The 10 Prettiest Autumn Towns To Visit

From brilliant colours to out-of-this-world wildlife experiences, autumn hits differently in these Australian towns.

One can no more say what autumn ‘is’ in Australia than you can rattle off the thousands of ecosystems we have here on this mind-boggling big continent.

Here, autumn is not so often the scent of spiced pumpkin in the air and piles of dead leaves to kick through, as it is a definite shift in the natural world towards the colder months.

Whether you want your autumnal experience to be gallivanting through a deciduous forest or escaping the incoming chill for just that little bit longer, we’ve got the town for you.

1. Orange, NSW

While it’s always a good time to visit the vines in this Central West town, come autumn Orange attracts visitors from all around the state for its Orange F.O.O.D (Food of Orange District) Week . If you can’t make it for the end of March when the festival is on, don’t fret. Head out apple picking, book in for some tastings at a local vineyard and prepare for your tastebuds to be dazzled at one of its gourmet natural restaurants.

Cook Park Orange in autumn — Orange in Autumn is not to be missed. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Bright, Vic

Take a weekend break up in the High Country town of Bright. In autumn, the Victorian Alps are at their best as local poplars, elms, oaks and maple trees burst into spectacular fall colours.

If you come at the end of April, there are the activities of the 10-day Bright Autumn Festival to enjoy too; like a gala day with street stalls and the charming Wandiligong Nut Festival .

Autumn leaves in Bright Victoria — Enjoy a weekend break in the High Country town of Bright.

3. Exmouth, WA

Swap one majestic natural experience for another when you fly to the town of Exmouth on the Coral Coast to see the annual migration of whale sharks. These gentle giants are the biggest fish in the world.

Each year, they make their way to the Ningaloo Reef on the Western Australian coast, near Exmouth. Once you spot them on a tour, you can even slip into the waters for a closer look.

Exmouth Dive & Whalesharks, Ningaloo — See the annual migration of whale sharks in Exmouth. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

4. The Barossa, SA

When the days begin to cool and the foliage turns, it’s grape-picking time in Barossa Valley wine country.

As well as stopping at the region’s famous cellar doors, spend an afternoon bushwalking in the nearby Kaiserstuhl Conservation Park or Para Wirra Conservation Park, or cycling through town with your friends.

Trevallie Orchard in the Barossa — Pick some grapes in the Barossa this autumn. (Image: Barossa Grape & Wine Association)

5. Strahan, Tas

Located at the entry to the wilderness of western Tasmania, Strahan is surrounded by a whopping 19 national parks and reserves.

Embark on an adventure with Gordon River Cruise, explore the nearby rainforests, get a taste of the harsh convict life at Sarah Island on Macquarie Harbour , and gorge yourself on the freshest of fresh seafood at this marine town.

Strahan Waterfront in tasmania — Explore the wilderness from this marine town. (Image: Stu Gibson)

6. Armidale, NSW

Take the Waterfall Way inland out to this New England High Country town for the Armidale Autumn Festival. A celebration of the changing of seasons, it takes place at the beginning of April, when the burnt oranges begin to take root in the foliage.

For the rest of the time, take a trip out to the stunning Ebor Falls, sip on Armidale’s cool climate wines, take a heritage tour , stop by the Armidale Folk Museum to find out more about the region’s settler backstory, and visit the Armidale and Region Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place .

Autumn leaves across the city of Armidale NSW — Visit the Armidale Autumn Festival for a celebration of the changing of seasons. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Toowoomba, Qld

Ninety minutes from the state’s capital, up in the Great Dividing Range, ‘the garden city’ of Toowoomba is resplendent come autumn.

Start with a walk in the heritage-listed Queens Park, with its tree-lined avenues, and then head up to Picnic’s Point, with its epic views over the colours of the Great Dividing Range. Want more? We’ve lined up the best things to do in Toowoomba, here.

Vines on walls in Toowoomba Queensland — Toowoomba, ‘the garden city’, blooms in autumn. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

8. Margaret River, WA

Come March, the summer crowds that visit this magical wine and produce region are dying down, making the summer the perfect time to plan your trip here.

