post lock down, we are all in need of a nature immersion in the great playground that is Australia. here are a few of the best underrated wonders in this wide brown (and green and red) land.

Grampians National Park

Between the busy highways west of Melbourne lies a national treasure of grand, rugged mountain ranges in the Grampians National Park. The five, large sandstone ridges offer impressive panoramic views of the peaks and valleys within the landscape. 

The main tourist area within the Grampians is the town Halls Gap, offering accommodation and a space to make you feel like you’re not quite in the middle of nowhere. 

The Wonderland area near Halls Gap is perfect for day walking, but beware that summer means this wonderland is not so wonderful with its hot and dry atmosphere.  

By planning a trip in spring, visitors can take in the wildflowers while rock-climbing over the unspoilt nature. The headland turns to a display of various native flowers, herbs and shrubs along with lively animals and birds that grace the park too. 

Bridestowe Lavender Farm, Nabowla, TAS 

Tucked within the landscape of Tasmanian mountains lies a relaxing refuge of sweet smelling purple flowers. With lavender fields spanning more than 260 acres, Bridestowe Lavender Estate is a quiet haven where everything from the menu to the gift shop bears is lavender. 

Visitors can spend the day exploring the fields of blooming lavender and be sure to fit in some lavender flavoured ice cream and lavender brownie.  The endless rows of purple tips can be seen from the start of December to the end of January, the peak of the lavender flowering season. But if the timing isn’t right to witness the floral extravaganza, the fields are still a sight not to be missed all year round as they hide amidst the mountainous landscape of Tasmania. 

An escape to lavender paradise is only a short 45-minute drive from the busy town of Launceston. 

Cape Leveque, WA 

It’s an escape where a 4WD is essential and secluded beaches are included in the program. Cape Leveque, the northern most point of the Dampier Peninsula, certainly is one of Australia’s undiscovered beauties. 

Once you’ve conquered the long, dusty drive along the unsealed road to get there, the bright red rocks are a stand out as they roll along the white sand dunes. You can fly, but driving is half the fun in this remote corner of Australia. The only reprieve from the scorching heat of WA is the array of bush camps, safari tents and cabins on offer. They’re second best to a swim in the clear water of Kooljaman if conditions permit – just be sure to watch out for the stingrays and jellyfish that lurk beneath the water. 

Explore the traditional First Nations culture and go mud crabbing or fishing with the locals with the abundance of fish in the nearby Timor Sea. If it’s relaxation you’re after then visitors can sit back and try eye a glimpse of baby whales splashing about during breeding season from May.