http://RealAdventures.com/vacations/445857_ql-australia-articles.htm Check out some of the recently updated travel & vacation listings on RealAdventures. Be inspired, go explore! en-us Wed, 02 Dec 2009 01:01:48 GMT Wed, 02 Dec 2009 01:01:48 GMT http://RealAdventures.com http://RealAdventures.com/vacations/445857_ql-australia-articles.htm 100 100 http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184237_Beautiful-Beerwah-and-Australia-Zoo http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184237_Beautiful-Beerwah-and-Australia-Zoo Articles Australia Mon, 01 Sep 2008 22:09:34 There are not many places in the world as loved and talked about as Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo, home of his beloved crocodile and myriads of other wildlife friends. Visiting South East Queensland would seem incomplete without a day or two allocated -
There are not many places in the world as loved and talked about as Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo, home of his beloved crocodile and myriads of other wildlife friends. Visiting South East Queensland would seem incomplete without a day or two allocated


There are not many places in the world as loved and talked about as Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo, home of his beloved crocodile and myriads of other wildlife friends. Visiting South East Queensland would seem incomplete without a day or two allocated to this fascinating attraction.

Pick up your campervan in Brisbane and head north an hour on the Bruce Highway, heading to the Sunshine Coast. This is one of my favourite drives, with pine trees lining the highway and clear open skies ahead. You know you're getting closer when the Glasshouse Mountains come into view, a mesmerising panorama of bluffs and sheer cliffs that rise up to the clouds. Many tackle Mount Tibrogargen and Mount Beerwah, with their spectacular views a drawcard for adventurers all over the world.

Once you have seen these mountains you will know you are close. Beerwah is accessed via the Steve Irwin Way just left off the Bruce Highway. Most visitors to this area have one destination in mind, Australia Zoo. And why wouldn't they? However, this part of the world was still gorgeous before the zoo, with the Blackall Ranges skirting the borders, and untouched natural beauty in every direction, it was just a matter of time before the world came to visit.

My first impression of Australia Zoo was of complete excellence and dedication to the preservation of wildlife. There is something for every age group, and each attraction is fascinating and educational. The Crocoseum is centre piece, with seating for thousands surrounding the crocodile pool. The shows are entertaining and passionate, just like Steve Irwin, with just as much support and enthusiasm from the audience.

Don't leave without a python photo, and some time out at one of the many food kiosks available. You could easily spend a few days here (or longer) learning about our valuable wildlife and getting back in touch with nature at its best. My children were in awe of the giant turtles, albino kangaroo and gentle elephants. It's an experience everyone who visits Australia will never forget.

If you want to stay a while, my choice would be the Landsborough Pines Caravan Park, located just two kilometres from Australia Zoo. With excellent facilities and a fantastic location surrounded by trees and parkland, you might end up here for a while. Just fifteen minutes to Caloundra, you can take a number of day trips from here to enjoy the Sunshine Coast hinterland or the sunny beaches.

Montville is perfect if you feel like a step back in time with craft shops and art galleries galore. There are fantastic bushwalking tracks, and spectacular views across the Blackall Range and through to the Coast. Take a relaxing drive through to Maleny and Mapleton and enjoy the quaint shops along the way.

Head to Maroochydore (just fifteen minutes away) for a day trip and if you are heading further north to Noosa, don't forget to drop in on the famous Eumundi markets complete with entertainment, art and craft, local cuisine and fresh food. Held on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, try to time your itinerary around this fun outing.

There are plenty of activities central to Beerwah. Not only is their an abundance of mountain climbing and walking tracks available, but horse riding is also popular here, as is fishing, swimming and canoeing. The Beerwah Golf Club provides a challenge for the amateur through to the avid golfer, complete with kangaroos observing on the fringes.

Just down the road at Landsborough, still on the Steve Irwin Way, is the Big Kart Track, perfect for the kids and big kids at heart. Another attraction here is the Bungy Bullet, not for the faint hearted, but another great thrill close to home.

If you haven't already, mark Beerwah and Australia Zoo on your to do list when you next visit Queensland. There is such diversity in this region alone, with a great choice of attractions and things to do. You can put your feet up and relax a while in your campervan, or head out daily and never tire of the natural beauty so close to home. It's beautiful every day.
Details & Reservations: Beautiful Beerwah and Australia Zoo
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]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184163_Discover-the-glistening-Gold-Coast http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184163_Discover-the-glistening-Gold-Coast Articles Australia Tue, 19 Aug 2008 22:08:54 Having spent a decade living on the Gold Coast, I have a lot of favourite places. The best by far are the world class beaches sweeping the length of the coast. Imagine driving the beach strip in your own home on wheels, and once you have found a stre -
Having spent a decade living on the Gold Coast, I have a lot of favourite places. The best by far are the world class beaches sweeping the length of the coast. Imagine driving the beach strip in your own home on wheels, and once you have found a stre


Having spent a decade living on the Gold Coast, I have a lot of favourite places. The best by far are the world class beaches sweeping the length of the coast. Imagine driving the beach strip in your own home on wheels, and once you have found a stretch you love, the freedom to set up for as long as you please. The Gold Coast has so much to offer, and a campervan is the ideal way to travel and see the sights.

