Where to go to escape the cold

dog-879962_1920We’re so lucky in Australia to have, what I consider, quite mild winter weather in comparison to other parts of the world.

There’s no shortage of wonderful winter fun to be had, but for those of us who don’t like the temperature dipping too far below 20 oC, there are some marvellous ways to avoid the winter chill. You just have to know where to go.

Head North

Queensland and the Northern Territory are ideal for winter getaways. Temperatures in Queensland rarely drop below 20oC degrees and low rainfall during this time means you have more opportunity to get out and about. The ‘Dry Season’ in the Northern Territory, which spans from May to October, usually has warm, dry sunny days and cool nights, with temperatures typically ranging from 21 oC to 32 oC, and the humidity levels are much lower at around 60–65%.

Fraser Island is a World Heritage listed sand island off the southern coast of Queensland, near Hervey Bay and boasts pleasant winter temperature in the mid-20s. There’s so much to do at this Australian island getaway. You can explore more than 100 freshwater lakes, enjoy a swim at the beach, and discover some of the natural fauna and flora in the ancient rainforests in the area.

Kakadu in the Northern Territory is a great place to visit in early winter after the wet season, because you avoid the crowds that descend upon this popular holiday spot and can also enjoy mild temperatures to trek to waterfalls or experience the region on water on a kayak through the gorges.

Cape York in Queensland and is literally the top end of Australia and offers some amazing streams and waterfalls, jungles and Aboriginal heritage. The Western Cape is considered a prime fishing spot and Cooktown is a great place to base yourself, learn more of the culture of the area and take day trips to explore.

Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) in Northern Territory is a great winter destination to explore by foot or by water. You can walk the Jatbula Trail that passes waterfalls and ends at Edith Falls, a natural swimming hole, with cool waters to relax and unwind. You can take a kayak and paddle through the narrow chasms of Butterfly Gorge, a quiet, shaded gorge with rocky walls that are home to thousands of butterflies. And discover many Aboriginal rock art paintings on sandstone walls throughout the gorge system, some of which are thousands of years old.

If you’re planning to head north, check out our house and pet sitting positions in QLD to use as a base to explore the rest of the region.

Discover Thermals

I’ve always liked the idea of thermal baths and the rejuvenation after a warm bath. There are many springs dotted around the country, some of which include Peninsula Hot Springs, Mornington Peninsula (VIC), Eulo Mud Baths (QLD), Daylesford Region (VIC), Blue Mountains Sparadise (NSW), Innot Hot Springs (QLD), Moree Artesian Baths (NSW), Lightning Ridge Bore Baths, NSW (NSW). So dare to take a dip and relax and unwind in the natural warming springs.

Centre

Travel inland for a pleasant winter escape and notice the beautiful changes in the landscape and environment as you pass through small towns and farmlands.

Warrumbungle National Park in central NSW is a spectacular mountain range and national park that is the remnants of a large volcano, active from 18 to 15 million years ago. Lace up your shoes to walk the jagged and rocky remains. It can get quite cool in winter ,but for the more experienced climbers, there are sensational sunny days for long walks and for climbing volcanic pinnacles.

Go Snorkelling

Not always considered a winter activity, snorkelling can be enjoyed in some parts of the country during winter months.

Find the best snorkelling spots in the Whitsundays where the average water temperatures are a pleasant 25 oC for most of the year, allowing you to enjoy the crystal blue waters and marine life.

Port Douglas is a great place to visit to explore and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, discover rainforests try some adventure or simply stroll along Four Mile Beach.

Escaping the cold doesn’t always have to mean staying rugged up indoors. We are certainly lucky in Australia to be able to enjoy many of the country’s natural wonders almost all year round.