Is winter a good time to explore Australia?
Australia is a fantastic travel destination any time of year, especially on a campervan holiday! While some might think of winter as a less appealing time to visit, there are still plenty of reasons to explore this beautiful country during the cooler months on an Australian road trip. The northern parts of Australia such as Darwin and Cairns generally have warmer temperatures than other parts of the country, while the southern parts such as Melbourne and Tasmania can be much cooler during the cooler seasons so planning your adventure should take this into consideration.
Winter can be a great time to explore some of the country's stunning national parks and mountain ranges. The Snowy Mountains in New South Wales and Victoria offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities during the winter months, while the red rock formations of Uluru in the Northern Territory are just as awe-inspiring in the cooler temperatures. It’s also a great time to see some of Australia's most iconic animals, including migrating whales that can be spotted off the coast of Western Australia and Queensland!
When it comes to outdoor activities to enjoy during the winter months in Australia the options are endless. Hiking, camping, and fishing are popular in many of the country's national parks, while skiing and snowboarding are great options for those who love winter sports.
So, whether you're looking for an adventure in the mountains or a chance to see some of Australia's unique wildlife, winter can be a fantastic time to explore this amazing country, especially when you rent a van to travel in.
Our top picks for a winter campervan holiday in Australia
Enjoy a tropical winter in Northern Territory
If you're looking for an amazing winter escape, then the Northern Territory is a must visit in winter. Not only is it packed with awesome things to do all year round, but winter is a particularly great time to visit.
During the winter months, the weather is lovely and tropical in comparison to other parts of the country. That means you can enjoy all the amazing outdoor activities that the Northern Territory has to offer without sweltering in the heat as is usually the case in the warmer months. Plus, the reduced humidity makes for a really unique experience of the area.
There are also lots of one-off seasonal events to check out, like the Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta and the Alice Springs Beanie Festival. And if you're into hiking, the cooler temperatures make it the perfect time to tackle some of the Territory's most spectacular trails.
Read on for all our must see and do’s on a road trip in the Northern Territory. Plus, to make your travel itinerary planning all the easier, we’ve got the perfect travel route so you can discover all that this part of Australia has to offer.
The best things to do in Northern Territory in winter
Get festive at an epic event
Not only does the Northern Territory offer stunning natural landscapes and wildlife, but it's also home to some epic festivals and events. So, if you time your trip right, you can add some cultural flair to your adventure. Below are some of our favourites to visit.
The Barunga Festival is held in June every year, and celebrates the culture of the Jawoyn people in the small community of Barunga. You can expect a vibrant mix of traditional and contemporary music, art, dance, sports, and cultural activities.
Another we love is the Darwin Cup Carnival which is a horse racing event held in August. This is the biggest event on the Northern Territory racing calendar, featuring several races, fashion events, and live entertainment.
Nitro Up North is for car enthusiasts and is a drag racing event in July. This high-octane festival attracts drag racers from around the country and the world to the Hidden Valley Drag Strip in Darwin. You'll witness some serious speed and power as the racers compete for the top prize.
Last on our list is the Darwin Festival that takes place in August. This 18-day celebration of arts and culture features a diverse program of theatre, music, dance, comedy, visual arts, and more. You can also enjoy outdoor markets, food stalls, and pop-up bars in the tropical Darwin weather.
Fall in love with a piece of art
Art lovers are in for a real treat when visiting the Northern Territory! The Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair is an absolute must-see, featuring contemporary fine art from over 70 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Centres. What's more, every single one of these art centres is indigenous-owned, meaning that 100% of the sales go back to the communities that they represent!
Not only will you have the chance to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Northern Territory, but you'll also have the opportunity to take home a stunning piece of art that you can treasure for a lifetime. So whether you're a seasoned art collector or just someone who appreciates beauty and craftsmanship, be sure to check out the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair and discover a world of wonder!
Explore the great outdoors
If you're looking to explore the great outdoors, then the Northern Territory is the perfect destination for you! The winter months are a fantastic time to get out and experience the beautiful nature that this region has to offer.
During these months, which are also known as the dry season, the air is less humid, making it more comfortable to take on hikes and explore the stunning landscapes. And if you're a bird lover, you're in for a treat! With less water in the watering holes, it's an excellent opportunity to observe these feathered creatures in their natural habitat.
