Warning: chmod(): Operation not permitted in /home/52973498/domain/public_html/wp-admin/includes/class-wp-filesystem-direct.php on line 173
Joseline – Page 2 – Nature Coast Tourism

Nature Coast Tourism

Author: Joseline

  • Are wine tours worth it?

    Are wine tours worth it?

    Reasons to Take a Wine Tour

    When it comes to discovering the rich tapestry of the wine world, few experiences can rival the enchantment of a Melbourne winery tour. These immersive journeys take wine enthusiasts on a captivating odyssey through lush vineyards, ancient cellars, and expertly guided tastings, promising a memorable adventure that tantalizes the senses. But the question that often lingers in the minds of curious travelers and wine aficionados alike is whether wine tours are genuinely worth the time, effort, and cost. Let’s embark on a vicious voyage to explore this tantalizing question and uncork the truth.

    The Allure of Melbourne’s Winery Tours

    Melbourne, known for its vibrant culture and diverse gastronomy, is also a gateway to some of Australia’s most renowned wineries. Nestled within picturesque landscapes, the wineries around Melbourne offer more than just an opportunity to savor exceptional wines. They provide a glimpse into the art, history, and passion that go into crafting each bottle. So, what exactly makes these tours so enticing?

    1. An Oenophile’s Paradise

    For the wine enthusiast, a Melbourne winery tour is akin to a pilgrimage. It’s a chance to indulge in the divine artistry of winemaking. The moment you step foot on the rolling vineyard estates, the air is infused with the aroma of sun-kissed grapes and fertile earth. Here, you can immerse yourself in the world of viticulture, witnessing the meticulous care and expertise that goes into nurturing every grapevine. It’s a journey that unveils the mystery behind that exquisite glass of wine.

    2. A Journey Through Time

    Melbourne’s wineries aren’t just about wine; they’re living repositories of history. These winemaking estates have stories etched into their cellars, some dating back centuries. When you explore the aged cellars and underground barrel rooms, you’re transported to a different era. The cool, dimly lit spaces whisper tales of bygone days when winemakers labored tirelessly to perfect their craft. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the evolution of winemaking, from traditional methods to modern innovation.

    3. The Art of Tasting

    One of the highlights of any wine tour is, of course, the tasting. And it’s not just about sipping wine; it’s an art form. Melbourne winery tours often include guided tastings led by knowledgeable sommeliers who can unlock the secrets hidden within each glass. They’ll teach you to discern the subtle nuances of aroma, flavor, and texture, transforming your wine-drinking experience into a sensory symphony. It’s an education in pleasure.

    Are Wine Tours Worth the Investment?

    Now, as you savor the enticing prospect of a Melbourne winery tour, you may wonder if the experience is truly worth the investment. After all, it’s not just about the price of admission; it’s also about the time and effort required. Let’s break down the value of a wine tour.

    1. Exclusive Access

    One of the primary benefits of a wine tour is the access it provides. Many wineries are not open to the public, and those that are often have limited visiting hours. When you book a tour, you gain access to these otherwise elusive destinations. You can explore private vineyards, taste wines that aren’t available in stores, and engage with winemakers and experts. It’s an opportunity that offers an exclusive glimpse into the world of wine.

    2. Learning and Appreciation

    A Melbourne winery tour is not just about drinking; it’s about learning. The insights you gain from experienced guides and winemakers are invaluable. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the winemaking process, from grape to bottle. This newfound knowledge can enhance your appreciation of wine, making each sip a more gratifying experience.

    3. Unforgettable Memories

    The memories forged on a wine tour are worth their weight in gold. Picture yourself strolling through the vineyards on a sunny day, a glass of your favorite wine in hand, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Australian countryside. These moments are indelible, cherished long after the tour has ended. A wine tour isn’t just an outing; it’s a memory-making adventure.

    4. Networking and Socializing

    Wine tours are also great for networking and socializing. You’ll meet fellow wine enthusiasts, bond over shared experiences, and possibly make lasting friendships. It’s a chance to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for wine, broadening your social circle while sipping on some of the finest vintages.

