International Travel
6 award-winning Aussie tourist spots to visit in 2016
The winners of Australian Traveller’s People’s Choice Awards have been announced, with six iconic Aussie tourist spots named. If you’re planning a big Aussie getaway for 2016 or just need a little bit of inspiration for your day dreaming, we can’t think of anything better than this list.
1. Most desirable island escape – Hamilton Island
If you want an island escape in Australia the people have ruled that Hamilton Island is your best option. It’s not just the world class results, divine restaurants and the gorgeous location next to tropical paradise, but the relaxed vine in the air that makes a visit to Hamilton Island so good.
Runners up:
- Hayman Island
- Tasmania
- Lord Howe Island
- Kangaroo Island
2. Best family holiday spot – Gold Coast
The fact that Dreamworld, Movie World and Wet ‘n’ Wild are all clustered together makes this a no-brainer for anyone under the age of four, but the Gold Coast has a lot of offer older travellers as well with literally kilometres of pristine beaches to keep every type of traveller satisfied.
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Runners up:
- Noosa and the Sunshine Coast
- Cairns and Port Douglas
- Byron Bay
- Phillip Island
3. Best beachside town – Byron Bay
If you’re looking for a laidback beachside town you can’t do much better than Byron Bay. Combine out of this world beaches with chic boutiques, an excellent standard of dining, glorious nature life and a number of other exciting attractions and you’ve got one trip that’s bound to please.
Runners up:
- Noosa
- Port Douglas
- Lorne
- Broome
4. Best city break – Melbourne
The Sydney vs Melbourne debate will probably go on for years and years to come, but in 2015 the people chose Melbourne as the best destination for a city break. And why not? This city offer cafes, jewellery, galleries, boutique fashion and a culture fix that most cities simply can’t match.
Runners up:
- Sydney
- Brisbane
- Hobart
- Adelaide
5. Cosiest winter destination – Blue Mountains
If you’re looking for a place where you can roll up in a ball beside the fire you can’t do much better than the Blue Mountains and the people seem to agree with this suggestion as well. Combine awe-inspiring sights with beautiful landscape and quaint mountain hikes and you’re onto a winner.
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Runners up:
- Cradle Mountain
- Thredbo
- Daylesford
- Melbourne
6. Best town off the beaten track – Birdsville
With a population of just 115 Birdsville is the very definition of off the beaten track, but it’s definitely worth going if only for the sense of achievement that comes with making it to the classic pub. Highlights include Birdsville Races, the desert ultramarathon and Big Red Bash concert.
Runners up:
- Broome
- Broken Hill
- Mudgee
- Coober Pedy
Related links:
How I walked the 1,200km Heysen Trail