The word "winter" probably conjures up images of abundant, incessant snow somewhere in a North American or European city. But have you ever thought about what winter might look like in Australia? The large ocean areas in the Southern Hemisphere prevent winter from getting too cold, and this is why the snow only falls in high and cold places, such as the Andes and the New Zealand Alps, where there is also abundant moisture supply from the ocean. Consequently, an Australian winter - which typicalls takes place during June, July and August - offers not only unique, one-of-a-kind views, but also experiences. We picked the best attraction that each of the country's 6 main states has to offer in their respective capital, ready to cater to your different interests and wishes!
Despite its status as the capital of South Australia, Adelaide is probably less renowned compared to Gold Coast. We say give a chance to the city for Glenelg, its famous beach-side suburb, rich with attractions, hotels and restaurants. There are plenty of things you could do in the winter here, from going to The Beachouse and having fun at the amusement complex with your friends or family, learning about the region's culture and heritage at Bay Discovery Centre and the Glenelg Beach area offers plenty of eateries to satisfy your frequent craving in the winter, particularly at the famous Jetty Road.
The heritage-listed New Farm Park is perfect for a picnic or just a lazy sit-down marveling at the lovely jacarandas. Situated right next to the park is the historic Brisbane Powerhouse, where you can enjoy live arts, weekend farmers markets and moonlight cinema. Alternately, you can stroll along the modest yet charming neighborhood of New Farm, and see the beautiful sunset, bathed in purple, pink, yellow, orange and red - we promise Brisbane's sunset is unlike any other cities in Australia! Pop in to one of its cafes, Bitter Suite, for have a good glass of hot chocolate mixed with peanut butter and whipped cream - what a way to treat yourself after a long, cold day.
Feel like getting cultural? You can discover what's happening Australia's buzzing art scene at Hobart's Museum of Old and New Art, otherwise known as MONA. The largest privately funded museum in Australia, MONA presents antiquities, modern and contemporary art from the collection of renowned art collector David Walsh. The museum is also located in the Moorilla winery, which offers ultra-premium wines made using small-batch winemaking techniques. You can taste them on site! On the weekend, the museum also hosts a jam session where you can enjoy a variety of musicians playing jazz and other types of music.
A celebration of art, music and performance in the heart of Melbourne, The Light in Winter brings together local and international artists for free events, performances and exhibitions, culminating in the Solstice Celebration on the Saturday closest to the true winter solstice. It's quite simply the liveliest time of the year in the city! There are plenty of attractions during the festival ready to spoil your sight, from light installation, dance to music performance. Definitely the place to be if you happen to swing by Melbourne in winter time.
Scattered throughout the wide ranges of the Darling Scarp and only 45 minutes east of Perth City, you will find the Perth Hills and its country charm, not to mention breathtaking views! There are many things you can do at Perth Hills, from swimming at Lake Leschenaultia, relishing the splendor of Araluen Botanic Park or exploring the Mundaring Weir Precinct. If you don't feel like being outdoors, you can browse through the region's arts centres, studios and galleries, or learn more about its colorful history at museums such as the District Museum and Bert Tyler Vintage Machinery Museum.
Bet you never saw blue like that before! Only in Sydney's Blue Mountains can you marvel at this wilderness region from the cliff top. Don't forget to explore its many waterfalls, valleys and rugged sandstone tablelands, such as in the Jenolan Caves, where you will discover limestone crystals and underground rivers. If it rains or even snows (as it does sometimes), make a leeway to the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden for authentic Aboriginal paintings, artefacts and sculptures, or the Everglades Historic House & Gardens for an exquisite art deco house design and homemade refreshments by the fire. For a livelier affair, the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre presents a concert series every Friday evening.
So while you're enjoying your winter down under, don't forget to capture your special moments like these winter wonderland escapists!
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