Curator’s statement
Looking to go to the Southern Hemisphere? Southeast Australia's a perfect option with cities both bustling and laid back, plenty of things to do on the water, see the infamous cuddly Wombat and, of course, take in the gorgeous beaches. Sydney, Adelaide, and Tasmania are all amazing destinations in their own way, and all together are a great trip I know you'll love.
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Where to stay
Day 1-5: Sydney
Welcome to The Land Down Under! Settle into your Sydney hotel and recover from your flight at, my pick, The Langham Sydney. Unwind in their classy rooms and suites, get afternoon tea, or visit the acclaimed Day Spa by Chuan for a truly relaxing start to your vacation.
Once the jetlag's worn off, it's time to hit the city. Privately tour the Sydney Opera House, take surf lessons at Bondi Beach, or have a picnic set up for you in the Royal Botanical Garden. Kids will love Taronga Zoo (let's be real, you will too), adrenaline junkies can climb Sydney Harbor Bridge, and anyone who loves natural parks will enjoy the eucalyptus air of Blue Mountains National Park. The choices are abundant!
Day 6-11: Adelaide & Kangaroo Island
Arrive in Adelaide, one of Australia's smaller cities that are gaining in popularity for international travelers. Stay at the modern Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets or the Sofitel Adelaide for a good night's rest. Reach the top of the Adelaide Oval, chill by the ocean at Mosely Beach Club, or explore the Adelaide Central Market full of fresh produce and food galore.
Have you ever seen that one mint double-decker bus on Instagram? That's Down The Rabbit Hole Winery! Based in beautiful McLaren Vale, it's a perfect day trip for wine lovers. Families are welcome, and they have Cellar Door Restaurant that serves locally-sourced lunches as well.
For an exquisite experience, Thorngrove Manor is one of Australia's most unique properties. It's an exclusive accommodation perfect for couples (kids are not allowed) who love historical places. Relax with your partner, or host an event. If you happen to be visiting during autumn (our spring in the northern hemisphere), the fall foliage is gorgeous!
Say goodbye to Adelaide and hello to Kangaroo Island via a short flight or 45-minute ferry. Stay at the all-inclusive true luxury Southern Ocean Lodge, reopening December 6th, 2023 after reconstruction due to wildfires in 2020. The island often called Australia's Galapagos is home to populations of koalas, kangaroos, and the third-largest seal colony in the country, all in addition to jaw-dropping beaches like Emu Bay and Vivonne Bay. Take a coastal walk, get a massage, and watch the sunset over the ocean.
Day 12-15: Tasmania & The East Coast
Once you've landed in Hobart, you'll take a car transfer and arrive at Saffire Freycinet, overlooking Wineglass Bay. Enjoy a helicopter tour over the water, try oysters at the marine farm, or take a short drive to see the famous Bay Of Fires dappled with orange rocks and creamy white sand. Don't forget to see the Tasmanian Devil and Wombat before you leave!
Day 16: Departing Australia
Return to Hobart to board your flight home, happily thinking of your amazing vacation.
Travel Advisor
Sydney Webb
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Spectacular Sydney Sights and Heights.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Australia.