period homes in Australia that are well-preserved with their entire grounds and original contents, the building was completed in 1939 and displays the style of an English manor. Be it the history enthusiasts or nature lovers, this place promises a wonderful time for all. Besides, you would love to attend the art exhibitions held here regularly.

Explore wildlife in the Adelaide Zoo

Treat the wildlife lover in you to the incredible wildlife of one of the major tourist attractions of South Australia, the Adelaide Zoo. It is the second oldest zoo in Australia where you’ll get a chance to spot around 300 native and exotic species including the only two giant pandas in the Southern Hemisphere – Fu Ni and Wang Wang. Interactive presentations are held here for the kids and the whole family.

Have a unique beach experience at Glenelg

Families and leisure travellers can spend a relaxing beach holiday at the beachside suburb of Adelaide, Glenelg. Located in both the City of West Torrens and the City of Holdfast Bay, the village appeals with a captivating history and a lively vibe. There are a number of boutique hotels and sidewalk cafes; there’s the Beachouse Amusement Centre where you can enjoy many rides, waterslides and arcade games. Besides, sailing and swimming with dolphins are two of the popular activities here!

Exciting Things to do in Perth, Australia

perth

Mild Mediterranean climate, miles and miles of sandy beaches and a laid-back vibe – all this makes Perth one of the finest holiday destinations in Australia. Capture the passion for past and the energy for future in Perth, and feel the excitement and adventure as you unravel the city’s character through its many offerings.

Enjoy the Skyline from Kings Park

The jewel in the city’s crown and one of the biggest city parks in the world, Kings Park enjoys a stunning location, overlooking the city and the silken blue waters of the Swan River. Walk down bushland trails and admire manicured gardens while taking in the stunning views of the city skyline, Darling Ranges and the Swan River and Canning River. Also, you can explore various cafes in the area, attend many cultural and ceremonial events and go picnicking with your family and friends.

Opt for a Swan River Cruise

The Swan River links suburbs, the ocean and the hills and a relaxing cruise on the river is a must if you wish to take in the sights of the city. Head from Perth to Fremantle on a cruise and treat your eyes to the stunning views of the city skyline, many sailing boats and some of the architectural wonders of Australia. It is recommended to take the cruise at night when the entire river is dazzled with the glittering city lights.

Go on a day trip to Rottnest Island

With 63 pristine beaches and 20 bays, Rottnest Island is an ideal place to take delight in the picturesque scenery, laid-back atmosphere and the incredible marine life. Fishing, golfing, swimming, diving, snorkelling and kayaking are some of the activities to enjoy here. Quokkas and dolphins and several species of birds can be spotted here on the island.

Relax on Perth’s best beaches

With some excellent city beaches such as Cottesloe, Scarborough, Sorento, Trigg and Leighton, Perth remains a splendid spot for an ideal beach holiday. Treat yourself to a stunning sunset at the Cottesloe Beach where the orange sun seems to drown in the clear blue waters of the ocean! Explore some funky cafes in Scarborough and then take on the waves at North Beach for a wonderful holiday with your friends and groups. Surfers can make way to the Trigg Beach to enjoy the best surfing opportunities.

Explore the historic Fremantle

Located just 30 minutes from downtown Perth, Fremantle is a port city appealing to travellers with its maritime history and fascinating Victorian architecture. Famed as the “world’s best preserved example of a 19th century port streetscape”, this is where you can discover colonial remnants such as the Arts Centre and Old Courthouse and Fremantle Prison. You can explore a wide array of seafood restaurants, and bars and cafes here, and can enjoy a stroll through the markets of this port city. Besides, you shouldn’t miss a visit to the famous “Little Creatures Brewery” where you can try delicious wood-fired pizzas and great craft beer!

A Look at Some of the Most Popular Restaurants in Australia

restaurant

Among all things that Australia is famous for, food is perhaps the most tempting one! This vast country takes its culinary knowhow pretty seriously and has loads of restaurants, cafes, bistros and bars, offering an unbelievable food adventure to the guests who come in from all over the world. Below listed are some of the most famous restaurants in the country that certainly deserve a visit from every food lover who sets foot in Australia.

