Top 5 Spooky Spots in Australia

Port Arthur, Tasmania  

Take a lantern-lit Historic Ghost Tour of the World Heritage listed site of Port Arthur by night and be guided on a mysteriously intriguing historical journey.

Learn of bizarre occurrences among the darkened ruins and heritage buildings where convicts, settlers and soldiers once walked. There is almost two centuries of documented sightings and reports of paranormal activity.

Port Arthur, Tasmania credit Peter Luxton

Old Melbourne Gaol

Once home to dangerous criminals, petty offenders, the homeless and the mentally ill, the Old Melbourne Goal is now a popular tourist attraction where you can step back in time and walk the road to the gallows of the 19^th century prison.

Between 1842 and its closure in 1929 the gaol was the scene of 133 hangings including that of Australia’s most infamous citizen, Ned Kelly.

Take a Ghost Tour by night and you could become of the many who have witnessed paranormal occurrences, or take the Hangman’s Night Tour and learn the stories of the ‘rope master’.

St Helena Island, Brisbane

St Helena Island National Park historic area once functioned as a high-security colonial prison from 1867, and was home to hundreds of society’s outcasts.

It was a tough life on St Helena, where severe punishments such as lashings, dark underground cells, gagging, and energy-sapping shot drill did not go astray.

Ghost tours of St Helena are taken by night, but be prepared for the unexpected at the island’s cemetery.

Brisbane, Queensland

The Rocks, Sydney

Take a tour of The Rocks in Sydney to hear true stories of murder, suicide, hangings, hauntings and ghosts as you journey along the cobblestone lanes.

From the earliest history of the settlement, the area had a reputation as a slum, often frequented by visiting sailors and prostitutes. During the late nineteenth century, the area was dominated by gangs and maintained a rough reputation until the 1870’s.

Many of the sites on The Rocks Ghost Tour have had recent reports of sightings and strange phenomena, where you may encounter shades of the dead lingering amongst the living.

The Rocks, Sydney

Fremantle Arts Centre, Western Australia

Built in 1867, the Fremantle Arts Centre is said to be the most haunted place in the Southern Hemisphere, mainly because of the amount of sightings people have had there.

Originally a mental asylum, it was condemned in 1900 after two deaths and a Government inquiry, though its patients weren’t relocated until 1909.

Ghost tours taken by night will prove paranormal activity is abundant in the old gothic-style building, which is said to be haunted by at least 10 restless spirits.   

For the Golfer in You

Finding a holiday destination to satisfy everyone in the family is difficult. Especially when one person’s activity requires a space of land fit to build multiple houses. Luckily now there are places which accommodate for the golfer as well as everyone else at an absolute impeccable standard. Perfect for the whole family, groups, just everyone!

Cyprus Lakes Resort, New South Wales

 

Cyprus Lakes Resort is situated in the middle of the picturesque Hunter Valley. It is a golf and spa sanctuary, nestled in the vineyards surrounded by Australian bushland and mature gardens. It has countless activities to cater for everyone’s agenda including tennis courts, horse riding, a swimming pool, biking riding and hot air ballooning. To indulge yourself try the Golden Door Spa which is the ultimate recovery, renewal and rejuvenation experience.

To satisfy the golf enthusiast there is a separate championship class Cyprus Lakes Golf & Country Club. It has an 18-hole course as well as other courses and lessons are available. An annual competition, Jack Newton Celebrity Classic, is held which has been running for 5 years already.

There are multiple opportunities to explore the Hunter Valley through the Shadow Wine Country Tours which looks at the history, the cellars and vineyards as well as other tours which go through all the wineries.

View at Cyrus Lakes Resort, New South Wales

Mercure Kooindah Waters Golf and Spa Resort, New South Wales

Mixing business and pleasure is difficult however at the newly built Mercure Kooindah Waters Golf and Spa Resort it has been taken care of.

