The Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory has long been known as one of the most iconic walks in Australia. The track starts just outside of Alice Springs and follows the breathtaking ridges and plains of Tjoritja/The West MacDonnell Ranges. Over several days, hikers take in the vivid, otherworldly colours of the outback and sacred sites of the Arrernte people. But the walk is no easy feat. Walkers are generally required to carry their food, drink and shelter for the duration – which totals 223 km end to end.

The Larapinta Trail is one of Australia’s most iconic walks.

But the new launch of Tas Walking Co’s six-day Larapinta Signature Walk offers a way to experience the beauty of the trail without risking blisters. The tour includes a stay at a luxurious and exclusive eco-camp near the midpoint of the trail, meaning guests can bed down in comfort with full facilities. The eco-camp takes away the toil of roughing it, allowing guests to take in the beauty of the landscape from the plush communal lounge or their own private glamping tents.

Tas Walking Co’s Eco Camp offers a luxe home base for five nights.

This also means no heavy trekking backpacks or camping gear are necessary, as guests will be driven out to different sections of the trail for a series of day hikes. They’ll be joined by guides who will interpret the landscape, flora, fauna and spiritual sites, undoubtedly the ultimate luxury of experiencing the trail at a slow pace. Like with all of Tas Walking Co’s itineraries, home-cooked meals will be provided, paired with local wine and beer.

End each day back at camp, with home-cooked food and a local selection of wine and beer.

The Larapinta Signature Walk marks the first Northern Territory itinerary in Tas Walking Company’s portfolio, joining a slew of other great hikes across Tasmania and Kangaroo Island. The tour is the only offering of its kind that provides a luxe home base on the trail, a comfortable option for those who may not be up to the physical demands of doing the Larapinta trail on their own, or guests who simply want to experience the beauty of the Red Centre in luxury and style.

Read our guide to Australian walks and hikes.

The post The Larapinta Signature Walk is a new, luxe hiking alternative appeared first on Australian Traveller.

The Central Coast‘s wild beauty and relaxed spirit have made it a much-loved weekend destination. But for the first time in 15 years, the region’s main hub, Gosford, is welcoming a new-build hotel. voco Gosford is the second voco hotel to open in NSW and is set to launch in mid-2025.

voco Gosford is the first new-build hotel in the region in over 15 years.

When voco Gosford opens its doors, it will boast facilities such as a rooftop pool with a swim-up bar and several food and beverage outlets, with renowned chef Dany Karam set to lead the hotel’s signature restaurant offering. The interiors will take inspiration from the region’s natural colour palette, utilising local art and bespoke furniture to evoke a relaxed coastal-chic feel throughout its 130 stylish guest rooms. The hotel will also have stunning views over the Brisbane Water estuary from its rooftop bar, and contain ample space for events and meetings.

The stylish rooms at voco Gosford emulate the coastal colour palette.

The hotel comes about as the result of Archibald by ALAND; a $375 million project set to transform and revitalise Gosford’s CBD with a new urban village featuring shops, dining establishments and new apartments. The hotel is a collaboration with IHG Hotels & Resorts, marking the group’s continued expansion into the Australian market.

The hotel will boast a pool and swim-up bar, as well as an array of dining offerings.

“This is the first time since 2007 that a major new-build hotel has opened on the Central Coast…it’s going to change the face of the city,” says Andrew Hrsto, ALAND Founder and Director. “[It] marks a significant milestone not just for us, but for the region.”

The post The Central Coast is getting its first hotel in 15 years appeared first on Australian Traveller.

Lace up your hiking boots, a new multi-day hiking trail is set to open this summer in Kosciuszko National Park. When completed, the Snowies Alpine Walk will be a 55-kilometre spectacular that cleaves the alpine roof of Australia. 29 kilometres of the newly constructed track will link Guthega, Charlotte Pass, Perisher and Bullocks Flat with existing trails to create an immersive path through breathtaking natural landscapes that truly come alive in the summertime.

The Snowy Mountains come alive in spring and summer. (Image: E Sheargold/DCCEEW)

The Snowies Alpine Walk will meander through pristine alpine ecosystems, trace ravines and thread between majestic snow gums before guiding walkers to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko.

Once completed, the Snowies Alpine Walk will take in 55-kilometre of breathtaking alpine beauty. (Image: Alek Cahill/DCCEEW)

The new sections of the trail can be completed as day trips, with shuttle services available for transfers. Alternatively, the trail can be walked over four days, with a range of accommodation options peppered throughout the trail at Guthega Village, Charlotte’s Pass Village, Perisher and Lake Crackenback.

The Snowies Alpine Walk connects Guthega to Charlotte Pass. (Image: B Ferguson/DCCEEW)

The first stages of the Snowies Alpine Walk are already open and ready for exploring. These include the nine-kilometre Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk and the 13-kilometre Charlotte Pass to Perisher walk. The final stage, Perisher to Bullocks Flat, will open in December, completing this world-class trek.

The walk connects existing trails with new tracks to form a multi-day spectacular hike. (Image: Alek Cahill/DCCEEW)

The post A new hike is set to open in the Snowy Mountains this summer appeared first on Australian Traveller.

Australia’s wide range of climates means that when it comes to fruit, there’s an incredible array of produce. From the cool, verdant landscapes of Tasmania where sweet berries thrive to the sweltering Queensland sun that ripens juicy tropical fruits like mangos and dragonfruit, fruit picking in Australia is as diverse as it is delicious.

There’s also no greater satisfaction than eating a fruit you’ve picked yourself. Not only is picking your own as fresh as it gets, but it’s an activity that allows you to connect with the landscape and its seasons. Luckily, there’s always something fruiting on our vast continent. So we’ve broken down what to pick and where to pick it in this guide to pick-your-own fruit experiences around Australia.