Tipo 00, Melbourne

Specializing in Italian fare, Tipo 00 is a popular, fine dining restaurant in Australia. Some of the most ordered delicacies here are Burrata, Salumi, Lingua, Polpo, Fegato, Gnocchi di patate, Primosic and Tipomisù. The place also serves some of the most interesting cocktails, wine and other alcoholic beverages. Also, there’s an open kitchen and marble bar within the complex.

Sepia Restaurant, Sydney

Famed for its sophisticated ambience and beautiful decor, Sepia Restaurant is much loved by locals as well as tourists in Sydney. Specializing in authentic Japanese and other international cuisines, this place enjoys a massive following among the food lovers of the country. Spanner Crab, Scampi, Fried Milk Bread, Charcoal Grilled Lamb Breast, Smoked and Char-grilled David Blackmore Wagyu, Aerated Mountain Man Washed Rind and Jerusalem Artichoke are few of the must try dishes here.

Restaurant Hubert, Sydney

A quirky café in Downtown, Restaurant Hubert is the perfect place to savour authentic French cuisine. Known for its romantic ambience and spectacular wine collection, this place is a haven for the food lovers. Hubert Baguette, Oysters Mignonette, Asparagus à la Barigoule, Farmhouse Terrine, Mushroom au Poivre, Pommes Anna and Kimchi Gratin are among the must try dishes here.

Orana, Adelaide

Orana is a terrific fine dining restaurant offering regional delicacies as well as international specialities. The usual short tasting menu here consists of 7-9 courses and a regular dinner tasting menu features 18-20 courses. You must try the well-prepared seafood served here.

The Bridge Room, Sydney

The Bridge Room is a well-known restaurant in the country. Serving traditional cuisine of the region along with classy wines, the restaurant remains the top choice of food lovers in the area. Cheese is used generously in the preparation of majority of dishes that are served here. Along with the delicious food, do enjoy the wine and other non-alcoholic beverages served here.

Oscillate Wildly, Newtown

A beautiful French bistro in the suburb of Newton, Oscillate Wildly is a perfect date night spot in the country. Famed for its vibrant decor, romantic charm and great food, this place is rather a hit with the young crowd.

EZARD, Melbourne

Serving Teage Ezard’s famous ‘Australian freestyle’ cuisine for over 18 years, EZARD is another splendid restaurant in the country. Featuring an amazing eight course tasting menu, this is a perfect spot to enjoy a lovely evening with your loved ones. Steamed Scallop Dumplings, Crème Royale Potatoes, Dark Chocolate Sphere, Coconut Parfait, Wok Seared Asian Greens and Chinese-Style Duck are few of the popular dishes served here.

Bentley Restaurant + Bar, Sydney

Featuring an acclaimed wine list and exclusive food menu, Bentley Restaurant + Bar is a modern fine dining restaurant. Opened in 2006, this place is loved for its innovative fare that includes dishes like Sweet Corn + Job’s Tears + Pickled Golden Beetroot, Oysters, Kangaroo Tartare + Sunflower Seed + Heirloom Cabbage, W.A. Marron + Smoked Lime Butter + Fried Bun, Scarlet Butter Lettuce + Herb Dressing, and Yellow Beans + Fetta + Raspberry are among the must try dishes here. You’ll find different flavours of cheese in almost all the dishes.

Brae, Birregurra

Best known for its home grown produce and fresh meat, Brae is another amazing restaurant in the country. Featuring a long list of tantalizing delicacies, food here is prepared using fresh of the farm ingredients. Dishes made using Jostaberry, Red Stem Chicory, Flat Beans, Red Core Carrot, Purple Plum, Osaka Mustard, and Purple Sprouting Broccoli are must try here.