There are a plenty of caravan parks to choose from, many located close to beautiful beaches and tourist attractions. One of my favourites is Treasure Island Holiday Park, located at Biggera Waters in close proximity to South Stradbroke Island. The waterways here are brimming with action and beauty. Dolphins are often seen frolicking at dawn,with humpback whale sightings common from June through to September.

Closer to Southport there are a myriad of child friendly parks and pools just waiting to be explored. Every water sport is available here, and you can either sit back and relax, hire a yacht or perhaps some parasailing. On a windy day its fun sitting on the edge of the water watching the skills of the wind surfers.

Another central location is the Main Beach Tourist Park, located just two minutes from the glitzy Surfers Paradise. Tedder Avenue is buzzing close by, with trendy cafes on every corner making it the ideal place to meet with new friends or just spend time together. Joggers are everywhere, and the beaches are lined with walking enthusiasts from dusk to dawn. This is a great location as a base to explore the rest of the coastline, including the gorgeous Cascade Gardens just further down the road.

Pacific Fair is located in Broadbeach, one of the main shopping centres on the coast. This has become a mega shopping complex over the years, and combined with the Oasis Shopping Centre on the beachfront, everything you need is here. Drive inland and you will experience the Gold Coast Hinterland at its best, and with Binna Burra rewarding you with spectacular mountainous views, its the perfect day trip.

One of my favourite locations on the coast is Currumbin Beach and Currumbin Alley. Perfect for the family with a choice of still waters or surfing beach, it's a good idea to pack a picnic lunch, sunscreen and bring your camera to capture the beauty here. You won't want to leave in a hurry. There are a number of walks for the more energetic, especially to Currumbin Rock which juts out of the beach waiting to be explored. The views from here are magnificent, sweeping north and south of the coast.

You can't say you've experienced the coast until you've visited the Theme Park strip at Oxenford. With so many to choose from you can buy a pass and visit them all, or take your pick. Dreamworld offers something for everyone, with rides galore, amazing wildlife experiences at Tiger Island and cuddly animal farm, a water park and plenty of attractions. Wet and Wild is just down the road, and a perfect choice for those long summer days. We recently piled the kids in the car for a day here enjoying the rides, wave pool and Buccaneer Bay for the kids. It's a great place for any age, including us big kids at heart!

Movie World is as huge as you could expect, with surprises at every corner. The Superman Escape is the best rollercoaster, reaching 100km in 2 seconds! Try the Batwing Spaceshot for some vertical thrills, or if you need some time to breathe head to Kids WB with all their favourite Looney Tunes Characters. You feel like you have walked right into the scene of a movie as you wander around the streets from one attraction to another. The Batman Adventure ride is another favourite that will keep you on the edge of your seats.

Right next door is a must see for every Australian and visitor alike, the famous Australian Outback Spectacular. We recently experienced the show and left feeling proud to be living in our amazing country. The visual experience is indescribable with so much jampacked into a few hours. Make sure you get there early as there is a lot to see and do before the show.

Seaworld combines attractions with marine education and development. Located at the end of Main Beach on Seaworld Drive this is a unique aquatic experience hard to beat anywhere else. Children will be fascinated by the sharks, diversity of fish, dolphins, seals, polar bears and penguins. The list goes on. My personal favourite is the Viking's Revenge Flume Ride. I was enjoying this ride thirty years ago, and still scream my heart out as we sail over the edge into the waters below.

Any time is a great time to enjoy the glistening Gold Coast and many attractions on offer. Be prepared to relax, soak in the sun and enjoy your home away from home as you experience the beauty of this city in paradise.
Details & Reservations: Discover the glistening Gold Coast
RealAdventures | Australia Articles

]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184157_Waltz-Down-the-Matilda-Highway http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184157_Waltz-Down-the-Matilda-Highway Articles Australia Mon, 18 Aug 2008 21:08:56 The Outback can be an unforgiving place journeys need to be planned, supply stocks need to be fuelled. Care and preparation is needed, but for all the effort the rewards come tenfold. And one stretch of highway where the rewards are exceptionally h -
The Outback can be an unforgiving place journeys need to be planned, supply stocks need to be fuelled. Care and preparation is needed, but for all the effort the rewards come tenfold. And one stretch of highway where the rewards are exceptionally h


The Outback can be an unforgiving place journeys need to be planned, supply stocks need to be fuelled. Care and preparation is needed, but for all the effort the rewards come tenfold. And one stretch of highway where the rewards are exceptionally hgh is the Matilda Highway, which runs up the length of West Queensland and is often referred to as the 'Backbone of the Outback'. The diverse of the landscapes you pass through is complemented by the diversity of the characters and larrikins you are likely to meet in the pubs and hotels and out on the road. See billabongs, rocky gorges, and miles and miles of wide open space. Park your campervan in outback towns that tip their hats to times gone past, when the wool trade turned this region into a prosperous and bustling region despite the hardships of living here. Enjoy the real outback!

