Wild Australia

The city of Sydney on the east coast of Australia is as idyllic is it appears from its instantly recognisable cityscape. Pubs, markets, modern restaurants, theatres and galleries old and new add an exciting, sophisticated cultural air, while the fine weather and surrounding natural wonders of New South Wales make it a very outdoorsy place, and a great base from which to explore nearby beaches, mountains and national parks.

Sat between two national parks, the Wollemi and Gardens of Stone, the Wolgan Valley is a beautiful area ripe for exploring. Head out on nature walks, horse riding, mountain biking and game drives in search of local wildlife, or get involved with the reserve’s conservation efforts. You can also learn about past history on heritage tours, hike into the surrounding mountains and experience the magnificent night sky around a campfire.

Born from a volcanic eruption some seven million years ago, Lord Howe Island boasts the southern-most coral reef in the world. The Island is just 11km long and barely 2km at its widest point and two-thirds of it is covered in natural forests, Banyan trees and Kentia palms – the waters are crystal clear, the beaches are pristine, there is no pollution and birds and marine life abound. Spend your time here discovering the vibrant reef on snorkelling, scuba diving and kayaking tours, feed the fish at beautiful Neds Beach, hike up into the island’s interior, surf on the eastern breaks or relax at the resort.

Melbourne sits at the end of Port Phillip Bay, split by the winding Yarra River, with its suburbs reaching out around the shoreline. With handsome Victorian-era architecture, museums, galleries, theatres, green parks, and an innovative art and nightlife scene, this is undoubtedly Australia’s cultural heart. It’s also a city known for a collective obsession with coffee, the aromas of roasting beans fill the air, with hip cafes and delis at every turn, and love of sport, especially Australian rules football, cricket, horse racing and motorsport.