There’s nothing better than an Aussie regional getaway. Chilled-out days, gorgeous scenery, awesome food – we’re starting to relax just thinking about it. While there’s no denying the allure of a big-city break or summer beach escape, regional Oz is full of charming, tucked-away spots, each offering the perfect blend of unique holiday experiences and great value for money (‘cause who couldn’t do with saving a few bucks at the moment?). Here are ten of our favourites from around the country. Check them out!
- Tamworth, NSW
Australia’s country music capital and home of the Big Golden Guitar, Tamworth is the perfect destination for music lovers – especially in January, when the Tamworth Country Music Festival is on. It’s a great pick for sports fans as well, with the Bradman Museum – Australia’s largest dedicated cricket museum – a must-visit. But the real showstopper for the kids is the Tamworth Marsupial Park and Adventure Playground, where they can get up close to some of their fave Aussie animals (including kangaroos, wallabies and emus) AND run wild in an epic nature/castle-themed play space.
Recommended stay: Edward Parry Motel & Apartments.
- Port Lincoln, SA
With its incredible seafood, stunning natural beauty, and thrilling wildlife encounters, Port Lincoln ticks some of the best holiday boxes. A day trip to Lincoln National Park is a must – you’ll find gorgeous scenery, awesome hiking, excellent fishing and crabbing, and you might even spot a goanna or two. Coffin Bay is also a highlight – there’s nothing like standing in waist-deep, sparkling turquoise water, slurping down the freshest of fresh oysters. But if you’re an animal lover, No.1 on your to-do list has to be swimming with wild sealions… or cage diving with great white sharks 🦈😲
Recommended stay: The Marina Hotel.
- Bathurst, NSW
Less than three hours’ drive time from Sydney, Bathurst is perfect for quickie getaways, with awesome scenery and amazing food to spare. A cruise around Mount Panorama is a blast for both motorsports fans and newbie drivers – what better place to break in your Ls? And your family’s history buff will love History Hill Museum and the Australia Fossil and Mineral Museum. Make sure to squeeze in a trip to Annie’s Ice Cream Parlour as well – it’s a delicious blast from the past.
Recommended stay: Heritage Inn Bathhurst.
- Launceston, TAS
Wotif’s Aussie Town of the Year in 2022, Launceston is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, rich in both gourmet delights and rugged natural beauty. Top of your list has got to be a trip to Cataract Gorge and Mole Creek Caverns – they’re both just stunning. When you’re ready for a day of feasting, head to Josef Chromy Wines (one of Tassie’s most decorated wineries), Black Cow Bistro, James Boags Brewery, or the Harvest Market. Yuuuum.
Recommended stay: Kurrajong House Launceston.
- Echuca, VIC
Natural beauty, awesome food, and a cool arts scene all on the banks of the Mighty Murray River? Yep, that’s Echuca. First on your to-do list should be a ride on one of the famous Murray River paddle steamers – they’re iconic for a reason. And you’ve got to check out Silo Art Trail – these massive artworks are spread around the district and make for some seriously unique sightseeing. Echuca is also home to some brilliant festivals, including the Southern 80 (the world’s biggest waterski race) and the Riverboats Music Festival, both held in February.
Recommended stay: The Georgian Motor Lodge.
- Toowoomba, QLD
Famous for gorgeous blooms all year round. Toowoomba is a dream destination for gardeners and plant lovers. Late September to early October is one of the best times to visit – you’ll see the Carnival of Flowers, which includes stunning garden exhibitions, a parade, a food and wine festival, and loads of entertainment. Feeling adventurous? The hike up to the top of Table Top Mountain is used as training for Mount Kilimanjaro and the Kokoda Trail, so you know it’s a bit of a slog – but the views are well worth it.
Recommended stay: Potters Toowoomba Hotel.
- Orange, NSW
Australia’s food basket, Orange is perfect for foodie getaways, with plenty of outdoor fun for the kiddos as well. Heifer Station is a fantastic place to start – it’s an award-winning, family-friendly vineyard and cellar door that also has a petting zoo with alpacas, cows, chooks and goats. Spring and autumn are ideal times to stay, with gorgeous foliage to admire and lots of fruit-picking experiences to try. Don’t miss FOOD Week – Australia’s longest running regional food and wine festival, next running 28 March – 6 April 2025.
Recommended stay: Turners Vineyard.
- Bendigo, VIC
Wotif’s Aussie Town of the Year for 2024 – and a UNESCO Creative City and Region of Gastronomy – there’s something for everyone in Bendigo. Immerse yourself in Australia’s rich goldrush history at the Central Deborah Gold Mine (where you can venture 61 metres below ground to explore a real retired mine!) and the Golden Dragon Museum, or delight the kids with a ride on an old-school steam train. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, treat yourself at any number of incredible wineries, restaurants and foodie experiences.
Recommended stay: Alexandra Place.
- Torquay, VIC
Hang ten, dude, ‘cause this is the ultimate surfer’s getaway. Home to Bells Beach, the Australian National Surfing Museum, and the annual Rip Curl Surf Competition (held just after the Easter long weekend), Torquay is a top choice for experienced surfers of all levels, with plenty of great classes for newbies as well. Got plenty of sunscreen? It’s sun’s out, buns out at Point Impossible Beach – the local clothing-optional beach 🍑
Recommended stay: Torquay Hotel Motel.
- Nelson Bay, NSW
Animal and nature lovers, this is the destination for you. Nelson Bay is full of awesome outdoor attractions and critter encounters: we’re talking whale watching (from May to November), dolphin spotting, quad biking, and hiking (the views from Gan Gan Hill Lookout are particularly spectacular). Must-visits in the region include The Shark, Ray and All Creatures Rescue Centre, Port Stephens Crocodile Experiences, and Port Stephens Animal Adventures. Make sure you leave a day to explore the Port Stephens Great Lakes Marine Park too.
Recommended stay: Hotel Nelson.
PLAN YOUR WOTIF GETAWAY