Situated on 95-hectares of bushland it has every facility or service possible for you to enjoy your stay whilst covering business. It has an indoor heated lap pool, outdoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, gymnasium, tennis courts, a children's playground and of course an 18-hole golf course. This makes it a family friendly and entertaining resort for everyone.

To receive the full pampering package there is the award winning Endota Day Spa. Its signature ‘drenched’ treatment incorporates local resources and natural methods such as river salt and the desert lime body cleaner.

Satisfy your tastebuds at the Karinyas Restaurant and Wine Bar overlooking the stunning championship golf course and wetlands.

Mercure Kooindah Waters Golf and Spa Resort, New South Wales

 

Peppers Moonak Links Resrt, Victoria

Less than an hour from Melbourne Peppers Moonak Links Resort is the perfect place for the golf enthusiast who wants to combine luxury and relaxation. Settled within the Mornington Peninsular, it is a area of sheer beauty to explore with over 50 wineries, countless beaches, Cape Schanck National Park and picturesque villages everywhere.

If one golf course wasn’t enough Moonak has 2 championship 18-hole courses to accommodate for all levels. It hosted the 2005 Australian Open Championship.

For the more adventurous there is horse riding along the famous Gunnamatta beach or swimming with the dolphins in Port Phillip Bay. After a long day on the green you can enjoy local produce cuisine at Pebbles Restaurant which prepares an Australian menu whilst overlooking the pristine course. For the absolute experience Moonak has an Endota Spa to completely relax, rejuvenate and pamper you.

Peppers Moonak Links Resort, Victoria

Bonville Lodge Luxury Bed and Breakfast, New South Wales

Want a relaxed golfing holiday where everyone can come including the 4 legged friends then Bonville Lodge Luxury Bed and Breakfast has exactly that.

This bed and breakfast is definitely not one to compensate in luxury or comfort. Bonville is the best place to receive a good night sleep in a peaceful, quite and country atmosphere to refresh you for the following day’s activities.

Only 2km from the award winning Bonville Golf Resort named most beautiful golf course in Australia. It has 72-par championship courses and provides all services and facilities needed to play world class games.

Located in pictorial surroundings Bonville is encompassed by copious towns and beaches to explore especially the iconic Coffs Harbour.

Entrace at Bonville Lodge Luxury Bed and Breakfast, New South Wales

 

Country Club Tasmania, Tasmania

Country Club Tasmania is the epitome of relaxation and something for everyone. Located in lush parkland of Launceston, Tasmania is a true oasis for dinning, entertainment and accommodation.

It has a variety of accommodation to suit all budgets including 4 and 5 star rooms and multiple villas. There is also a diverse selection of restaurants, bistros and cafes to cater for your appetite and accounts. Some includes the Links Café, Villa Italiana, Bolters pizzeria and Watergarden all using local produce and overlooking the spectacular scenery.

The facilities at Country Club are truly one of a kind. There are all the typical amenities such as pools, tennis courts and saunas though they exceed this by providing horse riding through the local bushland, trout fishing and natural therapies. Tours can be booked to discover the wonderful state of Tasmania and all its beauty.

Onsite there is a boutique casino for all the risk-seekers or to enjoy a good night out. All year round there is live entertainment from acts to be enjoyed by everyone including singing and comedy held in the Tonic Bar or Country Club Tasmania Room.  Topped off with an 18-hole championship golf course part of the Prospect Vale Golf Club providing all the obstacles needed to challenge and improve your skills.  

Country Club Tasmania, Tasmania

Novotel Twin Waters Resorts Sunshine Coast, Queensland

If you want to receive the royal treatment then Novotel Twin Waters Resorts Sunshine Coast is the place to enjoy as it has the majestic touch of Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Phillip who stayed in 2002.

This resort is the ideal match of beach and bonding time with the family. It is situated on the Sunshine Coast just an hour from Brisbane surrounded by an abundance of attractions including Australia Zoo and Eumundi Markets as well as local bushland and beaches.

The 18-hole golf course is located on the beautiful tranquil grounds and designed by internationally renowned golf architects especially to enjoy and challenge golf enthusiast.

