New adventures way out west

Looking for a new travel experience? Western Australia has plenty to share, both in Perth and the regions, Tourism Western Australia reports.

Helispirit and Box Hill Esperance partner on scenic experience

New premium accommodation offering Box Hill Esperance​​​​​​​ has partnered with award-winning aviation operator Helispirit to offer luxury experiences in the Esperance/Kepa Kurl region. Guests can now join a Helispirit tour direct from their doorstep at Box Hill and be whisked away on scenic flight before landing for a secluded beach swim or private picnic.

Lighting the Sound tour to pop up in Albany

Albany Tours has launched a twilight hike experience to coincide with the 'Lighting the Sound' event by Kari Kola, occurring over three weekends in Albany in March 2026. Beginning in the late afternoon, the hike will depart from Whalers Cove and conclude at Uredale Point (above) for a spectacular vantage point view of the installation.

Pemberton Discovery Tour launches new agritourism experience

Visitors to the Southern Forests region can discover more about the region's local incredible produce on a new tour by Pemberton Discovery Tours. 'Beyond the Farm Gate' takes food-loving visitors behind the scenes, with three exclusive stops to showcase the best produce of the season. Growers may include avocado orchards, apple or potato farms, strawberry fields or beef of poultry farms depending on the season.

Sunsets, sips and dips: new experience by Quokka

Quokka Adventure Tours has launched its 'Beaches of Perth Sunset Picnic and City Lights Tour' just in time for summer. Starting in the Perth CBD, the tour takes a scenic drive through several riverside suburbs, stopping briefly for a riverside stroll, before arriving at the iconic Cottesloe Beach. Here guests can opt for an afternoon dip, before heading north along the coastline to City Beach and Scarborough. Guest will enjoy a light supper accompanied by a glass of Margaret River wine (surely the local Swan Valley would be more appropriate). The return journey to Perth includes a dessert stop at Kings Park and Botanic Garden.

Wildlife tour experience launches in Perth

Off the Beaten Track's new Kaarakin Wildlife Experience invites visitors to experience the beauty of Banyowla Regional Park, located on the outskirts of Perth, while learning about the state's red-tailed and white-tailed black cockatoos. The full-day tour starts with a guided behind-the-scenes experience at the Kaarakin Black Cockatoo Conservation Centre, where guests meet cockatoos, kangaroos, emus and dingoes.

Dwellingup Mountain Bike Trail network complete

Dwellingup's growing reputation as a Trail Town has received a boost with the opening of Stage 2 of the Dwellingup Mountain Bike Trail network. Visitors to the region can now explore a 68km trail. Just over an hour from Perth, Dwellingup is known for its forests, rivers and array of wildlife.

Boom time for wine tourism

Wine producers who do not invest in tasting facilities and tourism drawcards risk missing out on valuable income.

A new international study has found that wine tourism remains a profitable and expanding part of the global wine industry, with 65% of wineries reporting positive returns and more than half planning to invest further, trade news hub drinks business reported this week.

Wine tourism continues to prove a strong revenue driver for producers worldwide, with 65% of wineries describing it as profitable or very profitable, according to a new study by Geisenheim University in collaboration with UN Tourism, the OIV, the Great Wine Capitals Global Network and WineTourism.com.

The Global Wine Tourism Report 2025, based on responses from 1,310 wineries across 47 countries, found that 88% currently offer some form of wine tourism activity, most commonly tastings (79%), cellar tours (68%) and vineyard tours (61%). 

The report records a median of 1,500 visitors per winery each year, with domestic tourists making up 65% of total visitors. 

While most wineries report stable or rising visitor numbers, 43% of European producers saw growth over the past year compared to 28% of those overseas.

The largest visitor segment is aged 45–65 (82%), followed by 25–44 (59%), while only 2% of wineries report guests under 25, suggesting ongoing challenges in engaging younger audiences.

More than half of wineries surveyed (51%) plan to invest further in wine tourism, and 73% expect their wine tourism activities to grow in the future. The study also found that 78% of wineries collaborate with other organisations to enhance experiences.

In my experience, producers in South Africa and Argentina are among those most proactive with tourists.  