    5. Support for Local Businesses

    By participating in Melbourne winery tours, you’re not just treating yourself; you’re also supporting local businesses. The wine industry contributes significantly to the region’s economy, and your visit helps sustain these enterprises. You’re investing in the livelihoods of winemakers, farmers, and hospitality workers who are dedicated to providing you with an exceptional experience.

    The Cost-Benefit Analysis

    Of course, the decision to embark on a Melbourne winery tour should consider the cost, and it’s essential to weigh the expense against the value you’ll receive. While prices can vary depending on the tour and the winery, most tours are reasonably priced for the experience they offer. Consider it an investment in your wine education and your personal enjoyment.

    Let’s do a quick cost-benefit analysis:

    Costs:

    • Tour ticket: Varies but generally affordable.
    • Travel expenses: Depending on your location, you might need to account for transportation.
    • Time: A half-day or full-day commitment.

    Benefits:

    • Exclusive access to wineries and vineyards.
    • Guided tastings with experts.
    • A deeper understanding of winemaking.
    • Unforgettable memories and experiences.
    • The potential to make new friends.
    • Support for local businesses.
    • Considering these factors, the benefits clearly outweigh the costs, making a Melbourne winery tour a valuable and worthwhile experience.

    The Intangible Value of Wine Tours

    Beyond the tangible benefits, wine tours offer something intangible—a sense of wonder and connection. They transport you to a world where time slows down, and you can savor each moment. As you sip wine amidst the vines or in a rustic cellar, you’ll find yourself not just tasting the wine but feeling the history, culture, and passion that surround it.

    In a world filled with fast-paced living and digital distractions, a Melbourne winery tour provides a respite—a chance to reconnect with nature, history, and yourself. It’s an escape into the heart of winemaking, where the artistry of human endeavor meets the bounty of the earth.

    Conclusion:

    So, are wine tours worth it? The resounding answer is yes. A Melbourne winery tour is not merely an outing; it’s an immersion into the world of wine, culture, and history. It’s an opportunity to create cherished memories, expand your knowledge, and support local businesses. It’s a journey that will linger in your heart long after the last drop of wine has been savored.

    As you contemplate your next adventure, consider the allure of Melbourne’s winery tours. They offer a chance to uncork the truth about wine, unveiling its magic in the most captivating way. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious novice, these tours promise an experience that is, without a doubt, worth every moment and every sip. Melbourne winery tour, anyone?

  • What to do With your Holiday Home When You’re Not There

    Want to make a little extra money when you’re not using your holiday home? Your income property can actually be a great asset to you and your family, even when you’re not there. There are plenty of options available that will both help you make some extra income, as well as keep your home safe and secure while you’re away.

    Here we explore some of the best ways to make use of your property and monetize it when you’re away.

    Rent Out Your Property

    One of the most obvious solutions is to rent out your property while you are away. There are a number of platforms, such as Airbnb or Homeaway, that allow you to list your property and find potential renters.

    You can determine how long and for how much someone will be allowed to rent it out for, as well as set rules about the type of guests you would like to welcome. Though this is an easy way to make money, be sure you understand the laws and regulations of your particular location so that you don’t get fined for operating an unlicensed rental.

    Host Events or Gatherings

    If you have a large enough property, consider hosting events or gatherings while you are away. This could mean anything from yoga retreats and corporate team-building exercises to wedding receptions and art exhibitions. This is a great way to bring in more income, and you can even enlist the help of event planners for a stress-free experience.

    Store People’s Valuables

    Do you have an extra room or two that could be used for storage? Consider offering your space up as a storage solution for people who need temporary storage. You can charge a fee for the service and be sure to get an agreement in writing.

    Care for Pets

    This may not be the best idea if you live close to your holiday home, but if it’s a bit further away, consider offering pet-sitting services while you’re gone. People will pay for their pets to stay in a comfortable environment that’s not too far from home. Just be sure you have a reliable pet sitter lined up and make sure the space is safe and secure for animals.

    Offer Cleaning Services

    Another great way to make some extra money while you’re away is to offer cleaning services. People often need help with chores and errands when they go on vacation, so why not let them know that your home is available for hire? You can even team up with local cleaners and offer a package deal.

