Exploring the mouth of the Hopkins River near Warrnambool, from calm water and dog beaches to coastal walks, fishing spots, historic graves, and wide ocean views. A lived-in stretch of coast best discovered slowly.

Lava tubes are formed when flowing lava cools on the surface while molten lava continues beneath, draining away to leave hollow tunnels. The Undara system in Queensland is one of the world’s best preserved examples

Carnarvon Gorge had been on our bucket list for years, and it didn’t disappoint. Panoramic views, ancient rock art, dramatic cliffs, and lush pockets of green made this one of the most rewarding stops so far.

Our Carnarvon adventure kicked off with black bull “bears,” startled tourists and a stunning warm-up walk into Mickey Creek Gorge. A perfect taster before the main hike into the heart of the gorge.

Narrabri surprised us with its blend of geology, science and relaxed country charm — from Sawn Rocks to market scones and a slightly embarrassing moment at the Telescope Array. A simple, easy stop on the Newell Highway.

The Sandstone Caves in the Pilliga Forest offer a quiet, respectful walk to Aboriginal rock shelters. A short track that rewards slowing down and remembering that shared cultural places deserve the same care we give our own.

Baradine is a quiet country town on the edge of the Pilliga Forest. A practical base for slow travel, forest drives, and unhurried exploration, it’s the kind of place that rewards staying longer than planned.

We returned to Uluru with fresh eyes, riding out for sunrise, circling the base, and watching rain turn the rock to copper. Quiet, powerful, and unforgettable—the red heart of Australia.

Massive, mysterious and far less crowded than Uluru, Kata Tjuṯa blew us away. We wandered among towering domes, soaked in the silence, and left feeling tiny, dusty, and full of quiet awe.

We hiked the Rim Walk at sunrise, cooled off in the Garden of Eden, and took to the skies for a birthday flight. Kings Canyon is vast, ancient, and one of the Territory’s true wonders.

This stunning natural landmark feels like a hidden sanctuary, where the arid landscape meets the cool refuge of a dry creek bed nestled between towering cliffs.

Litchfield’s waterfalls and swimming holes gave us three days of cool, easy walking and clear water. From Florence Falls to Buley and Wangi, this Top End park delivers exactly what hot travellers need.

Nitmiluk Gorge gave us golden cliffs, a quiet sunset cruise and stories from Jawoyn Country that stayed with us. We barely scratched the surface, and it’s already high on our must-return list for next time.

Banka Banka Station offers a peaceful slice of NT outback life. From the quiet waterhole walk to friendly donkeys and starry nights. A relaxed, red-dirt stop that invites slow travel and longer stays.

Spear Creek gave us rugged trails, ancient rock formations and wide, empty skies on the edge of the Southern Flinders. Sunrise walks, quiet evenings and raw outback beauty made this remote station stay one to remember.