Where to stay in Northern Territory
Discovery parks, Alice Springs
If you’re looking for the perfect camp spot to book into while exploring the Australian outback, then you can’t go past Discovery Parks Alice Springs. Situated on the eastern edge of Alice Springs, about a 15-minute drive from the town centre, this park is nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by the rugged MacDonnell Ranges, offering visitors stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
In terms of accessibility, the park is easily reachable by camper, with ample parking available. There's a large swimming pool, perfect for cooling off on a hot outback day, as well as a spa and sauna for those looking to relax and unwind. The park also has a well-equipped playground and a mini-golf course, great for keeping the kids entertained.
Kakadu Caravan Park
The Kakadu Caravan Park is situated in the heart of the Kakadu National Park and is a great spot to set up camp and explore the stunning landscape and wildlife of the area. Kakadu is known for its stunning wetlands, breathtaking waterfalls, and rugged terrain. You can take a dip in one of the many swimming holes, go on a hike through the bush, or take a scenic drive to soak up the views. There's something for everyone here! It’s also home to a diverse range of animals, including saltwater crocodiles, wallabies, and even dingoes! If you're lucky, you might even spot a kangaroo or a cassowary.
In terms of amenities, the Kakadu Caravan Park has everything you need for a comfortable stay including a swimming pool, BBQ facilities, and a camp kitchen.
Big4 Howard Springs Holiday Park
Big4 Howard Springs Holiday Park is a great campground that we love to stay in when in Darwin. Located just outside Darwin city, this park has great facilities, as well as fun activities to enjoy during your stay including go-kart hire, a swimming pool, tennis court, and BBQ facilities.
Plus, if you want to venture out and explore the area, you'll find plenty of attractions nearby including the Territory Wildlife Park, Berry Springs Nature Park, and the famous Crocodylus Park.
Embrace the winter chill in NSW
Lovers of snow sports are going to love to visit NSW during the winter months, especially in the freedom and comfort of a motorhome! With character-filled alpine villages and a selection of epic ski and snowboard runs, this will be a winter holiday to remember! Read on for our top spot in NSW to visit in winter in a motorhome.
The best things to do in NSW in winter
Perisher valley skiing
Perisher Valley is one of the most popular skiing destinations in Australia, and for good reason! With plenty of runs to suit every level skier and snowboarder, generally great snow conditions and awe-inspiring views, this truly is a snow lover's heaven.
Located in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, about 5 hours' drive from Sydney or 2.5 hours' drive from Canberra, you can get up the mountain in a shuttle bus and leave your camper at your accommodation for the day. An easy, fun and memorable road trip experience!
Image: Destination NSW
Blue mountains escape
The Blue Mountains are an iconic region located in New South Wales, just a two-hour drive from the bustling city of Sydney. The area is named after the stunning blue haze that envelops the mountain ranges, which is created by the scattering of sunlight through the eucalyptus trees.
Aside from taking in the breathtaking natural scenery, there are plenty of other things to do in the Blue Mountains area. One popular activity is hiking, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. The Three Sisters rock formation is a must-see and can be accessed via the Giant Stairway or Scenic Railway. For a more leisurely experience, hop on the Scenic Skyway or Cableway for stunning views of the mountains and surrounding valleys.
Foodies will be in heaven with a plethora of gourmet cafes, restaurants, and wineries to choose from. The area is particularly renowned for its delicious apple pies and scones with jam and cream. Wine lovers, don't forget to try the local wines, produced in the region's vineyards!
Places to stay in NSW
Diamond head campground
Diamond Head Campground is located in Crowdy Bay National Park, which is about a 4-hour drive north of Sydney, NSW. This beautiful campground is situated on the coastline, offering stunning views of the ocean.
The campground has a variety of amenities to make your campervan stay all the more comfortable, including toilets, showers, BBQs, and picnic tables. There are also several walking trails nearby, ranging from easy to challenging, which allow you to explore the park's natural beauty!
Woody head campground
Located in the stunning Bundjalung National Park, Woody Head Campground is a beautiful beachfront camping spot in New South Wales, offering a scenic natural bush setting.
The campground offers plenty of amenities to make your stay pleasant including toilets, hot showers, and BBQ facilities, as well as picnic tables and fire pits. They also have a small kiosk where you can purchase essentials like ice, firewood, and basic groceries.
