Explore the Iconic Landscapes Australia has to Offer.
Australia is the land of natural wonders. Where there is marvelous scenery from Coast to Coast. Every region has its own unique landscapes to explore. Here are some of the most iconic to consider for your next visit.
We couldn’t start without talking about the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, Australia. One of Australia’s greatest treasures and the world’s largest coral reef. So big, in fact, it can be seen from space. It spans over 2,300km (1,430mi). The Great Barrier Reef is a must-see with incredible wildlife like humpback whales, manta rays, sharks, and thousands of vibrant fish. It spans over 2,300km (1,430mi). Whatever your travel style is, the Great Barrier Reef is a destination for all travelers. Hide away on a private island, scuba dive with the Great Eight, sail away on a boat tour, or rise above it all on a helicopter ride.
Staying with our Queensland theme, the next iconic location, rather than blue waters, we head into the lush greenery of the Daintree rainforest. The Daintree is the oldest rainforest in the world, sitting at 180 million years old. This was during the Jurassic Period, when the dinosaurs flourished, which gives you an insight into how much history this rainforest holds. It is a whole different world under the canopy of the Daintree. Take it all in on an adventure through the forest like a croc river cruise, a hike, or a hunt for your dinner. If slow is more your speed, stay at a luxury lodge or have an Aboriginal spa day experience.
Our next stop on this icons tour is The Twelve Apostles in Victoria. Right off the Great Ocean Road, towering above the ocean, these magnificent 45m (150ft) tall limestone stacks stand as a breathtaking sight. They were formed by erosion; once, they were part of the main cliff. These stacks are constantly eroding, making them an ever-changing and iconic landscape. Take a walk on the beach to see these giants up close or hike up to the viewpoint for a different perspective.
Off the southern coast of Western Australia lies an icon that Barbie would be jealous of. Feast your eyes upon the bright pink waters of Lake Hillier. This permanent pink wonder is all natural, getting its color from algae and bacteria that love the high salinity of the lake. With salt levels comparable to the Dead Sea, you get a sense as to why. This icon can only be viewed from above with a scenic flight or a helicopter tour due to its remote location.
Sitting in St. Clair National Park, Tasmania, Cradle Mountain’s dolerite peaks tower above Dove Lake. One of the most famous mountains in Tasmania got its name from its resemblance to a mining cradle. A beautiful year-round destination, Cradle Mountain has breathtaking scenery and is a must-visit for nature lovers. With so much landscape diversity, it is home to misty rainforests, plunging gorges, towering snowy ranges, highland moorlands, and sparkling glacial waters. It had to land on our iconic landscapes list.
Another ancient site that transports you to another planet is Mungo National Park in New South Wales. Made up of dunes and dried lake basins, this iconic landscape is one of the world’s most significant archaeological sites. It was here that the remains of Mungo Man and Mungo Lady were found. Dated about 40,000 to 42,000 years old they are some of the oldest discovered remains of modern humans. Discover ancient history and see incredible landscapes like the stark ridges of the Walls of China. You can’t go wrong with a visit to this site.
Hop on over to Kangaroo Island, located in South Australia, for a plethora of geological wonders. We couldn’t pick one, so we picked the whole island! Aside from being a great place to see Australian wildlife, you can check off many iconic landscapes here. Walk through the labyrinth of rock walls and caves of Stokes Bay, trek the sand dunes of Little Sahara, or stand in awe of the naturally created wonder of the Remarkable Rocks crafted by wind and sea for millions of years. A must-see destination with something for everyone.
The beauty of Australia never disappoints; it is full of wonder with incredible sights at every turn. Take a trip to The Land Down Under and check out these iconic landscapes off your bucket list.
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