TravelXchange List Awards Details

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.1

Bendigo
Victoria, Australia
Bendigo, a vibrant regional city in Victoria, offers a mix of rich history, impressive architecture, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the iconic Bendigo Art Gallery, admire the stunning Sacred Heart Cathedral, and take a journey back in time at the Central Deborah Gold Mine. With beautiful gardens, boutique shops, and a thriving food scene, Bendigo offers a delightful escape for travelers seeking a blend of heritage and modern charm.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.2

Maroochydore
Queensland, Australia
Maroochydore, nestled on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, offers a perfect blend of sun, sand, and vibrant coastal charm. Visitors flock to its pristine beaches, including the popular Maroochydore Beach, for surfing, swimming, and relaxation. The area boasts a lively dining and shopping scene along with picturesque waterfront parks, making Maroochydore a sought-after destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.3

Maria Island
Maria Island, located off the east coast of Tasmania, is a stunning national park known for its unique wildlife, historical sites, and natural beauty. Accessible by ferry, the island offers pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and diverse hiking trails. Visitors can explore convict-era ruins, spot Tasmanian wildlife, and enjoy activities like birdwatching and snorkeling. Maria Island is perfect for a peaceful and adventurous nature retreat.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.4

Coffin Bay
Coffin Bay, located on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia, is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and world-famous oysters. The town offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. Activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife watching are popular, with the adjacent Coffin Bay National Park providing opportunities for hiking and exploration. Coffin Bay is an ideal destination for nature lovers and seafood enthusiasts.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.5

Vasse
Vasse, located near Busselton in Western Australia, is a charming town known for its beautiful natural surroundings and close proximity to the renowned Margaret River wine region. Offering a mix of coastal beauty and rural charm, Vasse is ideal for exploring nearby beaches, forests, and wineries. The town provides a serene base for visitors seeking relaxation and adventure in the heart of the South West.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.6

Iluka
Iluka, located on the northern coast of New South Wales, is known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and laid-back atmosphere. Nestled by the Clarence River, this charming village offers excellent fishing, birdwatching, and access to the World Heritage-listed Iluka Nature Reserve. Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility, Iluka is a perfect destination for a relaxing coastal retreat.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.7

Point Lonsdale
Point Lonsdale, located at the entrance to Port Phillip Bay in Victoria, is a charming coastal town known for its scenic lighthouse, stunning beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy activities such as beachcombing, fishing, and exploring coastal trails. The historic Point Lonsdale Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the bay. This tranquil seaside destination is perfect for a peaceful getaway and outdoor adventures.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.8

Middleton
Middleton, located on South Australia's Fleurieu Peninsula, is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular spot for surfing, whale watching, and family holidays. The town’s scenic coastline, friendly community, and outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil getaway by the sea.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.9

Berry
Berry, a charming village on the NSW South Coast, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and gourmet delights. Known for its heritage buildings, boutique shops, and artisanal food scene, Berry is surrounded by lush countryside and vineyards. Key attractions include the famous Berry Donut Van and scenic spots like Seven Mile Beach. Berry provides a perfect escape for relaxation and exploration.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.10

Rutherglen
Rutherglen, located in Victoria’s northeast, is renowned for its rich winemaking heritage and picturesque countryside. Famous for its fortified wines, this charming town offers a mix of historic vineyards, gourmet food, and scenic cycling trails. Visitors can explore cellar doors, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the friendly community atmosphere. Rutherglen is a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing rural escape.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.11

Pottsville
Pottsville, located in the Tweed Shire of New South Wales, is a tranquil coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and fishing at Pottsville Beach, explore the local markets, and visit nearby nature reserves like Cudgen Nature Reserve. With its friendly community and scenic surroundings, Pottsville is an ideal destination for a peaceful coastal retreat.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.13

Hawks Nest
Hawks Nest, located on the Myall Coast in New South Wales, is a tranquil coastal town known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and fishing at Bennett’s Beach, explore the scenic Myall Lakes National Park, and spot dolphins in the Myall River. With its relaxed atmosphere and outdoor activities, Hawks Nest offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers and beachgoers.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.16

Katherine
Northern Territory, Australia
Katherine, in the Northern Territory of Australia, is renowned for its stunning natural attractions and rich Indigenous culture. Visitors flock to experience the majestic Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk), a series of deep gorges carved by the Katherine River, offering opportunities for boating, hiking, and cultural experiences. The town serves as a gateway to the vast wilderness of the Northern Territory's Outback.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.17

Stanthorpe
Queensland, Australia
Stanthorpe, Queensland, nestled in the Granite Belt region, offers a charming escape for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its cool climate vineyards, visitors can explore award-winning wineries and cellar doors, indulging in wine tasting experiences. Additionally, the area boasts stunning national parks, scenic drives, and a vibrant arts scene, making Stanthorpe a delightful destination for a tranquil and cultural retreat.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.18

Exmouth
Western Australia, Australia
Exmouth, Western Australia, is a coastal town renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. Visitors flock to this tropical paradise to explore Ningaloo Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and swimming with whale sharks. Exmouth's laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.19

Alice Springs
Northern Territory, Australia
Alice Springs, located in the heart of Australia's Red Centre, is a vibrant town known for its rich Aboriginal culture and stunning desert landscapes. Key attractions include the Alice Springs Desert Park, Anzac Hill, and the nearby MacDonnell Ranges. Visitors can explore historic sites, enjoy outdoor adventures, and experience local arts and festivals. Alice Springs serves as a gateway to iconic landmarks like Uluru and Kata Tjuta.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.20

Port Lincoln
South Australia, Australia
Port Lincoln, located on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia, is known for its stunning coastal scenery and rich marine life. Renowned as the seafood capital of Australia, it offers activities like shark cage diving, fishing, and exploring national parks. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant local culture, and delicious seafood, Port Lincoln provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.21

Maleny
Maleny, located in Queensland's Sunshine Coast Hinterland, is a charming town known for its lush landscapes and vibrant arts community. Visitors can explore local galleries, enjoy farm-to-table dining, and hike in nearby rainforests like the Glass House Mountains and Kondalilla National Park. With its scenic views, artisan shops, and welcoming atmosphere, Maleny offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.22

Yamba & Clarence Coast
New South Wales, Australia
Yamba, located on the Clarence Coast in New South Wales, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant fishing culture, and laid-back atmosphere. This coastal town offers excellent surfing, boating, and seafood dining, with attractions like the iconic Yamba Lighthouse and nearby Yuraygir National Park. Yamba, along with the scenic Clarence River, provides an idyllic setting for a relaxing and adventurous coastal getaway.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.29

Stanley
Stanley, Tasmania, nestled on the island's northwest coast, charms visitors with its historic charm and stunning natural beauty. The quaint fishing village is famed for its iconic landmark, The Nut, a volcanic plug rising dramatically from the sea. Explore colonial buildings, artisanal shops, and pristine beaches. Stanley offers a peaceful retreat amidst Tasmania's rugged landscapes, making it a must-visit destination.

2023 QANTAS Travel Insider - The Australian Towns You Need to Visit - No.30

Portarlington
Portarlington, located on Victoria's Bellarine Peninsula, is a charming seaside town known for its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and scenic walks along the foreshore. The town's historic pier offers stunning views of Port Phillip Bay and is a popular spot for picnics and sunset watching. Portarlington is also famous for its annual Mussel Festival.