    Use Your Home as a Film Location

    Are you located in a beautiful and unique area? If so, consider offering your property out to filmmakers or photographers who may be looking for locations to shoot their projects. You can charge them based on the size of the production and use the money to cover any expenses that come up while you are away.

    Use Your Home as an Office

    If you have a spacious property, consider renting it out as an office space. This could be perfect for freelancers or entrepreneurs who are looking for a temporary workspace. You can offer daily and weekly rates so that people don’t have to commit to long-term leases.

    Rent Out Your Garden

    If you have a garden, consider renting it out for special events. People often need outdoor spaces for parties, barbecues, and other celebrations. Just make sure your space is insured and up to code before allowing people on the property.

    Create a Small Business

    Consider using your property to start a small business while you are away. This could mean anything from providing catering services or renting out equipment to offering online classes or tutoring services. You can even rent out your home as an Airbnb co-working space.

    Sell Your Produce

    If you have a large enough garden and some extra time, consider growing your own products to sell while you are away. You can set up a farmers’ market stand or even look into having local restaurants buy from you. This is an easy way to make money, and it’s a great way to support the local economy

    If you’re still unsure of what holiday house management services to offer, consider contacting a professional company that specializes in this type of work. They have the experience and knowledge to help you make the most out of your holiday home.

    Wrap Up

    Your home can be a great source of income while you are away. You can choose to rent it out, list it on a sharing economy site, or simply keep it open for friends and family. Consider the local laws and regulations before you do any such thing. If you have established yourself as a professional rental home in your community, then you may need to apply for proper permits and/or licenses.

    With careful calculation and research, you can determine the most profitable and beneficial way to manage your home while you are away. Whether it’s an opportunity for leisure or an income-producing investment, make sure that whatever decision you choose is responsible and safe.

     

  • The Best Road Trips in Australia to Take This Summer

    The Best Road Trips in Australia to Take This Summer

    The sun is out and the days are getting longer. These are all good signs that summer is here! So what’s the better way to enjoy it than by taking a road trip? There are so many different places to discover in Australia. Whether you go interstate or simply down the coast, this article will help map the beautiful places in Australia.

    Summer is a great time to take a road trip in Australia. There are some amazing routes to check out, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air while you’re driving. A few of the wonderful places to get lost are Great Ocean Road, Nullarbor Plain, or drive all the way from Sydney to Melbourne which will lead you to the most beautiful countryside in Australia. Make sure to have a road trip planner with you and you’ll get to see everything from lush rainforests to rugged mountain ranges.

    Enjoy summer road trips in Australia

    There are many reasons why spending your summer holiday road tripping around Australia is a great idea. Not only is Australia a beautiful country with plenty of interesting places to see, but its diverse landscape makes for an amazing road trip experience.

    From the rugged outback and soaring mountains to the sandy beaches and lush rainforests, there’s something for everyone in Australia. What’s more, Australians are famously friendly and welcoming people, so you’re sure to enjoy your time here. So if you’re looking for an adventure this summer, why not consider a road trip through Australia?

    Where to go in Australia this summer

    There are so many great places to go in Australia, it’s hard to know where to start. Here are just a few of the best road trips you can take this Summer:

    1. The Great Ocean Road
      This famous road trip offers stunning coastal views and plenty of opportunities for adventure. The Great Ocean Road is one of the most popular road trips in Australia and for good reason – the scenery is simply stunning. The drive hugs the coastline, providing amazing views of the ocean and the rocky cliffs. There are plenty of places to stop and enjoy the view, as well as plenty of activities to keep you busy, such as hiking and whale watching.