The Matilda Highway starts in Barringun, which is on the Queensland/New South Wales border, and runs for 1700 kilomtres to Karumba on the Gulf of Carpentaria, way up in the north of Queensland. We shall start in Cunnamulla, which is the first major town on the highway, and a place with a delightful old world feel to it. Established to service the large livestock ranches nearby, a drive down the main street is like stepping into a world gone by or a scene from a historical film. Pay a visit to the Robbers Tree, a large tree at the end of the street where a bank robber called Joseph Wells once hid after fleecing the town of its cash. The Warrego River runs past the town and is popular amongst fishermen and boating enthusiasts. A number of the sheep and cattle stations nearby such as Aldville Station and Charlotte Plains let you camp at the station, giving you a great taste of the outback farming lifestyle.

Continuing north you get to Charleville, the largest town in the south west of the outback region. So far the drive will have taken you through the 'Mulga Country' that is typified by the sparse mulga vegetation that will survive all but the worst drought. The town itself is a hardy place too, with a long history that you can best experience on the Charleville Heritage Trail which gives you the historical take on the town. Charleville is probably the best place in the world for star gazing, and at the Cosmos Centre and Observatory it seems like you can almost reach out and touch them. Dont miss paying the Corones Hotel a visit either, which has provided elegant period style accommodation since the prosperous wool era.

One spot you shouldnt miss as you continue on your journey is the teddy bear workshop at Tambo, whose teddies have achieved something of a cult status worldwide. Made from local sheep leather and wool, they are a true outback success story and a great souvenir of your trip. You can spend some time in Tambo or continue on to Blackall, where the statue of Jackie Howe greets you on the main street. He is famous for his world record sheep shearing skills, and you are bound to hear many stories of that night in 1892 when he blade shore 321 sheep in 7 hours and 40 minutes.

Longreach will probably be your next stop over, and it is undoubtedly the biggest town you will pass through. Named because of the 'Long Reach' of the Thompson River on which it sits, it is home to such landmarks as the Stockman's Hall of Fame (which has recently undergone large renovations, and provides unparalleled historical insights into the outback) and to the Qantas Founders Outback Museum. This museum is a tribute to the efforts of those who overcame the problems of long distance travel in the outback, and is a popular means of exploring the history of our aviation industry.

You cannot traverse the Matilda Highway and not call in at Winton, the spot where Banjo Patterson conceived his infamous 'Waltzing Matilda' song. At the Waltzing Matilda Centre you can explore the life of the famous poet and the legend of the song for which he is best remembered. Its definitely worth a look. Another attraction that is worth your time is the Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackway, which you need to take a one hour detour off the highway to get to. It is believed to be the world's only preserved dinosaur stampede, and that reason alone makes the extra distance seem not so bad!

The town of Cloncurry was once one of the earliest bastions of wealth in the outback, having profited from the rich copper deposits under the earth here. Its known as 'The Friendly Heart of the North West' and there are a number of sheep and cattle farms nearby that use it as a sales point. You are sure to be entertained by some colourful characters!The town is at a crossroads, and you can continue north along the Matilda Highway into the Far Reaches of Queensland and the towns of Normanton and Karumba, where the highway ends, or you can head east or west along the Overlanders Way. Whichever way you choose, more of the beauty and wonders of outback Australia await you on your motorhome adventures!
Details & Reservations: Waltz Down the Matilda Highway
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]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184128_Discover-Cairns-Top-7-Caravan-Parks http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184128_Discover-Cairns-Top-7-Caravan-Parks Articles Australia Tue, 12 Aug 2008 22:08:21 A tropical haven of sandy beaches, palm trees, reef islands and rainforests, Cairns is the perfect location for a Queensland holiday. The benefits of travelling by campervan go on and on, the most obvious being you have the freedom to pack up and go -
A tropical haven of sandy beaches, palm trees, reef islands and rainforests, Cairns is the perfect location for a Queensland holiday. The benefits of travelling by campervan go on and on, the most obvious being you have the freedom to pack up and go


A tropical haven of sandy beaches, palm trees, reef islands and rainforests, Cairns is the perfect location for a Queensland holiday. The benefits of travelling by campervan go on and on, the most obvious being you have the freedom to pack up and go on to another location at any time. There are also great savings in accommodation costs, including the added benefits offered by the caravan and holiday parks we have listed below. In no special order, they are our pick of the many fantastic parks available in and around Cairns.

