Melissa Woodley

Australia is packed with many incredible natural landmarks, gorgeous sightseeing spots and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. But with so much choice, it's hard knowing which ones live up to the hype. Our Travel and News Editor, Melissa Woodley, has drawn on her adventures across every state and territory to curate this list of Australia’s top tourist attractions, spanning from the east coast to the west.  While the Big Banana didn’t make the cut this time around, you’re sure to be amazed by these spectacular sights, including the world’s largest coral reef, the oldest continually surviving rainforest, and the best sunset-watching location on Earth. Start compiling your great Australian bucket list from these top attractions. 😱 The best places to visit in Australia right now🌈 All the most beautiful places to explore Down Under🌊 Australia's best beaches

The Emerald City is peppered with a whole host of dreamy stays – from boutique boltholes with rooftop pools overlooking trendy city suburbs to sky-high towers with uninterrupted views of the Opera House. To help you choose which is right for you, our team of writers (including Lifestyle Writer Winnie Stubbs and Travel and News Editor Melissa Woodley) have shared their top picks for the best places to stay in Sydney – along with tips on how to make the most of your stay. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: These are the best glamping sites in NSW. These are the best camping sites near Sydney. And these are the best spots for a weekend away if you’re keen to get out of town. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Who needs gold nuggets when there are bounties of ‘black gold’ waiting to be uncovered right on our doorstep! Yep, you might not think it, but Australia is home to some of the world’s best truffle farms, with our nation’s cool climate regions rivaling traditional truffle powerhouses across Europe.  In Australia, truffles are considered a real delicacy, thanks to their intense, earthy taste and their incredibly short harvest season. In the Southern Hemisphere, that season runs in winter from June until the end of August, with many farms offering fungi fans the chance to unearth their own black nuggets (and enjoy a fancy truffle lunch too). For the ultimate experience, head to Manjimup in Western Australia – widely considered Australia’s truffle capital, producing more than 90 per cent of the country’s truffles. Or discover hidden gems, with exclusive truffle hunting and tasting experiences at boutique farms across Tasmania and Canberra. Happy hunting! ⭐️ The best restaurants in Australia🌸 Where to see wildflowers in Australia🏝️ All the things you need to do in Oz

There’s never been a quiet year for theatre in Australia. From the bright lights of Broadway and West End to our very own stages in Australia, we’re lucky to play host to some of the world’s biggest and best musicals. We’re also a hotbed for homegrown gems, with fresh and experimental shows lighting up stages across the country every month.  From the grand return of a British “mega-musical” starring cats to the Aussie premiere of a musical based on Pretty Woman, this year’s theatre line-up is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. Here are all the biggest musicals currently playing in Australia or headed Down Under in the next year or so. 🖼 The best Australian art galleries🔍 Australia's greatest museums 👀 The best art exhibitions to see in Australia right now

There’s no doubt about it, Sydneysiders can’t get enough of Italian food. And who can blame us? There’s something about a bowl of perfectly al dente pasta paired with a luscious, rich ragu that just hits the spot. And while Italian cuisine differs throughout the 20 incredible regions – broadly speaking, the northern regions eat more rice and polenta, while down south they feast more on seafood – Italians share a love of beautiful, seasonal produce; they choose simplicity rather than overcomplicating dishes and cook with soul. No wonder we love it so much. Luckily, there are plenty of excellent options for Italian dining in Sydney. Time Out’s food writers and editors – including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure, who has eaten her way through Sicily, Sorrento, Rome and Florence – have picked our favourite eateries, covering all bases. The only catch? They just need to provide a feel-good environment and dishes you’ll want to come back for. From casual red-sauce joints and classic pizzerias to fine-dining restaurants, you’ll find them all here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Not in the mood for pasta? Here are our picks of the best spots for Greek and French food in Sydney.

Autumn 2025 update: Not sure where the start of the year went? Same. Embrace the change in season with brekkie and a hot coffee at one of our fave Sydney cafés. My current picks include a delightful new spot from the Ursula’s Paddington team called Cafe Cressida, Manly’s go-to Noon, and the Euro-style Ken's Continental in Potts Point. Sydneysiders are café people. We're constantly on the hunt for the city's best coffee and we love nothing more than donning our finest sport-luxe activewear and catching up with mates on a weekend morning over eggs, fritters and crusty artisan sourdough. So, whether it's a reward for tackling one of Sydney's most beautiful walks, an indulgent hangover fix after a night at one of the city's best bars, or a workday coffee stop, these are the best Sydney cafés, according to our in-the-know Time Out Sydney writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure. We'll have one B&E roll, please.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Is it lunch time? Check out our guide to Sydney's best restaurants right now.