The Kidz Cove kids club keeps the children entertained all day and night will ample activities and resoruces. Allowing adults to enjoy the Lagoon Day Spa with a private water view to completely indulge and invigorate the body and mind.

Novotel provides some unique experiences including Australia’s first All Terrain Segway Xperience an adventure activity where you can explore the entire property on 2 wheels. For the more daring there is a Cirque Escape which is a circus school teaching skills including juggling, static trapeze, flying trapeze, tight wire and bungee trampoline.

There are countless eateries for all your needs and times of the day.

Novotel Twin Waters Resorts Sunshine Coast, Queensland

Get your heart pumping around Australia

Skydiving in Cairns, Queensland

Cairns is one the most popular destinations in Queensland known for its beautiful beaches and of course holds one of the great wonders of the world - The Great Barrier Reef.

Imagine experiencing and seeing all of Cairns' attractions at once by completing a Tandem Skydive and seeing a full birds eye view of the region's attractions. Get the adrenaline rushing by  jumping 15, 000 ft and free falling for over 60 seconds. It is the fastest human powered sport on earth, reaching speeds of up to 200 kph. An experienced Tandem Master travels with you all the way, providing a 20 minute debrief, training and instructions prior to the departure. Anyone can participate, no experience necessary.

Skydiving in Cairns, Queensland

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney

Want to follow in the footsteps of celebrities including Oprah Winfrey and Will Smith? Then a Sydney Harbour Bridge climb could be for you. It is 3.5 hour journey to the top of one of the most famous bridges in the world. A full 360 degrees view of this breath taking city spanning from the Sydney Opera House to the Blue Mountains. Travel with a group of 12 plus an instructor any time of the day, from the early sunrise tour to the magic dusk tours where the city lights sparkle. Upon reaching the summit you can have your photo taken of this unforgettable experience.

Concurring the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, Sydney

Jet Boat Thrill Ride, Sydney

Don’t mind getting a bit wet and wild then Oz Jet Boating is the experience for you. Set in the famous Sydney Harbour this thrilling ride will combine both sight seeing of iconic landmarks such as Sydney Harbour Bridge and Taronga Zoo plus a range of spins, slides and power break stops on the renowned Red Shark Boat. The 30 minute adventure will fulfil your need for speed as well having a unique experience of Sydney from the water.

Red Shark Boat on Sydney Harbour, Sydney

Otway Fly Treetops Adventures, Melbourne

Located less than 2.5 hours from Melbourne Otway Fly Treetops Adventures is a fun, adventurous ride fit for the whole family. Choose between walking amongst the treetops canopy or for the more daring abseil your way through Mountain Ash. These 30 metre high structures are a lovely way to experience and observe the forest from another angle. For 3.5 hours you can leave your fear behind and absorb the fresh air of the beautiful Otway forest. This is perfect for group bookings and family outings.

Family Friendly Otway Fly Treetops Adventures, Melbourne

Hot Air Ballooning, Brisbane

Up, Up and Away…  See Brisbane and all its beauty at the awakening morning with a Hot Air Balloon ride. Starting at 5am this is a unique experience floating over the Gold Coast hinterland which spectacular sights of beautiful forests and beaches. After your flight the team will whist you away to an exclusive champagne breakfast at O'Reilly's Grand Homestead & Vineyard. This is the perfect balance of thrills and frills to start a magical day. 

Hot Air Ballooning in the Gold Coast hinterland. Brisbane

Six Tree Top Retreats

Want to get away from the fast, busy and structured lifestyle of the city then a stay is well overdue at Australia’s tranquil hotels hiding amongst the tree tops. With relaxing facilities and natural attractions to relieve the mind and de-stress the body you will never want to leave. The hidden gems are scatted all over Australia particularly in Queensland, New South Wales and Tasmania.

