Sunseeking with Kids this Winter

Standing slightly apart from the other destinations we mention here, Australia does require that greater time commitment.  So perhaps this isn’t one for a half term holiday, but instead for a good 2 weeks (or even 3 if you can manage it!). 

Being the world’s largest island, there is something for everyone at every time of year; however during our Winter months we would suggest sticking to the Southern parts of the country as the further North and inland you travel, the higher the mercury rises!  Also the closer to the Equator, the greater the risk of rain.

Australia is prime road-trip territory; if you’re more of an intrepid family then perhaps hire a camper van and head off-grid for a few days. Either from Perth down into the South-Western corner of the country, including the beautiful Margaret River region and it’s many wineries and windswept beaches; or up into the red dust of WA, including Karijini National Park and the idyllic Coral Bay.  You may prefer to start further East and head inland from Adelaide to the stunning Flinders Ranges, the most ‘accessible’ outback destination only a 5 hour drive from the city of Adelaide. The journey also takes you through the Clare Valley and Barossa wine regions – certainly worth a stop and a tasting or two on the way!  

Give the children an insight into farming life and stay in a traditional homestead, offering you the chance to witness everyday life on their livestock stations and perhaps even take part?  If you’re keen wildlife enthusiasts, Kangaroo Island is an absolute must – essentially an open-air wildlife park where the animals roam free and conservation efforts have encouraged both flora and fauna to flourish. 

Working progressively East, drive the Great Ocean Road and take the long route from Adelaide through to Melbourne; a city so welcoming and enchanting with its fantastic array of restaurants, cafes and thriving arts scene – take a tour down the labyrinth of laneways to explore hidden treasures and if you’re lucky catch a game of cricket at Melbourne Cricket Ground.

All of these destinations we’ve mentioned so far can be either combined together on an epic family adventure, or you can pick and choose which you may prefer; however for most the highlight is Sydney and New South Wales.  This city of many bays and beaches, the famous harbour and Opera House is a tough one to beat and there is so much to do for young and old – certainly worth at least a few days, even if just to catch a few waves at Bondi! From here it also works as a great base to explore either the coastline of New South Wales to the South down to Jervis Bay, or right up to the furthest North in the state and Byron Bay.  Otherwise if you’re more interested in what happens inland, then the Blue Mountains are a perfect introduction or end to any trip, with their stunning scenery and fantastic wild camping and adventure opportunities. All in all, Australia is a true adventure however we don’t believe in there being any ‘must-sees’ in destinations and so with a country as big as Australia, we feel sure that you are always going to find a fantastic combination however long or short your trip happens to be.