The Flinders Ranges are located in the state of South Australia, approximately 430km north of Adelaide. I’ve been fortunate to travel in the region on two occassions and found it the most beautiful and peaceful of destinations. It’s world renowned for its geological history and impressive fossil remains. Its main attraction is Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheatre that was used by early pastoralists. Its an easy walk, following the Wilpena Creek from the camp ground into the Pound itself where you can visit the historic homestead of the early settlers.
The area invites visitors from all over the world and now caters to this, having all accommodation types from a 5 star hotel, to unpowered camp sites. Some stay a night or two and see what that can whilst on an organised tour, and others stay much longer, allowing time to walk/hike the many trails. There are trails leading to aboriginal painting sites, scenic lookouts and picturesque dry river beds. Four wheel driving is also very popular and imperative if you want to go off the sealed roads and be more adventurous.
You will be delighted by the wildlife here. During my trip in 2008, I saw scores of kangaroos, wallabies, emus, wedgetail eagles, parrots and a shingleback lizard.
Vail is located at the base of the famous Vail Ski Resort, in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Vail is most famous for having the second largest single ski mountain in North America. During the winter ski season the town is a hub of activity with the population nearly doubling.
With world renowned skiing, a diverse range of shops, restaurants, luxurious accommodation and the breath taking mountain and valley views, Vail is considered one of the finest ski resorts and travel destinations in the world.
Vail is also very popular during the summer months and allows the opportunity for some wonderful bushwalking and cycling.
One great reason to visit Vail is definitely for the ultimate ski resort experience. Although, it is considered pricey and attracts the rich and famous!
Esperance is located 720km south/east of Perth, Western Australia and is also known as the ‘Bay of Isles’. It is well known for its beautiful, pristine beaches and has three nearby National Parks offering fabulous bush walking opportunities to see the Australian fauna & flora.
The wildflower season which runs from September to November is a very popular time to see a stunning display of wildflowers which add to the spectacular scenery of the area.
Esperance itself has a small population of approx 14,000 and it’s town centre is enhanced by the row of Norfolk pines that add elegance to the esplanade.
One great reason to visit Esperance is for the sheer natural beauty that that part of the Australian coastline and beaches has to offer. It’s not unusual to have much of it all to yourself, as it’s relatively isolated from any major cities.
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