It took me 20 years to return to Australia. I guess the long flight always felt daunting and I thought I’d already ticked off the highlights: Sydney, Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef, the Gold Coast. But after five incredible weeks and five states, exploring from north to south and east to west, I realised how wrong I was. Australia is bursting with new experiences, even for those who think they’ve “done it all.”
Yes, the flight is long, but I made it manageable with a quick stopover in Dubai to stretch my legs, splitting the journey into two easy segments without an overnight stay. Also, starting or ending the trip in Perth is a smart move as that shortens the trip by 3 hours.
My recent trip unveiled Australia’s endless surprises, from rugged outback escapes to pristine reefs quieter than the Great Barrier, plus wildlife encounters and local-led discoveries that made even familiar places feel brand new.
My journey began with a thrilling helicopter ride to Mount Mulligan Lodge, nestled in the rugged bushland of northern Queensland at the base of the striking Ngarrabullgan mountain, also known as Mount Mulligan, a place sacred to Aboriginal people.
This 28,000-hectare working cattle station hosts just 28 guests and offers a real outback adventure, without sacrificing comfort. The lodge sits on the banks of a serene river framed by red plains and ancient rock formations. I spent my days driving ATVs through rugged terrain, kayaking and paddle boarding the river, and uncovering the indigenous stories and haunting history of Mount Mulligan’s abandoned township and mine.
Next, a short hop off Adelaide’s coast, Kangaroo Island captivated me with its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches and abundant wildlife - think kangaroos hopping freely and seals basking on rocks. Stay tuned for next month’s newsletter, where I’ll share more about my unforgettable stay at Southern Ocean Lodge.
Back on the mainland, e-biking through the Barossa Valley was a joy, pedalling past lush vineyards and tasting the best Shiraz. Adelaide itself surprised me - gone is the sleepy city of 20 years ago, replaced by a vibrant food and bar scene with trendy restaurants and creative cocktails.
In Sydney, friends shared a local’s perspective, guiding me along the stunning Spit to Manly coastal walk. A road trip beyond the city led to hikes in the Blue Mountains and charming, Cotswold-like villages in the Southern Highlands. I’m already planning my next Sydney adventure, including a scenic seaplane arrival to the stunning Pretty Beach House on the spectacular Bouddi Peninsula, where I can hike exclusive trails accessible only to lodge guests - a dream itinerary I recently crafted for a client.
I ended at Ningaloo Reef, a remote place accessible by a flight only from Perth. Here I stayed at Sal Salis, a tented camp set within Cape Range National Park where I woke to the sound of waves and kangaroos grazing amongst the dunes. But it was the unparalleled access to Ningaloo, one of the world’s largest fringing coral reefs, just metres from my tent that was the biggest draw. Less crowded than the Great Barrier Reef, Ningaloo’s vibrant coral and colourful fish were breathtaking.
The highlight though for me, was swimming with whale sharks, the gentle giants that migrate to Ningaloo between March and August. Gliding beside them was a bucket-list moment I’ll never forget. With no Wi-Fi or mobile coverage, Sal Salis offers a rare chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature.
Australia proved it’s far more than a one-time destination. It took me 20 years to return, and I’m already planning my next trip, with Tasmania firmly on the list. Whether you’re dreaming of your first visit or revisiting after years away, its landscapes, wildlife and evolving cities promise endless discoveries.
If you are ready to explore Australia’s hidden gems or see its classics in a new light, please do get in touch and let me craft a bespoke itinerary tailored to your sense of adventure. I can’t wait to help you uncover the Australia I’ve fallen in love with all over again.