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Australia’s Most Inspiring Places to Visit
Sometimes, we can take our own country for granted and look right past some of the most amazing destinations that sit in our very own backyard.
Words and Images by: KEA

With a campervan, you have the freedom to travel and visit these inspiring sites with no set agenda or luggage restrictions!

So where are these places? Glad you asked… seat belts on, KEA is taking you on a tour to some of the most incredible places in Australia.

Coober Pedy: South Australia

Set in the Australian desert in South Australia, Coober Pedy is a community where half its population live in dugout homes, due to the heat extremities of the outback town. Coober Pedy is also famous for the spectacular opals found in its mines; in fact they are in demand globally.

The drive, 850 kilometres north of Adelaide, will take you through vibrant red desert, passing sandstone rock formations and cattle stations. This is a favorite of the KEA team. When you arrive, you’ll see a town where the majority of civilization is underground, and the opals are stunning. Coober Pedy is a unique community not to be missed.

Caves in Margaret River: Western Australia

Many of you may know that south of Perth in the Margaret River region, you’ll find an abundance of world class wineries and gourmet food providers, though you may be surprised to find that there are over 150 caves in the region. The team at KEA recommends a slightly longer, though more scenic, driving route down to Margaret River via the South Western Highway. This route will take you through Mandurah, the seaside town of Bunbury, and many other beautiful stop offs that you’ll want to have your camera fully charged for.

Blue Mountains: New South Wales

The Blue Mountains is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Australia, particularly those within Wentworth Falls. On your drive through the Blue Mountains be sure to stop off at lookout points to take in some of Mother Nature’s finest work. Each lookout provides breathtaking scenery and unparalleled views of the lush region and the ever-stretching bodies of water. The Greater Blue Mountains Drive will lead you down many paths perfect for adventure seekers or those just  wanting to relax and soak up the natural beauty. Here you can enjoy hiking, bike trails, horse riding, fishing, canoeing and even abseiling! The drive itself is very scenic with sweeping views of diverse flora and fauna, and lots of native wildlife. With much to see in the region, you can spend days or weeks exploring the Blue Mountains.

Northern Territory

Watching the sun set over the red desert is a truly unique sight, and one that is not to be missed. When you drive through the Northern Territory, with long grass lining the road, it feels like you’re driving through an enclosed, natural tunnel bursting with luminous colours. Many think that Ayers Rock is what Northern Territory is all about. As striking as Uluru is, dig a little deeper and you discover some of the most unique sights this beautiful country has to offer.

The team at KEA’s favourites include Kakadu National Park, the Olgas, Mindil Beach Sunset Market and the stunning Katherine Gorge. If you’re up for a longhaul drive, Explorer’s Way is certainly the driving route for you – providing stop offs at beautiful natural attractions, bustling towns and pubs.

Tasmania

Tasmania boasts thousands of kilometres of scenic drives – from the beachy town of Hobart to the lush, green forest of Cradle Mountain. When driving through Tasmania the team at KEA encourage wandering through quaint towns spread across the state that offer lovely stop off points – like the Mole Creek Cave system, home to the famous Marakoopa and King Solomon’s Caves. From tree top walks, to fabulous mountains, Tasmania is full of untouched beauty. Cradle Mountain is a popular sight for visitors, rising to over 1,500 meters above sea level; the views from the top are phenomenal.

Aside from the wonderful sights, you will be astounded by the warm atmosphere (note: we said atmosphere – not temperature!) and the general friendliness of the locals. The Spirit of Tasmania is a great way to take your campervan across and enjoy everything the state has to offer.

Our advice? Pack your vehicle, load the family up and experience the most inspirational sights our beautiful country has to offer.

Category: Features
Written: Sun 01 Sep 2013
Printed: September, 2013
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