Wine tourism contributes an average of 25% of total winery revenue, rising to 32% in non-European wineries. Key challenges identified include economic pressures (51%), decreasing consumption (51%), and changing consumer preferences (40%).

Overall, 68% of wineries believe wine tourism will grow in their region, and more than 60% see it as a valuable tool in times of crisis.

The report says wine tourism “plays a key role in diversifying rural economies, creating jobs, and supporting local communities”. 

And, of course, there are the financial benefits of sales direct to customers. 

Image; Solms Delta Wines in Franschhoek, South Africa, will offer wine tastings, live music, and an on-site museum in 2026, and is planning to reopen its Fyndraai Restaurant.

Bali bliss; how to get away from it all in real style

"Hey hey, you can't go back" - Patti Scialfa

There are so many places that I have yet to visit that I rarely return to destinations, even top-notch ones that I have thoroughly enjoyed.

The Damai, a little sanctuary of serenity in Bali, is a firm exception to that rule. Think exclusive, remote, and stylish. And definitely return worthy.

Tucked away in the hills above Bali's northern beaches, The Damai is a privately owned bijou resort where the air is clean, the sky clear and the sounds muted, except, sometimes, for the local frogs.

The Damai sits in the lush green hills above sleepy Lovina. 

There are just 14 beautifully appointed villas in lush tropical gardens with stunning views over the North Bali coast and the distant volcanoes of Java. 

The award-winning poolside restaurant serves delicious local and international cuisine with organic ingredients from the resort's own gardens and farm. 

The Damai is a perfect spot to relax from the hectic world outside; to enjoy the private luxury of a pool villa or simply to relax in your private pool after a massage. 

With a few hours of arriving you will be zoned out, ready to start regenerating. 

There are plenty of activities on offer; a trip to one of the spectacular local waterfalls, perhaps, a boat ride out to swim with dolphins on one of the local fishing vessels, or maybe a vineyard tour, wine tasting and picnic at a local vineyard (yes, really!).

But my bet is that you will spend most of your stay in your pool, or reading a book, or having an al fresco treatment. 

 
Unlike many of Bali's top resorts, The Damai really is far away from the hustle and bustle.

You will find yourself far from the crowds, and close to the true heart of Bali, local people going about their daily lives. 

Maybe you will venture to a dance class in the village. Savour the scent of cloves in the breeze. Take a trek to a deserted temple or a secret waterfall. 

You are only a few hours from Kuta or Canggu, but in a very different world. 

After taking in the magnificent sunsets, the only sounds you are likely to hear are snatches of traditional music drifting from one of the small nearby villages, or perhaps a rooster crowing.

In addition to the marvellous pool villas, the lush greenery and superb food, the big strength of The Damai is its staff; the vast majority of them locals.

The service here is uniformly smiling and quietly efficient. Nothing is too much trouble whether you are enjoying a cocktail, taking a golf buggy trip from your villa to the main complex, or need help with a restaurant reservation at your next destination.

The Damai describes its style as "elegant simplicity". All the villas are surrounded by private gardens and you are unlikely to see any other guests unless you wish to.

The food is easy to enjoy. Simple brasserie dishes. Balinese classics. Tropical, local and good. Most evenings dinner is served by the poolside, by a roaring fire, under the stars, with view over the boats at sea, catching the fish for tomorrow's menu.

"We use organic ingredients wherever possible." staff tell me. "Many things we grow ourselves. Herbs and salads from our market garden. Honey from the Damai bees. Poultry, eggs and fresh coconut oil from our village. Fish from the local fishermen. Very few imports, and always of the best quality we can find."

In addition to the a la carte dinner menu there is always a three-course set menu of Balinese favourites.  And don't miss out on the cocktails - alcoholic or otherwise. They are splendid and potentially addictive. 

Breakfast features a choice of western or Balinese menus, but we began each day with fresh fruit platters and a shot of "jamu" - a local herbal elixir. 

You can then go traditional, or local, maybe with Mie Goreng, fried noodles with vegetables and chicken satés. 

Dinner is usually enjoyed al fresco next to the main pool. 

