10 Stunning Spring Towns You Need To Visit

From the sunny coast to charming tree-lined towns, these places around Australia transform into a thriving haven during springtime.

There’s a specific energy shift when Australia leaves its shortest days behind for warmer weather. People emerge from hibernation to eat lunch in the park, flowers bloom from their slumber and a general air of optimism ripples through stunning spring towns nationwide.

Spring is arguably the best time to pack up the car and embark on an adventure to experience everything Australia has to offer. Dip your toes in the refreshing ocean or let the afternoon sun soothe your overactive brain while visiting these incomparable spring towns.

1. Olinda, Vic

Day trips to Olinda, a town within the Dandenong Ranges, are a rewarding excursion any day of the year, but its abundance of flora and wildlife flourish during springtime.

lush greenery at Chelsea Australian Garden, Olinda — Surround yourself with lush greenery at Chelsea Australian Garden. (Image: Parks Victoria)

Pick any hiking trail suitable for beginners to those more advanced and attempt to spot the city skyline far off in the distance. Once the trails have been suitably traversed, stop by the collection of old-timey storefronts for a gander.

As a post-hike treat, the Chelsea Australian Garden at the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden on Wurundjeri Country will sweep you off your feet as you wander through its 15,000 plants from over 400 native Australian species.

Kurume Bowl Pink flowers in the Dandenong Ranges — Swoon over flowers in the Dandenong Ranges. (Image: Parks Victoria)

2. Hahndorf, SA

Maintaining a firm hold on its German heritage, a walk through Hahndorf is unlike any other town in Australia.

Multi-coloured trees line the streets, adding splashes of reds and greens to the Germanic pubs and cafes, all of which wouldn’t look out of place in a fairytale book.

The German Arms hotel in Hahndorf — Hahndorf wouldn’t look out of place in a fairytale book. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

A month-long festival takes place every September, honouring the varied and unique culture of Hahndorf. Join in on the shenanigans in a pair of lederhosen while sipping a frothy pint on a balmy spring evening. Próst.

Ye Olde Ice Creamery in Hahndorf — Hahndorf maintains a firm hold on its German heritage. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission and Adam Bruzzone)

3. Denmark, WA

The distinct forest-coast collision found in Denmark is worth exploring on its own, however, there’s another activity to tick off once enough nature has been absorbed.

the Elephant Rocks in Denmark — Oversized boulders loll in aquamarine waters at Elephant Rocks in Denmark. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Running annually throughout spring and summer, Denmark Thrills Adventure Park offers a once-in-a-lifetime trip. A trip down a hill encased in an inflatable ball, to be precise. Found nowhere else in Australia, see the sights at lightning speed as the ball sails through the air down a steep incline as you remain safely strapped inside.

For more casual thrills, explore the various rock formations that line the sea or brave the heights and walk among the treetops in the Valley of the Giants .

an aerial view of Valley of the Giants, Tree Top Walk — Be surrounded by green foliage at Valley of the Giants. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

4. Mullumbimby, NSW

10 minutes from Mullumbimby’s town centre, the Lotus Cafe at Crystal Castle remains unrivalled during golden hour.

a spa with a view at Koonyum Range Retreat, Mullumbimby — Go for a relaxing dip at Koonyum Range Retreat. (Image: Destination NSW)

Featuring the world’s largest crystals and a cave littered with these stunning natural formations, the Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens are a must-snap when travelling to Mullumbimby.

the Crystal Castle and the Shambhala Gardens, Mullumbimby — Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens has the world’s largest crystals. (Image: Destination NSW)

As well as its proximity to crystal heaven, Mullumbimby has a unique tropical appeal, dotted with palm trees like a small-town version of Los Angeles. In the middle of spring, the annual Mullum Music Festival takes over and for four days in November, the streets are filled with carefree revellers having a good old-fashioned boogie.

the 1929 Civic Memorial Hall in Mullumbimby — Mullumbimby has a unique tropical appeal. (Image: Sarah Reid)

5. Sheffield, Tas

No one has ever tired of the backdrop in Sheffield, as Mount Roland watches over this art-saturated town from over 1000 metres in the sky.

Mount Roland watches over the Sheffield town — Mount Roland looms over Sheffield. (Image: Jess Bonde)

In the town itself, expertly crafted murals coat the walls of buildings in vibrant shades of the rainbow, so a well-timed photo with the spring sun illuminating the artwork will go a long way.

a street mural in Sheffield — See vibrant murals around town. (Image: Jess Bonde)

Located 25 minutes south of Devonport, Sheffield has managed to fly under the radar for most eagle-eyed travellers, making it all the more special.