Summer | Autumn | Winter | Spring

Fruit picking in summer

Cherries and berries

It’s no surprise that the pristine landscapes of Tasmania produce some of the sweetest cherries and berries in Australia. In the summer, cherries, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries are all in full swing. Picking your own is a must-do Tassie experience, and there’s an abundance of farm gates and orchards where you can get your hands on fresh, ripe fruit.

For PYO berries, try out family-owned Hillwood Farms near Launceston. Call into Turners Beach Berry Patch near Devonport – and don’t pass up their famous berry ice cream from their farm cafe.

You can pick your own berries at plenty of farms in Tasmania, such as Turners Beach Berry Patch. (Image: Tourism Australia)

There are lots of cherry orchards clustered around Hobart where you can pluck the ruby-red gems straight from the tree. Check out Oneys Creek Cherries and Plenty Park Fruit Farm, which offers homemade cherry jam at the farm shop.

You’ll also find sweet, juicy cherries all across the tri-state area, too – with Young in Central West NSW especially well-known for its high-quality cherry produce.

Get the pick of the bunch at Valley Fresh Cherries in Young, NSW. (Image: Destination NSW)

Mangoes and tropical fruits

Nothing signals summer like the syrupy flesh of a mango or the candy-like sweetness of a lychee. In the hottest months of the year, the orchards of Queensland heave with tropical delights ready for the picking. Get your tropical fix at the Longan Farm in Narangba, just 34 kilometres north of Brisbane, where you can pick your own juicy mangoes and ripe longans (a tropical fruit similar to a lychee). Mangos are one of our top Australian foods worth travelling for.

The hot Queensland sun ripens tropical fruits like mangos to perfection. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

You’ll find lashings of lychees across the state, which you can pick and gorge on at farms like family-run Lush Lychees in South Yaamba, Central Queensland.

For those with an adventurous palate, rare tropical fruits await in North Queensland. Guests at Wildwood Retreat, located on Cape Trib Exotic Fruit Farm​ can walk through the orchards sampling fruity delights such as dragonfruits, mangosteens, rambutans and papayas. Or, pop by for a fruit tour, where you can sample rarities like breadfruit, durians, and pangium edule (football fruit).

Pick and gorge on lychees in Central Queensland.

Peaches and other stonefruits

Everything’s just peachy during stonefruit season in NSW. The hot, dry summers yield sweet, juicy fruits, which are ready to be picked when the mercury’s on the rise. The Peach Farm near Yamba on NSW’s North Coast is an off-grid and pet-friendly fruit farm that offers PYO peaches and nectarines by the bucket. It’s also a campsite, perfect for parking up for a night and watching the farm’s adorable troupe of pet ducks roam around.

Closer to Sydney, Cedar Creek Orchard in Thirlmere is a fruit farm that has been active since the 1940s, and in summer, you’ll find the trees dripping with peaches and juicy nectarines that can be picked.

Everything’s just peachy during stonefruit season.

Fruit picking in autumn

Figs

Is there anything better than a soft, jammy fig? As autumn kicks into gear, the fig trees across the country’s south swell with these natural sugar bombs. To pick your own, head to Pot & Still in the Adelaide Hills, a 175-year-old estate and distillery that creates a range of fig-flavoured spirits. After you’ve collected your bounty, head to the onsite fig bar for a fig-inspired tipple.

Fig picking at Glen Ewin Estate. The property is owned by fig distillery company, Pot & Still. (Image: Darren Centofanti)

Persimmons

A ripe persimmon is nature’s candy. This vibrant fruit adapts well to many climates but grows well along NSW’s coast. Pick your fill at a number of orchards close to Sydney, such as Cedar Creek Orchard or at the Bilpin Fruit Bowl located in the Greater Blue Mountains Area.

Pick persimmons in autumn. (Image: Getty Images/Gomez David)

Apples

They don’t call Tasmania the Apple Isle for nothing. The southernmost state has been growing apples for 170 years and has a reputation as a producer of some of the country’s best. Picking your own apples in Tasmania is less common than picking cherries and berries, but you’ll still find some smaller farms like Sorrell Fruit Farm that will welcome visitors looking to pick their own.

You can also get your apple fix on the Tasmanian Cider Trail, which connects makers across the state.

Taste crisp Tassie cider at Willie Smith’s Apple Shed. (Image: Stu Gibson)

In NSW, you can get pickin’ at a number of orchards such as TNT Produce in Bilpin which is well-known for its apple produce. It’s a great spot to hunt out a range of delicious apple goodies such as juice, cider or sweet, freshly-baked apple pie. There’s also Glenbernie Orchard in Darkes Forest, where you can kick back at their onsite brewery with a glass of crisp apple cider to cap off a day of picking.

Crisp, fresh apples at Glenbernie Orchard in Darkes Forest, NSW. (Image: Dee Kramer Photography)

Pomegranates

The pomegranate is a mythic fruit. Full of hundreds of glistening ruby-like seeds, pomegranates have been an important symbol across many cultures since ancient times. These fruits grow particularly well in Western Australia. Come autumn, you can pick your own at orchards such as Gingin Pomegranates, just over an hour from Perth.

Pomegranate’s grow particularly well in WA.

Tomatoes

The Italian word for tomato is pomodoro. The word comes from pomo d’oro, literally ‘apple of gold’ – which tells you just how spectacular these fruits are. Whether you’re whipping up a passata or making a fresh garden salad, a freshly picked tomato levels up any meal.