Momofuku Seiōbo, Pyrmont, Sydney

With an edgy vibe and romantic ambience, Momofuku Seiōbo is one of the most popular restaurants in the region. Famed for its Asian-European fusion dishes including seafood, the fare served here is simply wonderful. Special menus are available on different occasions and festivals. Also, there’s an open kitchen and a fully functional bar within the complex.

Top Most Interesting Museums to visit in Australia

australia

Discovering the rich history, culture and social constitution of Australia remains a key tourist activity and a visit to some of the country’s most famous museums will help you do that. Read on to know more.

National Museum of Australia, Canberra

Established in 1980, National Museum of Australia is one of the country’s most well known museums. Preserving a major chunk of the native indigenous past of the nation, it is home to a wide range of collectables and valuables that explore the key issues, people and events that have shaped the country. Postcards, public records, pictures, chronometers, Gouache paintings, placards, drawings and portraits are among the museum’s most famous exhibits. Lectures and interactive sessions are held regularly here.

National Gallery of Australia, Canberra

Featuring over 166,000 beautiful works of arts, National Gallery of Australia is the largest art gallery in the country. Established in 1967, this beautiful complex is home to the widest collection of paintings, drawings, sculptures and artworks by prominent artists. Mount Wellington and Hobart Town from Kangaroo Point by John Glover, Afterglow by Fredrick McCubbin, Interior in Yellow by Grace Cossington Smith, The Red Lady by William Dobell and Boy with Cat by John Perceval are few of the well-known masterpieces put on display here.

Australian National Maritime Museum, Sydney

Established in 1991, Australian National Maritime Museum is yet another terrific attraction that’s loved by the visitors. It is famed for its splendid array of exhibits like ships, vessels and maritime equipment. HM Bark Endeavour Replica, the destroyer HMAS Vampire, and the submarine HMAS Onslow are the three popular vessels displayed at the wharves outside the complex.

Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney

Housing an incredible collection of artworks and paintings, Art Gallery of New South Wales is the oldest and one of the most visited art museums in the country. Established in 1861, it features works of prominent artists including Bernini, Picasso, Manet, Canaletto, Constable, Correggio, Degas, Gainsborough, Gentileschi, El Greco, Memling, Modigliani, Ribera and Rodin. The Man of Sorrows in the arms of the Virgin by Hans Memling, Doge Pietro Loredano by Jacopo Tintoretto and An officer of the 4th Regiment of Foot by Thomas Gainsborough are among the top paintings displayed here.

Museum and Art Gallery of the North Territory, Darwin

Founded in 1981, Museum of Art Galley of the North Territory remains one of the country’s most famous museums. It is renowned for its collection of over 3000 works of art and around 1.2 million natural history specimens. Indigenous artworks, scared objects, animal fossils, mineral specimens, paleontological items, rock art and paintings are all on display here. A giant 5-meter long crocodile named Sweetheart is a major highlight of the museum.

Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Sydney

Located on the edge of the famous Sydney Harbour, Museum of Contemporary Art is one of the most beautiful art museums in the country. Established in 1991, it is home to over 4000 works of prominent artists such as Vernon Ah Kee, Tony Albert, Simryn Gill and Denise Green. Inceptor Surf Sequence and The Price is Right are two of the most beautiful paintings displayed here.

Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Hobart

Established in 1843, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is the second-oldest museum in the country. Featuring the broadest collection of historic goods, artistic and scientific items, this place is well-known attraction among people of every age group. Decorative items, photographs, research documents, pictures, sculptures, and specimens of flora and fauna are displayed at the museum.

South Australian Museum, Adelaide

Home to an interesting collection of natural and cultural artefacts, South Australian Museum is among the most visited museums in Australia. Established in 1856, it displays skeletons of birds, fishes, mammals, marine invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians and terrestrial invertebrates. Besides the exhibitions, there’s a discovery centre and mobile museum within the complex.

Top Australian Cities to Visit

perthhGreat Barrier Reef, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach and The Twelve Apostles – Australia is teeming with a host of world renowned, man-made and natural attractions. Most of the Australian cities welcome millions of tourists each year, regaling them with a terrific array of charms and lures. Let’s take a look at Australian cities that are all marvellous tourist destinations.

