When the first sub-20 degree day hits during the Australian winter, the mass exodus begins. You're either on a Europe trip, or you're at home scrolling through Instagram, watching at least three friends drink wine in Sicily.
But with the Australian dollar continuing to fall shorter and shorter of the euro, that dreamy Amalfi Coast spritz is looking more like a financial fever dream. Flights are up, accommodation is eye-watering, and suddenly a croissant in Paris costs the same as your weekly grocery shop. For most of us, another European summer just isn’t on the cards.
But who says your holiday needs to be overseas? We live in one of the most ecologically diverse and visually striking countries in the world – and there’s no passport stamp required. From boutique hotels tucked into native bushland, to coastlines that rival the Aegean, there are plenty of wanderlust-inducing spots to escape to without leaving the continent.
Craving the charm of a German town, the golden haze of Tuscan hills, or the crystalline waters of the Greek Islands? Australia has an answer for all of it. Below, our edit of local destinations that capture the spirit of Europe – no currency conversion needed.
For rocky Mallorca beaches, try the Fleurieu Peninsula, SA
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Just 45 minutes from Adelaide, this stretch of South Australian coast is dotted with limestone cliffs and hidden coves. You'll find boutique vineyards, lazy surf towns, and beach walks that end in cellar door tastings.
Where to eat: The Currant Shed (McLaren Vale), Star of Greece (Port Willunga Beach).
Where to stay: The Vineyard Retreat McLaren Vale, The Old Chaff Mill Organic Vineyard Retreat.
For the bluer than blue water in Sardinia, tap the Ningaloo Reef, WA
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World Heritage-listed and wildly underrated, the Ningaloo Reef gives the Amalfi Coast a serious run for its money. Swim alongside whale sharks or snorkel in coral gardens just metres from the shore. It’s barefoot luxury, but with a distinctly Aussie edge.
Where to eat: Whalebone Brewing Co, Sal Salis.
Where to stay: Ningaloo Coral Bay.
Provencial-style lavender fields? You'll find them in Nabowla TAS
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The Bridestowe Lavender Estate (the largest lavender farm in the Southern Hemisphere) is all soft purples and sweet floral haze come summer, and is just a 50-minute drive from Launceston. Visitors are welcomed to the Estate all year round, with rows upon rows of French lavender that stretches across the Tasmanian countryside like a Monet painting.
Where to eat: Bridestowe Estate, Woodcroft Café
Where to stay: Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston.
Want to ski the Alps? Try Mount Hotham, VIC
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Located in the Victorian Alps of the Great Dividing Range, this alpine village turns into a snow globe come winter, with pristine powder and dramatic mountain views. Hotham has some of the steepest terrain in the country, but also plenty of après-ski charm.
Where to eat: Jack Frost Bar
Where to stay: Zirkys
Want the rock formations of Paros, Greece? Try Elephant Rocks, WA
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Western Australia's southern coastline is a geological dream – think huge granite boulders perched above turquoise inlets. The waters at Elephant Rocks in William Bay National Park are as clear as the Aegean.
Where to eat: Pepper & Salt Restaurant, Denmark Bakery
Where to stay: Castelli Estate
Want to sip wine in Tuscan rolling hills? Visit Orange, NSW
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Cool-climate wines and golden-hour drives make the thriving country town of Orange feel like it's straight out of the Italian coast. The cellar doors are chic, the produce is local, and the air is deliciously crisp – try out one of their award-winning restaurants, boutique shops, glorious gardens and bustling markets while you're there.
Where to eat: La Milano, The Peacock Room.
Where to stay: Nashdale Lane, Borrodell Estate.
For historic German charm, try Hahnsdorf SA
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Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement in the hills of Adelaide is all timbered facades, beer halls, and charming boutiques. You’ll find bratwurst, artisan chocolate and cobbled laneways.
Where to eat: The Cafe 1839, The Lane Vineyard.
Where to stay: The Haus Restaurant.
Looking for cool-climate English countryside, then try the Southern Highlands, NSW
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Rolling green hills, heritage manors and misty mornings make this region feel like a Jane Austen novel. Cosy up in a country inn, explore antique stores, or visit during tulip season for full pastoral romance. Bowral and Berrima have Sunday-drive energy all year round.
Where to eat: Eschalot, The Studio by The What If Society
Where to stay: Berida Hotel, Bannisters Port Stephens
Dreaming of the Norwegian fjords? Cradle Mountain, TAS is the answer
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With glacial lakes and rugged peaks, Cradle Mountain is Tasmania at its most cinematic. The walking trails range from peaceful to punishing, and wombat sightings are practically guaranteed. Book a secluded cabin and wake up to mist rolling across the valley.
Where to eat: Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Restaurant, Highland Restaurant.
Where to stay: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge.
Seeking the powder white sand of the Balearic Islands? Try Airlie Beach, QLD
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This gateway to the Whitsundays, set amid the iconic Great Barrier Reef, this region is all sun-kissed skin, salty air and sailing days. The sands at Whitehaven Beach are as bright as snow and the water a hundred shades of blue.
Where to eat: Northerlies Beach Bar and Grill, Sorrentos, Bommie
Where to stay: Coral Sea Resort, Mirage Whitsundays