For a touch of whimsy, head to the Sheffield Berry Gardens to pick juicy morsels of fruit and add another mural sighting to the collection.

a property surrounded by Marleen Herbs in Sheffield — Marleen Herbs grow profoundly in Sheffield. (Image: Jasper Da Seymour)

6. Montville, Qld

Usually, a clock shop alone wouldn’t be enough to entice travellers on a whirlwind cross-country trip, but you might reconsider once you witness this Montville landmark. Reminiscent of a secret cottage filled with pixies, a souvenir cuckoo clock is all but guaranteed to find its way into the boot of your car.

an aerial view of Spicers Clovelly Estate in Montville — Soak up the crisp country air at Spicers Clovelly Estate. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Similarly, the Montville Chapel lit up against a fading night sky is exquisite, while the rest of the town maintains an enchanting aura with its humble cafes and top-notch restaurants. For sweeping views of Mount Coolum and the Obi Obi Valley, reserve an outdoor table at The Flamehill Vineyard.

the main street of Montville — Make a pitstop at Poets Cafe. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

7. Cowes, Vic

Before summer-exclusive surfers flock to Phillip Island in search of invigorating and oft-relentless waves, make the two-hour drive from Melbourne’s CBD to see a slightly sleepier version of Cowes.

a couple sitting with birds by the beach, Cowes — Sit with birds by the beach. (Image: Robert Blackburn)

Spring’s milder nights allow for a complete vacation experience without the busy foot traffic. Lick gelato down to the cone at Isola di Capri , get an eyeful of adorable penguins making a break for the ocean, and follow the palm trees down the esplanade as a familiar sweet breeze wafts overhead.

al fresco dining at Cowes — Sink into a cold one down the esplanade. (Image: Robert Blackburn)

If penguin sightings weren’t enough, the nearby Koala Conservation Reserve is home to a colony of Australia’s cutest critters thriving in their natural habitat.

an aerial view of the Phillip Island, Cowes — Drive to the Phillip Island for fun and adventure. (Image: Tourism Australia)

8. Bellingen, NSW

Make use of the sweet spot between winter and summer to roam through Bellingen’s twee markets and vibrant rainforest.

a campervan driving down country roads inBellingen — Wind down the scenic country roads of Bellingen. (Image: Destination NSW)

Home to less than 4000 residents, this small NSW town almost appears frozen in time, with its fetching architecture and undisturbed way of life. Reserve a day to visit Bellingen’s Promised Land, containing water so blue it almost looks animated and dozens of spots to unpack a picnic blanket and tuck into a spread of spring-ready fruits.

As the warmth disappears with the sun, stop by the Bellingen Brewery to get toasty with a glass of house red and a bowl of nibbles.

a couple enjoying a drink at Bellingen Brewing Co — Share a sweet conversation over cocktails at Bellingen Brewing Co. (Image: Destination NSW)

9. Stirling, SA

By the looks alone, Stirling might have the most trees and plants per capita than any other small Australian town—glance in any direction and a canopy of trees can be seen providing shade to the passer-byers below.

a canopy of trees in Stirling — Stirling bursts with colour come spring. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Proudly boasting the tagline, ‘Four seasons, a thousand reasons’, Stirling bursts with colour come spring, so nestle into a cosy seat and sip a latte as the leaves seemingly change before your very eyes.

For those who love nothing more than strolling through wide streets and inspecting historic homes, Stirling has them in abundance.

the Thorngrove Manor Hotel in Stirling — Thorngrove Manor offers a castle-like accommodation in Stirling. (Image: Thorngrove Manor Hotel)

10. Derwent Bridge, Tas

Nature lovers will have a field day in Derwent Bridge, the entry point to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, a mere five kilometres away.

a woman admiring Mt Olympus from Derwent Bridge — See Mt Olympus from Derwent Bridge. (Image: Emilie Ristevski)

Pack some sturdy hiking boots and prepare to set off through the wilderness with the added perk of not breaking too much of a sweat—spring in Tasmania differs a touch from the mainland.

Book a trip towards the tail-end of spring to hop aboard the Ida Clair ferry which gives you breathtaking views of Lake St Clair, or meet fellow hiking enthusiasts at the roadside public house who will all have adventure on the brain.

an aerial view of the Derwent Bridge — Pass through the Derwent Bridge for breathtaking views. (Image: Stu Gibson)

The country’s rawest places offer some of its most transformative, restorative experiences.

Australia offers sublime opportunities to disappear into the ancient, untouched wilderness, worlds away from modern stress. Wild Bush Luxury offers a collection of experiences that are a portal into the continent’s wildest, most undiscovered landscapes, from wide floodplains to vast savannas, where the only distractions are birdsong, frog calls, curious wallabies and the daily drama of sunset. With a focus on conservation and Indigenous knowledge, these all-inclusive experiences allow guests to slow down and quiet their minds for intimate encounters with the natural world.

