Travel

Reef magic – The Great Barrier Reef

22 July 20253 min read

Dream if you will, what a trip up north might look like for you this year!

The Whitsundays, located in the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef, surrounded by 74 tropical island, wonders in the cool calm waters of the coral sea, is a truly unique and diverse holiday destination. We’ve picked our top four reasons you should visit, but honestly, we could have picked 1,004 there is so much to see and do in this incredible tropical oasis!

The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s most remarkable natural gifts. The Whitsundays is lucky enough to be located in the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Swim, dive, snorkel, above or below, the Great Barrier Reef must be seen to be believed! There are so many different ways to experience one of the seven world wonders; if one day isn’t enough, you can sleep out under the stars and wake up with the fishes. Nothing beats viewing this impressive structure from the air on fixed-wing aircraft, seaplane or helicopter. No trip to the Great Barrier Reef is complete without a flyover of Heart Reef, a stunning natural composition of coral in the perfect shape of a heart.

Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet

Sink your toes into the white silica sands of this renowned and award-winning beach, one of the many jewels in The Whitsundays crown. The crystal-clear aqua waters and pristine silica sand of world-famous Whitehaven Beach stretch over seven kilometres along Whitsunday Island, the largest of the 74 islands in the Whitsunday group. It defines nature at its best; it’s no surprise it often tops ‘best beaches’ lists the world over. A trip to Whitehaven Beach is not complete without taking the short hike to Hill Inlet Lookout, as the tide shifts, the white silica sand of Whitehaven Beach combined with the blue-green hues of the inlet blend seamlessly to create a swirling fusion of turquoise colours.

Island resorts

The Whitsundays is home to seven island resorts, yep SEVEN. Who needs Bali or international travel to find the perfect tropical getaway, The Whitsundays is right on your doorstep. Hamilton Island, Intercontinental Hayman Island, Daydream Island Resort, Elysian Retreat, Palm Bay Resort and Camp Island Lodge are all found dotted throughout the Whitsunday Islands. Whether it be family-friendly, eco-friendly, all-inclusive, back-to-basics, activity-based, food and wine, or pure luxury – there is a Whitsunday island to suit everyone.

Sailing the Whitsundays

The Whitsundays is Australia’s heart of sailing; it is an adventure in paradise that will give you a lifetime of memories. The reason The Whitsundays is a sailing mecca is simple, the islands provide protection from the elements, and each of the 74 islands offers an array of unique experiences. Bareboating (skipper yourself ) sailing provides a chance to experience the magic of The Whitsundays at your own pace. If you’d rather let someone else take care of it all, you can hire your own vessel, and have a professional skipper and hostess at your beck and call, simply tell them where you want to go and when you want to eat. If time is of the essence or you want to meet new people, a fully crewed, organised sailing trip for two or three nights is perfect. Catamaran, mono, maxi or tall ship, whatever your choice, when you first step aboard, you will feel invigorated with the anticipation of your sailing adventure.