Autumn 2025 update: Life in Sydney is fun and fabulous, but it can also be expensive. The good news is you can dine out affordably if you know where to look. Keep this guide handy next time your friends suggest a catch-up. As for me, I’ll be hitting up old-school Italian spot Bill & Toni's, Emma’s Snack Bar (found in my new ’hood, Enmore), and for banging tacos, I’m heading to Mami’s in Bondi. Going out for a meal is sometimes a big occasion, worth the splurge. But it doesn't have to be that way. From banh mi to tonkotsu ramen, biang biang noodles to vegan burgers, and pretty much everything else in between, some of Sydney's greatest culinary hits are the cheapest. Time Out Sydney's local food writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure, have eaten their way around town to bring you this list, and while cheap isn't what it used to be, there are still lots of excellent affordable venues to check out. These are the ones well worth their salt. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Want to spend less at the big-ticket players? Check out our cheap fine-dining hacks.

Autumn 2025 update: Thirst-quenching beers, sunny beer gardens and hearty feeds – how good are pubs? Whether you’re after a midweek meal, a trivia night or live music, Sydney’s best watering holes are sure to set the stage for good times. There's a lot that goes into making a great pub. They need to furnish you with an excellent meal and friendly service, and a game of pool or darts doesn't go astray. On a sunny day, it's all about having a welcoming beer garden, and on a Sunday, it's all about a cracking roast. There are a lot of rock-solid pubs in this city, and these are our picks of the bunch, pulled together by Time Out Sydney's local writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure. Cheers! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. For something a bit less pubby, a bit higher end, see our picks of the best bars in Sydney. Hungry? Check out our ultimate guide to Sydney's best restaurants. 

Autumn 2025 update: Summer may be over, but we say – let the good times roll. A good place to start is our handy guide to the city’s finest drinking establishments. Whether it’s a date or a catch-up with a mate on the cards, these spots are sure to deliver on fun. My current picks? The eternally sexy Double Deuce Lounge, dreamy wine bar Famellia, and the home of excellent Margs, Stowaway Bar. This list represents our picks of the best bars in Sydney right now, from fresh faces to tried-and-tested temples of great drinks, curated by our local editors, drink writers and fellow booze hounds, including Time Out Sydney's Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure. We’re looking for quality above all, with fun, flavour, atmosphere, creativity and options at every price point. Cheers to you, Sydney. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. After a watering hole that's a bit more casual? See our list of the best pubs in Sydney, here. After a meal? Check out our best restaurants here.

Sustainability seems to be the word on everyone’s lips right now. And, you’ll want to lick yours clean after dining at our city’s most conscious and creative eateries.  Whether it’s sourcing from local farmers, cooking top-to-tail, or embracing more plant-based menus, these restaurants and cafés prove that dining out doesn’t have to cost the environment. We’ve separated the wheat from the chaff and compiled a list of Sydney’s sustainability champions.

You know what’s finally trending in 2025? Self-care. While a warm bubble bath or 15-minute face mask is a nice pick-me-up, nothing beats a full-on pamper session at the spa. And boy does Australia have some pretty phenomenal pamper palaces that’ll leave you glowing from head to toe. Whether you’re treating yourself to a five-star massage while on holiday or searching for a local bathhouse to add to your weekly routine, we think you should add these day spas to the top of your to-do list. Here are the best and most luxurious day spas in Australia right now. ⭐️ Australia's best health and wellness retreats🌳 Here are all the best things to do in Australia🖼️ Art exhibitions you need to see this year

April 2025: Since our last update, we've added up-to-date opening hours, addresses and how much you should expect to pay at each spot, along with our top tip for each restaurant to ensure you have the best dining experience. What’s the secret recipe for crafting an exceptional dining experience? In coming up with Time Out’s list of the best restaurants in Australia, we considered a mix of ingredients. Talented chefs? Stylish decor? Lively ambience? Top-notch drinks? And of course, food that you can’t stop thinking about for days, months, or even years. Luckily, Australia’s restaurant scene is sizzling with spots that check all these boxes, plus so much more. Our nation’s top restaurants are a celebration of Australia’s native ingredients too. From an intimate 34-seat dining room cut into the rolling hills of South Australia's countryside to a 30-year-old institution overlooking Sydney’s sparkling Bondi Beach, these are the restaurants Time Out Australia’s team, including resident foodie Melissa Woodley, recommends for your next culinary adventure. 🍹 The best bars in Australia⭐️ Australia's most luxurious hotels🥐 The best bakeries Down Under For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines.