1. Crystal Cascades Holiday Park (Rocks Road, Redlynch 1800 351 376)

Located just fifteen minutes from the city centre, this park is fantastic if you arelooking for idyllic surroundings close to many of the surrounding attractions. Popular with bird watchers, there is a shopping centre a few minutes drive away and just fifteen to the beach. Enjoy some family time on the tennis court or just relax and enjoy the quiet. The good news is there are no mozzies or sandflies here so you can relax in peace. Facilities and amenities are excellent and the perfect home away from home.

2. Cairns Coconut Resort (Cnr Bruce Highway & Anderson Road, Cairns 1800 636 622)

You will love it here. The Cairns Coconut Resort is surrounded by almost thirty acresof pristine grounds framed by palms, tropical gardens and rainforest. Located just seven minutes from the city you are still based centrally with plenty of things to do within the resort, including mini golf, tennis courts, volleyball and basketball to name a few. There is also a lagoon with hot and cold spas, waterslide for the kids, table tennis, bike track and heaps more for the kids. This place has every type of activity you could imagine even before you leave the front gates. If you are looking for a child friendly park, this is the one!

3. Cairns Villa Resort and Leisure Park (28 Pease Street, Cairns 1800 644 861)

Another award winning park, you are only four kilometres from the city. There is plenty of room to move with ten acres of gardens, and a saltwater pool the perfect place for a cool down. All the essentials are here, along with a pool table, table tennis and tv room. What appeals to me is the location, so convenient to visit the local attractions or head inland and still come back to a relaxing environment. Very clean and excellent service.

4. Coolwaters Holiday Park (Brinsmead Road, Cairns 07 4034 1949)

Located only seven minutes from the city, you will feel like you are living in an oasis, with a freshwater creek and mountainous views in the backyard. This has my vote for its location and beauty, especially for those really wanting to get away and totally relax. Set in a tropical rainforest, you might want to stay put for a few days before you start exploring the rest of Cairns. The staff are great, with a guided rainforest walk, pizza night, entertainment, scone morning and lots more. The Kuranda Skyrail is just down the road, so you will be guaranteed plenty of action right on your doorstep. This park is an experience in itself, and thoroughly recommended.

5. Lake Placid Caravan Park (Lake Placid Rd, Cairns 07 4039 2509)

Just north of Cairns and below the Barron River Gorge National Park, the award winning Lake Placid Tourist Park is situated on acres of rainforest and is the ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. A fantastic base for your holiday, this beautiful hideaway offers many walking tracks with birds and wildlife everywhere, and children will love feeding the fish, turtles and ducks at Lake Placid. You are close to popular attractions including the Skyrail and Kuranda Scenic Railway, with Cairns, Port Douglas and Cape York all within driving distance.

6. Cairns Sunland Leisure Park (4961 Pease St, Manoora 1800 786 5263)

Only four kilometres from the city centre, the Cairns Sunland Leisure Park offers a multi purpose destination for those wanting a base to enjoy everything the tropics has to offer. With a fantastic pool, waterfall and wading pool plus a great playground there's plenty for the kids. Enjoy the free barbeque sites throughout the park as well as a stocked mini mart if you don't feel like another shopping trip. This is my pick for being such a central and versatile park.

7. Port Douglas Glengarry Holiday Park (Mowbray River Road, Port Douglas 1800 888 134)

Close enough to Cairns to be worth including, this delightful park is only minutes away from one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Four Mile Beach. Nestled in spacious palm fringed grounds, the Mowbray River is close enough for a spot of fishing, bird watching or a dip in the resort style pool. This is fantastic for a few days or more enjoying another aspect of the tropics and the beauty of the top end.
Details & Reservations: Discover Cairns Top 7 Caravan Parks
RealAdventures | Australia Articles

]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184120_The-Magical-Whitsundays http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184120_The-Magical-Whitsundays Articles Australia Mon, 11 Aug 2008 22:08:43 Named by Captain James Cook in recognition of a religious festival, there does indeed seem to be something spiritual about the Whitsunday Islands. The peaks of mountains drowned by the rising ocean in ages gone by, the 74 islands lie off the Qld coas -
Named by Captain James Cook in recognition of a religious festival, there does indeed seem to be something spiritual about the Whitsunday Islands. The peaks of mountains drowned by the rising ocean in ages gone by, the 74 islands lie off the Qld coas


Named by Captain James Cook in recognition of a religious festival, there does indeed seem to be something spiritual about the Whitsunday Islands. The peaks of mountains drowned by the rising ocean in ages gone by, the 74 islands lie off the Queensland Coast like jewels in an azure blue crown, attracting holiday makers from all over the globe keen to tantalise their senses with the magic of the Whitsundays. Coated in thick forest and bordered by pristine white beaches, most of the islands are remote and untouched, falling under the protective auspices of the National Parks. A number of them have been turned into resort islands, where most of the tourists congregate. The remoter areas and the large tracts of sea seperating the islands can be explored on sailing charters, one of the most popular forms of recreational pursuit in the Whitsundays.