Sydney

sydney

Famed for its harbour front, Sydney Opera House as well as few other iconic structures, Sydney is one of the most visited cities in Australia. Sydney Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour, Royal Botanic Garden, Port Jackson and Sea Life Sydney Aquarium are among the well known attractions in the city. The beaches here such as the Bondi Beach are incredibly popular with surfers and divers along with the regular beach goers.

Melbourne

Rivalling Sydney when it comes to offering best quality life for the citizens, Melbourne is definitely a major travel destination in this part of the world.

melbourne

It is renowned for its dynamic art scene, culinary delights and several exciting attractions, such as Federation Square, National Gallery of Victoria, Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium, Eureka Tower and Shrine of Remembrance. If you are an animal lover, make sure you visit the different national parks and wildlife sanctuaries like Healesville Sanctuary and Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park.

Brisbane

brisbane

Acknowledged for its beautiful art museums most of which feature interactive exhibits, Brisbane is another terrific travel destination that welcomes thousands of tourists each year. Sitting along the beautiful Brisbane River, it is blessed with the best of nature’s wonders alongside a range of fascinating man-made attractions. If we talk about the top lures of the city, Sea World Gold Coast, Queensland Gallery of Modern Art, Glass House Mountains, Brisbane City Hall and Queensland Art Gallery are the top ones. Usually held in the month of September, Brisbane Festival is among the major celebrations held across the city.

Adelaide

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Featuring an array of wonderful attractions and a host of exciting activities for people to enjoy, Adelaide promises a wonderful holiday to all tourists who land here. Victoria Square and South Australian Museum are two of the most popular attractions here. If you wish to learn about Australia’s wildlife, visit places like Adelaide Zoo, Cleland Conservation Park, Morialta Conservation Park and Belair National Park. Featuring over 200 cellar doors, and several vineyards and wineries, Adelaide is also the city for wine lovers.

Perth

Perth is the largest city in Western Australia and perhaps best known for its terrific year-round weather.

perth

Tourists love to visit it for its idyllic beaches, lush green gardens, quirky restaurants and charming art galleries. Fremantle Prison, Western Australian Museum, Art Gallery of Western Australia and Round House are the top attractions of the city. For family travellers, Adventure World could be the best bet, with all its exciting roller coaster rides and thrilling activities.

Canberra

A great place to spot Kangaroos and other native animals, Canberra is a splendid city that remains a big hit with travellers from all around the world. Australian War Memorial, National Gallery of Australia, National Museum of Australia and Old Parliament House are few of the top attractions in the city. Besides sightseeing, treating yourself to scrumptious local delicacies is a must for all. Truffle Festival and Canberra District Wine Harvest Festival are two of the most celebrated festivals in the city.

Darwin

Whether it is exploring the wonders of nature or learning about Australian history, Darwin offers it all to the guests, promising a terrific time to all. Mindil Beach, Skycity Darwin, Darwin Military Museum and Darwin Oil Storage Tunnels are among the must visit places in the city. Boat rides, eco tours and water sports are big hits among the tourists in the city.

Townsville

Recognized for its popular reefs and several wildlife sanctuaries, Townsville is another fascinating city in Queensland. Reef HQ, Museum of Tropical Queensland and Riverway are among the top sites in the city. Housing native birds, reptiles and animals including wombats, koalas and crocodiles, Billabong Sanctuary is quite popular among nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Home Hill Harvest Festival, Stable on the Strand and different other traditional events are celebrated with much pomp and show in Townsville.

Cairns

Gateway to the famous Great Barrier Reef, Cairns, understandably, remains the must visit for adventure lovers. Lined with numerous beaches, gorges and rainforests, the city is blessed with the best of nature’s wonders. Daintree National Park, Palm Cove, Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Tinaroo Dam and Barron Gorge National Park are some of the famous attractions here. Besides sightseeing, you can enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, snorkelling and diving in Cairns. Narrating the story of indigenous Australian culture and traditions, Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park is where the culture aficionados gather at.