Think menu favourites like yellowfin tuna grilled bleu with ripe local mango, pickled raisins, sweet and sour soy vinaigrette with macadamia and oyster mushrooms, or poached village chicken with fresh zucchini, cucumber, dill oil, noodles and a touch of wasabi. 

Stay ultra regional with grilled local fish of the day, beurre blanc or spicy soy sauce, with pilaf rice and steamed local greens. 

Your villa will be just a 10-minute drive through the countryside - past local temples and farms - to the beach resort of Lovina.

The Damai Bali was recently nominated for the TOP25 Hotels Bali - World’s Best Luxury Hotels award: a pity as I would prefer it to remain undiscovered for just a little longer. 

It was praised for couples seeking a romantic honeymoon in an idyllic, private setting; travellers desiring a peaceful retreat with world-class amenities and attentive service, and for gastronomy enthusiasts eager to experience the culinary offerings. 

“We are honoured to be recognised among the world’s best luxury hotels,” said Damai GM Andres Rubio. 

“This nomination is a testament to our team's dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for every guest. We look forward to welcoming travellers from Bali, across Asia, and around the globe to discover the magic of The Damai.”

One note: Unless you are brave/foolish enough to drive yourself, you'll need to book a hotel transfer. You are a good 3-4 hours from Denpasar Airport, and it is an interesting, albeit slow, drive.

You can stop along the way at Singarajah, Git Git Falls or in Ubud to break up the journey. 

The Damai: +62 877 888 41008, resort@thedamai.com. https://thedamai.com/

The writer was hosted by The Damai

Images: Winsor Dobbin 

An oasis in Bali's tourism epicentre

Whether you plan on partying, surfing or spending some time in the pool with the kids. Pullman Bali Legian Beach has a major drawcard: its location.

Midway between Kuta and Seminyak, and situated right across the road from one of Bali's most popular surfing beaches, this is an ideal base for lovers of bustling international hotels.

All the local attractions are within a short stroll, whether you want to walk along the beach, visit myriad restaurants and bars, have a massage, a mani/pedi, drink cocktails, visit a market, get a tattoo, drink at a beach club or maybe see a drag show.

Or alternatively there's enough activities on site for the whole family that you could stay on site and stay busy all week.

There are a variety of room styles on offer and we were lucky enough to spend one night in a Premium Deluxe Ocean View room (below), and the second in a spacious and very quiet Exclusive Family Room.

This is a big hotel - offering terrific variety. 

There are 378 rooms and suites, each with the possibility of overlooking the gardens, pools or ocean. 

There is plenty of fresh air and sunlight no matter which room format you choose, and all rooms are  equipped with LED smart TV and cable channels, fast and free wifi, bathtubs and rainfall showers, yoga kits and safe deposit boxes.

There is a lot of greenery here; it is a little oasis from the hustle and bustle outside. Visit the hotel's own temple gardens, dine in the Montage all-day dining restaurant (with different global cuisines featured each night of the week), or dine from an on-trend food truck. 

Think Middle Eastern foods one night, seafood another, or Tastes of Asia, which we enjoyed. Not gourmet, but hearty. The relaxed resort vibe does sometimes extend to the service.

But if you need a late-night bite after being out partying, or a cosy breakfast in bed, there is 24-hour in-room dining.

Breakfast can be whatever you want from a buffet array of healthy options ranging from Japanese and Indian to western options. The egg station is quick and efficient and makes excellent omelettes. 

The al a carte all-day menu features Indian and Korean dishes, western favourites and local tastes like satay platters and bebek goreng (duck fried rice) 

There are three bars, an infinity pool, garden pool and kids pool, a well equipped gym with enthusiastic trainers, a kids club, even function rooms and a ballroom. 

Keeping guests’ wellness to the fore, the modern Tjakra7 Spa features hydro pools (below), steam room and sauna, along with a range of spa therapies. It is very impressive. 

There are bars serving cocktails, mocktails, beers and wines. Choose from L-Bar near the lobby area (which has late-night BOGOF happy hours), IP Bar at the rooftop Infinity Pool that offers great sunset views, and the relaxed Garden Bar. 

