5 thrilling microadventures you can have in Australia (Part B)

1 Explore Wellington Park, Tas 

If you’d rather stay within sight of the city skyline, exploring 18,000ha Wellington Park is a must and only 20 minutes’ drive from Hobart. Kunanyi (Mount Wellington) is 1270m above sea level. At the summit, you’ll find lookouts with views over the city, and to the east and west coasts. There are also plenty of walking trails, as well as opportunities to go rock climbing, horse riding and mountain biking. Take your pick.

2 Kayaking cliffs and caves, Tas

The water may be chilly most of the year, but one of the best ways to enjoy Tassie’s raw beauty is in a kayak and Tinderbox Marine Reserve is the ideal location only 20 minutes from Hobart. Award-winning Roaring 40s Kayaking can take you there (and loan you all the gear) on a full-day tour. You’ll get to explore sea caves, paddle around cliffs and pull into sandy beaches, and, hopefully, meet dolphins and seals.

3 Mount Lofty nature escape, SA

The best thing about micro-adventures is that they can be as simple and small as you want, and Mount Lofty Botanic Garden is the perfect morning destination for anyone in Adelaide. There are numerous walking trails across the 97ha, as well as a lake that makes an idyllic picnic view. Lakeside Trail is an accessible route with sculptures, Braille and an audio story.

4 Litchfield camping, NT

One of the easiest and most enjoyable micro-holidays is a weekend of camping, and the best place to pitch a tent near Darwin is popular Litchfield National Park. The park is home to waterholes you can swim in during the dry (April to October) and at the top of your list should be Florence Falls. The small, 4WD-only campground nearby promises back-to-basic magic.

5 Alice Springs oasis, NT

If you’re keen to see the Outback, but want the comfort of travelling with a trusted company, check out AAT Kings. Most of its tours are upwards of 10 days, but they also have one-day add-ons. So, if you’re in Alice Springs (or you plan to be), join the Palm Valley Outback Safari by 4WD. You’ll follow Finke River, visit an Aboriginal community and see the spectacular valley oasis.