People from over the world head to Australia in search of relaxing places, where they can leave their troubles and obligations behind. As someone who frequently travels to Australia, I’ve decided to give my two cents and tell you about some of the places that influenced me most with their peace, harmony, and tranquility.
1. Palm Beach
Image via Flickr by Brian Giesen
One of the best things about Australia is that you can easily find relaxing places within the city limits. If you’re staying in Sydney and want to escape from everyday stress, just head to Palm Beach in the northernmost part of the metro area. It’s one of the cleanest beaches in this part of Australia and it’s ideal for various beach activities. If you climb to Barrenjoey Head, you’ll have a great view of the Sydney coastline. After sunset, you don’t have to go back to the city – especially if you have rented a cozy Palm Beach holiday house. Spend the night there and take a morning swim just after sunrise.
2. Kangaroo Island
Image via Flickr by Paul and Jill
Kangaroo Island is a perfect place to experience true Australian hospitality. A sparsely inhabited island with a few towns and farming communities, Kangaroo Island has become one of the best-known getaway destinations in Australia. Some of the locals make excellent wine, which you can try in small wineries across the island. On the island, you’ll also find some unique animal species associated with Australia, including kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas. Even penguins sometimes land on the island and you might spot them if you are lucky.
There are plenty of unspoiled beaches on Kangaroo Island, and on the southern coast, you’ll find vast stretches of sand with slower currents and smaller waves. Here, you can lie on a shoal to enjoy the sun and the warm Indian Ocean.
3. Blue Mountains
Image via Flickr by Tatyana Kozlova
The Blue Mountains is another place near Sydney that’s great for recuperating from busy city life. Hiking and enjoying the incredible scenery is a great stress reliever. I’ve been to the Blue Mountains on many different occasions, and each time, I’ve taken a different route, seen new sights, and discovered magnificent lookout points. Apart from hiking, this area also offers incredible canoeing and mountain biking opportunities. No wonder the Greater Blue Mountains Area is now on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The area has also become popular with artists and creative types.
4. Great Ocean Road
Image via Flickr by Larry W. Lo
Lots of visitors to Australia spend time in the country’s most popular spots, like Sydney and Uluru-Kata Tjuta. But don’t miss out on the many other amazing places this huge country has to offer. Along the coast of Victoria, you’ll find desolate beaches and breathtaking rock formations. The best way to explore this area is by car, so organize a road trip down the Great Ocean Road and enjoy one of the most scenic rides you will ever have.
The winding road overlooks some of the highest cliffs you might ever see. It brings you closer to the crashing ocean waves, then takes you back through the kangaroo-inhabited grasslands. Along the road, you’ll also find some of the best surfing spots in the state.
5. Watarrka National Park
Image via Flickr by Robyn Jay
If you’re more into desert landscapes, you should check out the Watarrka National Park and the King’s Canyon – the most popular tourist sites in this area. Take a pleasant canyon walk in the spring or summer just before the sundown. Uluru, Australia’s most popular natural site, is also close to the park.
If you’re looking for a relaxing, yet adventurous, travel experience, Australia is a place you shouldn’t miss. With the perfect combination of interesting cities, diverse wildlife, and tropical beaches, Australia is an excellent option for people who are trying to find some serenity.
Marie Nieves is a lifestyle blogger, who loves unusual trips, gadgets, and creative ideas. While travelling, she likes to read poetry and prose and surf the Internet. She is a regular author at High Style Life and loves to share her experiences. You can follow her on Twitter.
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