You can get your pick of the bunch at Canoelands Orchard in North Sydney, or Emily Hill Farm in Dewhurst, Victoria. Want the heavy lifting done for you? The farm gate at Ricardos Tomatoes in Port Macquarie has plenty of fresh tomatoes, as well as a range of handmade sauces and chutneys, too.

It doesn’t get fresher than Ricardoes Tomatoes and Strawberries in Port Macquarie, NSW. (Image: Destination NSW)

Pears

Paracombe Premium Perry is a family-owned pear orchard and cidery – pick your own on select days. When you’re done, amble over to the shed door and treat yourself to a crisp, refreshing glass of pear cider. The onsite restaurant also serves up tasty sweet and savoury pear-inspired dishes, like pear and blue cheese pizza.

Pick your own pears at Paracombe Premium Perry.

Fruit picking in winter

Macadamias

The delicious macadamia nut is native to north-east NSW and south-east Queensland and has been an important Indigenous bush food for millennia. Gathering these delicious, nutrient-rich nuts is easy: when they are ready, they’ll drop to the ground.

To gather macadamias, head to The Farm and Summerland Farm, both in Byron Bay. Here, you can wander through macadamia orchards, gathering the nuts and cracking them with the nut-cracker provided on the grounds.

In Queensland, check out Macadamias Australia, a family-owned farm in Bundaberg, where visitors can take tours of the orchard to learn the journey of this native Aussie nut from tree to table.

Macadamias being peeled at Tropical Fruit World, Duranbah. The nut is native to NSW and Queensland. (Image: Destination NSW)

Citrus

The zesty fragrance of a citrus tree is sure to cut right through your winter blues. Spend a day among the orange trees gathering the sweet, golden orbs, which fruit during the cooler months. Ford’s Farm on the Central Coast grows lemons, limes, oranges, mandarins and kumquats, and has operated as a Pick Your Own Orchard for more than 22 years. The shed sells homemade jam, chutneys, and oils – as well as coffee to warm you up after a day of picking.

Picking oranges in NSW will cut right through your winter blues. (Image: Destination NSW)

Fruit picking in spring

Avocados

Avocados are nature’s butter – creamy, delicious and packed with health benefits. You can bag your very own at orchards like Meliora Farm in Peats Ridge, an avocado and citrus farm that has been growing fruit since 1925.

There’s nothing better than a perfect avocado. (Image: Getty Images/jaboo2foto)

Strawberries

It’s good news for strawberry lovers. These sweet delights are commonly grown across Australia, meaning it’s always strawberry season somewhere. This fruit is mostly associated with the summer, but they are still plentiful in the spring, too.

It’s always strawberry season somewhere. (Image: Getty Images/FamVeld)

Victoria has over 100 strawberry farms, big and small. Here, the strawberry season typically begins in October, For picking your own, The Big Strawberry in Koonoomoo is a good sport to call in, where you’ll find a cafe, playground and their own strawberry liquor. Tuckerberry Hill Berry Farm on the Bellarine Peninsula also has a produce market and cafe.

Victoria has over 100 strawberry farms.

South Australia is known for its great fruit-growing conditions, but its grapes tend to get all the glory as it’s home to some of the most esteemed wine regions in the world. But strawberries grow just as well the grapes, with many farms such as Harvest the Fleurieu, just an hour’s drive from Adelaide CBD.

Pick your own delicious strawberries. (Image: Getty Images/Yana Tatevosian)

There are plenty of growers in NSW, too, with the Riverina region being a particular highlight. Here, you can get your hands on some delicious strawberry jam, strawberry pie and strawberry ice cream – made fresh using local milk. Closer to Sydney, there’s Berrylicious Strawberries in Thilmere, just an hour’s drive from the CBD.

Strawberries grow well across NSW, Tas, Vic and SA. (Image: Penelope Beveridge; Margan Winery and Restaurant)

The post A seasonal guide to fruit picking around Australia appeared first on Australian Traveller.

Australia’s train journeys are more than just a way to get from A to B. Many are steeped in history and take in some of the country’s most beautiful scenery. And there’s nothing quite like watching the landscape roll by from the window seat.

However, for a country famous for its epic train journeys, we often take our passenger trains and regional railways for granted. Here are six unsung train journeys that warrant an excursion, from regular commuter trains to sections of outback railway.

1. The South Coast Line, NSW

Journey time: Two hours and 10 minutes.

For lucky locals on the NSW South Coast, the train line that connects Sydney, Wollongong and Kiama is just an everyday mode of transport. But it also takes in some of the prettiest views of the country as it skirts the Royal National Park before following the glittering ocean.

Enjoy the scenery as the train winds down to Kiama, where you can alight to explore blowholes, beaches and whale-watching spots. 

There are plenty of gems along this train route. (Image: State of NSW –  Transport for NSW)

2. The XPT, Qld to NSW

Journey time: Five hours.

XPT is short for “express passenger train”. These trains connect the East Coast’s state capitals as well as the regional hubs of Casino, Grafton and Dubbo.

On a jaunt between Brisbane and the blissful coastal town of Coffs Harbour, you’ll journey through the emerald Byron Hinterland, forests of stringy gumtrees and rolling pastures flecked with grazing sheep and livestock. It’s the stuff of dreams.

For those who want to experience the same scenery in total comfort, The Great Southern is a luxury train adventure that passes through the region on its journey between Brisbane and Adelaide.

Pretty scenes on the railway passing Coffs Harbour NSW’s North Coast.

3. Melbourne to Ballarat, Vic

Journey time: One hour and 55 minutes.

The V Line train from Melbourne to Ballarat is certainly a picturesque one. On the way to this UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art, you’ll traverse rolling golden plains, farmland and native bush.