Foodie adventures in Hunter Valley
Last on our list of top spots for a winter campervan holiday is the gorgeous Hunter Valley region. From farm to table dining to charming markets, this is a wonderful place to visit during the cooler months, especially for foodies! Read on to get inspired!
The best things to do in Hunter Valley in winter
Farm to table dining
Have you heard of farm to table dining? It’s a culinary movement that emphasises using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to create delicious and healthy dishes. The goal is to connect diners with the farmers and producers who grow and harvest the food, and to promote sustainable agriculture and support local businesses. Pretty cool hey!
The farm to table dining scene in the Hunter Valley is incredible and you can expect to find plenty of farm to table dining options around every turn. The dishes at these restaurants highlight the unique flavours and ingredients of the region, such as artisanal cheeses, locally grown produce, and grass-fed meats. One that we love is Margan which is a family-owned farm to table restaurant and award winning winery, a must-stop when in the area!
Explore markets and festivals
The Hunter Valley is a paradise for foodies and wine lovers, and it's no surprise that the region hosts some of the most exciting food festivals in Australia. There are a few that we absolutely love that we have detailed below to make your road trip planning all the easier.
The Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival is held annually from May to June and is a celebration of the region's wine and food culture. You can attend wine and cheese tastings, cooking classes, and indulge in some delicious local produce. The Hunter Valley Cheese and Chocolate Festival is another great festival that is held in June. Here, you can sample some of the finest cheeses and chocolates from local artisans, attend workshops, and even try your hand at making cheese or chocolate.
Image: Destination NSW
Enjoy wine tastings
The Hunter Valley is well known for the incredible wine it produces. With its picturesque vineyards and abundance of wineries, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to wine tastings.
Whether you prefer red or white, sweet or dry, there's sure to be a wine to suit your tastes. Many of the wineries in the Hunter Valley offer tastings of their signature blends, allowing you to sample a range of different wines and find your new favourite. Some wineries even offer guided tours, where you can learn more about the winemaking process and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of wine production.
Where to stay in Hunter Valley
Wine country tourist park
Located just a few minutes' drive from the heart of the Hunter Valley wine region is the Wine Country Tourist Park which we love to stay at when in this area. Situated in a peaceful and picturesque setting, surrounded by vineyards and farmland, it is the perfect stay for you and your maui camper.
There are great campsites to choose from, as well as communal facilities such as a BBQ area, a swimming pool, a children's playground and laundry.
McNamara park
Another place we love to park our camper while in the Hunter Valley region is the Mc Namara Park camping area. Set within a lovely bush setting, with large grassy and private campsites, this campground promises to be a comfortable and relaxing stay, and the best part? It’s a free camping area!
Basic amenities are on offer, including toilets and rubbish bins, which is perfectly fine as your maui camper has all you need to be comfortable during your visit!
How to travel in a motorhome during winter
Travelling in a motorhome during winter can be just as magical as it is during the warmer months, sometimes even more wonderful thanks to the gorgeous pastel skies that soar overhead in the mornings and evenings and lovely crisp evenings by the fire at your campsite. To make your trip all the more comfortable, we’ve put together a few tips and tricks to consider when packing and planning.
First things first, don't forget to pack some thick layered clothing and a good quality sleeping bag. It can get pretty chilly at night, even in parts of Australia where it's still hot during the day. You might also want to bring along some hot water bottles or hand warmers to keep you cosy! Another helpful item to have is a portable humidifier for those who are a little more sensitive to dry air. Breathing in cool, dry air can make it hard to sleep, so a humidifier can help keep the air moist and make for a more restful night's sleep.
Finally, try to stay at powered campsites whenever possible. This will allow you to take hot showers and keep your heater running, meaning your motorhome will be a haven to be in all night long. So there you have it! With a little bit of preparation and the right gear, you'll be all set for a fun and comfortable winter road trip in your motorhome.
Time to book your winter escape?
If this all sounds too good to be true, and you’re ready to set off on a winter adventure in your campervan hire, then head onto the maui website or into a maui branch to book your adventure mobile today! While here, be sure to check out the travel deals and other travel itineraries and ideas to make your road trip planning all the easier.