The dreamiest destinations in Australia our editors can't stop thinking about

Rotto is one of those incredibly rare places on Earth that looks even better IRL than it does in glossy travel magazines. Half the fun is actually getting to this remote island, located a breezy 90-minute ferry ride from Perth, off the coast of Western Australia. I went on a solo adventure to Rottnest earlier this year, and boy did it exceed all my wildest dreams. You can pedal around the entire island in just a few hours, stopping for glorious dips in the calm, turquoise waters. And yes, I did snap a selfie with a quokka, the island’s happiest and cutest resident.

This beloved national park in Victoria’s west is the setting of countless fond holiday memories for me – but sentimentality aside, this mountain range region is perfect for when you’re craving fresh air and a slower pace. Immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings of the Aussie bush, with waterfalls abound, including the stunning Mackenzie Falls. Book a cosy cabin and take leisurely strolls to spot wildlife or embark on an adventure with one of the many day hikes in the area – The Pinnacle summit offers truly breathtaking panoramic views.

I’ll be honest: Hamilton Island wasn't on my bingo card when I was surprised with a trip some summers ago. I thought it would be bland. Boring, even (please don’t cancel me, Hamilton Islanders). I could not have been more wrong. From snorkelling in blue-jewelled waters alongside ancient turtles to hiking to sugary beach coves, knocking back Piña Coladas in the swim-up bar and stand-up paddle boarding under a bluebird sky, Hamilton Island is as adventure-packed as it is relaxing (hello, sunset Champagne cruise). Plus, with the kind of beauty that you think is only reserved for Microsoft Windows screensavers, a balmy, blissful magic that you’ll want to bottle, and those cheeky cockatoos, Hammo captured my heart like my very first year-five crush.

If you’re searching for a true Aussie island paradise, look no further than Kangaroo Island. This South Australian gem has it all: white-sand beaches, rugged coastal walking trails, an abundance of cute critters and enough gourmet produce to justify the purchase of an extra suitcase (if you’re not stocking up on the local honey, gin and olive oil, you’re doing KI wrong). I was lucky enough to stay at the sublime Southern Ocean Lodge before it burned down in the bushfires of January 2020, but it recently reopened and is looking as jaw-droppingly beautiful as ever. But if bougie isn’t in your budget, there are a bunch of beach shacks, eco villas, farm stays and camping spots to choose from. Book now, thank me later.

I live in Sydney and I’ve been to the Blue Mountains about 73 times. No kidding. I like it that much – and considering it’s right on Sydney’s doorstep, we’ve often done little two-night stays at times when we’ve just felt like busting out of the city. As soon as we arrive, the big-city energy just melts away. You can truly switch off when you go on a walk through the Australian bushland, listening to the birds, and pointing out pretty flowers to your walking mates. Your only job: collecting kindling for the fire that you’ll sit around that night. Bliss.

Driving into Wilson’s Prom, a 50,000-hectare reserve at the very southernmost tip of the Australian mainland, you feel like you’re exploring another planet. I love the quietude of it, the breathtaking coast and mountains as you turn the bend, and the fresh air. Tidal River is such a peaceful little campground – a couple of days here makes me feel grounded and grateful to be alive. I try to visit the Prom annually. It’s like a pilgrimage for me. Last time, I even spotted some beautiful humpback whales!

The Great Barrier Reef lives in Australia’s most iconic tourist destination hall of fame - and trust us, it lives up to every bit of the hype. There are few places on Earth where you can snorkel among such a vibrant and diverse array of marine life, including 1,500 species of fish and more than 600 types of coral. I first visited this World Heritage-listed wonder when I was ten, and returning this year at 25 reminded me of how truly spectacular it is and the crucial need to protect it for future generations.

As someone who lives in the very centre of a capital city, I can’t stop thinking about taking another mini-break weekend in Venus Bay. This tiny beach town in the Gippsland region of South East Victoria is sleepy in the best possible way – you can still get a great coffee, but no one will be rushing past you as you put in your order. Grab a takeaway and bring it on your morning coastal walk. Bonus: if you walk home from dinner after sundown, you’ll probably see at least a few wombats – I saw five.

Hidden in an entirely secluded bay on the southern tip of Long Island in the Whitsundays, accessible only by boat or helicopter, Elysian Retreat is the place you go to get away from it all. And having spent a ridiculously dreamy three days there last June – drifting from the magnesium-enriched infinity pool to the sun-soaked dining room – I can confidently confirm that whatever you’re getting away from, it will be worth it. The all-inclusive eco retreat comprises just ten private beachside villas and a beautiful communal space, and manages to deliver absolute luxury with a warm, playful lack of pretension.