Ballarat railway station is a heritage relic, with most of its original 19th-century features still intact. Spend a day wandering around the heritage streetscapes and be sure to drop into the country’s oldest regional art gallery.

Ballarat Railway Station opened in 1862.

4. The Gulflander, Qld

Journey time: Five hours for a full trip. Two hours for short trips.

Affectionately dubbed the train from “nowhere to nowhere,” The Gulflander is a passenger train between the outpost towns of Normanton and Croydon in Northern Queensland. The entire line is isolated from the rest of Queensland’s railway network, making this a unique and truly remote adventure.

Along 151 kilometres, the train takes in outback scenery that’s stunning in its sprawling vastness. Both stations of Normanton and Croydon are heritage-listed, making this a great one for history buffs.

The Gulflander travels “from nowhere to nowhere” in outback Queensland.

5. The North Coast Line, NSW

Journey time: One hour and 20 minutes.

Taking the beauty of the Hawkesbury River by rail is a special sight to behold as the train skirts along the river’s edge. From the window, you can admire the little river shacks perched upon the shores, the boat-flecked bays and the dense native bushland.

The train takes in the Hawkesbury River’s beautiful boat-flecked bays.

On this journey, you’ll cross the Hawkesbury Bridge, a 19th-century feat of engineering that was the final jigsaw piece to connect the railway between Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. 

On the kilometre-long ride over, it feels as if you’re hovering over the water. There’s an express from Sydney to Woy Woy, or take the regular route and alight at Hawkesbury River station to explore the charming town of Brooklyn.

The Hawkesbury River Bridge is a 19th-century feat of engineering. (Image: Elias Bitar via Getty Images)

6. Melbourne to Bendigo, Vic

Journey time: Two hours.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Bendigo. Australia’s fourth-largest regional town won the title of Australia’s top town this year, due to its impressive arts, culture and food scene in a heritage backdrop.

And to add to that, the train ride from Melbourne is a picturesque one, as you pass through the Macedon Ranges and pretty gold rush towns on the way.

Bendigo is rich in gold-rush history and grand architecture.

The post 6 unsung train journeys you need to know about appeared first on Australian Traveller.

There are so many exquisite scenic lookouts in Australia, each one as unique and breathtaking as the last. And although we think there is a near-infinite number of magnificent views, we’ve rounded up our picks for the top 10.

Some are iconic, immortalised on postcards sent around the world. Some are lesser-known gems, well worth going off the beaten track for. But all illustrate just how beautiful and diverse Australia’s landscapes are. Without further ado, these are the most scenic lookouts in Australia.

1. Uluru observation deck, NT

Uluṟu punctuates the nation’s centre like a navel, mysteriously bursting from the sprawling plains of the Red Centre and rising 348 metres into the air. The rock acts like a projection screen for the sun and shadows that dance across the rock face throughout the day, changing colour like a giant mood ring. There’s no better place to take it all in than at Uluṟu’s observation deck. Head there at sunrise or sunset to witness the show of a lifetime.

The stunning Uluṟu is an Australian icon. (Image: Tourism NT)

2. Windin Falls, Tropical North Queensland

Not every scenic lookout offers a natural infinity pool to soak in while you admire the landscape. But from the top of Windin Falls, you can take in the emerald rainforests of Tropical North Queensland as you soak in the freshwater. This one is off the beaten track – you’ll need to drive offroad and hike 45 minutes. But you’ll be well rewarded when you reach the top.

Admire the natural landscape atop Windin Falls. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

3. Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney, NSW

Sydney Harbour is one of the most identifiable landmarks in the world. This is due to the unmistakable nested shells of the Sydney Opera House, the boat-and-ferry-flecked water and the sandstone embankments that radiate gold in the summertime.

A walk across Sydney Harbour Bridge is a must-do, transporting pedestrians over the glossy water to reveal glorious views of the inlet. The 1.4-kilometre walk across is flat, easy and made accessible with lifts at either end. If you’re not afraid of heights, opt to climb the Harbour Bridge with Bridge Climb to arrive at the ultimate vantage point.

Revel in glorious views of Sydney Harbour. (Image: Dan Freeman)

4. Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Vic

There may only be eight apostles left standing. But that doesn’t make Victoria’s natural rock formations any less striking.

These limestone stacks by the iconic Great Ocean Road can be viewed from several lookouts, but the most famous one takes in six. It’s a beautiful view enjoyed by millions of people, and ultimately, an ephemeral reminder of the impermanence of nature.

You’ll see the Twelve Apostles from the lookout. (Image: Pat Whelen)

5. Echo Point, Blue Mountains, NSW

The Three Sisters is immediately what comes to mind when most people think of the Blue Mountains. This iconic rock formation was formed over 200 million years ago and is steeped in thousands of years of Gundangurra, Wiradjuri, Tharawal and Darug lore and history.

Here, you can feel the primordial essence, especially when evening sets in, and the landscape begins to shimmer beneath an intense purply-blue haze.

Take in the jaw-dropping vistas along the Three Sisters Walk. (Image: Nicholas Doherty)

6. ‘The Neck’, Bruny Island, Tas

Bruny Island is full of spectacular views, from waddling little penguins to the ribbons of the beach that fringe this petite islet off the coast of Tassie.

The most spectacular spot to snap a picture, though, is at ‘The Neck’, which looks out to the narrow isthmus that connects North and South Bruny Island. It’s quite a sight to see the two bays converging so close that they almost touch.

‘The Neck’ connects north and south Bruny Island.

