What you can't miss when visiting South Australia

Hahndorf

Within the Adelaide Hills is Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement, Hahndorf. There is still a strong German culture in this town, most evident in the smallgoods stores and German bakery’s that line the main street. While in Hahndorf you can make your way through the towns many cellar doors on offer, and then eat the freshest local produce in one of the trendy eateries. 


This town will have you topped up on culture with its galleries, migration museum, artist’s studios and art classes. If you’re bringing the kids along be sure to take them to the Hahndorf Farm Barn, where they can cuddle some friendly animals and check out the nature wildlife park. 

Hahndorf Inn, Hahndorf

Barossa Valley

Australia’s wine capital, Barossa, is the best place to go if you’re looking to indulge in great wine in absolute luxury. With more than 80 cellar doors and 150 wineries you will be spoilt for choice.

Not only is the wine world class, but the fresh local produce from the Adelaide Hills is something to be admired also.

Speaking of food, a visit to Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop is an absolute must whilst in the Barossa Valley. Here you can check out the famous cook and writer’s product range and have tastings. And if you’re lucky you might even get to meet her!  

Wining & dining at Murdock Wines Barossa

McLaren Vale

McLaren Vale is the perfect destination for your next wine adventure, with more than 60 cellar doors, it’s a favourite South Australian wine region.

Visit Coriole Vineyard’s cellar door in an old, ironstone barn. Taste reserve wines and back vintages in the wine room and then enjoy lunch in the courtyard.

Chapel Hill offers panoramic views over the Onkaparinga Valley. Set within an old stone church, the cellar door sells a variety of wine. Penny’s Hill is inviting, with casual, farm charm. You can relax on the couches inside or play boules on the lawns, while enjoying the wine and tapas.

Coober Pedy

If you are looking for a very unique kind of holiday, then Coober Pedy is the destination for you. This opal mining town exists underground to escape high temperatures. Underground you will find hotels, restaurants, bars, and an underground church. You can take a tour of the town and check out the underground homes, opal mines, art gallery and pottery, or try your luck fossicking for opals at various spots around town. This fascinating place really is one of a kind and definitely a must do if you are considering a South Australian outback adventure. 

Coober Pedy, South Australia

 

Lake Eyre

Lake Eyre exists in the harsh South Australian outback and is the largest lake in Australia, spanning 9,500 square kilometres. As the lake rarely fills with water, and becomes a giant salt pan, which fascinates you with the white crystals that shimmer in the sunlight.

You can check out the lake from a plane, which allows you to view the endless still water or salt creeping over, or enjoy the lake by boat and listen to the sounds of the wildlife.

You can choose to camp in one of the camping grounds or if you prefer the indoors, there are hotels and caravan parks at nearby towns where you can grab a good pub feed. 

   

Limestone Coast

The Limestone Coast in a stunning region which was formed by tonnes of marine life falling to the sea floor, and is a treasure trove of natural wonders.

There are plenty of picturesque coastal towns to visit along the amazing Limestone Coast such as Robe, where you can swim at the stunning beaches, peer over rugged cliffs, and eat the best seafood. Then, head to Cape Jaffa to check out dolphins and penguins as they swim close to the shore. Coorong is a great place for swimming, fishing, or relaxing.

The Limestone Coast’s beaches are rugged and something to be seen, and offer some of the best fishing and surfing locations. 

Snorkelling off Limestone Coast

Fleurieu Peninsula

There is plenty to see and do here for all kinds of travellers. You can visit some cellar doors or bask in the beauty of the ocean, where you might see a whale or two swim by.

The Fleurieu Peninsula offers a laid back feel and beautiful scenery, created by the cliff tops, beaches, coves and the winding Murray River. You can watch little penguins come ashore at Granite Island, or get close to kangaroos in the conversation parks. This area has a real beach culture, where you often see surfers walk around with their surfboards, families playing in the sand and eating fish and chips. The sun, food and wine make this place a little piece of paradise.


To book your South Australian holiday visit www.sunloverholidays.com.au or talk to our experts on 13 88 33.

5 Ways to See The Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World which people come all over the globe to visit. Luckily it is in your backyard and a perfect holiday destination for the whole family. There are so many ways to enjoy this iconic wonder either on water, in flight or on land.