This century-old working winery is the birthplace of one of McLaren Vale’s most widely recognised wines – Wirra Wirra’s eternally popular all-rounder, Church Block. Ironically, it’s a blend (merlot/shiraz/cab sav), rather than a purist varietal – but when a blend is this palatable, there’s not much room for singular snobbery. Church Block is a stone-cold winner by any measure, but if you are after something more specific, Wirra Wirra does a classic McLaren Vale shiraz too (plus grenache, sauvignon blanc, riesling, chardonnay… all with a sustainable, biodynamic bias).  You could easily spend a whole day here, wandering the wine-stained bricks of the cellar and cavorting on the sun-dappled lawns. From just $40, you can explore the historic vaulted brick facilities (parts of which are 125 years old), gaining exclusive access to Trott’s Cellar and an opportunity to ring the three-quarter-tonne Angelus Bell (just be ready to put some muscle into it). But most folks come here to wine and dine. Tastings start at just $15, pouring some of McLaren Vale’s richest, most fulsome wines and decadent stickies. Directly across from the cellar door, Harry’s Deli offers a seasonally inspired modern Australian menu that you can enjoy inside by the wood-burning fireplace or out in the courtyard overlooking the gum trees. Share local cheeseboards with fine-cured meats and house focaccia, tuck into Harry’s famous Son of Trott Pie, or settle in for a long lunch designed by head chef Taiaha Ngawiki

  The Daintree Rainforest steals the spotlight as the crown jewel of Australia's rainforest scene, but it also holds a world record – it's the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth. Located in the high, emerald tropics of Far North Queensland, this living wonder has more than 180 million years of history waiting to be uncovered. As the largest tropical rainforest in Australia, it spans a staggering 1,200 square kilometres and is home to more tree species in just one hectare than in all of the United Kingdom. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Daintree Rainforest. Where is the Daintree Rainforest? The Daintree Rainforest is located in Far North Queensland, just a two-hour drive from Cairns or a quick 45-minute trip from Port Douglas. It’s located within the Daintree National Park, which is part of the broader World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics region, stretching from Townsville to Cookstown. This spectacular rainforest borders some of Australia’s most stunning beaches, serving as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. In fact, it’s one of the only places on Earth where a thriving rainforest exists so close to a living reef ecosystem. How big is the Daintree Rainforest? The Daintree Rainforest region covers approximately 1,200 square kilometres, stretching from the Daintree River to Cooktown to the Great Divide. This vast area represents the largest continuous block of tropical rainforest in Australia. How old is the Daintree Rainfo

What is it? Located atop a multi-storey carpark in Northbridge, Rooftop Movies screens films of all genres nightly from October to March. Why go? Round up your mates for a movie night at the cinema with the best views in town. Rooftop Movies plays a diverse line-up of films, with everything from Oscar-winning flicks and throwbacks to blockbuster hits and new releases. Of course, there’s also a candy bar slinging buttery popcorn, local ice creams, juicy burgers and refreshing cocktails.

The name 2KW is shorthand for No. 2 King William St – but don’t go searching for it at street level. This iconic rooftop bar is eight floors above your head, atop one of Adelaide’s most historic buildings. Getting there is part of the fun, involving a mysterious double elevator ride to the top storey. However, a little effort goes a long way for the showstopping panoramic views stretching from North Terrace to Adelaide Oval and beyond. With gorgeous greenery and a stylish mix of low and high-top bar seating, the outdoor terrace bar is the perfect spot to soak in the stunning scenes. But if the ripper view isn’t enough to win you over, 2KW’s ace menu certainly will. The terrace bar serves up a full drinks menu alongside finger-food snacks, build-your-own cheese boards and hand-stretched sourdough pizza. Signature cocktails complete the journey, including the namesake 2KW – a refreshing blend of gin with notes of peach, pear, honey and lemon, plus a foamy finish. For a cool, calm and collected lunch, the indoor restaurant is designed for both intimate dates and group feasts. Executive chef Sam Christopher champions South Australia’s finest produce with a share-style menu designed to impress. Start with gildas and blue swimmer crab toast, before scooping up salt-baked beetroot tartare with fennel seed crackers or spreading creamy Vannella burrata over sourdough flatbread. When it comes to mains, choose from grilled market fish in a smoked eel beurre blanc, slow-cooked lamb shoul