Nothing beats cruising serenely over the water, in complete silence except for the sails flapping in the wind, gazing out at the various islands that float past. Sailing trips in the Whitsundays take on many forms and go for different lengths. There are ones which specifically involve passengers and teach them the basics of sailing, and there are others where you just relax and enjoy the scenery. Some go for a few days, and involve camping excursions, on others you just go out for a single day. One of the most common destinations is the glorious Whitehaven Beach, on Whitsunday Island. This beach is so dazzlingly bright it is rumoured it can be seen from space so dont forget your sunnies! The added bonus of visiting here is that Hill Inlet lies at the northern end of the beach, where white sands and blue waters seamlessly blend together to create a beautiful sight.

The major resort islands are connected by a network of ferries that leave from Shute Harbour. Shute Harbour is about ten kilometres out of Airlie Beach, the small coastal town seen as the gateway to the Whitsundays. An abundance of backpacker lodges and bars have made Airlie very much a party town, so it is often with relief that people escape to the quiet of the islands. The largest resort island is Hamilton Island, which is practically a miniature town in its own right. With its own airport, ten restaurants, six take away outlets and a growing number of lodges and resorts, this is a holiday destination with a completely different feel to anything on the mainland. There is an unlimited amount of activities to pursue including hiking in the forested hills, waterskiing, windsurfing, kayaking or just enjoying some r and r at the resort pools.

The most luxurious of the islands is undoubtedly Hayman Island, a place where guests enter a world of complete pampering. This is one of the leading resort islands in the world, and no expense has been spared in turning it into a holiday experience like no other. Even the pool is colossal, measuring in at seven times the size of an Olympic Pool. But luxury like this comes at a price, and at the five star Hayman Island, that price is high.

Another popular island, especially amongst families, is Daydream. Although one of the smaller islands, there is lots going on here and at the Island Resort the emphasis is on family fun. There is an outdoor cinema showing the latest movies, a 19 hole mini golf course and a living coral reef in an outdoor aquarium. As this is Daydream Island Resort and Spa, there are all the spa facilities here too, so enjoy a massage, a sauna or a luxurious jacuzzi. And of course there is the innate beauty of the island to enjoy too, with secluded beaches and lush rainforest all within easy access of the comfortable hotel rooms.

Another island that is big on activities is Lindemann Island. Owned by Club Med, this is the perfect place to get away from it all and enter a world of hasslefree escapism. With the full range of club med activities free to guests, this is the kind of island you arrive at and never want to leave. There is a kids club that caters to the under 13 year olds, so while you pass the morning with a round of golf on the nine hole course the kids are well looked after. Theres even a flying trapeze and a circus school here! Its a bushwalkers paradise too, with over 19 kilometres of well maintained pathways through thick bushland and up high hills. Mt Oldfield offers spectacular views from its peak, which stands at 212 metres above sea level.

The Whitsundays are an aquatic playground, and a must on any visit to Australia. Airlie Beach is 1114 kilometres north of Brisbane, so the most comfortable way to get there from the Queensland capital is by flight. Pick up a rental car from Airlie or Proserpine and explore the Queensland coast a bit before heading out to the islands... you wont regret it.


Details & Reservations: The Magical Whitsundays
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]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184054_Intelligent-Australian-Holiday-Spots http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1184054_Intelligent-Australian-Holiday-Spots Articles Australia Mon, 28 Jul 2008 21:07:17 Think of Australian holidays and images of beaches, islands, the outback and possibly a few jumping kangaroos come to mind. Think of Australian people and an image of a weather beaten bloke in a cowboy hat is probably the first caricature to spring u -
Think of Australian holidays and images of beaches, islands, the outback and possibly a few jumping kangaroos come to mind. Think of Australian people and an image of a weather beaten bloke in a cowboy hat is probably the first caricature to spring u


Think of Australian holidays and images of beaches, islands, the outback and possibly a few jumping kangaroos come to mind. Think of Australian people and an image of a weather beaten bloke in a cowboy hat is probably the first caricature to spring up, followed by tanned lasses clad in bikinis sunning themselves next to the seaside. Not many people would see an Australian holiday as a chance to expand on their knowledge and compound their intelligence theres just way too much fun to have! But the idea that there is nothing to be learnt on an Australian holiday is a horrendous misnomer, one that is about to be corrected by this write up of five Australian destinations that are guaranteed to make you smarter

Melbourne

Melbourne is the king of cultural Australia, the centre of the arts and crafts movement in the country. With unlimited creative spaces and a myriad of avenues for expression, this is a city of museums, galleries and shows. A favoured cultural destination is the Melbourne Museum, enjoyed by over 700 000 visitors per year. Here you can get comprehensive insights into the Aboriginal culture of the state of Victoria, explore a world of emotions and memories in the Mind exhibition and completely immerse yourself in the history of Melbourne. Another museum worth visiting is the Chinese Museum, or if galleries are your thing then have a look at the National Gallery of Victoria. For more contemporary education visit the bohemianesque suburb of St Kilda, where you can enjoy some live music, street theatre or a show.

