Waterfalls make for fascinating viewing, as well as dazzling photos.
And Australia is dotted with these cascading creations, from the ferocious to the mesmerising.
We’ve rounded up 10 relatively easy-to-reach Australian waterfalls that demand a visit when staying nearby.
Prepare to fall in love with these natural wonders…
The stunning falls stand out among a sea of gorgeous greenery that forms part of the mammoth Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. A 1.4km return stroll along a boardwalk path cuts through rainforest and leads to the lower reaches of the natural wonder, revealing sensational views.
Where: Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park; 70km east of Strahan (all distances approx.).
Stay: BIG4 Strahan.
Watching the waters of Guy Fawkes River drop 100m into a spectacular gorge is gripping. This superb two-tiered waterfall is a photographer’s dream: take in the outrageous beauty from three designated lookout platforms, which deliver contrasting views of the falls and rugged surrounds.
Where: Guy Fawkes River National Park; 80km east of Armidale.
Stay: BIG4 Armidale.
While in Armidale: A day trip to Oxley Wild Rivers National Park reveals Wollomombi Falls, the highest waterfall in NSW with a 220m drop.
This is one of Queensland’s most popular waterfalls, entrenched among magnificent rainforest of the Atherton Tablelands. The towering attraction’s appeal is enhanced by the idyllic waterhole found at its base, which makes the perfect swimming spot. Millaa Millaa is one of three enchanting waterfalls in these scenic surrounds.
Where: Millaa Millaa; 35km south of Atherton or 60km west of Innisfail.
Stay: NRMA Atherton Tablelands, BIG4 Innisfail Mango or BIG4 Kurrimine Beach.
The captivating creation cascades directly into a plunge pool set among gorgeous, contrasting scenery of the iconic national park it's planted within. Various vantage points provide differing outlooks, including an elevated viewing platform just minutes from the car park. The walk to its base comes with an idyllic setting for a refreshing swim.
Where: Litchfield National Park; 130km south of Darwin.
Stay: BIG4 Hidden Valley or BIG4 Howard Springs in Darwin.
Boasting height and width as it cascades over a spectacular rock face, MacKenzie Falls makes for a gripping sight year round. It’s a relatively easy walk to its base where visitors can enjoy unobstructed views and soak up the wider area’s profound beauty.
Where: Grampians National Park; 20km west of Halls Gap.
Stay: NRMA Halls Gap, Breeze - Grampians or Breeze - Halls Gap.
While these aren’t the tallest or widest falls to view, there are bonus points on offer for the magnificent setting. The falls reach a glorious rock pool and are near a shaded grassy area and other amenities that make this the perfect place for a picnic. Naturally, there’s plenty more treasure to unearth in these surrounds.
Where: Serpentine National Park; 65km south of Perth.
Stay: BIG4 Perth Midland, Perth Central Caravan Park or Tasman Holiday Parks - Serpentine Falls.
Pass cloud-piercing tree ferns and other dazzling scenery on the low-grade walk to Russell Falls. The sight of this three-tiered waterfall will take your breath away, and its complex makeup ensures photographers will be kept busy. Two more engrossing water features – Horseshoe Falls and Lady Barron Falls – are also within reach.
Where: Mt Field National Park; 75km northwest of Hobart.
Stay: BIG4 Hobart Airport.
This trio of cascading attractions can be viewed on a handful of walking trails that showcases a raft of riveting scenery. The tranquil surrounds belie a setting not far from Adelaide’s heart, making a visit here even more compelling.
Where: Morialta Conservation Park; 12km east of Adelaide.
Stay: BIG4 West Beach, The Retreat at West Beach or Marion Holiday Park, in Adelaide.
Rainforest-clad Great Otway National Park hoards a cluster of waterfalls, including this 20m-high beauty. It’s a rather challenging but super scenic walk to reach a viewing platform near the falls’ lower levels, but the vibrant vistas reward the effort.
Where: Great Otway National Park; 40km north of Apollo Bay or 55km northwest of Wye River.
Stay: Bimbi Park in Cape Otway or nearby at BIG4 Apollo Bay or BIG4 Wye River.
This is Australia’s highest permanent single-drop waterfall, boasting a 268m plunge. It’s not all about height, though – the position within the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage area ensures Wallaman is engulfed by stunning rainforest. Two walking tracks – one ‘easy’, the other ‘moderate’ – will allow you to witness the sight of the falls dropping over a spectacular escarpment.
Where: Girringun National Park; 160km northwest of Townsville or 175km southwest of Mission Beach.
Stay: BIG4 Eco Resort Townsville, Tasman - Rowes Bay, BIG4 Ingenia Townsville, BIG4 Townsville Gateway or Tasman - South Mission Beach.
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