If running a half marathon is on your 2025 bucket list, make sure your race ticks three key boxes: a beautiful location, a fun crowd and an empowering atmosphere that makes you feel unstoppable. Good news for Sydney gals – your search ends here, with the chance to run in Nike’s exclusive, women-only half marathon in Sydney on April 12. Between 2005 and 2018, Nike hosted a hugely popular series of women’s races in some of the most incredible places across the world. Now, the mega sports brand is bringing back its beloved After Dark Tour, with the first race kicking off right here in Australia.  The immersive 21.1-kilometre course will start in Sydney’s Inner West and offer epic views of the city skyline as runners race from White Bay to Jones Bay Wharf to Pyrmont Bridge. Upon crossing the finish line at Tumbalong Park, participants can run straight into an epic post-race celebration, pumping with live music, recovery stations and fierce female energy. You don’t need to be a pro runner to sign up for the late-night half marathon. First-timers can access an official training plan via the Nike Run Club app and stay motivated by connecting with other participants in the lead-up. Yeah the girls! Entry to the Nike After Dark Tour in Sydney is $100 and includes everything from a personalised sports bra fitting (you get to keep the bra) to a race t-shirt and post-race celebration access. Registrations close on February 11, so gather all your gal pals and sign up as a group pronto.  Fo

A magician never reveals their secrets, so I can only spill so much about Penn & Teller’s eight-night stint at the Sydney Opera House. But trust me, the famous pair’s 50th-anniversary tour goes far beyond the classic disappearing handkerchief routine. As the longest-running resident headliners in Las Vegas history, this dynamic duo strikes the perfect balance of traditional magic, unconventional trickery and quirky humour. Their 50th-anniversary extravaganza is ever-evolving, with a nightly rotation of fresh tricks and past hits. If you’re seated stage left, stay alert, audience participation is woven into almost every act: from crazy card tricks and coin illusions to some truly absurd stuff – think a gorilla drinking soup, and a giant squirrel sipping Champagne in a bathtub – the surprises keep coming. The real magic, however, lies in the fact that Penn & Teller have been dazzling audiences together for half a century. You simply have to see it to believe it.  January 11–18, Sydney Opera House, $79–$169. Find tickets & info over here. RECOMMENDED: Here's our guide to the best shows to see in Sydney this month Check out our running list of reviews from Sydney Festival

Adelaide’s dining scene rounded out 2024 with the opening of Station Road, a chic 250-seat French-inspired brasserie helmed by a former Vue de Monde chef. Balanced yet bold, the menu showcases premium local ingredients through refined French techniques, with highlights including Mayura Wagyu tartare, Southern Rock lobster cannelloni, Tasmanian sea urchin omelette sandwiches and a classic Paris Brest for dessert. Choose your vibe: perch at the central marble bar for relaxed drinks and nibbles, sample rare chardonnays in the intimate wine room, or people-watch while dining al fresco on Festival Plaza.

If the home is where the hygge is, then this petite Blue Mountains hideaway is bound to steal your heart. Tucked amidst its wild beauty is Tiny Astrid – a Nordic-inspired retreat blending Scandinavian simplicity with eco-friendly elegance. The journey to meet Astrid is all part of the adventure, designed with intention by the wellness warriors behind tiny home collective Into the Wild Escapes. Located just two hours from Sydney, the scenic drive winds through picturesque countryside to the charming city of Hampton. Staying true to its eco-conscious ethos, Into the Wild has partnered with Volvo Cars Australia, offering guests the chance to add the all-new Volvo EX30 to their getaway. This fully electric SUV not only ensures a smooth ride, but comes with Volvo’s smallest-ever carbon footprint, making your escape as eco-friendly as Astrid herself. It’s almost too easy to leave the hustle and bustle of city life in the boot, when you pull up to Tiny Astrid. This bespoke, off-grid tiny home seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings, creating a peaceful oasis for a full digital detox – something we think should be non-negotiable on everyone’s yearly agenda. The first thing to catch your eye will likely be the private hot tub, ready to be warmed up with complementary firewood so you can melt all your worries away. Just steps away, a campfire surrounded by deck chairs invites you to soak up the stunning views of the Blue Mountain by day and a glittering canopy of stars at night

It’s all about sunny days, sandy toes and blissful nights at ‘The Cat’. Originally built in the late 1960s, this roadside motel has been reimagined as a stylish surf shack, boasting six coastal-inspired queen rooms and a two-bedroom apartment. The Cat is perched just 200 metres from the pristine waters of Palm Beach, but you can also relax under shady umbrella trees in the motel’s communal courtyard or on sunbeds by the pool. With contactless check-in, free parking and rooms starting at just $275 per night, this really is the definition of lo-fi luxury.