Skydive in Cairns

If you want to see the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and satisfy your inner adrenaline junkie then a Tandem Skydive is a perfect combination.

This 11,000ft distance will be the jump of your life and unforgettable. You see a full birds eye view of this natural gem and all its glory during the 40 second free fall. The spectacular view spans around 14km capturing the surrounding World Heritage Rainforest.

Accompanied by a professional instructor you will be in the safest hands to ensure everything is secure and sound. Prior to take off you will undertake training on all the basic rules and intrusions to ensure you understand the process and no experience is necessary. 

Skydive in Cairns over the spectacular Great Barrier Reef

Catamaran Cruise

For a more adventurous but tranquil experience of the Great Barrier Reef take a cruise with Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises.

This day trip takes you to the idyllic and crystal clear waters of Green Island which is the only coral cay on the Great Barrier Reef with a rainforest growing on it!

You can discover the coral and fish life, unwind on the pure sandy white beaches and explore the walking tracks leading through the National Park.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy on water such as scuba diving, helmet diving, boat snorkel tours, or hire canoes and beach lounge chairs. If you prefer, there is always the option of staying on the air-conditioned catamaran and breath the fresh air and enjoy the gorgeous scenery. 

Catamaran Cruise with Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises

High above in a Helicopter

For the best seat in the house to see the Great Barrier Reef  a helicopter ride is definitely is in order.

Departing daily, this is the best relaxing way to see Cairns and truly appreciate all the scenery. It covers the famous sites of Green Island, the jewel of the reef, the vastness of Arlington Reef and the delightful Vlasoff and Upolu Sand Cays. Whilst up in the air spot the local marine life and pick the perfect place to land for an unforgettable lunch.

This is the perfect opportunity for the photo enthusiast to capture magical snapshots.

Helicopter Ride above the Great Barrier Reef

Scuba Diving

For the ultimate Cairns experience a scuba dive with Calypso Reef Charters is the answer.

This tour takes you on a private charter around the sites of the Outer Great Barrier Reef. You can explore and get an up close view of the marine life and the magnificent coral reefs.

You have the opportunity to learn how to scuba dive with a professional PADI Dive Instructor who will explain all the safety and skills required for this memorable dive. There are multiple levels to accommodate for children and beginners, and depths to discover. For the more advanced there are shipwrecks where it is a highly likely to spot turtles, gropers, sea snakes, giant turtles, lionfish and barracuda.

The enthusiastic helpful staff with educate you with fun and history facts about the Reef and its evolution over the years. On board is a tropical lunch buffet for you to enjoy.

Scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef

Kayak like a King

If you have ever dreamt of swimming and getting close with the marine life then what better than on a kayak.

Travel at your own pace around the Great Barrier Reef and Fitzroy Island and take your time to appreciate the panoramic natural wonders. You can discover the marine wildlife and private beaches.

Once complete you can explore on land the rainforest walks, continue snorkelling the fringing coral reefs, have a jump on the ocean trampoline or just relax. A catamaran transports you to and from location for you to circumnavigate the preeminent pristine waters.

A tropical picnic lunch is catered for so you can enjoy more time exploring. 

Kayaking, Tropical North Queensland

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

Top Ten Tips for a Good Flight

1. Check your ticket and check your departure time online prior to getting to the airport to ensure the planes are running on time.

2. Have a pair of socks to stay warm for those cold airplanes.

3. To avoid a neck cramp maybe invest in a neck rest cushion. Those wierd looking u-shape cushions or something similar.

4. Have all your documentation i.e. ticket, itinerary, passport in one place. Maybe a separate little wallet for them.

5. Bring some gum or some lollies to chew or suck for those who suffer from ears popping on take-off or decent.

6. Walk or move around the cabin as much as you can during the flight to avoid getting stiff and suffering from inflamed/bloated legs.

7. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated as cabin air is generally dehydrating.

8. Wear comfortable clothing and foot wear i.e. so you do not need to do up 500 buttons or undo zips in difficult places.

9. Take some wet wipes to refresh yourself during the flight or to wipe/sanitise your hands.

10. Most importantly take some interesting reading material as those plane magazines can only be read a few times before you know all the offers off by heart.

