A country of extremes, Australia is home to some of the world’s most famous attractions. Whether you’re an adventurous traveller looking for adrenaline thrills, a culture hunter in need of some interesting sites, or you’re happy just to find a spot in the sun on a pristine beach, this country has everything to offer.
Whilst most tourists visiting Australia arrive armed with must see lists that include famed attractions such as the Sydney Opera House, the Great Barrier Reef, Bondi Beach and Ayers Rock, the country also hides some fascinating spots that fall somewhat off the beaten tourist trail. Take a look at this guide to some hidden gems that will make your Australian experience stand out from the crowd.
1. Ghostly goings-on in Melbourne
Only the bravest of visitors dare step into the Old Melbourne Gaol, which is said to be one of Australia’s most haunted destinations. Formerly a prison, the gaol stretches along lengthy, murky corridors, which have seen over 130 executions and were once home to some of the country’s most feared criminals and psychiatric patients. Those with nerves of steel can join a candlelit night-time tour of the site in hope of some spooky sightings.
2. A race with a difference in Brisbane
Those hopping on a flight to the Gold Coast at the beginning of the year can enjoy a celebration with a difference at the Australia Day Cockroach Races. After seeing an infestation of cockroaches along the Brisbane River in the early 80s, local inhabitants set up the race to decide who’s pests were the biggest, and a tradition was born. Visitors can get involved in the entertainment, whether you opt to arrive with your own trained thoroughbred or you purchase one on site.
3. Forgotten landscapes in Queensland
Step inside 135 million years of history at Daintree Forest, thought to be the oldest rainforest in the world. This untouched landscape sits along the stunning coast of North Queensland, amidst enchanting natural sights such as cascading waterfalls, meandering rivers and tropical plant life. This dazzling landscape is filled with fluttering butterflies, being home to 60% of Australia’s population of this pretty creature.
4. In search of extraterrestrials in the Northern Territory
Visit one of the country’s capitals with a trip to Wycliffe Well, the self proclaimed ‘UFO Capital of Australia’. This small yet captivating village is a must see for any science fiction fan, who can park up in the local caravan park and fix their eyes on the sky in search of some long distance visitors…
5. Existing underground in South Australia
Sat in the heart of the Australian desert and with an average temperature of 36 degrees centigrade, the town of Coober Pedy doesn’t seem like the ideal setting for a settlement. Nevertheless, when an opal mine was formed in this very spot and the setting proved too sweltering for potential inhabitants, the town was largely built underground. Visitors can enjoy a night tucked in under the earth with a bed in one of the town’s dugout motels.
(Photo by Paul D'Ambra - Australia via Flickr)
1. Ghostly goings-on in Melbourne
Only the bravest of visitors dare step into the Old Melbourne Gaol, which is said to be one of Australia’s most haunted destinations. Formerly a prison, the gaol stretches along lengthy, murky corridors, which have seen over 130 executions and were once home to some of the country’s most feared criminals and psychiatric patients. Those with nerves of steel can join a candlelit night-time tour of the site in hope of some spooky sightings.
2. A race with a difference in Brisbane
Those hopping on a flight to the Gold Coast at the beginning of the year can enjoy a celebration with a difference at the Australia Day Cockroach Races. After seeing an infestation of cockroaches along the Brisbane River in the early 80s, local inhabitants set up the race to decide who’s pests were the biggest, and a tradition was born. Visitors can get involved in the entertainment, whether you opt to arrive with your own trained thoroughbred or you purchase one on site.
3. Forgotten landscapes in Queensland
Step inside 135 million years of history at Daintree Forest, thought to be the oldest rainforest in the world. This untouched landscape sits along the stunning coast of North Queensland, amidst enchanting natural sights such as cascading waterfalls, meandering rivers and tropical plant life. This dazzling landscape is filled with fluttering butterflies, being home to 60% of Australia’s population of this pretty creature.
4. In search of extraterrestrials in the Northern Territory
Visit one of the country’s capitals with a trip to Wycliffe Well, the self proclaimed ‘UFO Capital of Australia’. This small yet captivating village is a must see for any science fiction fan, who can park up in the local caravan park and fix their eyes on the sky in search of some long distance visitors…
5. Existing underground in South Australia
Sat in the heart of the Australian desert and with an average temperature of 36 degrees centigrade, the town of Coober Pedy doesn’t seem like the ideal setting for a settlement. Nevertheless, when an opal mine was formed in this very spot and the setting proved too sweltering for potential inhabitants, the town was largely built underground. Visitors can enjoy a night tucked in under the earth with a bed in one of the town’s dugout motels.
(Photo by Paul D'Ambra - Australia via Flickr)
(This post was written by Dave Gregory)
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