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20 June 2012 by Luke McCormick
A pristine coastline of cresting surf beaches and dazzling coral reefs shows off the legendary laidback Aussie surf culture and natural lifestyle, while the iconic Outback offers a majestic experience - silent and splendidly isolated.
The people are friendly, the wine world class. Whether you're after tropical paradise, luxury escapism or an epic overland adventure. Reefs and rainforests, wetlands and wineries, crocodiles and kangaroos - Australia has it all. We can show you how to get the best out of your holiday and experience Australia in luxury and crowd-free comfort.
Discover ancient Aboriginal culture and diverse modern cities, The Great Barrier Reef and Uluru, The Kimberley and Kakadu.
From Tasmania's heritage listed highlands and geographically diverse landscapes to Sydney's iconic harbour and envied lifestyle, Melbourne's historic laneways, and the Top End's legendary wilderness areas. There's nothing like Australia.
If you have more time or are returning for a second or third visit, we can help you seek out hidden treasures, secluded beaches and remote luxury retreats beyond the icons. Request a copy of our comprehensive regional brochure, full of inspirational ideas for travel in Australia, or go Beyond the Icons and discover what Australia has to offer other than the reef and the rock.
Below is a selection of our favourites, but our Australia specialists are always on hand to discuss your individual needs and share their expert knowledge and personal memories of travelling Down Under.
Outback and Wildlife
Blue Mountains
Just three hours west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a full of bushwalking trails and unbeatable scenery. Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa is a Luxury Lodge of Australia, complete with wild kangaroos hopping just outside your villa.
Flinders Ranges
Arkaba Station is a classic outback working sheep station located among craggy sandstone bluffs and gum tree-lined creek beds in South Australia's spectacular Flinders Ranges. Home to the elusive yellow-footed wallaby and the starting point for the Arkaba Walk, and perfect to explore on foot or air.
Home to the elusive yellow-footed wallaby and true Aussie hospitality, it is perfect to explore by foot or air and makes a great combination with Kangaroo Island, famed for its stunning coastline and abundant native wildlife.
Kangaroo Island
We'd suggest a stay at the authentic Stranraer Homestead or the luxurious, world-beating Southern Ocean Lodge.
The Top End
The incredible Kakadu and the Kimberley regions are perfect during the dry season from May to October. These enormous and remote areas are among our favourites to explore. Where else can you hike spectacular gorges to find ancient aboriginal rock art and hidden rock pools perfect for a dip, live like an Aussie stockman on a cattle drove, take a sunset cruise with saltwater crocs and native birds for company, or walk among the beehive domes of the Bungle Bungles?
Fly or drive to Bamurru Plains or Wildman River Lodge, close to Kakadu, or El Questro or Home Valley Station on the famous Gibb River Road. Better still; leave the driving to someone else on an escorted ‘Kimberley Complete' tour with APT.
Australian coastal journeys
A driving holiday is a quintessential part of the Aussie experience. Many underestimate the vast distances involved though, so take your time to make you enjoy what's on offer.
East Coast
The classic Melbourne to Sydney east coast route includes Wilson's Promontory and the Gippsland Lakes, well worth a few days cruising the waterways. The nearby Croajingolong National Park is a UNESCO biosphere reserve, with abundant bird and wildlife flourishing among the sparkling beaches and rocky headlands. Further up the coast explore the charming Tilba villages on the way to Jervis Bay, or cut inland to visit Canberra.
Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road west of Melbourne is simply spectacular. Take a helicopter flight over the famous Twelve Apostles, head to the delightful village of Port Fairy, relish the Aboriginal art and inquisitive kangaroos and kookaburras amid the rugged Grampian Mountains, then head back to Melbourne via delightful Daylesford.
The South-West Coast
South of Perth, the Margaret River is an area of cracking coastline, top-rate wine estates and giant forests, all brilliantly combined on our south-west self-drive.
Tropical beach resorts
Complete your Aussie adventure with some well-earned relaxation on one of Queensland's idyllic islands or tropical beaches and take the opportunity to explore the reef or rainforest in relative isolation.
Lizard Island is a private island, accessible only by light aircraft, with spectacular beaches perfect for snorkeling and some of the best diving on the reef.
Wilson Island is the ultimate escape, with just six permanent tents located on this tiny isle a short boat ride from Heron Island in the southern Barrier Reef.
Thala Beach Lodge is world away from the main resorts of the region, nestled in the rainforest, but bang on the beach - the perfect base for exploring the Daintree Rainforest.
Get in touch with one of our experienced consultants who can create the perfect Australia experience for your next trip down-under.