Top 8 National Parks and Wildlife Reserves in Australia

Australia is a massive country with everything about this country being huge – starting from its beer glasses to its dangerous reptiles! Really, the country has an exceptional wildlife that’s easily one of the most fascinating on the planet. Most of the country’s wildlife is found nowhere else. Australia’s 87% mammal species, 93% reptiles, and 45% bird species are found only in this country. No wonder, this is such a popular travel destination among wildlife lovers and animal enthusiasts. For those hoping to spot unique species of birds, reptiles, and animals in the country, here is a list of the most popular protected areas, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Australia.

Kakadu National park

Established in 1979, Kakadu National park is a unique archaeological and ethnological park in the country. Located in the Northern Territory, this place is famed for its aboriginal rock paintings, carvings, stone tools, and interesting flora and fauna.

national-park

Around 1700 different types of plants and a wide variety of birds and animals including dingoes, antilopine kangaroos, black wallaroos, agile wallabys, northern quolls, brush-tailed phascogales, brown bandicoots, frilled neck lizard, freshwater crocodile and saltwater crocodile can be spotted here.

Royal National Park

Famed for its vast landscape, mangroves and cliffs, Royal National Park is one of the oldest national parks in Australia. Established in 1879 by Sir John Robertson, it is home to a wide range of plants, birds and animals including honeybees, wallaroos, Tachyglossus aculeatus, Phascolarctos cinereus, canis lupus dingo and the spotted quoll. Apart from spotting these species, you can enjoy numerous other interesting activities here, like bushwalking, surfing, whale watching, fishing, cycling, trekking, hiking and camping. Jibbon Point, Eaglehead Rock, Garie Beach, Figure 8 Pool, Werrong Beach and Lady Carrington Drive are the tourist top attractions here.

Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park

Located in the Northern Territory, Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park is one popular attraction in the country. Established in 1958 in order to preserve the country’s aboriginal culture, it is home to the famous landmarks – Uluru and Kata Tjuta – as well as interesting flora and fauna. Mallee fowl, brushtail possum, rufous hare wallaby, bilby, burrowing bettong, black-footed rock wallaby, red kangaroo, Australian bustard and black-faced woodswallow are among the birds and animals spotted in the park.

Nitmiluk National Park

Featuring over 13 sandstone gorges, numerous cliffs and giant rocks, Nitmiluk National Park is another famous national park of Australia. Situated in the southeast end of Darwin, this park, established in 1977, is home to freshwater and saltwater crocodiles, ospreys, red-tailed black cockatoos, great bowerbirds, white-gaped honeyeaters and red-winged parrots. Several aboriginal rock paintings can be found across the park. The 58 km Jatbula Trail, starting from the visitor centre and ending at Edith Falls, is a major highlight of the park.

Springbrook National Park

Springbrook-National-Park

Established in 1990 to protect endangered animal species, Springboard National Park is a must-visit in Australia. Located close to the city of Queensland, it is home to several species of native birds and animals including yellow tailed black cockatoo, rufous fantail, satin bowerbird, whipbird Albert’s lyrebird, red-necked pademelons and koalas. The ancient Tweed Volcano and Mount Cougal are famous attractions here.

Lamington National Park

Lamington-National-Park

Lamington National Park is another top pick among wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers who fly to Australia from all parts of the world. Located on the famous Lamington plateau, this park is famed for its stunning landscape, varying forests and mountain ranges and is home to an interesting population of mammals, invertebrates, reptiles and birds. Red carabeen, soft corkwood, Coxen’s fig parrot, Albert’s lyrebird and Richmond birdwing butterfly are a few of the species that can be spotted at the park. Rare species such as rainforest cool-skink, elf skink, Fleay’s barred frog, giant barred frog and the cascade treefrog can also be spotted.

Daintree National Park

Covered with vast tropical rainforests and featuring an incredible biodiversity, Daintree National Park is one of the well-known protected areas in the country.