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

Quiet Summer Retreats Around Australia

Hatchers Richmond Manor

Located 20 minutes from Hobart, Hatchers Richmond Manor is a modern day old fashioned hideaway. This family run business which is settled on 100 acre working farm and orchard is just remarkable and truly an insight into the process of fresh produce to the finished good. You can sample the domestic wines and witness the harvesting process in January. Take a horse-drawn carriage around the property on the famous Clydesdale horses. With a variety of comfy home style rooms on the panoramic acreage it is perfect for the family to relax and enjoy what nature has to offer.

Clydesdale Horses at Hatcher Richmond Manor, Tasmania

Cradle Mountain Chateau

Cradle Mountain Chateau is an absolutely breathtaking destination situated in the serene alpine woodland setting of Cradle Mountain. Near is the world-heritage Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park which has some spectacular bush walks and look outs to explore that lead to the gorgeous Dove Lake. You can explore the surroundings and local cuisines by participating in regional beer tasting and complimentary foods, Tasmania’s Tiger exhibition and Night time Animal exploration. Onsite there are multiple dining areas including The Grey Gum, Quoll’s Restaurant and Brushtails Bar which provide warm hearty meals all from local produce to match the rugged atmosphere. You will definitely find a warm burning fireplace to rug up next to and enjoy the spectacular views. 

Picturesque Cradle Mountain Chateau, Tasmania

Chardonnay Lodge

For the fine food and wine lover you need to enter paradise at Chardonnay Lodge in the heart of the Coonawarra Vineyards midway between Adelaide and Melbourne is the pinnacle to places to go. With a modern and modest feel and ample landscape ground to wonder it is perfect for families and anyone who needs a quite and relaxed getaway. Some attractions and facilities include a pool, the world heritage listed Naracoorte Caves, Blue Lake, Penola and the Mary MacKillop Centre.


Across the road is The Poplars Cellar Door Precinct which is an enjoyable location featuring a cheese bar and local produce store. It has an award winning onsite art gallery which displays the works of Australia born artist Jenny Johnson and others. This is an easy going, relaxing destination perfect to unwind and appreciate the local produce and wine. 

Chardony Lodge, South Australia

Bloomfield Lodge

If you want to experience Cairns in a picturesque, quiet sanctuary then Bloomfield Lodge is the place to escape. Located 140m north of Cairns, in the world heritage listed Daintree Forest also boarder line with The Great Barrier Reef this is a match made in heaven. You can indulge in the breathtaking scenery of either water or wilderness and experience all the beauty Cairns has to offer. With ample relaxation facilities and actractions to discover including the secluded Kangaji Beach, it has something for everyone.

The 17 individual retreats all built from local timber with colonial-style elegance and first class amenities really embraces and displays the natural heavenly surroundings. 

View from balcony at Bloomfield Lodge, Queensland

Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris

If you want to experience nature it is natural form and to learn and enjoy Australia’s history then Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris is a great destination. Situated in an exclusive area of the Northern Territory on the sacred Arnhemland it is truly an escape from the busy city and  allow yourself to unwind. This national treasure chest has countless experiences and activities including guided tours through ancestral caves with stunning original rock paintings and carving. It also accommodates for the more adventurous by providing bushwalks, 4WD adventures, wildlife spotting through the adjacent Kakadu National Park as well as fishing and swimming.

There is a variety of accommodation from luxury to earthly options of campfire cabins. No matter where you are you will see and appreciate the beautiful wilderness and atmosphere of this sacred land. 

Cabins at Davidson's Arnhemland Safari Lodge, Northern Territory

Eco Beach Broome

Eco Beach Broome is a lovely quite escape hidden at the top of Wester Australia near Broome. This award winning resort is the perfect blend of beach and bush referred to as an ‘accessible wilderness’.

The modern and stylish accommodation located right on the beach front and a backyard of bushland really captures all of Northern Territory’s beauty. You can explore the remarkable wilderness by participating in turtle and whale spotting and talking, multiple bushwalks, kayaking and end the day with yoga or a Kimberly Taste where you try some local delicacies. Another unique and fun activity is the Mud ‘n’ Fun which is a natural local treatment comprising of sand exfoliation and covering yourself in mud crab mud.

Beach and Bush blend at Eco Beach, Western Australia

After a long day of adventure and exploring you can reenergise at Jack’s Bar & Restaurant. It is an onsite water coastline restaurant providing outstanding cuisine looking at a picturesque view. 