Port Arthur

Located on the Tasman Peninsual 80 kilometres south east of the Tasmanian capital Hobart, Port Arthur is a former penal colony that was built entirely with convict labour. In the early nineteenth century it was home to the most hardened of British criminals, and its unsavoury past has become the building block to its tourist development. The impressive architecture and charming gardens of the Port Arthur historic site are a major tourist attraction, and stories of the past seem to seep out of the walls of each unique building. Guided tours can be taken of the site, and a boat goes out regularly to the little island offshore known as 'Isle of the Dead', where hundreds of convicts are buried.

The Hunter Valley

The Hunter valley is one of Australias most established wine producing regions, with over 4500 acres under vine and over 60 wineries and 80 grapegrowers in the region. There is a lot to be learnt in a holiday to a wine producing area about the economics of the industry, about the growing of grapes and the production of wine, and about your own personal preferences of wine. There is a rich history of culture in the region which is represented by the numerous museums and galleries, which pay homage to the history of the region in terms of both its mining past and its wine growing present.

Fremantle

A vibrant and eclectic port city located just to the south of the Western Australian capital Perth, Fremantle has long been a stronghold for creativity and the arts. Freo is home to an array of heritage buildings and the city is characterised by Georgian and Victorian architecture. It also supports a large student population that attend the local campus, and help fuel the creative flames of Freo. Places worthy of a visit are the WA Maritime Museum located on Victoria Quay, and the Fremantle Prison, once one of the most notorious prisons in the British Empire. Expect plenty of live music on your visit to Freo, as busking is an encouraged art form that is immensely popular here.

Brisbane

Often overlooked as a sleepy oversized country town, Brisbane is actually a world class city with a rich heritage and established cultures. It supports a number of universities, and in the Southbank and Cultural Centre area there are theatres, galleries and museums. The Queensland Museum is especially impressive, as is the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Fortitude Valley, close to the city centre, is an outlet for very contemporary creativity, so expect a thriving live music scene and a laid back cafe culture.
Details & Reservations: Intelligent Australian Holiday Spots
RealAdventures | Australia Articles

]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1156752_Bowen-Gem-of-the-Coral-Coast http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1156752_Bowen-Gem-of-the-Coral-Coast Articles Australia Wed, 30 Apr 2008 22:04:19 The town of Bowen is situated on the Queensland coast in the northern parts of the Whitsunday region. As a tourist destination it's often overlooked in favour of its southerly neighbour, Airlie Beach, which is about a 45 minute drive down the coast. -
The town of Bowen is situated on the Queensland coast in the northern parts of the Whitsunday region. As a tourist destination it's often overlooked in favour of its southerly neighbour, Airlie Beach, which is about a 45 minute drive down the coast.


The town of Bowen is situated on the Queensland coast in the northern parts of the Whitsunday region. As a tourist destination it's often overlooked in favour of its southerly neighbour, Airlie Beach, which is about a 45 minute drive down the coast. However, visitors to the region are realising the benefits of basing themselves in Bowen for their holiday to the Whitsundays, and it's slowly establishing itself on the Australian tourist map. Established it deserves to be, for this delightful old town seems to have resisted keeping up with the times, opting instead to retain a sense of oldworld charm characterised by a very easygoing and laid back atmosphere. For a holiday in which you cannot help but forget all the problems and hassles of life you simply have to head to Bowen!

With many of the 74 islands of the Whitsunday group easily accessible from Bowen, a lot of recreational pursuits are centred around those. Tours to the islands (which include Gloucester, Poole and Holbourne) are available, and an especially popular option is to go sailing through the still azure waters between the islands. Needless to say the snorkelling and scuba diving here is second to none, and the sheltered reefs around the islands are the perfect starting point for beginners and children to first get accustomed to the delights of the underwater world. You can spot up to 86 different species of marine animal swimming amongst the brightly coloured coral, from colourful tropical fish to large wrasse to everything weird and wonderful inbetween!

Whilst the Whitsundays are a definite selling point for Bowen, for many the true attraction of the town are the beautiful beaches and secluded bays dotted up and down its own coastline. The seven award winning beaches near to the town are amongst some of the best in Queensland, and have something for everyone, from adventure seekers to sun bakers. Front Beach is the easiest to access from the town, situated right at the end of the main street. Bordered by a green park where there are picnic and barbeque facilities, its a popular place for people to stop for a bite to eat and a refreshing swim.