Pulling up to Bells at Killcare, I can’t decide whether I’ve landed on the set of Grease or Mamma Mia. I can truly “hear the bells” thanks to a chorus of singing cicadas, while the scene before me feels like a slice of paradise you’d find in a Greek island movie – just reimagined with a splash of Hamptons sophistication.  Bells at Killcare is sure to, well, ring a bell for Aussies who appreciate the finer things in life. Nestled on the Bouddi Peninsula just outside Sydney, this coastal-luxe boutique hotel is a zippy 20-minute ferry trip from Palm Beach or 90 minutes by car. Since opening in 2007, Bells at Killcare has become synonymous with relaxed sophistication, best known for its 25 Hamptons-style seaside cottages, a farm-to-table restaurant boasting an award-winning wine list, and luxurious day spa.  In February 2024, the resort unveiled four nature-inspired luxe Lodges, tucked away in a private eco-bush sanctuary at the front of the property. I was fortunate enough to spend a long weekend in one of the three-storey standalone residences, and it surpassed all expectations of my wildest dreams.  Unlike the Hamptons vibe of the white-and-blue main property, the eco-certified lodges blend into the surrounding angophora canopy with their earthy olive hues. Our lovely host, Anna, takes us on a detailed walk-through of the property, which is much-needed to appreciate all of the special touches and inclusions.  Each lodge comfortably sleeps four people, with two identical king b

Pulling up to Bells at Killcare, I can’t decide whether I’ve landed on the set of Grease or Mamma Mia. I can truly “hear the bells” thanks to a chorus of singing cicadas, while the scene before me feels like a slice of paradise you’d find in a Greek island movie – just reimagined with a splash of Hamptons sophistication.  Bells at Killcare is sure to, well, ring a bell for Aussies who appreciate the finer things in life. Nestled on the Bouddi Peninsula just outside Sydney, this coastal-luxe boutique hotel is a zippy 20-minute ferry trip from Palm Beach or 90 minutes by car. Since opening in 2007, Bells at Killcare has become synonymous with relaxed sophistication, best known for its 25 Hamptons-style seaside cottages, a farm-to-table restaurant boasting an award-winning wine list, and a luxurious day spa.  In February 2024, the resort unveiled four nature-inspired luxe lodges, tucked away in a private eco-bush sanctuary at the front of the property. I was fortunate enough to spend a long weekend in one of the three-storey standalone residences, and it surpassed all of my wildest dreams.  Unlike the Hamptons vibe of the white-and-blue main property, the eco-certified lodges blend into the surrounding native greenery with their earthy olive hues. Our lovely host, Anna, takes us on a detailed walk-through of the property, which is much-needed to appreciate all the special touches and inclusions.  Each lodge comfortably sleeps four people, with two identical king bedrooms that ca

While many city slickers feel like they’ve left Sydney the moment they hit the upper North Shore, you haven’t officially left the city until you’re cruising down the motorway. Just after crossing the Mooney Mooney Bridge, it’s worth veering off the freeway to Mount White where you’ll find Saddles. This stunning 28-acre estate, less than half an hour from Hornsby, is home to a homestead restaurant channelling Americana ranch vibes and a cute kiosk serving house-baked goods. You can swing by for just a coffee and a fresh pie – the beef brisket with housemade tomato sauce is a real winner – and enjoy it at the shaded picnic tables overlooking the dam. But if you’ve got time to spare, it’s worth booking a table on the lakeside deck for a long, wine-fuelled lunch.  While you can order signature bakery treats like the pork and sage sausage roll or honey-wattleseed scones from the restaurant, a three-course meal makes the journey even more worthwhile. Saddles’ seasonally changing lunch menu heroes locally sourced ingredients – many grown on the property – while embracing the flavours from afar.  Settle in with freshly baked bread and smoked butter, before enjoying shared entrées like compressed melon and goat’s cheese bruschetta, or a vibrant beetroot-cured salmon gravlax. Native ingredients shine in the mains – think ricotta gnocchi basking in lemon myrtle beurre blanc, spatchcock sprinkled with warrigal gremolata and wattleseed popcorn, or a Wagyu eye fillet zhuzhed up with a Kaka

Aussies will soon have the chance to recreate an iconic Crocodile Dundee moment, as one of the country’s most famous waterfalls – featured in the film – is set to officially reopen next month. Located in Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory, Gunlom Falls has been closed for almost six years after Parks Australia built a walkway too close to a sacred rock art site belonging to the Jawoyn Traditional Owners. However, a new lease agreement between the Commonwealth and Kakadu’s Traditional Owners has paved the way for the park’s reopening this May, just in time for the Top End’s dry season. Gunlom Falls, known as Echo Lake in Crocodile Dundee, is best known for its starring role in the classic film in a scene where Mick Dundee (Paul Hogan) takes Sue Charlton (Linda Kozlowski) for a swim in the picturesque natural pool at the top of the falls. The waterfall’s reopening couldn’t come at a better time, with a remastered version of the beloved film set to be released globally on May 8. Photograph: Tourism NT | Peter Eve Kakadu Tourism Chair, Lauren Ganley, said the reopening of Gunlom Falls also represents an important new era in Kakadu’s tourism future. “There is no destination in Australia more culturally unique than Kakadu, and so it is essential that we respect the heritage and culture of Traditional Owners in the way the Park is presented to visitors,” said Ms Ganley Along with the lower plunge pool, visitors will be able to access a series of natural infinity rock p