7. Marion’s Lookout, Cradle Mountain, Tas

It’s hard to pick just one viewpoint in Cradle Mountain National Park. Marion’s Lookout is rather spectacular for its unspoiled views of Cradle Mountain’s iconic peaks, as well as a view of Dove Lake and Crater Lake.

It’s a steep climb to reach the lookout, but don’t stress if you’re not a fan of tough hikes. One of the best views of Cradle Mountain can be enjoyed from the base at Dove Lake. On a clear day, the glassy waters reflect the mountains above, doubling the spectacle.

Marion’s Lookout is rather spectacular. (Image: Lottie Corin)

8. Razorback Lookout, Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, SA

The Flinders Ranges are an unsung outback icon located 500 kilometres north of Adelaide. This mountain range is approximately 800 years old, and a sacred place to the Adnyamathanha Traditional Owners. Razorback Lookout takes it all in, a lonely road drawing the eye to the majestic mountains in the distance.

Journey through the outback towards Razorback Lookout. (Image: Emile Ristevski)

9. Oxer Lookout, Karijini National Park, WA

Oxer Gorge is one of the most magnificent lookouts in Karijini National Park, due to its location on the convergence point of four gorges.

Here, you’ll gaze 100 metres into the chasms below into the teal water that beautifully contrasts the russet-red rocks. This view isn’t for the faint-hearted!

Check out one of the most spectacular vantage points at Oxer Lookout. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

10. Cape Du Couedic, Kangaroo Island, SA

Kangaroo Island is known for its striking blue waters and abundance of wildlife.

You can’t really go wrong with a coastal view here, but one of the most charming places to get a glimpse out at the endless blue is Cape du Couedic Lighthouse, a red-capped relic of the early 1900s that still lights up today.

Gaze out past the Cape du Couedic Lighthouse. (Image: Julie Fletcher)

The post The 10 most scenic lookouts in Australia appeared first on Australian Traveller.

As I approach Longitude 131°, I’m gently spritzed by a cool cloud of mist emitting from the lodge’s entrance. It’s a welcome respite from the all-consuming heat. And it sets the tone for what’s to come – an oasis in the desert that delivers otherworldly comfort in one of the world’s harshest environments. Longitude 131°, part of the Baillie Lodges portfolio, is a luxury wilderness experience like no other. Here’s the rundown.

Rugged landscapes surround Longitude 131°. (Image: Tourism NT/George Apostolidis)

First impressions

I’m handed a glass of Champagne at reception and sink into a plush lounge by the window. Outside, a patchwork of red earth billows out before me, extending all the way to the hulking outline of Uluṟu. I’m in the Dune House – the beautifully appointed communal hub of the lodge where guests gather for meals or sundowners. The area is decorated with Indigenous artwork and woven sculptures from the Central Desert, which guests can purchase as a memento of their time here.

The Dune House is the hub of the lodge. (Image: Ryan Linnegar)

The rooms

Longitude 131° comprises 15 luxury tents and the ultra-decadent Dune Pavilion, a two-bedroom villa with an expansive deck and its very own private plunge pool. The views are the undeniable headline attraction; each tent showcases a clear, magnificent view of Uluṟu that can be enjoyed from the balcony or the comfort of the plush king bed. The Dune Pavilion has views of both Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa – the only accommodation in Australia that takes in vistas of both World Heritage-listed wonders.

The Dune Pavilion features a lounge area made for a king. (Image: Tourism NT/ George Apostolidis)

The rooms have undergone a recent refurb, leaving the space feeling refreshed and airy. The safari camp-inspired design and neutral colour palette add a feeling of lightness – a perfect contrast against the parched desert landscapes outside. The room is elegantly appointed and decorated with Indigenous art. Everything one needs for their stay has been thought of in advance: there are fly nets in the cupboard as well as a hiking backpack for guests to use.

The view from one of 15 exclusive luxury tents. (Image: Ryan Linnegar)

The bar is well-stocked with goodies that are replenished daily. I find an array of Aussie snacks and beverages that make for a delicious charcuterie board to savour on the balcony. The roomy patio consists of a sprawling daybed, lounges, and a gas fireplace to keep you cosy after the sun goes down.

Longitude 131°’s collection of pavilions provide jaw-dropping views of Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa. (Image: Tourism NT and George Apostolidis)

Food and drink

I didn’t think I’d find some of the best food I’ve ever eaten in one of the most remote parts of the country. But Longitude 131° calls in top-quality produce from across the nation, plating up a taste of Australia’s finest flavours.

For breakfast, guests can enjoy an a la carte menu with elevated brekkie classics like smoked salmon with potato rosti or sumptuous blueberry pancakes. However, there is a range of pastries to grab and go if you’re rushing to depart on an early morning tour.

Lunch and dinner are three-course fine-dining affairs, served with a recommended wine pairing. Native bush ingredients are often incorporated into the menu, making the dining experience a unique reflection of the place.

The food at Longitude 131° is world-class. (Image: Ryan Linnegar)

In the Dune House, there is an extremely well-stocked open bar that contains everything from bush-tucker-inspired green ant gin from the NT to French Champagne. Guests are welcome to make themselves a drink whenever they like. If you fancy yourself a mixologist, there are cocktail shakers and a dizzying range of liquors and garnishes ranging from candied orange peels to native pepper berries. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, the friendly staff are always willing to assist with recommendations.

Make yourself at home with a well-stocked open bar in the Dune House. (Image: Ryan Linnegar)

Menus change every day, and all food, drinks and alcoholic beverages are included in your stay.