But the real secluded gems lie slightly out of town, in the unspoiled bays a short drive north. Rose Bay is very popular because of the views it offers of the Whitsunday waterways and of Gloucester and Middle Island. Serviced by public amenities, families love it here because the gentle lie of the beach make it perfect for a bit of beach cricket or footy! Probably the best known beach in the region lies in Horseshoe Bay, a popular swimming spot which is lifeguard patrolled. Its white sands, deep blue waters and granite headlands demarcating its northerly and southerly points. Fishing is a common activity here, as it is over the whole region. There is the choice of fishing in rivers and creeks, off the shoreline, or in deeper waters in a chartered boat, and it is this diversity that keeps anglers interested and keeps them coming back for more.

Bowen is often lauded as the town where "the bush meets the beach", an apt description considering it has the feel of a country town that somehow found itself on the coast of Queensland! The bush does literally converge onto the shoreline here, and inland of Bowen there are some amazing walks that can be taken through the thick vegetation. The walk up to Flagstaff Hill lookout cannot be missed, because your efforts are well rewarded by panoramic views of Bowen, the coast and the countryside once you actually reach Flagstaff. Once up there you will see the massive mango tree plantations that surround the town, where the infamous 'Bowen Mango' is cultivated. Its essential you visit the 'Big Mango', a large colourful replica of a mango situated at the Visitor Information Centre on the highway just out of town. Its a great kodak opportunity!

There are plenty of places in which you can stay in Bowen, but none quite capture the laid back vibe and the friendly local atmosphere like the Castle Motor Lodge, located on Don Street in the centre of town. Airconditioned ground floor rooms are complemented by a swimming pool and spa, and a popular licensed restaurant. Add to this Austar in all the rooms, ample parking and friendly, helpful staff and you have the ultimate place to base yourself on your holiday to Bowen!

A fresh attraction in Bowen is the movie set of the new Baz Luhrmann epic, 'Australia'. Luhrmann chose Bowen as the set for the film because of its old world appeal and its typically Australian feel, and for a few weeks in 2007 the town was awash with Alist celebrities, film crews and of courses hordes of tourists trying to get in on the action. 'Bowenwood' became the talk of the country for a while, so be sure to pop in and experience the set for yourself!

With the Whitsundays on its doorstep, a shoreline of pristine beaches and bays and a lush hinterland, you would be hard pressed to think of a reason not to come to Bowen for your next holiday. Its a 200 kilometre drive south from Townsville into Bowen, or a 1160 kilometre drive north from Brisbane, so if you are driving those distances you need a reliable and comfortable car. Discovery Rentals will provide you with just that, so be sure to include us in your travel arrangements!
Details & Reservations: Bowen Gem of the Coral Coast
RealAdventures | Australia Articles

]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1156634_Charters-Towers-Scenic-Gold-Mining-Town http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1156634_Charters-Towers-Scenic-Gold-Mining-Town Articles Australia Tue, 15 Apr 2008 21:04:47 Charters Towers is unpretentious and everything Australian, formally the second largest city in Queensland. Easily reached, just over an hour south west from Townsville, it is perfect as a base to discover more of the golden surrounding countryside, -
Charters Towers is unpretentious and everything Australian, formally the second largest city in Queensland. Easily reached, just over an hour south west from Townsville, it is perfect as a base to discover more of the golden surrounding countryside,


Charters Towers is unpretentious and everything Australian, formally the second largest city in Queensland. Easily reached, just over an hour south west from Townsville, it is perfect as a base to discover more of the golden surrounding countryside, or as a leisurely getaway. The versatility of your rental car makes it an ideal choice of transport,and with a large range of accommodation choices you can easily plan an enjoyable getaway.

The best time to visit is March through to October, as the nights are cool but not freezing, and the days are deliciously warm and sunny, with a number of beautiful green parks to enjoy a picnic and laze the day away. Storms sweep through unexpectedly at times so come prepared for all seasons.

History buffs will love the city scape, each beautifully designed building with a story to tell. During the gold rush, Charters Towers was a thriving city, and the local museum captures the spirit of this unique town. The mining and beef industries are now the heart and soul of the economy, and the town is still thriving in all aspects. Just strolling through the city centre will give you a better understanding of the community here. There is delightful country food on every corner, and always a local with time to chat.

Don't walk past the Miners Cottage, refurbished as a replica of the century old cottages, and also doubling as a museum. And the century old Historical Ambulance Station is fascinating, with ancient ambulances, uniforms and log books now much loved relics from the past.

One popular tourist attraction is the Venus Gold Battery. You might wonder what on earth this is, and so did I until I realised it was one most revered, plus the last of the historical goldmining sites around. There are guided tours into this absolute step back in time, with movie features revealing how the gold was extracted, and plenty of interesting displays which bring those golden days alive once more.

When you are ready to venture further, Towers Hill Lookout provides not only a wonderful panoramic view of the town, but also offers interesting historical films at night, so undoubtedly any time is great to make the trip. Nature lovers will also be in their element, with kangaroos, wallabies, whiptails and the regal wedge tail eagles in all directions. You will need your camera and a lot of time to make the most of this fabulous location. There are plenty of gold mining stories lurking in the hills, so take your time reading the signposts scattered along the walk to the summit. If you happen to arrive on the May Day weekend, you will be treated to the annual country music festival held at Towers Hill. With music, poetry and plenty of country tucker so good you won't want to leave.