      road trip planner
      road trip planner
    2. The Kimberley
      Head up north to explore the vast and beautiful wilderness of the Kimberley region. It is a region in Western Australia that is known for its stunning natural beauty. If you’re looking for a road trip to take this summer, the Kimberley should definitely be at the top of your list. The region is home to awe-inspiring landscapes, including rugged mountain ranges, vast deserts, and pristine rainforests. There’s also plenty to see and do in the Kimberley, including hiking, camping, fishing, and exploring the Aboriginal culture. 
    3. The Red Centre
      The Red Centre is one of the most popular destinations in Australia. And for good reason, it’s home to some of the most iconic attractions in the country, including Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas). There are also plenty of other things to see and do in the area, making it a great destination for a road trip. Travel through the heart of Australia and experience the unique landscape and culture of the Aboriginal people.  
    4. Tasmania
      Australia is a vast country with plenty of things to see and do, but if you’re looking for a road trip this Summer, Tasmania should be at the top of your list. With everything from beautiful beaches to rugged mountains and lush rainforests, Tasmania has something for everyone. So pack your car and get ready to explore all that the island state has to offer.  Explore everything that Tasmania has to offer.

      road trip planner
      road trip planner

    These four places offer a range of different landscapes that will be sure to excite your senses with something new at every turn. If you’re looking for an adventure on four wheels then these are definitely worth checking out!

  • Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding

    Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding

    Wedding is one of the most important stages in our lives. We make preparations for it from the venue, entourage, expenses, to the ceremony. 

    Every part of the wedding is worth the cost. Because wedding is the beginning when the bride and groom can be united in marriage. 

    A great way to make the wedding more memorable is to celebrate it in a place remarkable to the couple. Who is the couple that wouldn’t want their wedding to be memorable? 

    When should you start planning a destination wedding?

    Planning for the entire wedding, including the destination wedding, begins with the engagement. Engagement or betrothal, a period of time that comes when the groom proposes to the bride. On this marriage proposal, the groom will give an engagement ring to the bride. The diamond engagement ring is one of the bests to give as a form of agreement to the future marriage.

    How do you start planning a destination wedding?

    In this article, I will be sharing with you some tips for planning a destination wedding. These tips are what you should consider if you opt to get a memorable wedding. 

    1. Choose a venue that is suitable for both you and your guests. Choosing the right location can be a daunting task. Out of the many beautiful places all over the world, how could you choose with ease? You may want to celebrate it on eco-friendly Hayman Island. Or create a memorable wedding at one of the Gold Coast’s golden beaches. The jet-setting harbor Sydney city also sets a remarkable mood for this occasion. But before you choose, you also need to consider the presence of your guests on that day. Will they be able to get there? How long the travel will take? They are to witness one of your most memorable moments, that’s why their presence is important.
    2. Check the availability of the venue ahead of time. It is very important that your venue is reserved for you on that special day. It is best to make a reservation in advance to make sure that you have reserved the location for the venue. Anyway, you will not book a venue if you are not sure of the details. But in case of something changes, to suffer from a small adjustment in the payment is even better rather than giving inconvenience to the guests. Wedding destinations now make the reservation process easier. Because you can reach them online and all the processes can be done over the internet.


    3. Who pays for the accommodation for the guests? Since you are planning for a destination wedding, you must be prepared for the expenses. As for destination wedding tradition, the guests usually pay the expenses. This includes their expenses for lodging and transportation. So before setting up the reservation, it has to be clear whose budget will pay for the guests’ lodging.

    4. Hire a wedding planner.  A wedding planner can help you save your time, money, and get you out of stress planning. The wedding planner that you should hire must be specialized in destination weddings. You can leave to her all the requirements and details of your planned wedding and let her do the job. If you choose a country where English is not the primary language, hire a bilingual planner. A bilingual wedding planner can make a smoother process. 

    The location for your destination wedding can also be a great place for a honeymoon. Or look for another good place for the honeymoon nearby. Some guests will also take the opportunity to make this occasion their gateway to travel. They might want to extend their stay and enjoy the place to the fullest.

  • A Holiday in Australia – Hamilton Island

    Australia is seen as the land of beaches and sunshine.  The weather here, however, varies depending on the location and the season.  And the best time to holiday in Australia is between the months of April to May and September to October.  It is because, during these times, the weather is fairly mild throughout most parts of Australia.  During these times, the temperature is warm enough and the Sunny weather is not as hot as that of the summer months.  

