Five beautiful islands and five winter wonderlands for Aussies travellers this summer

By Evlin DuBose · · 3 min read
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Top image: Tahiti mountain at sunset, bottom image: Finnish Lapland northern lights.

Summer is coming for Australians, and it promises to be a hot one. So if you're keen to visit a tropical island to escape to a winter wonderland this season, it's great to know there are plenty of amazing options to love. After all, paradise can look hot or cold, no matter the season, and travel insurance applies to snow and oceanic adventures alike. 

So if you're keen to relax on a summer island or rug up for a winter wonderland this holiday travel season, here are ten magical vacation ideas for Aussies.

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1. Neuschwanstein, Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle, winter mountains.
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany.

When exquisitely dusted with snow, this majestic fairytale castle in the Bavarian alps is the stuff of romance. No wonder it inspired Disney’s iconic Sleeping Beauty castle.

Stroll across Marie’s Bridge (Marienbrücke), tour the gilded, palatial ceremony rooms, then pass through the cave-like Grotto’s misty, artificial waterfall into the observatory for the full experience.

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2. Mykonos, Greece

White lane on Mykonos.
Mykonos, Greece.

As one of the Mediterranean’s hottest destinations, Mykonos is unrivalled for beauty and culture. With its stark white architecture, deep blue Aegean waters, and thriving tourist attractions, new memories await around every corner. Beat the crowds by visiting from April to early June or between late September and October. 

Join a party boat, dance at one of the city’s many LGBTQIAP+ friendly clubs, and see if you find the best baklava in town. (Hint: locals reckon it’s at Il Forno di Gerasimo). Alternatively, chill at one of the island’s many peaceful beaches and museums.

3. Lapland, Finland

Northern lights over snowy forest in Lapland, Finland.
Levi, Lapland, Finland.

Known as the “Real North Pole”, Finland’s northernmost tip dwells within the Arctic Circle and breathes genuine winter magic. 

Whether it’s catching sight of the luminous Northern Lights, spending the night in an igloo, or snuggling in a sleigh pulled by reindeer, you’re bound to create a few special memories.

4. Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Indian Ocean

Palm tree on a beach in the Cocos Keeling Islands.
Cocos Keeling Islands, Australia.

Located off the coast of Western Australia, on the sapphire-blue Indian ocean, this idyllic atoll of untouched islands offers one of the best summer getaways. 

Canoe to uninhabited islands, snorkel the reefs, or try your luck with fishing or kitesurfing. Get amongst the vibrant culture of the Cocos Malay people before wandering down to the sunset beach for an evening sky you won’t forget.

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5. Trakošćan Castle, Croatia

Snowy lane leading up to a Croatian Trakoscan castle, surrounded by pine forest.
Trakošćan Castle, Croatia.

Located in the snowy north of Croatia, this mediaeval castle evokes haunting autumnal and winter atmospheres upon its lonely hill overlooking a lake.

Wander the free parklands or dine in the castle's luxury halls before heading to the baroque city of Varazdin for antique cobblestone streets, red-roofed palaces, and local culture.

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6. The Maldives, Pacific Ocean

Jetty and bungalow by a beach with palm trees in the Maldives.
The Maldives.

Winner of the World’s Leading Destination award for three years, the Maldives boasts pristine beaches and heavenly island getaways for all travellers. 

Stay in a resort for a luxury experience, or escape the crowds by booking your own little beach hut. Play traditional beach games with the locals and kit yourself out with authentic souvenirs. Dive among the wonderfully preserved, colourful coral reefs to see some Pacific legends up close.

7. Zürich, Switzerland

Snowy night Zuerich, Switzerland.
Zürich, Switzerland.

Sometimes Anglicised as “Zuerich”, this ancient Swiss city traces its snowy origins as far back as Roman times. 

Visit the Christmas markets and sled down snowy slopes, or explore the gothic streets while weaving in and out of luxury souvenir shops. Feeling brave? Challenge the local youth to a snowball fight (though prepare for a swift and decisive defeat).

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8. Tahiti, Pacific Ocean

Half blue evening half sunny sunset mountain and jetty of bungalows in Tahiti.
Bora Bora, Tahiti, French Polynesia.

A vacation classic, Tahiti still reigns as a gorgeous summer escape. 

If the ocean calls you, gear up for sailing, canoeing, blue dives, paragliding, or world-best surfing. Swing your legs off the veranda of an overwater bungalow, learn about the rich local Tahitian culture and their voyager Ma’ohi ancestors, and shop genuine Polynesian goods at the annual festivals and markets.

9. Shirakawa-gō, Japan

A-frame huts in Shirakawa, Japan. Snowy.
Shirakawa-gō, Japan.

Gingerbread traditional houses layered with snow: what more could you want? This remote, mountainous Japanese village embraces some pretty special traditions, most iconically the A-frame, thatch-roof gasshō-zukuri cottages which dot the valley.

Wander the scenic landscape alongside the River Shō, dine on local Japanese delicacies, or marvel at the winter light-ups on the weekend.

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10. Seychelles, Africa

Rock formation on sunset Seychelles beach.
Argent Beach, Seychelles.

Welcoming to the laid back and adventurous alike, there’s nothing quite like Seychelles's pristine, sea-scattered beauty.

Behold the mighty waterfalls, interact with unique African flora and fauna, and fly high with epic sky-diving. Trek up the jungles for breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean while dining on fine, fresh seafood. Curry and prawns are Christmastime favourites!

The Seychelles is one of the safest countries! What else tops Smartraveller's list?

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