There are plenty of other outdoor alternatives, such as fishing, camping and swimming. Head to the Burdekin River and you will reach the Flat Rock camping area, perfect for a spot of barramundi fishing or a leisurely stroll along the waters edge. With a picnic table and barbeque this is an ideal spot to head for the day. Closer to town, the Charters Tower Tourist Park is a popular base, with great amenities and lots of trees for those hot days. You might want to set up camp for a while and enjoy a few restful days before heading back to civilisation.

There is no doubt Charters Towers is a beautiful inland city, for so many reasons. The architecture is incomparable, such is the surrounding landscape. However the common thread that brings so many back is the friendliness of the people, their food, music and company. There is a sense of community here that makes this a wonderful place to retreat to, away from the noise and business of the big city life. Bring your fishing rod, your camera and a sense of discovery to enjoy everything Charters Towers has to offer.
Details & Reservations: Charters Towers Scenic Gold Mining Town
RealAdventures | Australia Articles

]]> http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1156480_Stanthorpe-Queensland-s-Wine-Capital http://RealAdventures.com/listings/1156480_Stanthorpe-Queensland-s-Wine-Capital Articles Australia Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:03:35 Stanthorpe is a picturesque town known for its amazing national parks, historical buildings and wineries, located on the New England Highway close to the New South Wales border. It has become more popular over the last few years as a tourist destinat -
Stanthorpe is a picturesque town known for its amazing national parks, historical buildings and wineries, located on the New England Highway close to the New South Wales border. It has become more popular over the last few years as a tourist destinat


Stanthorpe is a picturesque town known for its amazing national parks, historical buildings and wineries, located on the New England Highway close to the New South Wales border. It has become more popular over the last few years as a tourist destination, with so many rural activities and sightseeing options available.

There are two main caravan parks available in Stanthorpe. The Blue Topaz and Top of the Town (at the top of Main Street), both located centrally so you can enjoy the comforts of your campervan and explore this fascinating town.

The locals of Stanthorpe experience the four seasons of the year, which is not common to Queensland. Winter is a fantastic time to visit, and with low temperatures, a popular retreat is in front of a roaring fireplace with local wine and great food. Make sure you pack your scarf and mittens as there is even the occasional snowfall.

With such high altitudes the frosts are perfect for excellent grape harvests, and perfect wines. There are over 50 wineries in the Stanthorpe district on the Granite Belt as well as stone fruit and apple orchards.

There is so much to see and do in Stanthorpe, with vineyards such as Bald Mountain Vineyards, Aventine Wines and Kooroomba Vineyard and lavender farm all deserving a visit. North of Stanthorpe is also the famous Old Caves winery. Winery tours are popular, and each year in August the famous Jazz in the Vineyard is attended by almost 1000 people each year. Opera in the Vineyard, held in May, also promises to be an amazing cultural experience.

In February, the Apple and Grape festival is held every second year, along with the Food and Wine Festival. With Mediterranean food on the main menu and a favourite with the locals, it has all ingredients for a memorable cuisine experience.

You can't miss the Historical Society Museum, located in the town centre, with a shearers hut, preserved school and goal, along with interesting artefacts from the mid 1800's.

The four major national parks surrounding the city provide an unspoilt wilderness beckoning you to drive further on and explore at your own pace. Perfect for campervan travel, each park offers a contrasting experience.

Girraween National Park is perfect for bushwalkers of all levels, with picturesque walking trails ranging from 25 minutes to six hour hikes. With massive granite rock formations, wildflowers in Spring and eucalypt forests, it is a nature lovers dream. Girraween is easy to find if you take the turnoff from the New England Highway at Wyberba.

Bald Rock National Park is famous for its name, Bald Rock, which is Australia's largest exposed granite rock. With magnificent views, rock formations and bushwalks this park is accessible from the Mt Lindsey Highway, 39 km from Stanthorpe. Camping areas are available.

Boonoo Boonoo National Park is well known for its river system and impressive waterfall. Take a picnic lunch and relax for an afternoon by the rock pool that is above the cascading falls, and surrounded by open forest and lush vegetation.

Sundown National Park is located on the Queensland/New South Wales border. You can leave your campervan at the entrance
of the park and then travel by foot to experience the remote wilderness. There are steep gorges, rainforest and waterways and there are places to picnic, camp, swim and just relax and enjoy the amazing birdlife and beauty of the park. You can also explore the impressive Red Rock Falls, Mt Lofty, Red Rock Gorge and Carpenter Gully.

More than just a stopover, Stanthorpe is a unique and relaxing holiday destination as you enjoy your campervan experience.
Details & Reservations: Stanthorpe Queensland's Wine Capital
RealAdventures | Australia Articles

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