Here’s a toast to something new! This winter, Australia is getting a brand-new national wine festival that’s basically everything your grape-est dreams are made of. The four-day fest will not only celebrate the very best of our nation’s viticulture, but will raise a glass to the 50th anniversary of the National Wine Show of Australia – one of the country’s most prestigious wine competitions. Who’s thirsty? More than 900 award-winning Aussie wines will be up for tasting across three days from June 13 to 15 at the historic Hyatt Hotel in Canberra. You’re bound to discover plenty of hidden gems, plus you’ll have the rare chance to sample every single entrant in the 2025 National Wine Show – with the 23 winners crowned at a grand presentation dinner at Parliament House on June 12.  Photograph: Supplied | National Wine Show Alongside tastings, the National Wine Festival will serve up a juicy lineup of masterclasses and panels. Seasoned sippers can learn about what Australia’s top wine judges look for in an award-winning bottle or examine the characteristics that earned this year’s winners the nation’s top gongs. Meanwhile, those new to the world of wine can join a beginner-friendly tasting or be guided through Australia’s diverse wine regions. Photograph: Supplied | National Wine Show More into sipping than swirling? The festival is also putting on themed dining experiences, including a fancy 50th anniversary dinner featuring a seasonal multi-course menu paired with award-winn

We’re spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful hikes in Australia. Whether trekking through tropical rainforests, summiting sand dunes in the outback or snaking along our stunning coastline, there are trails to amaze every kind of explorer. But if you’re looking for a challenge beyond a few loops of your local park, look no further than the 13 Great Walks of Australia.  This iconic collection of multi-day hikes showcases our nation’s diverse landscapes, with each trail having earned its place on the list through rigorous selection criteria. Above all, every route spotlights a spectacular location and service that you won’t find anywhere else – and we’ve got the full list of Great Walks of Australia for your next hiking adventure. Photograph: Tourism AustraliaThe Maria Island Walk Spanning four to seven days and covering distances of 24 to 72 kilometres, these fully guided hikes are much more than just a walk in the park, offering luxury lodges or safari-style tents, ecotourism credentials, gourmet dining and more. The Great Walks of Australia are spread across six states and one island, with Tasmania leading the pack. Our only island state is home to six of the 13 breathtaking trails, including the newest addition, Flinders Island Walking Adventure In Comfort, which was added in 2024. You can check out the full list below. Happy hiking! Photograph: Visit VictoriaTwelve Apostles Signature Walk Here are the 13 Great Walks of Australia:  Bay of Fires Signature Walk, La

This is not a drill! Dark Mofo is back in full force this year! The darkly debaucherous festival has just dropped its epic 2025 program, packed with all your favourite rituals, alongside art and music performances you won’t see anywhere else in Australia. To help you digest it all, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about getting tickets to Dark Mofo. See you on the dark side!  When is Dark Mofo 2025? After taking a break in 2024, Dark Mofo is making its highly anticipated return in 2025 from Thursday, June 5 to Sunday, June 15. The Nude Solstice Swim will take place a week later on Saturday, June 21 – the shortest day of the year. Where is Dark Mofo 2025? This midwinter solstice festival takes place in Tasmania, with the bulk of the program happening in Hobart. Expect disused and hidden spaces to be transformed into a vibrant playground for immersive art installations and mysterious music performances – from deconsecrated churches and rooftops to basements, bars, bank vaults and the shores of the River Derwent. This year, Dark Mofo is also stretching its tentacles with art and musical events in Launceston and Ulverstone across both weeks. Make a holiday out of it and check out the best places to stay and eat in Hobart right now. Photograph: Supplied | Dark Mofo | Jesse Hunniford When do Dark Mofo tickets go on sale? Dark Mofo tickets go on sale on Wednesday, April 9 at 12pm/noon AEST via the Dark Mofo website. Is there a Dark Mofo pre-sale? Yes! Dark Mofo subscr

Lunar lovers, it’s time to think pink! Last month’s blood moon dazzled Sydneysiders as it took on a surreal red glow for a brief but mesmerising moment. If you missed the celestial spectacle, don’t worry – another lunar show is on the way. On April 12 and 13, the pink moon (or paschal moon) is set to light up Australian skies. Keen to catch a glimpse? Here’s everything you need to know. What is a pink moon? The pink moon is named after native pink wildflowers (ground phlox) that bloom across North America in early spring, coinciding with the April full moon. Despite its name, the moon itself won’t actually turn rosy – it will shine with its usual silvery glow. That said, it can take on a subtle pinkish hue if there’s dust or pollution in the atmosphere. The April full moon also happens to be a micromoon, which occurs just before the moon reaches apogee – when the moon is at its farthest point from Earth. Unlike supermoons, which appear larger and brighter, micromoons look slightly smaller and dimmer when viewed from Earth. When is the pink moon in Sydney? The best time to view the pink micromoon is on the nights of Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13. While it will appear fuller and more luminous at night, the moon will officially reach peak fullness on Sunday morning at 10.22am Sydney time. How to see the April full moon from Sydney When it comes to fully appreciating the full moon, the darker the area you're in, the better. You can find our top spots in this handy gui