For those needing time before check in or after check out there is a lounge with computer screens and bathroom facilities. 

Kids will love the late-night movies shown open air in the gardens.  

What does the manager have to say? 

“Pullman Bali Legian Beach is a property which stands out amongst all the hotels and resorts in this legendary Kuta and Legian area," says GM Ravi Khubchandani. 

"As the home of business, casual meetings, and leisure, Pullman Bali Legian Beach is a primary choice to stay for many people that would like to enjoy the exalting life alongside the famous Legian Beach.”

See https://www.pullman-bali-legianbeach.com/ 

# The writer was hosted by Accor

On your bike: a new element to barge holidays

There is a growing trend towards active holidays and as Australians return to Europe in growing numbers, many are upgrading the classic barge cruise with a new twist: the bicycle.

Bike and Barge holidays, where travellers cycle each day and stay aboard a floating hotel each night, are surging in popularity, offering an active yet relaxed alternative to traditional river cruising.

The trend reflects a broader shift in the way Australians want to travel: slowing down, staying active, and experiencing Europe more intimately.

"It’s an effortless way to explore," says Kate Baker, general manager at UTracks, a specialist in small-group active holidays.

"You cycle as much or as little as you like during the day, then come home to a warm meal and your own cabin; no bags to move, no rushing around, just pure travel enjoyment."

On a typical Bike and Barge tour, travellers can cycle scenic paths through vineyards, farmland, and historic towns by day, and return to their barge, a cosy vessel carrying between 12-140 guests, each evening for relaxed communal meals and sunset drinks on deck.

With the same cabin each night, there’s no need to pack and unpack, and no long coach transfers interrupting the flow of the journey.

“More Australians are choosing to add this active element to their river cruise experience,” Baker says. “It’s a way to stay healthy on holiday, while also creating more memorable and personal encounters, whether that’s chatting with a local in a village square or stopping spontaneously at a market or café.”

With electric bikes available, the holidays are accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. Now you are talking!

Here are some suggested UTracks Bike and Barge options open for 2026 bookings.

The Danube by Bike & Barge
Cycle along the Danube River, discovering charming Austrian villages, grand riverside castles, and vibrant cultural hubs between Passau and Vienna. Gentle, scenic cycling routes lead to baroque abbeys, vineyards, and the historic heart of the Habsburg Empire.
https://www.utracks.com/Austria/Bike-Boat/The-Danube-by-Bike-Boat

Amsterdam to Bruges Bike & Barge
Journey through the Netherlands and Belgium, cycling past windmills, vibrant tulip fields (in season), and canal-laced cities. Each night, a comfortable barge awaits, docked near bustling market squares or picturesque waterways.
https://www.utracks.com/Netherlands/Bike-Boat/Amsterdam-to-Bruges-Bike-Barge-Comfort

Veneto Bike & Barge
Cycle through the stunning landscapes of Italy’s Veneto region, from the enchanting city of Venice along the canals and waterways of the Po River. The route offers a mix of Renaissance architecture, fantastic food and wine, and serene country trails.
https://www.utracks.com/Italy/Bike-Boat/Veneto-Bike-Boat

Provence Bike & Barge
Follow in the footsteps of great artists as you cycle through Provence’s lavender fields, vineyards, and historic villages. The route passes through the Rhône Valley, with opportunities to sample local wines and Provençal delicacies before returning to the comfort of your barge.
https://www.utracks.com/France/Bike-Boat/Provence-Bike-Boat

Tulip Tour Bike & Barge
Cycling through the tulip capital of the world while based on board a comfortable river barge. The journey takes in springtime highlights including the world's largest flower gardens of Keukenhof in Lisse, where plants such as hyacinths, crocuses and, of course, tulips will dazzle with their colour. 

https://www.utracks.com/Netherlands/Bike-Boat/Tulip-Tour-Bike-Barge-Comfort

Remote walking holidays make huge strides

Remote walking tours are booming as more travellers seek off-the-beaten-path experiences, one leading travel company is reporting. 

More Australians embracing active travel in Europe than ever before, UTracks has said, saying demand for immersive experiences in remote destinations is among their fastest-growing segments.