Between the food and wine trails, walks among the towering karri forests and on the Cape to Cape Track, and explorations of ancient cave systems, take a trip to the actual town of Margaret River for its boutique shops and bars.

Group of friends walking through the Boranup Karri Forest — Walk among the towering trees of the Boranup Karri Forest. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

9. Richmond, Tas

Take a day trip from Hobart to the colonial-era town of Richmond. With buildings that date back to the 1820s, a trip to this pretty Tassie town can seem like a step back in time.

Check out the view of the Coal River from the Richmond Bridge, which was built by convict labour, and take a trip to Australia’s oldest intact gaol.

Try a tipple from the nearby Coal River Valley growing region, stop by the miniature model village, and search for goodies at the village market.

Richmond Bridge in Tasmania — This pretty Tassie town can seem like a step back in time. (Image: Poon Wai Nang)

10. Yarra Valley, Vic

While it may be most famous for its pinot noir and chardonnay, the Yarra Valley is also a stunner when it comes to its pretty autumnal gardens.

From the water features and blooms of the Alfred Nicholas Gardens to the golden canopy of the George Tindale Memorial Garden , there’s plenty to see.

Closer to the heart of the Yarra, take a tour of the wineries; that, at this time of the year, will be collecting up the grape harvest.

Autumn leaves falling at TarraWarra Estate, Yarra Valley — The Yarra Valley is also a stunner when it comes to its pretty autumnal gardens.

Feast your way through Sun Country on the Murray – a beautiful and bountiful region in northern Victoria with gourmet delights galore.

Nestled on the lands of the Yorta Yorta People along the mighty Murray River, Sun Country is a truly extraordinary place. The northern Victorian enclave is a tapestry of meandering waterways, ancient forests, sandy beaches, enchanting country towns and an easy way of life.

Beyond its landscapes and bucolic charm, Sun Country on the Murray is a culinary paradise: think farm-fresh produce, family-run wineries and no shortage of places to feast.

If you’re a serious foodie or simply epicurious, here’s your ultimate guide to a gourmand Murray River getaway.

The Murray Farm Gate Trail

The self-guided Murray Gate Farm Trail lets you sample the area’s best produce while immersing yourself in the lush Goulburn and Murray Valleys. The trail has something to suit every palate and pace, but there are a few notable highlights.

1. Rich Glen

Rich Glen Provedore and Rich Glen Skin & Beauty — Stock up at Rich Glen. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Rich Glen is renowned for its award-winning olive oils. Everything is grown and created on the family farm in Yarrawonga, the results of which you can visit at Rich Glen Provedore – a treasure trove of gourmet foods, including that signature olive oil. Or explore Rich Glen Skin & Beauty, which stocks lush handmade skincare and wellness products.

2. How Now Dairy

A charming micro-farm producing ethical dairy, How Now Dairy , lets its baby calves remain with their mothers and its cows roam on rolling pesticide-free pastures. Try a selection of cheeses that do good and taste good, including a fantastic punchy blue, and velvety milk with a thick, creamy top.

3. Cactus Country

Cactus Country in the murray — Stop into Cactus Country. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Cactus Country is a 12-acre stretch of desert-like garden containing cacti of all shapes, sizes and colours. Naturally, it makes the most of its bounty at the on-site bar and restaurant, with a cactus-infused dessert menu alongside a vibrant line-up of Mexican snacks and mains.

4. The Olde Creamery

The Olde Creamery is a local icon, a former hobby farm that has flourished into a thriving purveyor of flowers and foods. The elderflower cordial and bramble gin and tonic jam are must-tries, and make for tasty mementoes of your trip.

Wineries, breweries and distilleries

The region’s sunny climate and rich soils make it a prime place for viticulture. If wine isn’t your thing, you’ll also find boutique breweries and distilleries producing top-notch beers and spirits.

1. Squires Winery

a couple sitting at the bar at squire's winery, sun country on the murray — Pop in for a tasting. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With its idyllic positioning on the Ovens River, Squires Winery is a lovely setting for a long, leisurely lunch or tasting. Enjoy a riverside sip of prosecco, rosé or cab sauv, complemented by seasonal bites and a backdrop of towering gum trees.