Find out more and plan your visit: tourismwhitsundays.com.au

Wellness Meets Luxury

The newest jewel on the Gold Coast’s coastline offers cutting-edge wellness treatments that perfectly complement the hotel’s luxurious rooms and standout dining. Lying on the touchless treatment bed at CIEL Spa, I feel as though I’m floating somewhere between sleep and weightlessness. The room is quiet except for the soft pulse of music and the gentle warmth surrounding my body. There are no hands, no pressure points, no oils – just a sensation of suspension as the dry- float technology cradles my body, gently pummelling tight knots in my shoulders and removing gravity from the equation entirely. It is an unusual experience at first. Typically, a spa treatment involves little clothing and a therapist. Here, your treatment is solitary, with only the sound of rushing water and a calm voice in my headphones prompting me to breathe slowly in and out. The absence of touch is precisely the point. Without another person to interact with, I surrender completely to the relaxation experience, knowing that this is exactly where I need to be. During the course of the 30-minute treatment my breathing slows, my muscles soften, and I hover somewhere between meditation and deep rest. It’s the perfect reset. Welcome to CIEL Spa, the wellness sanctuary inside the new Mondrian Gold Coast at Burleigh Heads, a haven of relaxation that’s now on our doorstep. Unlike traditional day spas built around massage and facials alone, CIEL takes a contemporary approach to wellbeing. The concept blends restorative spa rituals with emerging bio-wellness technologies designed to support recovery, relaxation and skin health. Guests can move between infrared sauna sessions, cryotherapy, LED light therapy and the zero-gravity dry float treatment that begins my visit. But technology is only part of the experience. The spa’s interiors mirror the coastal calm just outside the hotel’s doors. Soft curves, pale stone, textured walls and muted lighting create a cocoon-like environment that feels far removed from the energy of Burleigh’s busy beachfront. From the moment we stepped through the door, we left the real world behind, with our focus on wellness and relaxation. Traditional treatments abound, too. Facial treatments use luxury skincare brand Augustinus Bader, whose patented cellular renewal technology focuses on stimulating the skin’s natural repair processes. Massage therapies draw on restorative techniques designed to calm the nervous system and improve circulation – particularly welcome after a day exploring the Gold Coast’s beaches and hinterland. The best news? You don’t need to be a hotel guest to experience the spa. Non-guests are welcome to book treatments and linger in the relaxation lounge afterwards. Or head up a level to stretch out beside the pool and truly feel as though you’ve embarked on a mini holiday. This welcoming approach is a thoughtful addition to the Mondrian Gold Coast, the breathtakingly stylish new hotel that has quickly become one of the most talked- about openings on the coast. Rising above Burleigh’s iconic Norfolk pines, the twin-tower property has brought the brand’s signature design aesthetic to Queensland. Rooms are spacious and light-filled, with natural stone, warm timber and curved architectural lines echoing the surrounding landscape. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the breathtaking ocean views, while generous balconies encourage guests to slow down and settle into the rhythm of the coast. One standout detail is the television cleverly hidden within the ottoman at the foot of the bed – stylish, discreet and surprisingly practical. Where to eat Dining is every bit as impressive as the décor and spa experience. Italian restaurant LiTO anchors the hotel’s culinary offering, celebrating wood-fired cooking and Mediterranean flavours designed for sharing. The open kitchen centres around a custom wood-fired grill and oven, where chefs prepare dishes that lean into coastal Italian simplicity. Expect freshly shucked seafood, handmade pasta and beautifully charred meats, alongside vibrant seasonal vegetables and citrus-driven salads perfectly suited to the Gold Coast climate. The menu encourages long, leisurely meals. Start with antipasti such as the Byron Bay burrata with roasted peppers or yellowfin tuna crudo before moving into house-made pasta and wood-fired dishes like grilled king prawns, market fish or slow-roasted meats, served alongside Currumbin Valley salads. The lamb ragu saffron pappardelle is a trip to Italy in a bowl, and the steak was perfectly cooked as requested, dished up with grilled broccolini. The drinks list is equally considered, with Italian varietals, coastal Australian wines and spritz-style cocktails that feel made for warm evenings overlooking Burleigh. Service is impeccable and friendly, encouraging you to linger longer than you intended, especially when a serving of their famous tiramisu is offered! Upstairs, Haven Pool Club offers a completely different energy. Framed by sweeping ocean views, the rooftop venue channels the relaxed glamour of an international beach club, complete with cabanas, daybeds and a sparkling pool overlooking the Pacific. The Haven restaurant is a set above in dining, blending homegrown favourites with nostalgic flavours, focusing on fresh seafood, light Mediterranean-style plates and shareable dishes designed for long afternoons that effortlessly stretch into sunset drinks. Whether you choose to stay for a spa visit, swim or a delicious meal, the Mondrian is the ideal destination… for however long you want to stay. Book me in: mondrianhotels.com or cielspaburleighheads.com

