Showing posts with label Australia. Show all posts

Australia's Highest Peak


MOUNT KOSCIUSZKO 

With a height of over 2,200 meters, Mount Kosciuszko otherwise known as the Snowy Mountains is considered one of the seven summits in the world. The seven summits are the highest mountains of each continent, and is considered a great mountaineering challenge to conquer them all. If mountaineering isn’t your forte, you can immerse yourself in a region that is alive with many seasonal activities. 


 The Snowy Mountains is a three hours' drive from Canberra and six hours from Sydney Australia, the drive boasts incredible views and attractions on the way. During the winter season, it is an awesome escape to touch your first snow, make snow angels, build a snowman, ski, snowboard, have snowball fights and more fun winter activities! But make sure you gear up from the many snow hire stores scattered around the area, it will get quite chilly! 


IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT THE SNOW 

In the warmer months, there are still plenty of things to do. Going into late spring, the Snowy Alpines turn into the ultimate outdoor escape. The Snowy Mountains resides within the Kosciuszko National Park that covers 700,000 hectares. So without all the blistering snow it is a perfect place for adventurers and thrill seekers alike. You can go hiking, rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, camping, caving, horse riding or even watch wildlife. 

The most exhilarating ‘must-do’ activity is to reach the highest peak, taking in the uplifting and stunning picturesque view Australia’s highest peak has to offer. The fastest and easiest way there is to take the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift to the highest access point. This 15 minute ride goes up 560 metres, showing you incredible views as far as the eye cans see. Once reached, the trek to the peak is approximately 6km, so have your hiking boots at the ready! Along the way, you’ll see many daunting peaks, waterfalls and unique flora that only grow within that area. This national park attracts and entices many nature lovers alike. 


Deep within the park lies the Yarrangobilly caves, these limestone caves are a stunning sight to see, consisting of underground chambers and thermal pools. You can create your own adventures, maybe fishing is more of your interest. The pristine waters of the Snowy Mountains has an abundance of trout and salmon, so embark on your own venture, and you could possibly catch more than you bargain for. They also hold the Trout Festival here annually in November. 

With the passing of the snow, it leaves way to impressive dirt tracks, becoming a haven for mountain biking and 4WDing. From hardcore downhill runs to flat terrains, Kosciuszko National Park has it all. 

THERE’S MORE THAN YOU THINK 

In the day, enjoy the great outdoors and soak in the sun. By nightfall grab a beer or dine at some of the most lavish restaurants Kosciuszko has to offer. There are many towns scattered within the National Park, each having their own rich cultural heritage. These towns have helped shaped Australia’s identity, and with their vast amount of restaurants, nightlife, cafes, retail and attractions, a whole array of experiences are available. 

There are plenty of accommodation types at Kosciuszko available, from cabins, cottages, hotels and resorts you can choose what best suits you. Camping and caravan options are also available during the warmer months for those that want to take it to the next level. 

Don’t hesitate at the name ‘Snowy Mountains’, it is definitely just as good with or without the snow. So find your inner self, and enjoy the many activities with friends or family. 
(image source: creative commons)

A Romantic Vacation in Australia : Things you must do

The enchanting natural beauty of Australia can be summed up in three words – Pure, Tranquil and Untouched. This part of the world will definitely make your love bloom with many colours.


1. Go for a seaplane ride over the Heart Reef


Nestled in the flamboyant Great Barrier Reef, the Heart Reef is surely a ideal place for lovebirds. Go for a seaplane ride to witness the heavenly beauty, enjoy a romantic dinner on the beautiful white sands of Whitehaven Beach or drench yourself in the pristine blue waters of the famous Whitsunday Islands.

2. Dine under open sky at Sounds of Silence of Uluru


Set against the canvas of the magnificent Uluru, Sounds of Silence pledges a unique romantic dining experience. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner under the starry sky with your sweetheart. Uluru is also regarded as one of Australia's most notable landmarks and it is a World Heritage Site.

3. Experience the incredible view with a Twilight Bridge Climb at Sydney


It is said that a city becomes most romantic at twilight, when the setting sun colours the horizon in a red-gold hue. And there is no other place than the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge to get a better view of the city. A climb across this iconic structure takes about three and a half hours.

4. Stay at an underground hotel at Coober Pedy, South Australia


Experience a romantic coziness at a underground hotel at Coober Pedy. In the summer months most of the city's inhabitants takes refuge to unique underground residences called 'dugouts.'

5. Pamper your sweetheart at one of Australia's famous lavish retreats.


At the lap of the national parks, overseeing the ocean or amidst the desert sands, Australia's luxury retreats are famous for their grandeur and remoteness. Head to the Qualia Resort on Hamilton Island or the Southern Ocean Lodge at Kangaroo Island to have a lavish romantic date.

6. Hot air balloon ride over Yarra Valley


Floating among the clouds over the verdant greenery of Yarra Valley is a perfect romantic experience . Yarra Valley has lot more to offer with its rich art and culture, famous wine regions and its charming parks and gardens.

7. Drive along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria


You, your loved one, a top open car and the picturesque Great Ocean Road – you cant ask for more on a romantic holiday. With the natural wonders like the Twelve Apostles spicing up the way, this beautiful stretch will make you fall in love again.

8. A concert at the Sydney Opera House


Australia is synonymous with the beautiful Sydney Opera House. The iconic shell roof has become a definitive symbol of the country. And nothing could be more romantic than witnessing a performance at the Sydney Opera House.

9. Walk under the green canopy of Daintree Rainforest


This place seems like it was made for the romantic souls. Hand in hand, taking a stroll through the exuberant green forests of the Daintree, engulfed only by your thoughts and the distinct sound of the jungle. Daintree Rainforest is the largest tropical rainforest of Australia and also a World Heritage Site.

10. Visit the Remarkable Rocks of Kangaroo Island


Located by the margin of the sea at Flinders National Park, the Remarkable Rocks are superbly balanced boulders. Created by 500 million years of sea spray and rain, the charming rocks also provide the fitting vantage point for the spectacular Casuarina Islets. A perfect destination for a romantic evening out with your loved one.