Australian Traveller

HAVING OUR FINGER on the pulse of all that’s happening in the domestic travel landscape: it’s what Australian Traveller does best, and one of the many things that excites me about my job. And it’s why we’ve dedicated this issue to the pursuit of the next big thing. But as much as we love the shiny and new – we can’t wait to check out the Whitsundays’ latest boutique offering, The Sundays, when it opens next year (check out page 24 for our preview) – we’re also interested in how destinations and experiences are evolving, too. Case in point, how Australia’s most legendary railway journey, The Ghan, is continuing to reinvent itself as it marks its 95th anniversary this year, while staying true to the rich sense of heritage its…

Australia’s hidden gems It’s no secret that Australia is full of unforgettable places that offer equally indelible experiences. But you haven’t even glimpsed the best of them if you don’t know about these unsung destinations, some even hidden in plain sight. BEAUTIFUL PLACES TO VISIT WHEN IT RAINS When it rains, it pours, and these Australian destinations are all the better for it. From an ancient tropical rainforest in Queensland to a quiet conservation park in WA, there are certain parts of this country that are at their best in the rain. Where to see the southern lights You’ve heard of the iconic northern lights, but seeing this phenomenon in real life is an experience many Aussies don’t get the chance to have. Don’t fret – we’ve got our very own version Down Under and…

WHITE HORSES ARE mythic symbols, often imbued with extraordinary qualities. So too is the White Horse Hotel, a Sydney stalwart that’s been a beloved watering hole for close to a century. It’s transfigured over the years, from piano bar to live music venue and brasserie, reopening this year in its newest iteration after a cool $6 million makeover. The Surry Hills fixture has received a slick, contemporary update with French oak tables, Scandi chairs and elegant quartz countertops. The White Horse isn’t quite a pub, nor is it a fine dining establishment, but a new entity that blends the best of both. You can amble upstairs for a breezy beer on the luscious terrace or park yourself on a plush velvet ottoman at the bar. Or dine at the pared-back…

HAVING OUR FINGER on the pulse of all that’s happening in the domestic travel landscape: it’s what Australian Traveller does best, and one of the many things that excites me about my job. And it’s why we’ve dedicated this issue to the pursuit of the next big thing. But as much as we love the shiny and new – we can’t wait to check out the Whitsundays’ latest boutique offering, The Sundays, when it opens next year (check out page 24 for our preview) – we’re also interested in how destinations and experiences are evolving, too. Case in point, how Australia’s most legendary railway journey, The Ghan, is continuing to reinvent itself as it marks its 95th anniversary this year, while staying true to the rich sense of heritage its…

See the forest for the trees Boutique hotel Osborn House, in the NSW Southern Highlands town of Bundanoon, has opened five new Forest Lodges and a Forest Bathing Deck designed to keep visitors grounded and mindful. The new deck is set amid the forest and includes an ice bath, sauna, jacuzzi and fire pit exclusive for the use of just two guests at a time. The design-led stay, which has a curated collection of 27 suites, is offering all-inclusive packages to celebrate the new luxury additions to the property. osbornhouse.com.au NEW PERSPECTIVES AAT Kings will inspire wanderlust in those looking for new ways to experience under-the-radar Aussie destinations with its latest roster of experiences. Travellers can forage for botanicals at Yarnbala (pictured) on a seven-day South Australian Eyre Peninsula Escape, for example, or…

Australia’s hidden gems It’s no secret that Australia is full of unforgettable places that offer equally indelible experiences. But you haven’t even glimpsed the best of them if you don’t know about these unsung destinations, some even hidden in plain sight. BEAUTIFUL PLACES TO VISIT WHEN IT RAINS When it rains, it pours, and these Australian destinations are all the better for it. From an ancient tropical rainforest in Queensland to a quiet conservation park in WA, there are certain parts of this country that are at their best in the rain. Where to see the southern lights You’ve heard of the iconic northern lights, but seeing this phenomenon in real life is an experience many Aussies don’t get the chance to have. Don’t fret – we’ve got our very…