    An Australian holiday is a dream to many and there are a number of ways to enjoy it.  You can spend your time in the city, on the beaches, in the rain forests or in the tropical hideaway.  An Australian holiday will surely provide you the perfect adventure for you and your partner, friends, or family.  

    Hamilton Island is a popular holiday destination both for locals and worldwide travelers.  The white and sunny beaches, as well as the blue skies, drive tourists to this temperate paradise.  Whether you are planning to holiday with your partner, friends, or family, Hamilton island provides numerous activities perfect for different groups.  

    There are numerous water activities that you can do like going on trips by yacht and visiting the 74 islands of the Whitsunday.  There is also a less expensive way to explore all these beautiful places available for tourists and local travelers.  You can also get physical with water sports activities.  With such activities, you do not only get wet but you also get to sweat at the same time.  It is a great bonding experience for friends and family.  The Hamilton beaches also offer the best in water activities.  Swimming, diving, playing beach sports, and snorkeling are just a few of the many things you can do in Hamilton beach to enjoy the water.

    Just like most popular tourist destinations, Hamilton island offers different options for accommodations for people of different budgets.  Whether you need one from a luxurious resort, hotel, villas, apartments, or homes, there are a lot of options for you to choose from.  The Best Hamilton Island Accommodation should be based on your budget and the facilities that they provide.  

    There are a number of budget hotels that cater to tourists in Hamilton island.  But if you are after more spaces, then you might want to consider the luxury resorts on the island.  Though this option is more expensive than hotels, the experience and the overall stay would certainly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.  There are also plenty of standalone homes on the island and the most luxurious of these are the villas.  Apartments, on the other hand, are the most popular option for accommodation on the island.  With an apartment, you can cook your meals and they usually come with one to four bedrooms. 

    Whichever accommodation you choose, Hamilton island is sure to provide you the best holiday vacation in Australia.  

  • Our Top Holiday Ideas for a Post-COVID World

    Covid 19 is one Pandemic in human history that just like other pandemics, result in unparalleled problems requiring great minds to find solutions.  It has taken many lives and currently causing too much stress to most of us.  We are hoping and praying for the resolution of this pandemic hopefully before the year ends.  

    Every one of us today is looking for a break from Covid-19.  Thankfully, there are many holiday ideas that will definitely lessen our stress from this unpleasant circumstance. Here are our top holiday ideas for a post-Covid world.  

    Holiday activities involving adventure travel are popular nowadays.  A lot of people today fancy themselves spending their holiday paddling the Zambezi, paragliding around Oludeniz in Turkey, Cliff diving in the Philippines, Skiing in New Zealand, biking around Italy, rafting the Grand Canyon, or camping with the Saharan Nomads.   

    Let’s kick off our list of holiday ideas with cycling activities.  Bike adventurers today can now go across continents with their bikes.  Whatever kind of adventure you are expecting, some organizers have prepared routes that will add to the excitement of your biking adventure.  

    Italy has the best spots and routes for cyclists.  Whether you are a novice or a road warrior, you will surely enjoy unlimited biking opportunities in the country.  

    What is best about Italy is that cycling trips can be designed in any area of the country that will fit the varying abilities of bikers.  From the Alps in the north to the volcanic island, you can find unlimited biking opportunities just about anywhere in Italy.  Even in the Alps, you will find bike paths along the river valleys which lets you enjoy the scenery of the mountains.  Cycling holidays to Italy will ensure that your holidays will turn out fun and filled with adventure.  

    Another holiday activity that is gaining popularity these days is volunteering activities.  You can attend the Genghis Khan warrior training in Mongolia, work with the AIDS victims in South Africa, volunteer to help in caring for the orangutans in Malaysia, learning the hula in Hawaii, or studying photography in the wildlife of Tanzania.  You can expand all these activities into a whole idea for your holiday vacation.

    Lastly, have you tried incorporating water activities on your holiday break?  Have you tried water sports?  Among the most popular activities that you can include in your holiday ideas include sailing the Great Barrier Reef, diving with the sharks in the Bahamas, diving the Blue Hole in Belize, surfing in Hawaii, and Kite surfing in Egypt. The Red Sea is popular with vacationers because it offers multiple activities to them such as snorkeling, kite or windsurfing, and diving.  

