DESTINATIONS AUSTRALIA | AUSTRALASIA
LIKE THIS? GREAT OCEAN ROAD
Renowned for its sweeping views and natural wonders, the Great Ocean Road is a 150-mile stretch of chicanes and coastal beauty. Meandering along the southeastern edge of the continent, the road passes a series of stunning landmarks, including the majestic Twelve Apostles rock formations, the tranquil Great Otway National Park, and the sleepy seaside towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay.
THE GIBB RIVER ROAD
WHAT IS IT? This challenging 410-mile route is a magnet for intrepid clients seeking a true outback experience. Connecting Derby in the west with Kununurra in the east, clients will drive through ancient geological wonders, from cascading waterfalls and dramatic gorges to hidden freshwater pools teeming with life.
WHY GO? Travellers on the Gibb River Road can spy on freshwater crocodiles at Windjana Gorge National Park, fish along the remote waterways of Bell Gorge, and cool off in private oases such as Emma Gorge and Galvans Gorge. Cultural enthusiasts can visit remote cattle stations, including El Questro and Home Valley Station, or explore the intricate Indigenous Australian art of dot painting. As the sun sets, clients will find there’s no better time or place to stargaze than under the outback skies in this serene wilderness.
BOOK IT: Inspiring Travel offers an 11-night Iconic Gibb River Self Drive trip from £4,399 per person, including UK flights, accommodation and car hire.
inspiringtravel.co.uk
TRY THIS QUEENSLAND
Queensland is renowned for its sun-kissed coastal cruising. Sailing routes allow for dives at the Great Barrier Reef to discover a kaleidoscope of marine biodiversity and vibrant coral under the waves. The bustling hubs of Cairns and Port Douglas combine history with lively attractions, while the Whitsunday Islands offer quiet coves and powdery white-sand beaches to unwind on.
KIMBERLEY
WHAT IS IT? For clients keen to delve deeper into Australia on their second visit, the Kimberley is a largely treasure trove in the northwest. The area is home to just 40,000 people and doesn’t have a single traffic light.
WHY GO? The Kimberley’s coast is dotted with 2,600 islands and is rich in wildlife, from basking crocodiles to breaching whales. One highlight is a visit to Montgomery Reef, where the ebb and flow of the tides reveals an aquarium-like array of corals and marine life, while the same tidal phenomenon creates the Horizontal Falls. Clients can also discover the soaring cliffs of Raft Point, adorned with ancient Indigenous rock art, and explore the stunning geology of the Buccaneer Archipelago – site of rock formations, peaceful peninsulas and hidden coves.
BOOK IT: APT offers an 11-day Kimberley Coastal Expedition cruise from £8,995 per person, based on two sharing, including experiences in 18 destinations and daily excursions by Zodiac, departing on June 21, 2024.
aptouring.co.uk
TRY THIS
LIKE THIS?
travelweekly.co.uk
16 NOVEMBER 2023
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PICTURES: Shutterstock/Sina Ettmer Photography, ymgerman, attem
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