Places to Go in Australia in Winter

Need a getaway but don’t want to wait until summer rolls around? Why wait!

In Australia, we’re lucky to live in a nation that stretches an incredible 3,800 kilometres from north to south and 4,000 kilometres from east to west, ensuring there’s a wide and diverse range of climates and landscapes to enjoy at any time of the year.

Up north you can escape the cold and soak in some warmer weather, or head south to make the most of the snow season and other winter attractions. As an added bonus, as most travellers plan their getaways during the warmer months, chances are you won’t have to compete with as many crowds and be able to enjoy a little peace and quiet.

If you’re considering a winter getaway and want the inside scoop on some of the best places to go in Australia in winter, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few top Aussie destinations that are perfect for winter touring…

Best places to go in Australia in winter

The Blue Mountains, NSW

Aside from the breathtaking scenery and natural beauty the Blue Mountains are known for, there’s something that makes a Blue Mountains winter escape extra special—Yulefest.

If you’ve ever wanted to experience a Christmas celebration that’s akin to the highly romanticised ‘white Christmas’ celebrations depicted in movies time and time again, Yulefest offers you the opportunity to do that in our own backyard.

Between June and August each year, select hotels, restaurants and venues throughout the region host a raft of Christmas style events and celebrations. Think traditional chrissy dinners, toasty log fires, mulled wine, ice skating and even a visit from the big man in red.

With temperatures often dipping below freezing overnight, there’s even a chance you’ll encounter a light snow dusting come morning time.

Where to stay:

• Jenolan Holiday Park in Oberon is conveniently located in the Central Blue Mountains and is also within easy reach of other destinations such as Bathurst. While in the area you can also explore the famous Jenolan Caves, visit Mayfield Garden or head out fishing or bushwalking.
• If you’d prefer to stay a little closer to Sydney, Lane Cove Holiday and Caravan Park in North Ryde is another great option within easy reach of the Blue Mountains where you’ll enjoy the beautiful setting nestled amongst 1,000 acres of bushland.

Darwin and the Top End, NT

If Darwin and the Top End feature on your bucket list and you plan to get there at some point, winter is arguably the best time of the year to do it.

While the hot and humid climate and torrential rain can be overwhelming for many tourists during the wet season between November and April, as the dry season takes hold throughout the winter months, the climate tends to hover around a very pleasant 30°C.

For many southerners looking to escape the cold, the winter climate will absolutely hit the mark—but aside from the climate, there’s also plenty that’s sure to draw you into the top end.

In Darwin, itself you’ll love checking out the vibrant waterfront precinct or strolling through the famous Mindil Beach Sunset. Then when it’s time to explore more of the Top End, Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole in Litchfield Park are sure to impress, while Wangi Falls, Nourlangie Rock and Yellow Waters in Kakadu offer experiences that everyone should get to enjoy in their lifetime.

Where to stay:

• Discovery Parks Darwin in Winnellie is the perfect base that’s within easy reach of the Darwin CBD, Litchfield National Park and Kakadu. You’ll also enjoy the appealing tropical setting and great amenities, including a jumping pillow and swimming pool which are sure to be a hit with the youngsters.

High Country, VIC

Rather than trying to escape the winter chill, why not embrace it and head to the Victorian High Country.

The ski slopes at Mt Buller, Falls Creek and Mount Hotham are always a major drawcard, but if you don’t feel like channelling your inner snow bunny, there are still plenty of other activities and attractions to catch your interest throughout the region.

Aside from the breathtaking scenery which takes in mountains, forests and rivers, the region is also home to a long list of charming townships like Bright, Beechworth and Rutherglen which provide a perfect winter escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Where to stay:

• Discovery Parks Bright is a great place to park yourself. Set on the banks of the Ovens River with views of Mount Feathertop, you’ll enjoy the central location as well as the many nearby opportunities for activities like hiking, biking, fishing and skiing.

Barossa Valley, SA

Fancy the idea of curling up by a fireplace with a nice glass of red? Then a trip to the Barossa Valley this winter is sure to hit the mark.

As one of Australia’s most well-renowned wine regions, South Australia’s Barossa Valley is a destination every wine connoisseur absolutely must visit at some point in their life. Famed for its impressive Shiraz, Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon varietals, it’s easy to get lost in the green rolling hills while exploring the more than 150 boutique and commercial-scale wineries dotted throughout the region.

Also home to a long list of smokehouses, eateries and award-winning restaurants, it really is the perfect place to wine and dine to your heart’s content.

Where to stay:

• Discovery Parks Barossa Valley in Tanunda is set in the heart of wine country, providing easy access to all the local vineyards, wineries and cellar doors, along with the many museums, galleries and craft shops dotted throughout the nearby towns.

Geraldton, WA

A visit to the coastal town of Geraldton is nice at any time of the year, but in winter, it’s appeal reaches a whole other level because of one major attraction—wildflower season.

From July to October, the region springs to life as the thousands of species of wildflowers which are native to Western Australia bloom, instantly transforming the landscape into a colourful vista that commands attention.

Pair this with its pleasant climate which hovers around the 20°C mark and the many other local attractions and activities like a scenic flight over the Abrolhos Islands or a visit to St Francis Xavier Cathedral, and what you have is the perfect winter escape.

Where to stay:

• Dongara Tourist Park in Port Denison located less than an hour from Geraldton boasts a beautiful waterfront location on the Coral Coast, ensuring you’ll be able to take in some breathtaking ocean sunsets.

Airlie Beach, QLD

If your idea of a winter getaway means escaping to somewhere far warmer than where you live, Airlie Beach is an ideal destination.

While the temperature does drop compared to the summer months, the mercury still often climbs to around 27°C during the cooler winter months meaning you can leave the winter woollies at home and still get around quite comfortably in shorts and a T-shirt.

With its crystal clear beaches and a resort-like feel, it’s impossible not to relax from the moment you arrive in Airlie Beach. Also acting as the launching point for many of the sailing, snorkelling, scuba diving and scenic flight adventures around the Whitsunday Islands, you’ll have plenty to keep you occupied throughout your visit.

Where to stay:

• Discovery Parks Airlie Beach in Jubilee Pocket is ideally situated alongside the Conway National Park rainforest, providing the perfect backdrop for your winter escape. If you’ve got the kids in tow, they’re also going to love the onsite water park, jumping pillow and games room!

Canberra, ACT

Canberra isn’t just about politics and the public service—it also makes a great holiday destination during the winter months.

While you’re within easy reach of the surrounding snow-capped mountains (like Corin Forest), there’s also plenty to do if you decide to stay within the nation’s capital itself.

Head to the annual truffle festival, visit a winery or two (or three), check out the latest exhibitions at a gallery, test your skills with some ice skating at the open-air arena at Civic Square or simply indulge at one of the many local day spas. What’s not to like!

Where to stay:

• Goulburn South Caravan Park which is about one hour out of Canberra (and also within relatively easy reach of Sydney) is set amongst natural bushland and equipped with everything you need. You’ll also be able to explore the bustling regional centre of Goulburn while there, taking in attractions like the Big Merino, the Rail Heritage Centre and the Waterworks Museum.

Kick-off your winter motorhome getaway

Ready to start your winter motorhome adventure? Browse our range of rental motorhomes and campervans to find the right one for you.

Our vehicles are kitted out with all the mod cons you’ll need while on the road, including reliable heating and cooling systems to ensure you can travel in comfort in any climate. With an extensive branch network spanning Australia, we make it easy to get on the road without any of the hassle.

What are you waiting for—start planning your Australian winter motorhome getaway today!