Thala Beach Lodge, Port Douglas Queensland

Hidden away in the forests canopy 10 minutes from Port Douglas, Thala Beach Lodge is a tranquil oasis. With a 5 star luxury rating due to its panoramic views from the onsite world class restaurant Ospreys of the coastal lines and the earthiness of the timber bungalows Thala is at one with nature. You can bequeath yourself in the local nature by experiencing bird watching, star gazing, turtle spotting, enjoying the garden walks and many more. The cool and spacious stilt built bungalows will accommodate all your needs and the paths to the main building and sandy beaches weave amid organic eucalyptus tress. It is a highly accredited eco friendly through its awareness and sustainable practice.

Bungalow, Thala Beach Lodge, Port Douglas

Silky Oaks Lodge & Healing Water Spa

Luxury and nature are each others yin and yang at Silky Oaks Lodge & Healing Water Spa. The boutique hotel lodge is spread out along the Mossman River in contemporarily designed Treehouses surrounded by stunning rainforest adjoining national treasures including Daintree National Park and nearby Great Barrier Reef. There are countless activities including yoga, helicopter rides, drop off picnics, jungle surfing canopy tours to explore the spectacular environment.

Treehouse Silky Oaks Lodge & Healing Water Spa, Queensland

The Healing Water Spa is one of a kind, inspired by ancient wisdom to harness the power of nature. The treatments are designed to nature and nurture the mind, body and spirit incorporating the surrounding rainforest. Winner of the 2011 Spa Award you will feel rejuvenated and revitalised.

Healing Water Spa, Silky Oaks Lodge

Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa

If you want to appreciate nature and all it has to offer with the immersion of aboriginal culture then Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa is your destination. With only 15 exclusive “bayans” (houses) nestled in the Daintree Rain Forest you are definitely at one with mother nature. It is an Ecolodge with the most pampering through its spa facilities which utilises the water from the nearby waterfall and incorporates Aboriginal culture and techniques. You can immerse yourself in local surroundings by participating in horse riding, Daintree river cruises and Rainforest safaris. The native Aboriginal culture is fused into all the aspects of the lodge and can be fully experienced by joining one of the tours or an Aboriginal art workshop.

"Bayans" at Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa, Queensland

Eaglereach Wilderness Resort, Barrington Tops- NSW

Eaglereach Wilderness Resort is the perfect place to see nature in its natural form, observe wildlife and captivate the Australian essence only 2 hours from Sydney. Placed in the Hunter Valley every room has a picturesque view spreading from either the Barrington Tops to the Pacific Ocean constantly providing breathtaking scenery to just relax and unwind. On the 1000 acres there is plenty of Australian wildlife to see including kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas to the majestic wedge tailed eagle. Kayaking, mountain bikes and many more activities are complementary, perfect for the tight budget and not impeding on any enjoyment.    

Eagle Wilderness Resort, New South Wales

Stewarts Bay Lodge, Port Arthur

Located next to Port Arthur Historic Site Stewart Bay Lodge unites the water and forest into the perfect fusion accommodating every ones interests. Each day can be a new adventure either snorkeling in one of the nearby bays to bushwalking the Tasmanian Peninsular. It has a variety of facilities including Taylor’s Waterfront Restaurant which uses local sourced produce and flavours. There are countless natural attractions to explore including the nearby cascading Waterfall Bay, a remarkable cave and a riding ranch. Perfect for the active holiday.

View from cabin at Stewart Bay Lodge, Tasmania

Huon Bush Retreats, Tasmania

A lovely retreat placed in the centre of Huon Valley, Tasmania which is ideal for the person with a love of wine and a forest wonderland. The valley is home to vineyards which can be explored through the seasonal trails which let you discover high quality local produce to tantalise your taste buds. The rooms provide a warm feeling with a fireplace making you feel at home whilst enjoying the beautiful and peaceful surroundings. Very private though close to all attractions including the picturesque Huon Trail Touring Route, Hartz Mountain National Park and Recherché Bay Nature Recreation Area.

  

Tree house at Huon Bust Retreats, Tasmania