Travel

A Taste of the Highlands: The Australian Celtic Food Trail

A Taste of the Highlands: The Australian Celtic Food Trail There are festivals you attend and then there are experiences you simply savour. This autumn, the Australian Celtic Festival in Glen Innes Highlands invites lovers of culture, food and beautiful places to indulge in something truly special: the Australian Celtic Food Trail. Set among the golden colours of the New England High Country, this year’s culinary program offers a delicious journey through Celtic flavours, local produce and unforgettable settings. For those who appreciate a refined escape from the coast, it is the perfect excuse for a stylish autumn road trip. A Not-to-Miss Luncheon at Ben’s Falls Retreat The ACF Celtic Food Trail opens with a signature event on Thursday 30 April at the stunning Ben’s Falls Retreat, a hidden gem nestled beside the iconic Severn River. Guests will gather in this breath-taking natural setting for a luncheon of stories, flavour and Celtic inspiration hosted by Celebrity Cook (The Roving Haggis) Ali Stoner and celebrated food and travel writer Roberta Muir. Attendees tickets include transport from the Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre, welcome drink, canapes, main and dessert buffet brought to you by the Bens Fall’s culinary team and inspired by Ali Stoner. A Culinary Trail Through Glen Innes Throughout the festival weekend, ACF Celtic Food Trail Ambassador Roberta Muir will be joined by Australian Celtic Festival honoured guest Ali Stoner (The Roving Haggis) and will be exploring the cafés, bakeries and restaurants of Glen Innes’ charming CBD, sampling Celtic-inspired dishes created especially for the festival. From traditional recipes passed down through generations to imaginative modern interpretations, local chefs are embracing the spirit of Celtic cuisine with creativity and flair. Visitors can follow along, tasting their way through town while discovering local produce and warm country hospitality. Roberta and Ali will also share their discoveries during inspiring talks at the festival site, offering visitors insights into Celtic culinary heritage and the flavours shaping the Highlands’ emerging food scene at the Celtic Cauldron at the Festival site Saturday and Sunday. More Than a Festival Of course, food is just the beginning. Across the weekend, the Australian Celtic Festival bursts into life with a spectacular program: colourful street parade, thrilling Highland Games, the stirring sound of pipes and drums, medieval reenactors and jousting, lively children’s activities, and an extraordinary lineup of Celtic music and dance. It is an immersive cultural celebration with the backdrop of The Australian Standing Stones, National Celtic Monument, unlike anything else in Australia. For more information go to page 44 of the latest issue of getit-magazine.com.au/magazine Plan Your Highlands Escape Accommodation during festival weekend can book quickly, so many visitors choose a day trip through the beautiful towns of the New England High Country. Scenic drives from Tenterfield, Armidale, Guyra, Inverell, Walcha, Deepwater and Emmaville offer a relaxed way to explore the region while dipping into festival events across the weekend. Held during the spectacular autumn season, when the Highlands glow with crisp air and golden leaves, the festival is the perfect excuse to immerse yourself in culture, indulge and discover. For those seeking culture, flavour and a little Celtic magic this autumn, the invitation is simple: Visit gleninneshighlands.com.au

Travel

Inverell in Autumn—A Golden Escape to the Sapphire City

There’s something undeniably magical about Inverell in autumn. As the New England High Country shifts into cooler days, the town transforms into a canvas of gold, amber and rust-toned leaves, creating a dreamy, almost nostalgic atmosphere that feels worlds away from the coast. Just a scenic five-hour drive from the Gold Coast, Inverell—affectionately known as the Sapphire City -offers the perfect seasonal escape. Autumn brings crisp mornings, clear blue skies and mild afternoons, making it one of the most enjoyable times of year to explore everything this charming regional town has to offer. The first thing visitors notice is the colour. Tree-lined streets throughout the heritage- listed town centre glow with vibrant autumn foliage, while nearby towns like Glen Innes and Tenterfield add to the region’s reputation as one of NSW’s most picturesque cool-climate destinations. It’s the kind of place where a simple stroll turns into a slow, lingering experience – coffee in hand, leaves crunching underfoot, and historic architecture providing the perfect backdrop. Beyond its beauty, Inverell’s personality really shines in autumn. This is gemstone country, after all, and the cooler weather makes fossicking for sapphires not just bearable, but genuinely enjoyable. There’s a certain thrill in getting your hands dirty, sifting through gravel and water, knowing you might uncover something extraordinary. It’s an experience that connects visitors to the town’s rich mining heritage in a hands-on, memorable way. For those who prefer a slower pace, Inverell delivers just as effortlessly. Lake Inverell Reserve becomes a peaceful haven during autumn, ideal for morning walks, picnics or simply soaking in the stillness of the season. A little further afield, Kwiambal National Park offers rugged landscapes, scenic lookouts and walking tracks that are far more inviting without the intensity of summer heat. Waterfalls, granite outcrops and native bushland create a raw, natural beauty that feels both grounding and invigorating. Autumn is also a time to indulge. The New England region is known for its rich agricultural produce, and Inverell proudly showcases it. The town boasts a growing food scene of cosy cafés, hearty country pubs and relaxed dining spots serving seasonal fare with genuine country hospitality. That sense of welcome is what truly sets Inverell apart. It’s not just a destination – it’s a feeling. Friendly locals, boutique shopping, small galleries and a laid-back pace create an environment where visitors can truly unwind. By day, you might be exploring heritage streets, fossicking for gems or hiking through national parks; by night, enjoying a great meal and a glass of local wine under a sky scattered with stars. Inverell in autumn is more than just a pretty place – it’s an experience that engages all the senses. It’s the colour of falling leaves, the coolness of the air, the excitement of discovery and the warmth of country hospitality all rolled into one. If you’re looking for a seasonal escape that blends natural beauty, adventure and charm, Inverell in autumn might just be your perfect getaway. For information and to plan your next escape visit inverell.com.au

