12 Hidden Gems of Australia

12 Hidden Gems of Australia

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Trekker 12 Must-Do Experiences When Visiting Australia

With glittering beaches, exotic wildlife, and rich history, Australia is a land that has always been on the bucket list of travelers around the world. Every year, millions of tourists travel to the country to view the Sydney Harbor, snorkel into the Great Barrier Reef, or hug a koala. However, not many tourists are aware of Australia’s countless hidden spots. If you wish to explore the other side of Australia away from the crowds of tourists, then you’re on the right page. Here are 12 must-do unusual things that you can enjoy in Australia:1. Daintree Rainforest, QueenslandSpanning over 1200 square km, the Daintree Rainforest in Queensland is the best-kept secret of Australia. It remains one of the largest tropical rainforests in the country. Like other offbeat places in Australia, the Daintree Forest remains untouched. Not many tourists know about this hidden gem, and hence, it is not touched by any artificial structures. The panoramic views, flora, and fauna that Daintree Forest provides to its visitors are simply breathtaking. The serene vibes of this forest will make you return again and again!

Stunning panoramic view of the Daintree Rainforest and the ocean.

2. Lake Hillier, Near Western AustraliaLake Hillier is a bubble-gum pink colored lake located near Western Australia. Though the reason behind other pink-colored lakes in the world is known, Lake Hillier and its unusual color remain a mystery. Some speculate that the color is due to salinity and salt-loving algae and pink bacteria found under the lake. Unlike other pink lakes that regularly change their colors with the season, Lake Hillier’s color remains bright pink all year round. Swimming in this lake may sound tempting, but it is not permissible. Unfortunately, you can only witness the lake from above on helicopter tours.3. Nitmiluk National Park, Nitmiluk NTThe jaw-dropping beauty of Nitmiluk National Park will surely leave you stunned. The park manages to receive some visitors every year who are into some kind of adventure. The best way to explore the park is by booking a river cruise or taking a helicopter flight. If you are up for canoeing in the Nitmiluk Gorge, you can hire one at the park and soak in the beauty of nature as you glide past the massive cliffs. The park is owned by Jawoyn Aboriginal People, who are always willing to go above and beyond to guide you around.4. Glow Worm Tunnel, HelensburghThe Glow Worm Tunnel might not look worthy of a visit, but believe us, once you are here, you’ll be surprised by its blue glow illuminating the tunnel. This underground passage was built in the 1880s but was closed in 1915. With the passage of time, the tunnel got hidden behind thick flora before it was cleared in 1995. The tunnel still fills with water occasionally, but when it’s not, the glowworms (bioluminescent bugs) illuminate the darkness and look like blue-green stars.    

Historic Glow Worm railway tunnel deep into mountain surrounded by lush vegetation of rain forest in NSW. Entrace of single railway trail and brick laid portal.

5. Gippsland Lakes Bioluminescence, Raymond IslandJust like the Glowworm Tunnel, there is a lake in Australia that glows blue in the dark – Gippsland Lakes Bioluminescence. As a result of massive bushfires in 2006 followed by heavy rains in 2007, huge algae bloom of Noctiluca Scintillans showed up at night, making the lake shine bright blue. Over the years, the lake’s glow has been lessened, but the good news is the bacteria still blooms. Those interested can head out to the lake at midnight and catch a light glow above the lake during the summer months (December to March).6. Nambung Desert, Western AustraliaIn the small town of Cervantes, in Western Australia, lies a stunning national park and dessert with thousands of pinnacles. This is why the desert is sometimes called the “Pinnacle Desert”. The Nambung Rivers flow along the park into the limestone caves, making it a jaw-dropping sight to witness. If you wish to take some great orange and yellowish pictures for your Instagram, away from the crowds, you must plan to visit the Nambung Desert.

Aerial landscape view of the Pinnacle Desert limestone formations near Cervantes in Western Australia.

7. William Ricketts Sanctuary, Mount DandenongWilliam Ricketts Sanctuary is not an ordinary sanctuary, and there is a reason why! William Ricketts, born in 1898, began modeling clays in his teen years. In the 1930s, he purchased land on Mount Dandenong and named it “Potters’ Sanctuary”. The Victorian Government bought his land and some surrounding area, but William continued to live and work there until his death in 1993. As you enter the sanctuary, you’ll notice 92 ceramic statues representing indigenous people since he spent time with them in Central Australia. An experience like no other!8. Wineglass Bay, FreycinetAlthough voted as one of the best beaches in the world, Wineglass Bay is not frequented by many travelers. The Bay is popular for the pink and red granite formations that make it breathtakingly beautiful. Located about 2.5 hours drive away from Hobart, Tasmania, the park is an ideal spot for camping or picnicking. Other activities to do at Wineglass Bay include mountain biking, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, and rock climbing.

Scenic panorama of remote Australian beach with pristine white sand at Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park, Tasmania

9. Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens, Shoreham
Dating back to the 1970s, the Ashcombe Maze is the largest hedge maze in the country. The Maze takes a good portion of over 25 acres of land. You can visit the Maze with your family, get lost in fun, or even spend some time around taking in nature. The Ashcombe Maze is surrounded by over 3,000 lavender plants and 200 varieties of roses. A popular event is held here every year where children and adults run to find the garden gnomes in the maze.
10. Shell Beach, Francois Peron National Park
As the name says, the Shell Beach in Francois Peron National Park is entirely covered with billions of tiny shells. There is literally no sand at the beach, only shells! The beach is only one of the few places on earth where shells replace sand in such a dramatic way. On a fine day, the color of the water turns into a beautiful palette of blues and greens. Since the beach water is salty, it’s easy to float for those who don’t know how to swim.
11. Tasmazia and the Village of Lower Crackpot, Promised Land
Tasmazia and the Village of Lower Crackpot is one interesting landmark that tour operators won’t tell you about. This place resembles a theme park but without rides. Tazmazia consists of one of the largest mazes in the world – the Great Maze, with many small mazes situated inside. These include the Yellow Brick Road Maze, the Irish Maze, the Balance Maze, the Confusion Maze, the Cage, and the Hexagonal Maze. Other attractions of the park include the Village of Lower Crackpot – a miniature village, the Three Bears’ Cottage, the Lower Crackpot’s Correctional Centre, and the Cubby Town (mini buildings that kids can enter).
12. Paronella Park, Mena Creek
Australia is full of unique landmarks, and Paronella Park is no exception. Jose Paronella came to Australia from Spain in 1925 with his wife to spend their honeymoon. However, he was so inspired by the country that he started to build his dream estate right in the middle of a lush jungle. He first planted thousands of trees and then made his house, followed by a grand Spanish-style castle. After his death, the park was purchased by current owners in 1993, who spent days and nights preserving the incredible artwork by Paronella. The tour to the park operates throughout the day. We recommend you spend at least 2 hours exploring the Paronella’s wonders, the grand staircase, and the waterfall.
Have you experienced any of these amazing locations? If so, please comment below.

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