When the corporate grind begins to take its toll, there’s no shame in fantasising about a future where the only deadlines involve happy hour. Maybe it’s sipping cocktails by the pool at Wategos, toasting to wine’o’clock in the Hunter Valley, or clinking Champagne glasses in a cosy country pub – everyone’s idea of the perfect retirement looks a little different. But when dreaming about how to spend your golden years, it’s important to make sure your future home is as practical as it is picturesque. Australia is home to many magnificent places to retire, but not all are equal when it comes to the availability and quality of healthcare for senior citizens. New research from care organisation software ShiftCare has ranked the best and worst states for retirees across the country, analysing 22 key factors, including the accessibility and quality of aged, residential and home care, health and safety, community engagement, social opportunities and walkability. After crunching the numbers, NSW ranked third on the list. As Australia’s most populous state, it’s no surprise that NSW is home to more people aged 65 and over than any other state, with 1,459,299 people aged 65 and above calling NSW home. According to the data, the quality of life score for older people living in NSW is 89.95 –  based on a number of factors including health care, walkability, aged care offerings and community. To make life lovely for our residents, NSW is home to 2.05 home care providers per capita and 1.99

It’s time to think pink! Last month’s blood moon dazzled Aussies as it took on a dramatic red glow for a brief but mesmerising moment. If you missed the celestial spectacle, don’t worry – another lunar show is on the way. On April 12 and 13, the pink moon (or paschal moon) is set to light up Australian skies. Here’s everything you need to know about seeing it. What is a pink moon? The pink moon is named after native pink wildflowers (ground phlox) that bloom across North America in early spring, coinciding with the April full moon. Despite its name, the moon itself won’t actually turn rosy – it will shine with its usual silvery glow. That said, it can take on a subtle pinkish hue if there’s dust or pollution in the atmosphere. The April full moon also happens to be a micromoon, which occurs just before the moon reaches apogee – when the moon is at its farthest point from Earth. Unlike supermoons, which appear larger and brighter, micromoons look slightly smaller and dimmer when viewed from Earth.  When is the pink moon? The best time to view the pink micromoon is on the nights of Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13. While it will appear fuller and more luminous at night, the moon will officially reach peak fullness on Sunday morning at:  8.22am in Perth 9.52am in Adelaide and Darwin 10.22am in Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart, Sydney and Melbourne You can find the exact timing of your city's moonrise and moonset on TimeAndDate.com. How to see the pink moon in Australia? When

When the nine-to-five grind gets a bit much, there’s no shame in fantasising about a future where the only deadlines involve happy hour. Maybe it’s sipping cocktails by the waterfront in the Whitsundays, toasting to wine’o’clock in the Barossa Valley, or clinking Champagne glasses in a cosy Tassie pub – everyone’s idea of the perfect retirement looks a little different. But when dreaming about how to spend your golden years, it’s important to make sure your future home is as practical as it is picturesque. Australia is home to many magnificent places to retire, but not all are equal when it comes to the availability and quality of healthcare for senior citizens. New research from care organisation software ShiftCare has ranked the best and worst states for retirees across the country, analysing 22 key factors, including the accessibility and quality of aged, residential and home care, health and safety, community engagement, social opportunities and walkability. After crunching the numbers, Victoria emerged as the retirement capital of Australia (lol, what a claim!). It boasted the highest number of residential aged care home providers (294), plus the second-most residential aged care homes (768) and home care providers (223). On top of that, Victoria benefits from a whopping $5 billion in government investment in aged care and has the joint highest number of GPs (116 per 100,000 people aged 65-plus), so retirees are well and truly taken care of. Add in Australia’s lowest cri

