Amsterdam,
08
July
2020
|
05:49
Europe/Amsterdam

Aussie locations that NEED YOU to visit them

Isolation has given travellers plenty time to think about their next trip, and with domestic travel our only option right now, more people are looking at how they can add purpose to their next Aussie adventure. Between devastating droughts, the Black Summer bushfires and a global pandemic, travellers have been unable to jump in their cars for a meaningful road trip until now.

Data from Booking.com has revealed that in the first week of June, the bushfire affected towns and immediate areas surrounding were among some of the top destinations searched on the platform. Locations in NSW including Batemans Bay, Kiama, Merimbula, Mollymook, Katoomba, Kangaroo Valley, Forster, Port Macquarie, Nelson Bay and Coffs Harbour have all been in the top trending destinations. Cities close to affected areas include Canberra and Adelaide, both of which were in the top 10 most searched.*

To support travellers looking to make a road trip and help local businesses in bushfire affected areas, Booking.com has pulled together a roundup of the key places to stay.

Lincoln Downs Resort, Batemans Bay

Set alongside a private lake and manicured gardens, Lincoln Downs Resort Batemans Bay features Briars restaurant, a fitness centre, a tennis court and a swimming pool. The beautiful spot is just 800 meters from Batemans Bay town centre, perfect if you’re looking to support the areas local business. The area is surrounded by stunning nature, only 400 meters from the Clyde River and a five minute drive to unspoilt Surfside Beach.

Coast Resort, Merimbula

Earlier this year Merimbula was cast by an orange fog as a result of the bushfires, now it shows picturesque blue skies and is a fantastic road trip destination. Situated on 2 hectares of land, stretching from Merimbula Lake to Merimbula Beach, Coast Resort Merimbula offers a stunning selection of apartments, townhouses and penthouses. Coast Apartments are located a 15-minute walk from the heart of Merimbula. Magic Mountain Theme Park and Merimbula Airport are each less than 5 minutes’ drive away.

Bannisters by the sea, Mollymook

If you’re wanting to treat yourself to a more luxurious staycation, Bannisters by the Sea in Mollymook could be the spot for you. A 5-minute walk from Mollymook Beach, Bannisters features a solar-heated swimming pool, a day spa and a restaurant with cuisine by award-winning seafood chef Rick Stein. Rick Stein's restaurant menu offers delicious seafood dishes using local oysters, crab and fish.

Falls Mountain Retreat, Blue Mountains

At least 80% of the Blue Mountains world heritage area burned during the bushfire crisis, so there is much reason to visit and support the area. Falls Mountain Retreat offers modern and luxurious self-catered and self-contained studios and apartments in the heart of the Blue Mountains. Hidden away within four acres of peaceful gardens, the accommodation is just 200m from walking trails, waterfalls and breathtaking views.

One of a kind Apartments, Canberra

Just a 5-minute drive from Canberra city centre, One of a Kind Apartments offers self-contained accommodation with a beautiful balcony or courtyard. These quirky properties are each individually designed with eclectic style. They are an 8 minute drive from the Parliament House and 15 minute drive from Royal Canberra Golf Club.

The Retreat at Stirling, Adelaide Hills

The Stirling area is known for its beautiful local wine and produce and is perfect for a relaxing getaway. The Retreat at Stirling boasts a barbecue and views of the garden and is only a 10 minute drive from the Mount Lofty Summit lookout.

*Top 10 searched destinations on Booking.com in June

  1. Gold Coast
  2. Sydney
  3. Melbourne
  4. Brisbane
  5. Canberra
  6. Perth
  7. Adelaide
  8. Byron Bay
  9. Cairns
  10. Jindabyne