With its laidback spirit, adventurous character, and iconic landmarks, Australia has a lot to offer. Its enviable climate, pristine beaches and world renowned Great Barrier Reef diving, make Down-Under a holiday-makers dream.
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the original natural wonders of the world and best epitomises Australia’s remarkable natural beauty. This UNESCO listed World Heritage site is rightfully hailed as a premier scuba diving destination. The Great Barrier Reef attracts snorkeller’s and divers from around the world and it is not hard to see why. There is no better way to inject some colour into your trip than to experience the underwater wonders of the Reef on a Great Barrier Reef diving or snorkelling trip. Spanning the Queensland coast for 2,600 kilometers and dotted with hundreds of tropical islands including the Whitsunday’s and Green Island, the Great Barrier Reef is a seascape of overwhelming beauty and is home to an abundance of tropical marine life. The Great Barrier Reef is the breeding ground for humpback whales, sea turtles, manatees and its plunging corralled wall drop-offs, deep caverns and shoals of tropical fish make Great Barrier Reef diving a truly awe-inspiring experience. Great Barrier Reef diving tours cater for both certified divers and beginners and there are a number of ways to scuba dive and snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef, from one day trips to live aboard cruises. Either way you will have the opportunity to go diving in the coral gardens alongside brilliantly colourful fish and other marine life from turtles to friendly reef sharks.
Live aboard cruises trail the paradisal Whitsunday islands and take you to the shores of some of the worlds most spectacular beaches. You can embark on one day catamaran cruises to the world renowned White Haven beach where you can spend a few hours playing on the white silica shores or frolicking in the crystal clear waters. Most tour boats have glass bottoms or underwater observatories, so if you don’t want to get your feet wet you can admire the marine life from the comfort of the boat. Marine experts are also on hand to identify the passing fish below. Green Island is beautifully unique as it is the only island with a rainforest. If you want a break from Great Barrier Reef diving follow the timber board walks and wander beneath the tropical canopies while admiring all sorts of flora and fauna or simply relax on the pure white sands.
If you prefer to remain on dry land Australia is home to some of the world’s finest vineyards. The Hunter Valley is just two hours from Sydney but its lush garden landscapes provide a complete contrast to the bustling city. Wine experts lead Hunter Valley Wine tours through a range of premier Vineyards and Wineries where you can sample and enjoy some of Australia’s finest exports. A cellar door pass grants you premium access to eighteen of the best wineries in the region, including those in the Mudgee district – an area reserved just for pass holders. After a day of wine appreciation on one of the Hunter Valley wine tours there is a range of luxury five star Hunter Valleyaccommodation, including Crowne Plaza, Peppers Convent and Tower Lodge, where you can indulge yourself with luxurious spa treatments or hit the green for a round of golf.