It’s no secret that NSW is home to some exceptionally beautiful destinations. From world-class beaches to infinitely Instagrammable waterfalls and magical hot springs hidden in dusty outback towns, our sunburnt state shines in all colours, shapes and sizes. And it’s not just us proud locals who think NSW is incredibly stunning. Time Out recently updated its official list of the most picturesque places on Earth, and a remote island made the cut. As with all of Time Out’s global rankings, our list of the world’s 44 most jaw-droppingly stunning spots features a mix of big hitters and lesser-known beauty spots from all around the world. While the list is by no means exhaustive, it spotlights what we reckon are the most beautiful places right now – chosen by travel writers who’ve seen them all IRL. Photograph: Supplied | Destination NSW | Eugene Tan Located 600 kilometres off the NSW coast, World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island ranks as the 25th most beautiful destination – ahead of Milford Sound in New Zealand and Big Sur in California. Sir David Attenborough described this tiny speck in the Tasman Sea as “so extraordinary it is almost unbelievable”, and we reckon you need to witness its beauty for yourself. Half the magic of Lord Howe is that only 400 visitors are allowed on the island at once. The other half lies in its mesmerising beauty, featuring vibrant coral reefs (the southern-most coral reef in the world), glassy blue waters, tropical cliffs and ancient volcanic peaks

Picture this: flaky, buttery croissants oozing with vanilla custard, or a fluffy focaccia slab smothered in melted cheese. That’s just a taste of the daily lineup at Shadow Baking – Australia’s latest viral bakery, which will soon expand across Australia with the opening of its first Adelaide store. This will mark the third bakery for three of the country’s most accomplished pastry chefs – Tom Mitchell, Florian Fritsch and Remi Talbo – better known as the masterminds behind Gelato Messina. Shadow Baking started out as a side hustle for the legendary trio, who began selling their expertly made pastries at Sydney’s monthly Cannery Markets. After opening their first bricks-and-mortar bakery in Darlinghurst in late 2024, followed by a second location at Gelato Messina’s HQ in Marrickville, the team is now bringing their viral venture to Adelaide. Fun fact: Adelaide is actually the hometown of Messina founder Nick Palumbo and his brother Danny, who opened their first Adelaide gelateria in January 2024. Photograph: Supplied | Shadow Baking Shadow Baking’s first South Australian outpost is set to open on Colley Terrace in Glenelg on April 12 at 8am – and if Sydney’s launch is anything to go by, expect lines down the street. Along with bestsellers – think their famous custard tart danish, coconut and pandan brioche, and savoury focaccias – pastry fans will be among the first to get their hands on Shadow Baking’s exclusive Easter treats. We’re talking both fruit and chocolate hot cr

Few things excite grocery shoppers more than the mysterious middle aisle at Aldi. One of the best things about the bargain supermarket chain’s “aisle of dreams” is that you never quite know what surprises you’ll stumble upon. Night vision goggles, outdoor fire pits, diamante dog bowls, miniature waffle makers – it almost definitely wasn’t on your shopping list, but somehow it always ends up in your basket.  Frugal fans who just can’t get enough of Aldi’s weird and wacky products can once again flaunt their love for the brand, with Aldi set to release its second streetwear range featuring everything from cosy tracksuits and all-new clogs to emotional-support water bottles and slick umbrellas. Hitting stores across Australia on Wednesday, April 9, the first-ever Aldimania collection will include 29 exclusive pieces of streetwear swag – all priced under $20. Like any of Aldi’s hottest Special Buys, we predict these limited-edition pieces will fly off the shelves, so we recommend taking the ‘run, don’t walk’ approach to secure your Aldimania goodies. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ALDI Australia (@aldiaustralia) You’ll be able to strut down the middle aisle with confidence sporting a pair of striped Aldimania clogs for $7.99 (paired with matching socks for extra cred, of course), or sleek sneakers for $19.99. You can also rep Aldi’s signature colours on your next grocery run with sweatshirts, hoodies, tracksuits and tees. Why not even ditch the c

Update, Tuesday April 1: It's not long now until the Easter long weekend. To get you in the holiday spirit, we’ve put together a list of some epic and easy getaways across Australia, perfect for a three-day holiday. Just get booking ASAP, as Easter is one of the busiest times of the year! There’s a lot to love about Easter in Australia – a four-day long weekend with two public holidays, endless buckets of chocolate eggs, warm hot cross buns, and of course, a visit from our favourite fluffy white bunny. Across all Aussie states and territories, Good Friday and Easter Monday are public holidays, giving us a blissful four-day long weekend. Here are all the key dates you need to know in 2025, plus our top picks for the best spots to go for a short Easter getaway in Australia. When is Easter 2025? This year, Easter kicks off with Good Friday on April 18. The multi-day holiday continues with Holy Saturday on April 19, Easter Sunday on April 20 and Easter Monday on April 21. Why does the Easter date change in Australia each year? Easter falls on the Sunday after the first full moon following the March equinox. Because of this, the dates change each year, landing anywhere between mid-March and mid-April.  Is Good Friday a public holiday? The Easter long weekend begins with Good Friday on April 18, which is a public holiday in every single Australian state and territory. Is Easter Saturday a public holiday? Easter Saturday is a public holiday across most of Australia, except in Tasman