7 of Australia’s best spots for active outdoor adventures

With summer here and Australia's state borders open again, there's never been a better time to work up a sweat in the great outdoors. Here are a few of our favourite spots for active Aussie getaways.

Summertime might traditionally be a time for relaxation, but after what was officially the strangest year on record, in which many of us spent a record-breaking amount of time on the couch, you'd be forgiven for having a surplus of energy to burn this summer. 

As luck would have it, Australia is positively teeming with natural wonderlands, national parks and world-beating outdoorsy places that are perfect for stretching our muscles, stretching our legs, and getting some fresh air into our lungs. Think rugged hiking trails in Tasmania, rock climbs in NSW, and secret swimming holes in WA. Getting outside and moving our bodies is so importance for our physical and mental health, and these magical Aussie spots won’t let you down.

And in a year that's seen many Aussie towns and destinations do it tough, we'd all do well to support our rural regions this summer.

An hour north of Brisbane, the volcanic peaks of the Glass House Mountains loom large over the hinterland. While you could easily spend all your time here exploring the many hiking trails, rock climbing is where it’s at.

Climbing gives both your body and mind a workout. While engaging all your muscles to get you from this rock hold to that little crevice (and getting a pretty intense cardio workout) you’ll also be working your brain as you strategise the safest way up the rock face. Climbing has also been shown to reduce stress, boost creativity, and increase flexibility. And in a place like this, you’ll be rewarded with the most spectacular views when you get to the top.

Whatever your outdoor activity of choice is, the Blue Mountains most likely has you covered. Hiking? Check. Rock climbing? Yep. Caving, abseiling, mountain biking? Absolutely. But we love the Blue Mountains for its secret swimming spots.

Wild swimming is nothing new to most Australians – it’s simply the practice of swimming in a natural body of water. Not only can you soak up all the good things vitamin D can offer (just make sure you’re got a high SPF sunscreen on), wild swimming is also said to reduce stress, boost dopamine levels, and bring about a state of meditative bliss. Check out Jellybean Pool, the Pool of Siloam and Clarence Dams for some restorative swimming holes.

Love cycling? Head to Orbost and spend a few days exploring the East Gippsland Rail Trail. The 100km trail, which runs between Orbost and Bairnsdale, takes you through rolling green hills, forests and farmland – with plenty of cute cafes and cellar doors to stop in at for a rest along the way.

Cycling builds core strength and improves balance and coordination; it’s also a brilliant low-impact sport, meaning you’re putting less stress on your joints. And after a solid adventure like this, you’re more likely to sleep well too.

Cradle Mountain is one of the most spectacular places on earth. No exaggeration. You could easily while away your time simply soaking up the scenery, but the activity du jour here is hiking.

There are a number of day walks, ranging from easy to strenuous, but if you’ve got a few days to spare – and you’re appropriately prepared – try the 65km Overland Track. The six-day trek to Lake St Clair is challenging, but those mountains, alpine lakes, forests and waterfalls will take your mind off your blisters.

Kangaroo Island was significantly affected by the 2019/2020 bushfires, but is slowly welcoming visitors back. Spend a few days here (either camping or in a hotel) and explore the island on foot. The health benefits of hiking are as long as your trekking pole: walking in nature offers a great cardio workout, strengthens your core, improves balance, and may even boost your mood.  

You can also hire some snorkelling gear and go for a swim, kick back on the beach, or set yourself up on the wharf with some fresh local oysters. Kangaroo Island is renowned for its wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for koalas, echidnas and, of course, kangaroos.

A few hours south of Perth, it’s no secret that Margaret River is home to some of the best surf breaks in the country. Surfing is a swell (sorry) outdoor activity, providing a full body workout and all the benefits of saltwater.

Due to the high mineral content of saltwater, it’s great for skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, and may reduce sinus issues. Hit up Boranup Beach, Injidup, and Redgate for some excellent surfing (Injidup has an amazing natural spa tucked away in the rocks too – check it out while you’re there!).

World Heritage-listed (twice) and Australia’s largest national park, visitors to Kakadu are spoiled for choice in the active adventures department. Hike through incredible rock art sites, splash about in tucked away swimming holes, or take a walk with an Indigenous guide. You’ll get a fascinating insight into how Australia’s First Nations Peoples have lived off the land for over 65,000 years.