    These are just a few of the many activities that you can add to your holiday ideas post Covid-19.  Find one or two that you best indulged.  Enjoy the holidays!

  • Beautiful sites to visit along the Nature Coast

    Beautiful sites to visit along the Nature Coast

    The Nature Coast is one large expanse of natural beauty however there are some distinct landmarks that set this part of the country apart from the rest. These are our favourite spots to visit along the Nature Coast.

     

    Lady Elliot Island

    Located on the southernmost tip of the Great Barrier Reef Lady Elliot Island is a hotspot for those wishing to snorkel and dive as they explore and meet the local wildlife. When visiting this World Heritage site you can charter a boat and stay for a day or you can opt to stay at the Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort and spend several days as you escape from the reality of everyday life.

     

    Fraser Island

    A hotspot with backpacker and budget travellers, Fraser Island is an exciting place to visit if you enjoy off-roading in your 4X4 or Land Rover. The worlds largest sand island, this delight is called K’gari (Paradise) by the Butchulla people who are its traditional owners and custodians. Those interested in maritime history can also visit the wreck of the SS Maheno – a trans-Tasman liner that was shipwrecked on the island in 1935.

     

    Noosa Biosphere

    There are two biospheres on the Nature Coast and the Noosa Biosphere has the claim of being Queensland’s first UNESCO listed biosphere. 54,000 people live within the biosphere balancing their lives alongside the natural landscape. There are 60 distinct ecosystems found here and over 44% of all Australian bird species call the Noosa Biosphere home. Endangered and threatened animals live here including the iconic Dugong and Platypus as well at the Glossy Black Cockatoo. If you enjoy wildlife photography and a relaxed atmosphere, then this is a must-visit on your trip along the Nature Coast.

     

    Hervey Bay

    Famous for its seafood festival each August, Hervey Bay is home to an abundance of fish. The stunningly blue water is a great spot to look for humpback whales. Spend a day on the beach with binoculars or take an afternoon and board a scenic cruise. We recommend visiting between July and November if you want to go whale-watching. Those looking for a slightly different experience can pop down the road and visit Maryborough – the town where Mary Poppins was born. Stunning heritage buildings easily transport visitors back to the late nineteenth century and their bright colours contrast fantastically with the modern landscape ensuring some unique photographic opportunities.

     

    The Glass House Mountains

    No trip along the Nature Coast is truly complete without paying a visit to the spectacular Glass House Mountains. Only one hour from Noosa these mountains add a unique vibrancy to the to landscape. Stay for the sunset for an once of a kind experience you will never forget. Wild Horse the easiest mountain to climb with a 700m walk to the lockout point. Experienced climbers can climb Beerwah, the mother of the mountains. Expect the climb to take several hours and ensure you are suitably dressed and prepared for gusty winds.  The effort is worth it as you take in gorgeous views of the natural Queensland landscape.

     

    There is a lot to see and do on the Nature Coast and the unique beauty of the region will ensure that you keep coming back to explore! 

  • Everything you need to know about the Nature Coast

    Everything you need to know about the Nature Coast

    The Nature Coast is an area of Southern Queensland comprising two well-known regions – the Fraser Coast and the Sunshine Coast and includes Fraser and Lady Elliot Islands. The Nature Coast encompasses over 40 state and national parks and 2 UNESCO sites – the Great Sandy and Noosa Biospheres.

    The Nature Coast is the outdoor enthusiasts’ wildest dream. The ability to whale watch, go scuba diving and walk along deserted coastline in one single day is part of the appeal.

    If you have a desire to visit, the closest international airport is located in Brisbane. If you want to drive from Sydney or the Gold Coast you can take the coastal route up the state if you want to see more of Queensland’s stunning coastline. 

    There are some unique experiences within the Nature Coast that can be the experience of a lifetime or quickly turn into a nightmare. For those wishing to visit Frazer Island we recommend only taking a 4X4 or SUV. Do not take your caravan or camper as this often leads to tourists becoming bogged in the sand due to the weight. Ensure your types have a low pressure to easily grip the sand (we recommend 25 psi for most vehicles). It is also vital to keep away from the shoreline and stick to the dry sand as much as possible when driving.

