Before the pandemic hit, 9.4 million international visitors came to Australia in 2019 to see the sights. This is a huge sign that our continent has many splendours to see, and it's all right here, practically in your backyard. You've just been taking it all for granted!

Of course, many activities are best done in the summer, but that doesn't mean you can't have great winter holidays. In fact, there are many gems you've probably overlooked. Better yet, it's best to travel off-peak, so it's a win-win situation.

So don't spend another winter cooped up. Keep reading for some fantastic ideas for winter getaways in Australia...

Follow the Sun

The beauty of Australia is even in the winter, temperatures won't drop too much. Plus, the sun can still be out in full strength, but not make it blistering hot. This means you can follow the sun and visit areas that are usually swarming with tourists.

For example, you can book a holiday out in the Whitsundays, where the maximum winter temperatures average 24-25 degrees and have the lowest rainfall as well. You'll be able to spend a lazy afternoon lying out on the beach in peace.

Not only will there be smaller crowds, but you'll also enjoy great discounts for boat tours. And if you go after June, you can even spot some whales!

Do note that although it's wintertime, you'll still need to apply sunscreen. UV rays penetrate clouds, so even if it's grey out, you'll need adequate protection.

Have a Ski Holiday

Yes, we get snow in Australia, so what better way to spend your winter holiday than to hit the slopes?

There are 2 destinations you can choose here: the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales or Victoria's alpine High Country. It's really up to you which one you'd like to explore (perhaps even both?).

Do note that the Snowy Mountains are the tallest mountain range in all of Australia. So if you're up for a challenge, that's where to go!

Go Diving

A major advantage of Australian waters is they're warm all year long, so don't put away your scuba diving gear just yet. In the winter, you can still go diving, especially if you head to Port Douglas in Queensland.

Here, you'll have outstanding access to the Great Barrier Reef, where you can spend hours getting lost in its wonders. And when you're back on land, you can trek through the Daintree Rainforest, which is over 140 million years old!

Go Hiking

Another place that gets snow in the winter is Tasmania. If you enjoy its scenery in the summer, then you'll surely appreciate it come wintertime, as it'll be transformed into a winter wonderland.

There are plenty of areas to hike in Tasmania where you'll get to breathe in the fresh air and gaze upon gorgeous frozen lakes. You can try The Three Capes Track, which takes you along the coast. Or visit the frozen Lake St Clair - nestled within the same National Park as the famous Cradle Mountain!

What's great is you can stand around and take as many pictures as you want without annoying crowds of tourists. Tasmania experiences an off-peak season during the winter so fewer people flock here, which will give you a more peaceful feel.

Relax at Hot Springs

The winter holidays is a good time to treat yourself to a hot spring or spa. 

You'll have several options to choose from depending on whereabouts in the country you are. There's Dalhousie Springs in South Australia, Peninsula Hot Springs in Victoria, Bitter Springs in the Northern Territory, and Talaroo Hot Springs in Queensland.

No matter where you go, you'll get to melt all your stresses and worries right away while taking in what Mother Nature has to offer.

Many of these hot springs are also located in national parks, so you can also fit in some days of exploring while you're there.

Dine Al Fresco

It can often be too hot to eat outside in Australia, but dining al fresco is one of the best things to do during winter.

For instance, head to Broome in Western Australia. In this charming coastal town, there's a wide range of excellent restaurants where you can admire the soft sand and blue skies while you scarf down a plate of hot and delicious food.

Slurp down some oysters at Sydney Cove Oyster Bar (in Cable Beach, not Sydney) or share some modern Australian-Asian fusion platters at The Aarli. Or make a reservation at Cichetti Club for some upscale Italian food.

The weather here is as hot as summertime, so if you're finding the rest of Australia too cold, Broome is the perfect winter getaway spot.

Visit Vineyards

If you love to drink wine, then you'll have a fabulous time visiting the various vineyards in Australia.

One can't-miss spot is the Hunter Valley in NSW. This is the country's oldest wine region; the first vineyards were planted all the way back in the 1830s.

Spending a day or two in Hunter Valley can be a treat, as there are over 150 cellar doors. Not only are there plenty of award-winning vineyards you can sip wine at, but there are also lots of excellent restaurants and outdoor activities to try, such as horse riding in the sunset.

Enjoy Your Winter Holidays in Australia

Winter holidays in Australia can offer amazing experiences. Not only will you escape the normal sweltering heat in the summer, but you'll get a newfound appreciation of what this large nation has to offer.

And because tourists usually come during the summer, you won't have to contend with large, stifling crowds - you'll be able to truly relax and enjoy yourself.

No matter where you go for your Australian winter vacation, you need to protect not just your skin, but also the environment. Take a look at our sun care products now so you can be prepared.