Best autumn experiences in Australia
As summer departs, various sections of Australia hit their peak of prettiness.
The new season signals an explosion of colours as deciduous trees and other spectacular scenery burst to life.
The eye-popping vibrancy is joined by a series of exciting events from March to May.
We’re showcasing just some of the best places to go and events to attend in autumn – there’s one of each for the various states and NT.
It’s time to treat the senses…
Nestled behind the iconic Blue Mountains is Mudgee, a city and wider region famed for its food and wine. Autumn is an optimal time to visit, as the picturesque surrounds burst with colour. On Mudgee's main drag, Church St, you'll be greeted with Manchurian pear trees that go their signature shade of buttery yellow in autumn. Bliss!
Stay at: BIG4 Mudgee Holiday Park.
Like Mudgee, the New England city of Armidale is spectacularly vibrant from March to May. This explosion of colour is celebrated each year at the Armidale Autumn Festival, which showcases a raft of musical and other entertainment alongside a classic car display, ample food options, and plenty more.
When: 1 April 2023.
Stay at: BIG4 Armidale Highlander Van Village.
The Macedon Ranges spoils for choice when March rolls around thanks mostly to a cluster of deciduous trees that dot the surrounds. The views of Mt Macedon are especially dazzling during the crisp and colourful season. Some places of note to see a kaleidoscope of colours are Honour Avenue and Centennial Park. Further up the mount, it’s worthwhile checking out Days Picnic Ground and Sanatorium Lake.
Visit: When driving between Melbourne and Castlemaine or Bendigo.
The High Country town of Bright rivals Macedon for its seasonal colour show. And for 10 days, this litany of eye candy is celebrated at the annual Bright Autumn Festival. The event is highlighted by a gala day (30 April), featuring the likes of a parade and a massive market. Outside of the gala, open garden days are among other popular festival activities.
When: 28 April- 7 May 2023.
Stay at: BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks - Bright, BIG4 Porepunkah Holiday Park or NRMA Bright Holiday Park.
The Swan Valley is stunning at the best of times, but it’s an absolute treat for the eyes when the lingering glow of summer fades. The many vines of the state’s oldest wine region dazzle with their rich assortment of shades, all set among relaxing surrounds on the outskirts of pretty Perth. Beautiful.
Stay at: BIG4 Perth Midland Tourist Park.
It’s a feast for the senses at Taste Great Southern. The 11-day extravaganza is headlined by dozens of tantalising culinary experiences that celebrate the immense appeal of this revered food and wine region. Markets, music events, degustations, and long lunches are all on the table, with events held in scenic locations that include Albany, Denmark, Mt Barker, and Katanning. Go on, indulge!
When: 4-14 May 2023.
Stay at: BIG4 Denmark Ocean Beach Holiday Park, or BIG4 Emu Beach Holiday Park and BIG4 Middleton Beach Holiday Park in Albany.
SA turns up the vibrancy in autumn, and nowhere is this more obvious than in the Adelaide Hills. The pretty region is replete with striking colours that best emerge from its deciduous trees and cluster of vineyards. Hahndorf and nearby Mt Lofty Botanic Garden are two locations all but guaranteed to deliver the perfect Insta shot. And it's all an easy drive from Adelaide.
Stay at: BIG4 West Beach Parks, The Retreat at West Beach Parks or Marion Holiday Park in Adelaide.
It has to be Tasting Australia. This long-running food and wine event showcases the best of the state’s produce via a huge range of variable experiences. Better yet, the events are held both in Adelaide and regionally, incorporating the likes of the Barossa, Fleurieu Peninsula, and Riverland regions. It’s time to treat the tastebuds.
When: 28 April-7 May 2023.
Stay at: BIG4 parks in SA.
May signals the start of the dry season in the Top End, meaning the reliable mix of warm weather, low humidity, and minimal rainfall makes this part of the country simply irresistible. Further south in the Red Centre, autumn is considered by many as the peak time to visit thanks to the cool nights-warm days combo.
Stay at: BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park or BIG4 Hidden Valley Holiday Park in Darwin, BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks - Katherine or Breeze Holiday Parks – Mary River.
With its fantastic foreshore setting, the Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival in Darwin is a must-attend in late autumn. The annual event combines music, art, and delicious food with stunning sunsets, backed by a buzzing atmosphere.
When: 12-14 May 2023.
Stay at: BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park or BIG4 Hidden Valley Holiday Park.
There are plenty of places to marvel at the Apple Isle’s aesthetic awesomeness in autumn; top pick is to take a daytrip northwest of Hobart. Start at the Derwent River town of New Norfolk and head to Pulpit Rock Lookout for breathtaking panoramas of the seasonal splendour. Further west, aim for Mt Field National Park where native Fagus (beech) glows golden during these months, stealing attention from the area’s famous waterfalls.
Stay at: BIG4 Hobart Airport Tourist Park.
Reinvigorate yourself with a visit to Launceston and the Tamar Valley, coinciding with the Breath of Fresh Air Film Festival. This 10-day gig celebrates the region’s global standing for its delicious food and wine and is set to showcase films covering these themes across a stack of diverse and distinct venues. Coupled with the flicks are activities such as wine stomping, masterclasses, hot-air balloon rides, river cruises, and plenty else.
When: 6-15 May 2023.
Stay at: BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park, BIG4 Kelso Sands Holiday and Native Wildlife Park and Low Head Tourist Park.
The Southern Downs and Granite Belt region warmly embraces the seasonal colour show. The likes of Stanthorpe and Warwick are perfect bases to witness vibrant yellow, orange, and red hues that dominate the surrounding landscape. Simply sublime.
Stay at: BIG4 Freedom Lifestyle Holiday Park Warwick or Country Style Holiday Park in Stanthorpe.
The art deco town of Innisfail is the place to be for the Feast of the Senses Festival. This four-day gig celebrates the region’s famous fruits alongside a bounty of other palate-pleasing produce. Markets, cooking demonstrations, music, and much more feature across various venues.
When: 23-26 March 2023.
Stay at: BIG4 Innisfail Mango Tree Tourist Park.
Time for an autumn escape? Start by booking a stay with us. See all BIG4 parks here.
