Margaret River Adventure Co, Margaret River, Western Australia © Tourism Australia
Incredible ways to celebrate a milestone in Australia
An anniversary, a special birthday, a honeymoon – Australia does not disappoint when it comes to delivering ‘pinch-me’ moments to celebrate your next milestone.
By Natasha Dragun and Leah Dobihal
Few places in the world afford the opportunity to spend your birthday (or any day) watching surfers one minute and tasting premium local wines the next. With stunning spa retreats, incredible cellar doors and scenery to take your breath away, the Margaret River has every ingredient necessary for a special occasion. Make your milestone birthday one to remember with a rock jumping and swell-riding tour and a stay at a beautiful villa retreat.
The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest of its kind in the world. It’s a pretty memorable place to celebrate an anniversary. Check into Silky Oaks Lodge, where 40 rooms are placed along a babbling curve of the Mossman River 80km (50mi) north of Cairns. A trip here feels luxuriously carefree; the weather is balmy, the only noise is a chorus of rainforest birds and there’s a hammock on every balcony. Just outside your room are opportunities for wildlife spotting, mud crabbing with an Indigenous guide and even floating down a rainforest river.
When you’ve found yourself with a new lease on life, there’s no better way to rediscover yourself than to discover somewhere new. And the iconic Great Ocean Road is the perfect place to do it. The winding coastal road won’t just take you on a physical journey, but a personal one. Sunsets over the ocean, wildlife so adorable it’ll make you squeal and steamy natural hot springs make for a trip that’s all about getting out of your head and into incredible nature.
The Northern Territory’s balmy weather and laidback culture make it the perfect place for a family get-together. You’ll find plenty to do in Darwin, like food markets on the beach and harbour cruises at sunset. But if you’re willing to go a bit further afield, the Top End has natural wonders made for your bucket list. Head to Litchfield National Park, where waterfalls pour into idyllic swimming holes, or Kakadu National Park, which is home to rock art dating back 20,000 years. Moments that become memories are guaranteed.
Sydney is home to one of the world’s most beautiful harbours, dozens of beaches and restaurants that embrace the views. What better place to celebrate a graduation? Join the locals by watching the sunrise at the beach – the iconic Bondi is a great choice. It’s not uncommon to see dolphins playing in the waves here, which will make the occasion all the more memorable. Lace up your walking shoes and take on the coastal route south to Coogee Beach for 6km (3.7mi) of spectacular natural drama.
Tasmania’s Freycinet National Park has some of the most pristine water and cleanest air in the world. It also has resorts that you’ll never want to leave – perfect for a romantic honeymoon. Treat yourself to a stay at Saffire Freycinet, a remote retreat north of Hobart. The 20 suites are set apart for privacy, with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame an unforgettable view. Be sure to try oyster shucking, where you’ll wade out into the water to pluck your own – and slurp them fresh (with a glass of bubbles, of course).