Travel

Bubbles & Bushwalks: A Glen Innes Highlands Weekend

There’s a sweet spot where adventure meets a touch of indulgence, and it lives on the road between the coast and the cool air of the New England High Country. Pack a picnic, gather a few favourite friends, and point the bonnet to the Gwydir Highway toward World Heritage wilderness, charming boutiques, and slow, soul-filling moments. What you’ll experience: A beautiful scenic drive through quaint country towns and delightful countryside, and its less than a five-hour drive from the Gold Coast. Three Perfect Days in the New England High Country Day One — Canopy, Creeks & Big-Sky Lookouts As the highway climbs, the temperature falls and the air turns crisp. In Washpool National Park and Gibraltar Range, freshwater creeks thread through ferny gullies, and the canopy keeps the sun gentle. Slip off your shoes for a refreshing wade before a gentle stroll on the Coombadjha Walk, where birdsong and leaf-filtered light set the pace. Continue to Gibraltar House and the Platypus Pool; linger quietly, and you might spot a whiskered ripple at the surface. Then it’s on to Raspberry Lookout, where the land rolls out in breath-catching layers. Pass the geological area of Demon Fault and turn for Boundary Falls; the cascade is a natural soundtrack for a late picnic and a toast to the day’s discoveries. Evening—Country Chic in the CBD. Drift into Glen Innes and wander the historic main street, where country boutiques are full of characters and unique finds. Check into your stay, perhaps a classic pub meal at the Great Central Hotel or the New England Motor Lodge for local charm and great specials or find a luxury hideaway where you can choose a chef-prepared dinner or a curated DIY dinner pack. A glass of sparkling shared on the verandah is the perfect bridge from bushwalk to evening glow. Day Two — Stones, Coffee & Treasure Trails Morning starts at The Crofters Cottage beside the Australian Standing Stones. Order excellent coffee and a homemade treat, then soak up the energy of the early risers at parkrun drifting by the granite sentinels. Nab a box of award-winning cakes and pies from Sweetie Pies, or have the team at The Coffee Incident pack a picnic platter; think local charcuterie and seasonal finds that turn any patch of grass into a grazing moment. If you skipped it yesterday, detour to the Skywalk Lookout for that endless horizon shot, then sink into Glen Innes’ art and second-hand trail, part treasure hunt, part time travel. When the open road calls, cruise north for a leisurely loop through Emmaville and Deepwater. Pop into The Makers Shed (touch, talk, and take home), then settle at Deepwater Brewery for a tasting paddle and lunch, or venture to one of the pubs in Deepwater and Emmaville for a real local experience and watch the countryside unfurl in soft greens all the way home. Day Three — Brunch, Browse & a Sweet Farewell Sunday is for lingering. Brunch at The Local sets the tone: generous plates, good conversation, no rush. Cap it off with a scoop (or two) from The Furry Cow or the Strawberries and Cream at the Super Strawberry. If you’ve got time to spare, take a final browse of the parklands or a slow lap past through the Heritage Trail and visit the History House before heading home. Take some treats with you for another look at Boundary Falls; this time venture to the bottom of the stairs and work off some of that sweet indulgence. Need more ideas or help shaping your own version of this escape? Contact the Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre; the team’s local know-how will stitch your weekend together beautifully. P  (02) 6730 2400 There are an array of events hosted in Glen Innes Highlands throughout the year. We have something for everyone. Save the Date: 2026 13 – 15 February Glen Innes show & Gourmet Fiesta – Glen Innes Showgrounds 6, 7 & 8 March Minerama Fossicking Gem & Jewellery Show 7 March Goodness Gravel 30 April to 3 May Australian Celtic Festival – Book your accommodation ‘now’ Book now