How Many Of These Unusual Attractions Have You Explored In Australia?
So much more than beautiful beaches!
Published For Tourism Australia - 12 Sep 2018, 07:56 AM
Cover image via Mark Pickthall/Herald SunMost Malaysians think Australia is all beaches and cute furry animals, but there's actually loads of hidden gems to experience further off the beaten track
From breathtaking light shows in Uluru to ghost mushrooms in South Australia, there's just so much to do!
That's why Tourism Australia wants to invite you to UnDiscover Australia – the destination you thought you knew.
Image via Australia
Here are 7 experiences that take you beyond the guided tours and common landmarks of Australia:
1. Get your adrenaline pumping by abseiling the Gordon Dam in Tasmania
Image via Australian Traveller
It's the perfect activity for any daredevil! Head 140 metres down the world's highest commercial abseil at Gordon Dam. It's a few metres higher than standing atop Sydney Harbour Bridge, and holds back 30 times the amount of water than the harbour itself.
Location: Gordon Dam, South West Tasmania
When: Year-round
2. Check out the award-winning exhibition, Field of Light, in Uluru
This outdoor installation is named Tili Wiru Tjuta Nyakutjaku or 'looking at lots of beautiful lights' in local Pitjantjatjara. There are over 50,000 solar-powered stems that light up the desert at sunset and glow throughout the night.
Location: Uluru, Northern Territory
When: Now until 31 December 2020
Image via Mark Pickthall/Herald Sun
3. Take picture-perfect shots with the Redwood Forest Tree Art
These California Redwood trees are up to 180 feet tall, walking through this forest feels like you're entering a magical realm. There are enormous bird nests, woven circles that look like portals, and loads of whimsical tree art to explore.
Location: Redwood Forest in East Warburton, Yarra Valley, Victoria
When: Year-round
Image via Atlas Obscura
4. Go whale watching and observe other wildlife up close in the water
Aside from the super cute and furry koalas, quokkas, kangaroos, and wombats, Australia is also home to incredible aquatic wildlife. Watch whales from the safety of a boat, swim with sea lions, and even submerge yourself with crocodiles!"
Get all the wildlife adventure details here.
Image via Tourism Australia
5. Indulge in homemade lavender ice cream and more treats at this lavender farm
There are plenty of picturesque lavender farms along the east coast of Tasmania. Take your pick of lavender cakes, macarons, ice cream, tea, soap, lotions, and more at Bridestowe Lavender Estate – the world's largest privately owned lavender farm. It's the perfect Insta-worthy spot!
Location: Bridestowe Lavender Estate, North East Tasmania
When: Best visited between December to February
Image via Pinterest
6. Take a midnight swim among the Bioluminescent Plankton at Gippsland Lakes
Image via Dive Price
During the summer months you can catch the glow of the Noctiluca Scintillans – a massive algae bloom that lights up at night.
Location: Gippsland Lakes, Victoria
When: Best viewed between December to February
7. Walk through Ghost Mushroom Lane to see the brilliant glow in the dead of night
The Ghost Mushroom is a bioluminescent fungus that emits a soft green glow at night and you can observe them free of charge! The species is native to Australia and can grow up to 20cm wide.
Location: South East Pine Forest, South Australia
When: Between May and June every year
Image via ForestrySA
Excited to see what other gems Australia has in store? UnDiscover the best of the land down under for a vacation you'll never forget now!
Image via Tourism Australia