    If you want to go whale watching, the best time to visit is between July and November. This is winter and spring time so be prepared for rain when you visit but it will remain warm with the average August temperature sitting around 22 ° c. If you do visit in summer, you will need to bring sunscreen and cover up. It may be tempting to work on your tan but the sun in Australia is quite harsh and Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world because of it. Be safe and cover up where possible and remember to apply sunscreen multiple times a day. We also recommend investing in a good quality pair of sunglasses to keep the UV rays out but the stunning views in.

    The Nature Coast has a wide range of natural landscapes within it’s borders. Lush rainforests contrast with sun-swept beaches and the Glass House Mountains stand tall upon the panoramic horizon.

    When exploring the Nature Coast it is highly recommended to travel by car or in a campervan. Take your time and enjoy the journey. The roads in this part of Queensland are usually quiet and there are plenty of places to park and to set up camp.

    If you wish to stay on the Nature Coast but camping isn’t your style you can still experience all the region has to offer. There are many accommodation options available ranging from small forest cabins to beachside resorts and even mountain retreats ensuring that however you wish to travel there is an option to suit your needs.

    Pack the camera and a spare battery, buy some sunscreen and come out to see the best Queensland has to offer. There are hundreds of unique experiences waiting for you on the Nature Coast.

  • Nature Coast wildlife: What can you see?

    Nature Coast wildlife: What can you see?

    Platypus

    Perhaps the most unusual animal on this list the platypus is a duck-billed mammal that lives in freshwater. It is vulnerable to extinction due to droughts, hunting of their fur and lost of habitat. These shy creatures only come out at night-time and if you see one it’s best to quietly observe. Don’t make any loud noises or sudden movements. The platypus is a beloved creature and favourite among children. It’s well worth trying to spot on your trip to the Nature Coast.

     

    Dugongs

    These peaceful mammals enjoy lazing around in the ocean grazing on various sea grasses. They are extremely docile. They are listed as being vulnerable to extinction but the Nature Coast has taken care to limit certain fishing activities near their habitats in order to help them thrive. These distinctive sea-creatures are believed to be the basis for the mythical mermaid.

     

    Manta Rays

    These gentle giants are a must see for anyone visiting Lady Elliot Island. Easy to spot between May and August they live in the region year-round. It is easy to get close to these creatures while swimming or diving and their tail spine is non-functioning making them quite safe to be around. They also have the largest brain to body weight ratio of all fish and they are more intelligent than the dolphin.

     

    Goannas

    Goannas can grow up to 2m long and although they are quite intriguing, we recommend watching them from a distance. They don’t tend to attack people, but it is not worth accidently provoking them. There are many smaller goanna species in Queensland and they are safe to get closer too if you are looking for a unique photo or want to guess what species they are by their markings. These carnivorous creatures will eat anything provided they can overpower it and take a bite so keep your fingers clear!

     

    Flying-Fox

    This strange looking creature is the largest flying mammal in the world. Also known as fruit-bats, they are useful for spreading seeds and pollen over large land areas. They tend to be nocturnal but can sometimes travel during the day. Flying-foxes have fantastic night vision. You can find several species in the Nature Coast including the black flying-fox, the Eastern tube-nosed bat and the little red flying-fox.

     

    Bandicoots

    These small marsupials are common along the Nature Coast and there are several varieties that call the region home. They are one of the harder animals to spot due to their small size and nocturnal lifestyle. If you do manage to spot a bandicoot watch how it burrows into the ground. Try not to disturb them too much and avoid using flash if you want to take a photo, opting to instead use a dim light to add volume to your photo.

     

    Spinner Dolphins

    Spinner dolphins love the tropical waters of the Nature Coast and visitors love watching their acrobatic performances. These marvellous creatures can jump up to 3.5 meters high and enjoy playing on the coast. They will often come close to small boats so it is easy to say hello and marvel at their displays.