Australia’s  best natural wonders （Part A）

1 Atherton Tablelands, QLD

Just south-west of Cairns lies the fertile region of the Atherton Tablelands. Take a drive through this region to discover dripping rainforests, lakes, waterfalls and the magnificent Curtain Fig Tree. If you get hungry, you can take advantage of the area’s other natural bounty – its produce. Stop at one of the roadside stalls to pick up papayas, mangos, bananas and more.

2 Tasmania Kelp Forests, TAS

Over two-and-a-half thousand kilometres from the Great Barrier Reef is another extreme diving experience, just a bit chillier. The endangered Giant Kelp forests off Tasmania’s south-eastern coast are a rich environment to explore. Divers can descend into the ‘forest’, where light filters through shifting strands of kelp. If you are sharp sighted enough, you might spot a Leafy Sea Dragon as well as sea horses.

3 Naracoorte Caves National Park, SA

Out Mount Gambier way, you can find one of the world’s major fossil sites, where half a million years ago, giant marsupials fell into the caves. While most of the caves at this subterranean spot are closed to the public, you can still visit four. There you can marvel at the stalagmites and stalactites, as well as visiting fossil sites and going adventure caving.

 4 Maria Island, TAS

Famed for its sandstone Painted Cliffs, Fossil Cliffs studded with ancient creatures and the resident Tasmanian Devils and wombats, the Maria Island wildlife sanctuary is a must-see for Tassie lovers.

5 Australian Alps ACT/VIC/NSW

Containing both the Snowy Mountains and the Brindabella Range, these slopes are a favourite for fans of the apres-ski. In winter they receive deep snow, attracting skiers and snowboarders, while in the warmer months you’ll find hikers traversing the 655km Australian Alps Walking track.