These journeys take travellers deep into some of Europe’s most remote landscapes, from Romania's dramatic peaks in Romania to Iceland's Nordic wilderness.

Albania is a trending destination, gaining attention for its rugged terrains and rich cultural history. 

The remote village of Theth, nestled in a stunning valley, provides access to some of the country’s most spectacular trails, including the renowned Peaks of the Balkans Trail. 

This multi-country guided hike weaves through Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo at elevations of up to 2,300 metres. 

“Travellers are increasingly drawn to destinations that offer a sense of discovery,” says Kate Baker, general manager of UTracks (www.utracks.com.au). 

“Places like Albania deliver that in spades, offering pristine nature, deep history, and warm local hospitality.

"With more people seeking out destinations that feel personal and unspoiled, our walks offer the perfect balance of exploration and cultural immersion.” 

UTracks offers a range of hiking experiences in wild and remote destinations, including: 

# Iceland: Footsteps of Thor https://www.utracks.com/Iceland/Guided-Walking/Iceland-Footsteps-of-Thor

# Poland Pieniny and Tatra Mountains Hike https://www.utracks.com/Poland/Alpine-Hiking/Poland-Pieniny-and-Tatra-Mountains-Hike

and 

# Transylvania Castles amd Mountains https://www.utracks.com/Romania/Self-Guided-Walking/Transylvania-Castles-Mountains 

Image: Walking in Albania 

Food festival aims to bring home the bacon

There is nothing like a good pun - and the folks behind Kingaroy's much-loved BaconFest are full of 'em.

Apparently it is when Kingaroy gets "piggy with it" for "another crackling instalment" of food fun.

Here's their news: "Bacon lovers are already sizzling with excitement with the news that the Kingaroy BaconFest is back on the local food festival menu for another year".

Set tantalise the taste buds of festival goers from August 16-18, the two-day festival will see celebrity chefs Alastair McLeod and Justine Schofield "bringing home the bacon" alongside Sunshine Coast foodie favourite Matt Golinski and long-time BaconFest ambassadors Dan and Steph Mulheron.

The program is, I am assured, brimming with mouth-watering swine-inspired food and drink, the annual bacon-eating competition, a smoke-off contest, and the Rasher’s Run through the South Burnett Rail Trail.

Early bird entry tickets for the festival are being released on June 12 with 30% discount on offer until June 30.

See https://www.kingaroybaconfest.com.au/

New rail trail embraced by cyclists, walkers and runners

Cyclists, walkers and runners have taken to the first stage of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail with huge enthusiasm.

Data released by Tweed Shire Council showed more than 70,500 people have used the first 24km section of the trail since its opening four months ago.

The first stage runs from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek and the project will eventually connect Murwillumbah to Casino.

The figures far exceed initial projections.

Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry said there had been significant interest in the opening success of the NRRT.

“I am really proud to confirm that since its opening on March 1, the Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail has welcomed approximately 70,550 people, which is an amazing achievement,” he said.

“Our Rail Trail is welcoming an average of 17,638 people per month, which is approximately 4,048 people per week or an average of 578 people per day.

“The original business case for the Tweed section of the NRRT referenced goals of 27,000 people per year. We have absolutely smashed that goal, attracting more than double the anticipated annual number of visitors in our first four months alone.

“We knew the Rail Trail would be extremely popular and there was a lot of interest in this facility but this has blown us away!

“With these impressive patronage numbers has also come confirmation that 87% of trail users have used an associated Rail Trail experience and spent money with a local business, whether it be one of the many cafés, restaurants, accommodation providers or bike-related businesses such as hire, shuttle or transport services.

“Many businesses along the Rail Trail have told us about their successes and we are continually working on trail improvements, addressing some of the impacts the popularity has had on the local villages.”

Surveys show 60% of Rail Trail users start their journey at the Murwillumbah Railway Station and more than 85% of users opt for round trips over a one-way journey.

The path features 26 bridges and two tunnels, including the 500m Burringbar Range tunnel that has micro bats and glow worms

For more info see northernriversrailtrail.com.au.