Australians have a way of merging elegance with easygoing charm, of celebrating sophistication without sacrificing simplicity. The result is an approach to life that feels both exotic and wonderfully unpretentious. To that end, luxury travel in Australia is more than just high-end comfort—it’s an authentic experience that is deeply connected to the land, culture, and wildlife. And it’s the inspiration behind Swain’s Luxury with Heart.
Nature Experiences
A Swain Destinations Australian travel itinerary offers unique and unforgettable experiences, blending exceptional service with personalized access to some of the world’s most iconic natural landscapes.
Road trip on the Great Ocean Road, one of the most spectacular drives in the world, where you’ll see the famous 12 Apostles rock formation (pictured above), koalas, kangaroos and whales in their natural habitats, and breathtaking lookouts. Visit the oldest rainforest and largest coral reef system for a glimpse of flora and fauna that can’t be seen anywhere else in the world. Explore the dramatic landscapes of the outback, where nature puts on a light show with every sunrise and sunset. Witness why some of the world’s finest wines start from Australia’s lush landscape. Take a stroll among 4,300 different plant species in one setting at the botanical garden.
Two of Ian Swain’s Favorite Nature Experiences in South Australia
- Kangaroo Island is crawling with native wildlife and, despite being relatively unspoiled by development, is home to superb luxury accommodations.
- Towering clifftops and deep craters make up the tremendous rock formation of the Flinders Ranges in South Australia’s outback.
Cultural Experiences
Australia is home to the oldest living culture in the world. The Aboriginal people are very proud of their heritage and have been passing down stories from generation to generation for thousands of years. And now they’re weaving this storytelling into tourism, allowing the rest of the world to find out more about who they are and to understand their historical significance.
Swain Destinations travel consultants love to incorporate Aboriginal culture into Australia luxury travel itineraries. You may be hunting crabs using spears on the coast of Queensland with a Kuku Yulanji guide or deciphering ancient rock art in the Red Centre to get an understanding of the Anangu culture and the Tjukurpa. Our long-time partnership with Tourism Australia connects us with the best-of-the-best cultural guides and experiences on offer. Any traveler willing to embrace the deep connection to culture will surely have an experience that will add to their own story to be shared for years and years.
Australia’s capital, Canberra, is home to institutions like the National Museum, National Gallery, Parliament House, and Australian War Memorial, which house the country’s most significant cultural and historical treasures. These institutions preserve artworks, documents, and artifacts that reflect Australia’s heritage. And when it’s time for a break, indulge in the culinary, hidden bar, and boutique shopping scenes.
Given the laid back, yet cosmopolitan Aussie way, café culture, beach culture and the arts are also prominent throughout Australia. Museums, art galleries, and theaters are all part of the thriving modern cultural scene.
Wildlife Experiences
Most people think of kangaroos when they think of Australia and spotting them in the wild is a delight. Beyond Australia’s national animal, there is a long and diverse list of mammals, marsupials, reptiles, birds, fish, and corals to be seen.
Australia Wildlife Fun Facts
- 80% of Australia’s animals are endemic and can be found nowhere else in the world. This is due to Australia’s isolation from other continents.
- The world’s largest mammal is a blue whale, which may be spotted in Australia during migration season.
- The tiny echidna is the world’s oldest mammal alive today. They live all over Australia.
- The population of kangaroos outnumbers humans in Australia.
- The world’s happiest animal is the quokka and they live in Australia. They earned their nickname because the are always smiling!
Observing Australia’s wildlife, whether it’s spotting a wallaby in the Outback or snorkeling with a sea turtle in the Coral Sea, provides a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of nature in this extraordinary land.
Cathi’s Bucket List Visit to Australia Zoo
Our travel consultants Cathi and Nina recently went to Australia and were able to check the Australia Zoo, Home of The Crocodile Hunter, off Cathi’s bucket list. Their Platinum Zoo Adventure included a guided golf cart tour, behind-the-scenes and up-close animal and reptile encounters, VIP seating at shows, and meals. While not an in-the-wild experience, Cathi and Nina still rave about this experience and love booking it for their animal-loving clients!
The Australia Zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation through habitat protection, research, and education. Now managed by Terri, Bindi, and Robert Irwin, the zoo continues Steve Irwin’s legacy by fostering a deep connection between people and wildlife. While visiting, stay at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, owned by the Irwin family and inspired by Steve Irwin’s life, legacy and love for wildlife and wild places—and recently named ‘World’s Best Nature Hotel 2024’ at the Boutique Hotel Club Awards.
Come and Say G’day
From the moment you are greeted with a friendly G’day, you’re in for an authentic Australian experience.
The meaning of G’day to me is something that’s welcoming to you, to embrace you to come into our country and enjoy it. Not just saying, ‘hello,’ it’s saying, ‘come and join us here.’
~ Ian Swain
Natural wonders, immersive cultural experiences, unique wildlife encounters, bespoke customer service, exquisite food and wine, and luxury accommodations nestled in breathtaking landscapes await.
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