From the Grampians’ rugged mountain peaks to the stunning beaches of Bouddi National Park, Australia is home to some of the world’s most epic and immersive bush and coastal walks.
For your next holiday, why not add some of these unmissable bush and coastal walks to your bucket list? Here we cover some of the best walks in Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia.
Scenic Rim Trail, Queensland
This eco-luxury walking experience explores the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Main Range National Park. Along the three-day trail, expect surreal panoramic views and unspoilt ancient wilderness. Each night, return to Spicers Canopy, a group of 10 luxury eco-tents decked out with creature comforts that make for the ideal glamping experience — especially when you set sight on the blanket of twinkling stars hovering above.
Grampians Peaks Trail, Victoria
Here, at one of Australia’s most breathtaking mountainous regions, ancient sandstone formations loom large over fern-filled gorges and spectacular waterfalls. Grampians Personalised Tours & Adventures offers insightful excursions, from guided bushwalks and environmental talks to eco-walks and adventure activities. When the hiking day is done, spend time exploring the surrounding Grampians region, which is bursting with picturesque towns, gastronomic adventures, welcoming cellar doors and arresting local art.
Six Foot Track, New South Wales
This historic Blue Mountains track is a three-day journey linking Katoomba and the Jenolan Caves. Originally built as a horse trail in 1884, today there are plenty of overnight camping sites along the way. The 46-kilometre journey offers exceptional stargazing and is thriving with rivers and cascading waterfalls. Sweeping views over the Megalong Valley make for superb photo ops, before crossing the creaking swing bridge over Coxs River. With outstanding accommodation options and plenty to see and do, it wouldn’t hurt to extend your stay at either end.
Heysen Trail, South Australia
Extending from Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula to Parachilna Gorge in the Flinders Ranges, the Heysen Trail winds for 1,200 mesmerising kilometres, taking in wine regions and some of South Australia’s most spectacular scenery. To traverse the entire length would take 60 days, so for a less daunting but equally memorable experience, Trek Tours Australia leads six-day tours with cabin-style accommodation. The Arkaba Walk, meanwhile, is a four-day eco-hiking safari dedicated to educating visitors about conservation.
Great Ocean Walk, Victoria
The Great Ocean Walk is one of the most iconic long-distance walks in Australia. It is popular with people all over the world, who come to hike and enjoy the amazing views of this remote and rugged coastline. It is a region of superb natural beauty, with plenty of native Australian wildlife to spot along the way. Along the 104km trek, there are picturesque waterfalls, hidden coves, and the lush forest paths of the Great Otway National Park to discover, all the way to the iconic Twelve Apostles. Make sure to keep your eyes out for kangaroos, black swamp wallabies, goannas and koalas.
Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk, Queensland
Hike the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk for three days of wildlife-spotting and sweeping views around Gondwana Rainforest and an ancient volcano. The rainforest is the star of the show: the walk passes through the most extensive subtropical rainforest in the world and nearly all of the world’s Antarctic beech cool temperate rainforest. The rainforest produces a stunning array of rare and exotic flora and fauna, as well as rushing streams and waterfalls. Sections of the walk trace the rim of the volcano, providing wonderful stretches of cliff top walking with exceptional views of the far flung ranges and even the distant coastline.
Bouddi Coastal Walk, New South Wales
This is an incredible coastal walk within reach of Sydney along the Central Coast. The 13.8-km out-and-back trail can be done in either direction, and is generally considered a moderately challenging route. You’ll be rewarded, however, by sweeping views of the coastline, idyllic beaches and scenic camping spots. The trail is open year-round, and is a very popular and beautiful area for camping, hiking and walking. Make sure to pack your swimmers as you’ll have an abundance of choice of pristine beaches to cool off in.
These 7 amazing bush and coastal walks in Australia only scratch the surface of the abundance of natural wonders at our fingertips. To discover the incredible waterfalls you need to visit, click here.
Or, to discover our complete guide to adventure activities in Australia, click here.
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