Autumn is awesome across Australia with plenty of ways to take advantage of both the cooler weather and the stunning vistas the coming months offer.
Here are some of the best autumn experiences in Australia to add to your bucket list.
History and heritage in the Adelaide Hills
Beautiful autumnal displays of colourful leaves add to the charm of villages in the Adelaide Hills. Stroll through the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, which stuns visitors with its explosive panoramas of reds and yellows surrounding pathways right out of a storybook. Fit in some time to explore the sculpture walk, and take in the panoramic views at the Noel Lothian Viewing Platform. Noel was responsible for establishing and developing the gardens, which was first planted in 1959. Also visit the historic and decidedly European township of Stirling. Druid Avenue is rightfully famous for its magnificent oaks – an ancient symbol of Druidism –planted in 1890 by The Pride of the Hills Lodge of the Druids Society. It hosts the Stirling Market on the fourth Sunday of each month, which is bursting at the seams with arts, crafts, handmade designer goods and fresh produce. And then there’s Hahndorf – Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement – where you can indulge in German-style beer over a schnitzel, or enjoy tea with a strudel or Black Forest cake. There are also plenty of wonderful cellar doors in the region.
Colour and culture at Vivid Sydney
During this annual festival (running 24 May to 15 June this year), the Harbour City is transformed into one big exhibition, as it is illuminated by a kaleidoscope of colours each night. Here, artists come together to create. From concerts to dance performances, culinary events and of course the breathtaking illuminations of the Sydney skyline, this festival has been redefining culture and creativity since it was first established in 2009. Take in the wonders of the illuminated harbour on a dinner cruise, climb the iconic Harbour Bridge at night for an unmissable view, or watch one of the thought-provoking live debates. Following this year’s theme ‘Humanity’, Vivid Sydney wants to inspire not only the eye, but also the mind, advocating for peace, empathy and equality in an ever-changing world.
Turtle hatching and whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef
While the Exmouth region remains mostly hot and tropical during autumn, the underwater world of the Ningaloo Reef undergoes big changes at this time. Two significant natural events take place shortly after one another, which can rarely be observed anywhere else in the world. Until April, thousands of baby turtles of six of the world’s seven sea turtle species hatch on the beaches around Ningaloo Reef every night, emerging from their sandy nests to make their way to the ocean. This magical marine adventure with some of the sea’s tiniest inhabitants is followed by an event introducing the third-biggest ones: from March to June Ningaloo plays host to hundreds of migrating whale sharks. Here the gentle giants feed on spawning coral and plankton, as they glide elegantly through the waters of Western Australia. Whether you go on a on a boat tour or even decide to swim with them, the whale sharks’ annual trip to Exmouth is an event not to be missed!
Roadtripping in Tasmania
Tasmania is charming all year round, but during the autumn months the island’s transformation is especially magical. As the leaves turn golden and the days get shorter, there’s no better way of exploring Australia’s smallest state than by car. Observe the turning of the fascinating Fagus tree in Mount Field National Park, stroll through the scenic Georgian town of Richmond, or immerse yourself in the beauty of Hobart’s Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Make sure to also visit the Derwent Valley, which hosts the month-long Tasmanian Autumn Festival in April. With countless food stalls, creative workshops and concerts by local musicians it celebrates the turning of the season, and guarantees to get you in the right autumn mood.
Indulge at the Grampians Grape Escape
The history of winemaking in the Grampians dates back to the end of the Gold Rush in the mid 19th century. With its reputation as the birthplace of Australian sparkling and one of the best producers of spicy Shiraz, it’s a haven for foodies and wine connoisseurs alike. Autumn is the ideal time to visit, when the Grampians Grape Escape opens its doors in Halls Gap from 3-5 May. Nestled in between historic vineyards and scenic peaks, this festival is the perfect opportunity to make the most of your trip, as you find everything the region stands for in one event. Taste the famous local wines, grab a bite or two from food trucks, and enjoy the line-up of 15 different bands performing across the weekend. After the festival has concluded, make some extra time to embrace the natural wonders of the Grampians region. Explore hiking trails along the Grampians Way touring route, and venture up to various lookout points offering majestic views of the valleys and peaks.
Outback adventures at Dirt n Dust Festival
Races, runs and rapid rodeos: the Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival celebrates outback culture like no other event in Australia. From 19-20 April this usually tranquil town in northern Outback Queensland transforms into one giant party venue. Hosting adventure runs and obstacle courses, the Artesian Express Horse Race and various bull riding events, it draws in all kinds of adrenaline junkie. But not only outdoor sports enthusiasts should mark the dates in their calendar: with a musical line-up of chart-topping artists every year, Julia Creek guarantees first-class entertainment for everyone all weekend long. Strap on your boots and don’t forget to bring your cowboy hat – the festival will get wild, and there’s no escaping the dirt or the dust!
Dive into the tropics in the far North
While in other parts of Australia the leaves change their colour to scarlet, green season in Far North Queensland has just begun! As the tropical rains ease, venture up to Cairns and plan your day trips to the countless natural landmarks in the rainforests and wetlands. For a thrilling jungle adventure go whitewater rafting on the Barron and Tully rivers, or walk down the boardwalk to the 260-metre cascades of Barron Falls, which are in full flow around this time of year. For some relaxation in the rainforest enjoy a dip in the famous placid blue Cardwell Spa Pool, or visit Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre to join a Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk and seize the opportunity to learn more about Kuku Yalanji land and culture.
Autumn escape Griffith
The vibrant New South Wales city of Griffith has a rich agricultural heritage, a great dose of Italian influence, and picturesque landscapes aplenty, making it a captivating destination for visitors. Under a show-stopping canopy of autumn leaves, discover local wineries renowned for exceptional Semillon, Shiraz and Botrytis Semillon wines, where local produce is dished up to accompany tastings. For those keen to explore the great outdoors, Cocoparra National Park – with its striking cliffs, gorges and bushwalking trails – is an ideal spot for hiking, bird watching and enjoying the serene beauty of nature in autumn. For those interested in history and culture, Griffith Pioneer Park Museum is an open-air museum consisting of more than 40 buildings housing exhibitions dedicated to preserving the region’s history. Within the park is Griffith Italian Museum, which commemorates the contribution of the city’s many Italian settlers. Exhibitions include a great display of vintage clothes, needlework, household items, sewing and knitting machines and vintage bicycles.
For more autumn experiences in Australia, check out this article about 24 incredible TrulyAus experiences in 2024!
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