Experiences

Longitude 131°’s Signature Experiences are included with each booking, making for a seamless experience exploring Uluṟu. Included in my two-night stay was the Mala walk along the base of Uluṟu. A knowledgeable guide explained the unique features of the landscape, the customs of the Aṉangu Traditional Owners and the important Creation stories (or Tjukurpa) tied to Uluṟu. The walk was capped off with canapes and tipples, which we sipped while basking in awe of Uluṟu in the day’s final light.

Exploring Walpa Gore as part of Longitude 131°’s signature experiences.

However, the most memorable experience was Table 131°, al-fresco dining in a secluded space draped by a glittering blanket of stars. Before dessert, a guide talked us through the constellations, astronomy and mythology of the southern sky. I returned to my tent to find a swag set up on the balcony outside, the fireplace blazing and a tray of Baileys and snacks set out before it. I continued stargazing long into the night.

Enjoy a meal beneath a blanket of stars at Table 131°. (Image: Ryan Linnegar)

Other experiences included Bruce Munro’s Field of Light, a light art installation of mind-boggling scale; A walk through Kata Tjuṯa’s Walpa Gorge; And a sunset viewing of Uluṟu with drinks and canapes.

Facilities

Pool

There are two pools at Longitude 131° – a larger pool perfect for swimming, and a plunge pool with incredible views of both Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa.

The plunge pool looks out to Uluṟu. (Image: Ryan Linnegar)

There are well-stocked mini bars at both pools, meaning guests never have to reach too far to enjoy a tipple.

Cool off by the pool. (Image: Ryan Linnegar)

Spa

Spa Kinara (which means ‘moon’) brings a bush medicine twist to traditional therapies. The spa is modelled on the design of the ‘wiltja’, shelters made by the Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara Traditional Owners. You’ll find everything from Kakadu plum, quandong, irmangka-irmangka and desert lime to Australian yellow clay and desert salts.

Sustainability

Longitude 131°  is engaged in sustainable initiatives, both culturally and environmentally. Most notably, their artists-in-residence program invites artists from remote communities to stay at the lodge and paint with a view of Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa.

Service

Thoughtful touches like homemade native lemongrass popsicles that greet guests upon return from excursion truly elevated the experience. On an early morning excursion, I didn’t have time to sit down for the a la carte breakfast, so a staff member thoughtfully packed me a small bag of pastries to take away instead. The details and the level of care for guests truly make a stay at Longitude 131° a luxury experience in every sense of the word.

Details

Getting there

Longitude 131° is a short drive from Ayers Rock Airport. You can fly direct from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Cairns.

Staying there

There is a two-night minimum stay at Longitude 131°. Prices start at $3780 per night for a Luxury Tent and $7380 per night for the Dune Pavillion. The price includes all dining, an open bar with Champagne, premium wines and spirits, an in-suite bar, signature experiences and return Ayers Rock Airport transfers.

What to do there?

Signature Experiences are included in your stay, but private expeditions can be booked to explore the protected cultural and natural landscape of Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park.

The post Glamping in Uluṟu’s glorious shadow at Longitude 131° appeared first on Australian Traveller.

After a rainy week in April, Alice Springs/Mparntwe is ripe like a desert fruit. The air is sweet, the creeks are swollen, and the landscapes are flush with vivid green foliage. Come nightfall, the annual Parrtjima light festival competes with the glittering outback starscapes, casting brilliant images against the shadowy backdrop of the MacDonnell Ranges. Small children chase projections of Aboriginal art across the ground or stand mesmerised in front of a giant illuminated puppet roving about the festival. The experience is nothing short of magical. But it’s a far cry from the portrayal of Alice Springs that has pervaded the news over recent weeks. We caught up with some locals to go behind the headlines and get a glimpse into a totally different side of Alice Springs.

Parrtjima lights up the night, combining traditional art forms with modern technology.

Is it safe to visit Alice Springs?

The Red Centre is a once-in-a-lifetime destination that’s a fixture on bucket lists around the world. But given the reports of unrest and a ‘crime crisis’, should you reconsider plans to travel to Australia’s unofficial outback capital?  The answer is a definitive no, according to John Stafford of Alice Springs Expeditions, “people who have booked tours have asked me if they should defer, and I’ve said to them, absolutely not – this is the best time to come to Central Australia. I’ve convinced them to come, and without exception, everyone in the last month has said that Alice Springs is nothing like what’s been portrayed”.

John points out that the issues highlighted in the media also apply to many other towns, suburbs and regions in Australia, but Alice Springs receives a disproportionate amount of attention.

John Stafford runs Alice Springs Expeditions. (Image: Tourism Australia/Shaana McNaught)

“Don’t get me wrong, [the incident at Todd Tavern] isn’t great. I’m not trying to sugarcoat it. But at the same time, is it reflective of what happens here day to day? No, it isn’t. It’s sad to think that people might potentially miss out on a really awesome experience [coming here] based on what I consider to be unfair press.”

As Alice Spring heads into winter, temperatures cool and the night sky becomes increasingly vivid. The town is abuzz with a roster of outback festivals, like the quaint and quirky Alice Springs Beanie Festival – a four-day celebration of hand-crafted headwear from the town and the remote communities that surround it. “The proof is in the pudding,” says John, “when visitors come here, they’ve expected one thing and they see something very, very different”.

Take your time to absorb the vivid colours of Simpson’s Gap. (Image: Tourism NT/The Salty Travellers)

A place of outrageous beauty

Anna Dakin moved to Alice Springs from London six years ago. Now, she spends her days taking visitors out for painting excursions in the countryside with her tour company, Art Tours of Australia.

“[The most prevalent change] I’ve noticed in the town is the drop in visitors and a sense of frustration shared by myself and other tour operators,” she says.