Outstanding Cuisine at Jack's Bar & Restaurant

For assistance booking your Australian holiday call Sunlover Holidays on 13 88 33.

Quirky places to stay in Australia

Gagudju Crocodile Holiday Inn – Kakadu, Northern Territory

The Gagudju Holiday Inn at Jabiru is situated in the heart of Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory, and is one of the few World Heritage areas listed for both cultural and natural heritage.

What’s quirky about this hotel is its unique structure - in the shape of a big green crocodile. The crocodile jaws make the hotel entrance, which leads to a billabong like foyer.

Gagudju Crocodile Holiday Inn is situated just two and a half hours from Darwin, and is the ideal base to explore Ubirr and Nourlangie rock art galleries plus view the towering sandstone escarpment of Arnhem Land. 

Gagudju Crocodile Holiday Inn - Kakadu

Desert Cave Hotel – Coober Pedy, South Australia

The Desert Cave Hotel, situated in Coober Pedy, is best known for offering the opportunity to sleep in an underground hotel. You can enjoy the surrounds of the beautifully formed natural sandstone surrounds as you stay in this oasis in the desert.

Since 1915 Coober Pedy became famous for those seeking the elusive opal, but the locals found it more comfortable living in dugouts or underground homes to escape the sweltering all temperature above ground. The earth gives natural temperature control for cool, quiet living in this semi desert area of outback South Australia. 

Desert Cave Hotel - Coober Pedy

The Henry Jones Art Hotel – Hobart, Tasmania

The Henry Jones Art Hotel is Australia’s first and only dedicated art hotel. The hotel, situated neatly upon Hobart’s glorious waterfront, is a former IXL jam factory dating from the 1820’s that has been transformed into a luxurious first class hotel showcasing the work of Tasmania’s finest artists.

Located on Hobart’s Victoria dock, most of the 56 rooms have water views, and the hotel's decor offers an ingenious mix of contemporary design elements with traditional building structures and artworks, designed by award winning architects.

The Henry Jones Art Hotel - Hobart

Reefworld – The Great Barrier Reef

Don't miss the chance to stay overnight on Australia’s most remarkable natural landmark, The Great Barrier Reef with Reefsleep, located on Cruise Whitsundays Reefworld pontoon.

The Reefsleep features two types of air-conditioned accommodation, both with ensuite bathrooms: a luxurious king-size room ideal for couples or honeymooners and a bunk-style quad room for friends, family or other guests. Accommodation also includes sunset beverages, gourmet al fresco dinner with wine, full breakfast, buffet lunch, scuba dive or guided snorkelling safari. Optional activities include the underwater viewing chamber, waterslide, helicopter tours and massages.

This unique and unforgettable experience allows guests to enjoy the unique solitude and tranquillity of this World Heritage listed site over two days and one night. 

Reefsleep - Reefworld Pontoon

Peppers Convent – Hunter Valley, New South Wales

Peppers Convent in Australia’s world famous Hunter Valley wine country in New South Wales, is a romantic retreat that was once home to the Brigidine Order of Nuns.

Built in 1909, Peppers Convent offers 17 deluxe rooms, restored to reflect the buildings charming heritage and character. The buildings interior has been infused with a French Baroque flavour, illuminated through the constant symbol of cherubs, angels, gilt and toils du jour window furnishings, mixed with a distinctive character of an Australian country guest house.

Peppers Convent is surrounded by some of the best boutique wineries and restaurants the Hunter Valley has on offer, specifically the Pepper Tree wine tasting barn and renowned Roberts Restaurant.

Peppers Convent – Hunter Valley 

Leisure Inn Penny Royal Hotel – Launceston, Tasmania

The Penny Royal Hotel is a boutique property that offers modern facilities just a 5 minute walk to Launceston's city centre. Originally built as a corn mill in 1840, it was moved 54 kilometres to Launceston and was rebuilt as a hotel over 130 years later.

This unique traditional style hotel offers motel rooms as well as apartments, all with a distinctive heritage atmosphere. The rooms have recently been fully refurbished and are well appointed with all the modern comforts, while still retaining a unique heritage atmosphere. 

Leisure Inn Penny Royal Hotel – Launceston