1. Bamurru Plains

safari tent at Bamurru Plains wild bush luxury — Let nature take front row.

In the remote Top End, just outside Kakadu National Park on the fringes of the spectacular Mary River floodplains, you’ll find Bamurru Plains , a peerless Australian safari camp. After a quick air transfer from Darwin to the camp’s private airstrip, you’ll be whisked away via 4WD to a vivid natural wonderland of shimmering floodplains, red earth, herds of peacefully grazing water buffalo and 236 bird species (Bamurru means magpie goose to the Gagadju people).

Accommodations consist of 10 mesh-walled bungalows and two luxe stilted retreats where guests enjoy panoramic, up-close views that invite them into their rightful place in the landscape (and binoculars to see it even better). Being an off-grid experience designed to help guests disconnect, the only distractions are birdsongs, frog calls, curious wallabies, the occasional crocodile sighting and the daily drama of the spectacular golden sunset.

It’s a place where nature’s vastness rises to the level of the spiritual, and Bamurru’s understated, stylish, largely solar-powered lodgings are designed to minimise human impact and let nature take front row. Guests relax in comfort with plush linens, an open bar, communal tables that allow for spontaneous connections and curated dining experiences from the in-house chef using local ingredients and bush-inspired cooking methods.

Bamurru Plains airboat tour — Zoom across the floodplains. (Image: Adam Gibson)

It’s a restorative backdrop for days spent zooming across the mist-covered floodplains in an airboat, birding with expert guides, taking an open-sided safari drive or river cruise through croc country. Spend time at the Hide, a treehouse-like platform that’s perfect for wildlife spotting.

In fact, nature is so powerful here that Bamurru Plains closes entirely during the peak monsoon season (October to April), when the floodplains reclaim the land and life teems unseen beneath the water. Yet Wild Bush Luxury’s ethos continues year-round through its other experiences around Australia – each designed to immerse travellers in a distinct Australian wilderness at its most alive and untouched.

2. Maria Island Walk

woman on a headland of Maria Island Walk — Maria Island Walk offers sweeping coastal scenes.

Off Tasmania’s rugged east coast, the iconic Maria Island Walk is an intimate four-day journey through one of the country’s most hauntingly beautiful and unpopulated national parks, encompassing pristine beaches, convict-era ruins, and wildlife sightings galore. Accessible only by a small ferry, Maria Island feels like a place reclaimed by nature, which is exactly what it is: a penal settlement later used for farms and industry that finally became a national park in 1972.

These days, the island is known as ‘Tasmania’s Noah’s Ark’ and its only human inhabitants are park rangers. It’s a place where wombats amble through grassy meadows, wallabies graze beside empty beaches, dolphins splash in clear water just offshore and Tasmanian devils – successfully reintroduced in 2012 after near-extinction on the mainland – roam free and healthy.

Each day unfolds in an unhurried rhythm: trails through coastal eucalyptus forests or along white-sand bays, plateaus with sweeping ocean views, quiet coves perfect for swimming. Midway through the journey, you’ll explore Darlington, a remarkably preserved 19th-century convict settlement whose ruins tell stories of human ambition at the edge of the known world.

At night, sleep beneath a canopy of stars in eco-wilderness camps – after relaxing with Tasmanian wine and locally-sourced meals, and swapping stories with your fellow trekkers by candlelight.

3. Arkaba

two people standing next to a 4wd in Arkaba — Explore Arkaba on foot or on four wheels.

For a bush immersion with more of an outback flavour, Arkaba offers a completely different type of experience. A former sheep station and historic homestead in South Australia’s striking Flinders Ranges that has been reimagined as a 63,000-acre private wildlife conservancy. It’s now patrolled mainly by kangaroos and emus.

Small-scale tourism (the homestead has just five ensuite guestrooms) helps support rewilding projects, and guests become an essential part of the conservation journey. Days begin with sunrise hikes through ancient sandstone ridges or guided drives into the ranges to spot yellow-footed rock-wallabies. And end with sundowners on a private ridgetop watching the Elder Range glow vibrant shades of gold, crimson and violet as the air cools and time stands still.

Here, you can join conservation activities like tracking native species or learning about Arkaba’s pioneering feral-animal eradication projects, then unwind with chef-prepared dinners served alfresco on the veranda of the homestead, which is both rustic and refined. The highlight? Following Arkaba Walk, a thriving outback wilderness where emus wander and fields of wildflowers grow.

It’s an unforgettable immersion in Australia’s vast inland beauty, a place where the land’s deep and complicated history – and astounding resilience – leave their quiet imprint long after you return home. In a world where genuine awe is rare, Wild Bush Luxury offers a return to what matters most in the untamed beauty of Australia’s wilderness.

Disconnect from the grind and reconnect with nature when you book with at wildbushluxury.com

10 stunning spring towns you need to visit