2. Cape Horn Vineyard

Cape Horn is one of the region’s most established vineyards. Its sparkling durif/shiraz is a crowd favourite and well worth trying on your foodie tour, especially if it’s served with one of the winery’s delicious wood-fired pizzas.

3. Byramine Homestead & Brewery

A top pick among beer, cider and history enthusiasts, Byramine serves a rotation of brews made on-site in the historic homestead. Wander through the venue and learn about its colonial past before sitting down to a freshly made Ploughman’s and cold local ale.

4. Monichino Wines

Monichino is a slice of la dolce vita in northern Victoria, producing classic Italian varietals like pinot grigio and aromatica. Drop by for a tasting at the cellar door (open weekends or by appointment) and explore everything from crisp whites to robust fortified wines, or pack a picnic and savour your glass in the picturesque gardens.

5. Corowa Distilling Co

Corowa Distilling Co crafts an incredible variety of single-malt and blended whiskies, and is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. Stop in for a tasting flight in the whisky room, or a hearty breakfast or lunch paired with a wee dram.

Farm-to-table dining

If you’ve got the time to linger over a gourmet spread, Sun Country on the Murray has an abundance of outstanding restaurants and cafes.

1. O’Reilly’s Food and Wine

O’Reilly’s feels much like stepping into a good friend’s home, albeit with a refined twist. The menu changes weekly and rotates through a selection of comforting yet elevated dishes – think lamb cottage pie, French-style moussaka, a perennially popular open steak sandwich and cakes that change flavours weekly.

2. Stock and Barrel

a couple eating at Stock and Barrel victoria — Soak in views of Lake Mulwala. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Tucked inside The Sebel Yarrawonga hotel, overlooking sparkling Lake Mulwala, Stock and Barrel does pub classics with a Sun Country spin. Order a perfectly seared steak and triple-cooked potatoes alongside a freshly poured pint, or try a regional highlight: local produce features abundantly across Stock and Barrel’s dishes.

3. The Bend

With spacious decks and panoramic views of the Murray, The Bend is ideal for a sun-soaked long lunch. Order a round of moreish share plates (like baja fish tacos and a warm-from-the-oven brioche loaf stuffed with cream cheese and herbs) or a signature cocktail and indulgent main – we can’t go past the slow-braised wagyu brisket.

4. Blacksmith Provedore

If you’re after a slick yet relaxed dining destination, head to Blacksmith Provedore . Perched right next to Lake Mulwala, the venue is airy and elegant, with a minimalist-chic design. The pizzas are seriously good too, made with 72-hour fermented dough and toppings sourced from Italy’s finest producers.

5. Broken Willow

As soon as you enter Broken Willow ’s front doors, you’re greeted with genuine hospitality and a classic bistro menu that has something for everyone: succulent grilled meats, parmas and schnitzels, juicy burgers, and international dishes ranging from weekly curry and stir-fry specials to zippy banh mi.

While you’re there

Thompson Beach in sun country on the murray — Discover plenty to do between meals. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Got a few hours to spare? Make the most of your trip by exploring the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of your riverside surroundings.

Barmah National Park is a sanctuary of walks through majestic river red gums and serene wetlands. Here, a seat on board a Kingfisher River Cruise offers a different Murray experience, letting you see the vast river from the perspective of the Yorta Yorta peoples.

If you’re a watersport enthusiast, Lake Mulwala in Yarrawonga is a favourite for canoeing, cruising, fishing, kayaking and water skiing. While the silo murals at Katamatite, St James, Tungamah and more recently Waaia are essential stops in Victoria’s famed Silo Art Trail .

In Cobram Barooga, make sure to visit Thompson’s Beach, the largest inland beach in the southern hemisphere. Nearby, the Bullanginya Dreaming project is an award-winning 1.8km immersive art experience that immerses you in light and sound to tell a rich story of country, culture and connection.

Start planning a tasty getaway to Sun Country on The Murray at suncountryonthemurray.com.au.

The 10 prettiest autumn towns you need to visit