Mountain biking through the beautiful MacDonnell Ranges. (Image: Tourism NT/Travis Deane)

“This town is so gorgeous, it’s outrageous … there are all of these little magical moments that happen here that are a thousand times more powerful than the brief moments of unrest focused on by the media,” she says. Anna recalls her most recent moment of magic, a leisurely Friday evening spent listening to a talk by a bush food expert before heading to a new cocktail bar, Crimson Chat, for a bush tucker-inspired cocktail and strolling home beneath a star-lit sky. “I could never walk from my home in London … the level of safety I [feel] walking around Alice Springs is really incomparable to what I felt in a big city,” she says. “It’s easy to forget that everywhere we visit has some kind of danger. Alice Springs is no different, but the danger is actually relatively low out here.

On Anna’s last art tour, the group fell into a discussion about what makes the landscape feel so profound and magical. “It all leads back to the culture that has shaped this environment. There’s a level of frustration among people who come [on tour] with me that they don’t know more about the incredible cultures of Central Australia [such as the Arrernte and the Aṉangu cultures]… It’s a shame that when people think of Alice Springs they think of danger, when actually what is here, is vibrance and inspiration and some of the most ancient and inspiring landscapes in the world.”

Anna Dakin runs Australian Art Tours, taking visitors out to paint some of the region’s beautiful landscapes.

A deeper issue

Local frustration surrounding the media’s fixation on crime is deepened by its failure to discuss the more complex and nuanced reasons for its existence. “[The situation] is the outcome of decades of systemic underinvestment, neglect and punitive measures and controls, many imposed and still remaining from the NT Intervention”, wrote Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner June Oscar in a report calling for community-led solutions in Alice Springs.

Alice Springs Desert Park is an oasis for wildlife. (Image: Tourism NT/Helen Orr)

Although systemic issues don’t have an overnight solution, it underscores the importance of visiting, learning and fostering cross-cultural understandings. “It’s a beautiful little town,” says Paul. “It’s got natural beauty and some great tourism products that people can go and visit. The people here on the whole are friendly and it’s a wonderful place to visit…There’s lots of festivals, there’s lots of celebration. It’s a very creative town.”

The post Alice Springs isn’t what you’ve seen in the news appeared first on Australian Traveller.

“The Great Southern is certainly the best train route for scenery.” Says The Great Southern’s general manager, Bruce Smith. And he would certainly know; Bruce has been working on trains for 28 years – including The Ghan and Indian Pacific, the sister routes to The Great Southern (all three operate under the Journey Beyond umbrella). Of all Australia’s epic train journeys, The Great Southern is Bruce’s favourite. It’s not hard to see why – the countryside from Brisbane to Adelaide is painterly and picturesque all the way through, from the emerald tones of the Byron Hinterland to the golden wheatfields of regional Victoria.

Most people are familiar with The Ghan, the 100-year-old cameleer route turned bucket-list experience by the luxury train. But when outback Australia gets too hot in the summer, The Ghan transforms into The Great Southern, travelling between Brisbane and Adelaide for the season. It’s a new route, relatively speaking, beginning its inaugural journey in 2019. However, it’s already on track to be another bucket-list Aussie experience.

So if you’re thinking of hopping onboard, here’s the lowdown on what to expect when you travel between Brisbane and Adelaide with The Great Southern.

The Great Southern traces the country from coast to bush.

Adelaide to Brisbane, or Brisbane to Adelaide?

Depending on your direction of travel, you’ll experience a completely different journey.

I travelled from Brisbane to Adelaide, which was a total of 4 days and 3 nights onboard. On this journey, the train stops at Coffs Harbour first. The next stop is Newcastle – where you’ll have the choice to tour Newcastle City, visit Port Stephens or sample wine in the Hunter Valley. The final stop is in Greater Melbourne or Regional Victoria, depending on your choice of off-train experience.

The Great Southern stops at Port Stephens en route from Brisbane to Adelaide.

Alternatively, the journey from Adelaide to Brisbane is spread over 3 days, with 2 nights onboard. The train stops in the Grampians, Canberra and Coffs Harbour.

The 700-metre-plus Great Southern train passes through Coffs Harbour on NSW’s North Coast.

Accommodation and categories

There are three accommodation categories onboard The Great Southern – Gold, Platinum, and as of the upcoming 2024/25 season, a new Gold Premium category will be introduced. Each category also has separate lounge and dining cars – which we’ll delve into in the next section. Here’s the rundown of each accommodation category.

Gold

Gold Twin

I stayed in the spacious gold twin room, the most popular choice of accommodation onboard The Great Southern. In the daytime, the room is set up as a comfortable couch, where you can spread out and while away the day by the window. There’s a table, mirror, and convenient space for storage.

Gold twin cabins contain a spacious couch and an ensuite bathroom.

At night, you’ll return to your cabin to find it miraculously converted into a comfortable single-bed bed with a mattress that folds down. There are upper and lower berths to accommodate two passengers. This room comes with its own private bathroom. It’s a great option for a couple, friends, or a single person seeking more space and privacy.

There is also an access-friendly version of Gold Twin, which has handrails and a shower chair in the bathroom and converts into two lower berth beds at night.

Gold Twin Cabins have upper and lower single berths.

Gold Single

Gold singles are cosy cabins with just enough room to comfortably fit a single bed. By day, the room is set up with an armchair and a fold-down table. There are shared bathrooms and showers for this room type. There is plenty of room to spread out in the bar car if you’re seeking more space, and the cabin itself makes for a lovely reading nook to tuck yourself away and watch the world roll past.

Platinum

If you want to travel in ultimate style and comfort, then a Platinum cabin is the way to go. These cabins have nearly double the space of the gold twin cabins, as well as double windows so you can catch the absolute best views as you kick back.

