VIP DESTINATION: WINTERING IN AUSTRALIA

There's not exactly a very severe winter in Australia, although some places are definitely colder than others. Anyway this month in our destination feature we give you some ideas for places you could spend the Aussie winter. And really there's something for everyone whether you enjoy those crisp, chilly winter mornings or like slightly warmer climes where you can still swim, snorkel or bathe.

1. Skiing the slopes

Skiing in Australia I hear some of you ask over the ether? Yes okay, Australia is not exactly renowned for skiing, but it is possible to do it. And if you're hanging out for a dash of snow and some downhill fun, there are places you can go like Falls Creek, Mt Buller, Perisher, Thredbo or Hotham in New South Wales and Victoria. You can organize trips from Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra.

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2. Katoomba and the Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains are 120km west of Sydney and a superb sandstone plateau dissected by gorges, liberally sprinkled with waterfalls, caves, quaint towns and some great walking tracks. In winter you can enjoy brisk walks through the seven national parks, cosy up in cafes and galleries or even explore the wonders of the Jenolan Caves. We have a number of hostels in Katoomba and tour options also - take a moment to scroll through the site.

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3. Melbourne and Phillip Island

Melbourne's not for everyone during the winter, given its cold climate, but there are plenty of warm bars and cafes to spend those winter nights and cultural events and attractions to keep you busy. Check out some of the events that are on in the "What's on in Australia" list in this month's newsletter. In August there's the Melbourne Writers Festival (Aug 7 - Sep 5) and the Chocolate Rush at Flemington (14-15) and make sure you don't miss all the action of the Melbourne Cup Carnival (Oct 30 - Nov 6), known as the "race that stops the nation" and it really does!

If you really enjoy the Antarctic weather blowing in off the sea, then journey down to Phillip Island Nature Park about 90 minutes from Melbourne to see the fairy penguins coming ashore during the winter. The penguins are used to the cold so they'll still show up and you will be treated to other natural wildlife habitats that includes fur seals, koalas and bird habitats.

Phillip Island is largely untouched by visitors and has a rugged coastline great for swimming (maybe in warmer weather) or surfing. It's also possible to fish, snorkel, bike, kayak, golf or hike on the island. And VIP has accommodation here.

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4. Head north

Don't like the cold, then simply head north for warmer climes. Cairns in north Queensland is a fabulous place to wait the winter out with balmy temperatures of 18-26 degrees and low rainfall. It's the perfect way to enjoy the tropical north and you have access to wonders such as the Great Barrier Reef - still good for diving, snorkelling, sailing in winter - and the rainforest of the Daintree. We have plenty of accommodation and tours on offer in this region, see some that are featured in this month's newsletter or take a moment to check through our site for options.

 

There are some splendid wine areas in Australia and a fantastic way of enjoying hearty winter dinners is with a good wine. Journey to the Hunter Valley about 120km north of Sydney, the Barossa Valley 60km northeast of Adelaide in South Australia or Margaret River south of Perth. Happily all regions are on the VIP network. There are wine regions on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland also.
   

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