Australia’s hottest travel destinations in 2015

hero media

Georgia Rickard shares her picks of the coming year’s top destinations. If you’re not going to any of these in 2015, well, you should…

Tasmania
Everything about this state, to be honest – they don’t come any better. Why Tasmania?

The Kimberley, WA
It’s still the place to go, especially via expedition cruise and/or Broome. Kununurra will explode next. AT’s Kimberley in focus.

High Country, Vic
No doubt about it, this is our next big foodie region, within our next big foodie state. A sublime spot for gourmet cycling from Beechworth to Rutherglen, gourmet alpine hiking or 24 hours in beautiful, bountiful Bright.

Uluru, NT
The rock is back on the national agenda, and more beautiful than ever – as are its nearby (newly spruced) accommodation offerings. See Uluru any way you like

NSW’s Central Coast
Firstly, it’s stunning. Secondly, there are two major developments (worth a combined $880 million) happening here, while local luxury lodge Pretty Beach House is set to reopen in April. Want to know five more reasons why the Central Coast is not boring?

Canberra, ACT
No more boring trips to The Mint – Canberra’s restaurant scene is booming. Actually, the entire ACT is heating up; watch this space. See Australian Traveller’s guide to Cool Canberra.

NT’s Top End – all of it
But keep an eye on Arnhem Land specifically. New tours are opening up the region from intrepid travellers only, to the next level of traveller: the early adopters among us.

Adelaide
Adelaide – and Brisbane and Perth – are all graduating to their respective next levels of development. Expect more cool bars and hot events. Also see 5 reasons why Brisbane is the new cool capital and Perth’s Top 5 niche bars.

The Gold Coast, Qld
There’s so much more here than Surfer’s Paradise, particularly if you’re in the mood for a road trip… See Ultimate Escapes – Byron Bay to the Gold Coast

The Dandenongs, Vic
Two words: Shannon Bennett. The next stages of his new development here, Burnham Beeches are set to open soon, and boy are they going to pull the crowds.

hero media

Win a $5270 3-night luxury Ballarat getaway

Here’s your chance to win a luxurious three-night getaway in historic Ballarat.

Entries close at 11.59pm AEDT on 8 February 2026

Discover the elegance of Ballarat with a three-night indulgent getaway — worth up to $5270! Enter now for your chance to discover this brilliantly unexpected destination. Where the past, present, culture and creativity collide.

Read the general competition terms and conditions before you enter.

What’s included?

The elegant green interiors of Hotel Vera set the tone for a luxurious stay included in the Ballarat Giveaway.
Discover modern luxury during your three-night stay at Hotel Vera. (Credit: Visit Victoria)
  • $1600 voucher for a three-night stay at luxe Hotel Vera, including daily breakfast and a dinner at Babae, the hatted onsite restaurant
  • $700 voucher for a Signature Spa Journey for two at the acclaimed Ballarat’s Sanctuary Day Spa
  • $620 voucher for a long lunch at Black Cat Truffles, including a Meredith Wines tasting and transport in a beautiful 1974 Rolls-Royce with Silver Mink Tours
  • $250 voucher for iconic hatted restaurant Mr Jones
  • $200 voucher for Johnny Alloo cafe
  • $200 voucher for dinner at speakeasy-style Grainery Lane
  • $1200 Webjet voucher for flights and $500 Rentacar voucher

About the prize

A serene moment at Ballarat’s Sanctuary Day Spa, part of the indulgent experiences in the Ballarat Giveaway.
Relax and recharge at the acclaimed Ballarat’s Sanctuary Day Spa. (Credit: Einwick)

Today, Ballarat is a UNESCO City of Crafts and Folk Art and a thriving regional centre filled with charm, energy and originality. From eclectic architecture to world-class arts and culture, vibrant artisanal offerings to a lively restaurant and bar scene, there’s truly something for everyone. Open your mind to Ballarat – it will create unexpected moments and uplifting experiences for every visitor.

Enjoy the ultimate indulgence with a $5,270 prize package featuring the very best of Ballarat’s fine dining, relaxation and boutique charm.

Stay in style with a $1,600 voucher for a three-night escape at the luxurious Hotel Vera, complete with daily breakfast and dinner at its hatted restaurant Babae. Unwind with a $700 Signature Spa Journey for two at the acclaimed Ballarat’s Sanctuary Day Spa, then savour a gourmet long lunch at Black Cat Truffles, including a Meredith Wines tasting and private transport in a 1974 Rolls Royce courtesy of Silver Mink Tours.

Continue your culinary adventure with a $250 voucher for the iconic hatted Mr Jones, a $200 voucher for the stylish Johnny Alloo café, and a $200 voucher for dinner at Grainery Lane, a speakeasy-style favourite.

To complete your luxurious escape, enjoy a $1,200 Webjet voucher for flights and a $500 Rentacar voucher to explore the region at your leisure.

A gourmet spread from Black Cat Truffles showcasing the region’s finest flavours, featured in the Ballarat Giveaway.
Savour Ballarat’s rich flavours. (Credit: Einwick)

Subscribe now to be the first to know about Australian Traveller giveaways.