The Platinum cabin by day.

You can choose either a twin or double bed configuration, making this a perfect choice for either couples or friends (or a single person who likes their space!). A Platinum cabin is set up by day with two plush ottomans. At night, the cabin comfortably contains a double or twin bed. You’ll have your own ensuite bathroom, complete with upscale amenities.

The spacious Platinum cabin is configured for sleeping. You can enjoy a continental breakfast in bed the next morning.

Gold Premium

This brand-new room category puts a more contemporary spin on the Gold class cabins, perfect for those seeking an extra touch of luxury. These cabins are similarly configured to the Gold Twin cabins, but with chic, modern design touches. Guests will also receive exclusive access to the Gold Premium Lounge. Gold Premium is available to book for the upcoming 2024/25 summer season.

The brand-new Gold Premium cabins are dressed in chic neutral tones.

Food

On The Great Southern, you’ll embark on a culinary journey as well as a physical one. The Great Southern is certainly a trip that foodies will love – think picturesque mornings lingering over a three-course breakfast or savoring the sunset with dessert in the dining car. The onboard dining is one of the highlights of the experience. The menus are thoughtfully and expertly curated, with service that is equal parts formal, knowledgeable and friendly. Each meal features an ingredient from the region the train traverses, like lemon myrtle, beetroot and Native quangdong. In a nutshell, it’s fantastic and quintessentially Aussie hospitality.

Food is a highlight onboard The Great Southern.

Gold passengers dine in the Art Deco-inspired Queen Adelaide restaurant, chock-full of character and resplendent with crimson dining booths and detailing that conjures an old-world feel.

Gold class passengers dine in the Art Deco-inspired Queen Adelaide Restaurant onboard.

Platinum passengers have a combined bar and dining car, which sports a more contemporary, elegant style. The carriage is full of thoughtful touches, like fresh flowers on each dining table.|

Platinum passengers have access to the upscale Platinum Lounge and Dining Carriage.

Similar to the Queen Adelaide restaurant in Gold class, The Gold Premium restaurant is configured with booth-style seating, but dressed in a sleek, pared-back palette that evokes a more modern feel.

Dine in the elegant new Gold Premium restaurant.

Lounge and onboard vibes

The lounge is the social heart of the train. This is where passengers go to soak in the views, sip a cocktail at the bar and chat to fellow passengers. There is a live musician onboard to provide entertainment, and passengers are encouraged to give song requests and sing along, too! The lounge definitely provides a communal element to the journey, meaning that even if you’re travelling solo, you won’t be travelling alone.

In keeping with the Queen Adelaide restaurant, the Gold Lounge is dressed in rich reds and Art Deco style. Sitting in a crimson armchair with a glass of sparkling wine in hand feels like stepping back in time to the golden age of rail travel.

The lounge is the social hub of the train.

Platinum passengers have access to a modern, upscale and intimate dining and lounge carriage, although they are welcome to wander into the Gold Lounge, too.

Gold Premium passengers also have access to an exclusive lounge. Airy, chic and modern, thoughtful design touches take inspiration from the colours of the terrain you’re passing through.

Watch the scenery pass by from the Gold Premium Lounge.

Off-train experiences

The Great Southern has a great range of off-train experiences, with something to suit every kind of traveller. Food and wine aficionados can enjoy a variety of wine tasting experiences. I joined the adventurous passengers in a 4WD of Stockton sand dunes during the stop at Port Stephens. It was the least popular tour, but a personal highlight for me. And if you can’t decide between adventure and gastronomy, don’t worry. Each excursion is always bookended with a sumptuous lunch with drinks.

Dine al fresco in Coffs Harbour on an off-train experience.

What’s included in the fare?

Fare includes accommodation, all onboard meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and off-train experiences. The only exception to this is the few optional off-train experiences which require an extra fee, such as the helicopter tours.

The post What it’s like to travel on the luxury Great Southern train appeared first on Australian Traveller.

What can’t The Wiggles do? The children’s entertainment group topped Triple J’s hottest 100 in 2021, sealing their reputation as a cross-generational Aussie icon. Now, The Wiggles have teamed up with Royal Caribbean to create the ultimate family cruise holiday for summer 2025-2026.

Families are in for a wiggly good time onboard Royal Caribbean cruises.

On exclusive Wiggles Sailings between Sydney and Brisbane, passengers will be joined by their favourite Wiggly Friends, including Captain Feathersword, Dorothy the Dinosaur, Henry the Octopus and Wags the Dog.

There will be plenty to keep kids of all ages entertained, with activities from bumper cars to surf simulators and dedicated hangouts for teens. Parents can enjoy the facilities across the vessel, from the spa to the fitness centre. And of course, there will be plenty of time for littlies to catch their favourite Wiggly Friends at character events and live concerts.

There will be plenty of opportunities to interact with the Wiggly Friends like Henry the Octopus.

Above all, Wiggly Sailings are fun for the whole family, with countless dining options, theatre shows and an onboard schedule packed with events.

Families can holiday the Wiggly way with Royal Caribbean.

“The Wiggles are thrilled to announce our game-changing partnership with Royal Caribbean – a brand synonymous with family holidays,” says Wiggles general manager Luke Field. “Together, we can’t wait to set sail and provide families with the ultimate holiday experience. We look forward to guests joining us for a Wiggly good time, where adventure and fun await around every corner. After three decades of The Wiggles, this is going to be an exciting first for us!”

Bookings for Wiggly Sailings are open now.

The post You can cruise with The Wiggles in 2025 appeared first on Australian Traveller.