Daintree-National-Park

Situated in northwest Brisbane, this 1988 park features a diverse range of birds and animals including a few endangered ones. Wompoo fruit-dove, Boyd’s forest dragon, eastern water dragon, chameleon gecko, northern leaf-tailed gecko, amethystine python, keelback, northern tree snakes, Australian lacelid, white-lipped treefrog and mist frog are the among the animals and reptiles found here.

Purnululu National Park

Purnululu-National-Park

Purnululu National Park is yet another famous national park in Australia. Located in East Kimberley region, it is home to some of the stunning canyons, steep slopes, rock caves and rich traces of the aboriginal people who lived in the region for over 40000 years. Ancient rock paintings, carvings, homes and burial sites that are excavated here can be explored. Usually not many animals and birds can be found here but seasonally a few of the native ones can be spotted at the park. Guided tours and special excursions are available for those willing to explore the rich cultural history of the park, its surrounding landscapes and other attractions.

Top Wineries in McLaren Vale, Australia

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Home to some of the oldest grape wines and officially the birthplace of South Australian red wine, McLaren Vale is the place to be for all wine lovers. Boasting around 65 wineries and acres of wine estates, a trip to this tiny rural town is all about visiting the wineries and enjoying the red wine.

DogRidge Cellar Door, Gallery & Vineyards

Started in 1992 by the members of the Wright Family, DogRidge Cellar Door, Gallery & Vineyards is a famous vineyard in the town. It is fames for producing some of the finest quality wines in the country such as MVP Shiraz, The Pup Shiraz, Sugar Cut Cabernet, Fortified, Merlot, The PUP Sparkling, Moscato, Grand Old Brand New and MVP Petit Verdot. The Doghouse Wine Club offers complimentary vintage wines and other exclusive offers to the members.

Hugo Wines

A wonderful place to enjoy finest quality wine, Hugo Wines is a must visit attraction for the wine lovers. This place is famous for its collection of wines and wine tasting tours. NV Cuvee, 2015 Chardonnay, 2017 Sauvignon Blanc, 2017 Rose, Grand Tawny, 2012 Reserve Grenache, 2012 Shiraz Magnum, Halliday Dozen 2014 Shiraz Special and 2014 Shiraz are among the best rated wines produced here.

Kangarilla Road Vineyard & Winery

Kangarilla Road Vineyard & Winery is yet another popular winery in McLean Vale. Located at Hamilton Road, the site is perfect to visit with friends or family and enjoy some terrific natural wines. 2016 Kangarilla Road The Monty Rose, 2017 Kangarilla Road Pinot Grigio, 2016 Kangarilla Road Reserve Chardonnay, NV Street Cred Moscato, NV Street Cred Sparkling Shiraz, 2013 Kangarilla Road Terzetto and 2014 Kangarilla Road Primitivo are the must try wines here.

Shottesbrooke Vineyards

Beginning its journey in 1981, Shottesbrooke Vineyards has a range of wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, GSM, Cabernet Sauvignon, ‘Jenkins’ Vineyard’ Shiraz, ‘Bush Vine’ Grenache, ‘The Proprietor’ Cabernet Merlot Malbec Blend, ‘Punch’ Cabernet Sauvignon, ‘Eliza’ Shiraz, Blanc de Blancs, Botrytis Sauvignon Blanc, Old Bush Vine Rare Liqueur Tawny and Muscat.  Visitors can also take part in group wine tasting events, tours to the nearby grape gardens and Sunday afternoon brunches.

Yangarra Estate Vineyard

Yangarra Estate Vineyard uses traditional flavours to produce Mediterranean variety bush vines. 2016 Viognier, 2016 Roussanne, 2017 Grenache Rosé, 2017 PF Shiraz, 2015 Old Vine Grenache, 2015 Mourvèdre, 2014 Shiraz, 2015 GSM, 2014 Small Pot Whole Bunch Shiraz and 2014 High Sands Grenache are some of the wines you have to try on your tour here.