Autumn in Australia, also known as fall, occurs between March and May in the Southern Hemisphere. During this time, the weather cools down, and the leaves of deciduous trees turn beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Autumn in Australia temperature can vary depending on the region and location. Generally, temperatures during the day can range from around 15-25 degrees Celsius (59-77 degrees Fahrenheit) in most regions, with some cooler temperatures in the evenings and early mornings.
However, it’s important to note that Australia is a large country with diverse climates and temperatures can vary greatly between regions. In some parts of Australia, particularly in the north, temperatures can remain quite warm even during the autumn months. It’s always a good idea to check the specific weather conditions of the region you’re planning to visit before your trip.
Why autumn is a great time to visit Australia?
Autumn is a fantastic time to visit Australia because the weather is pleasant and mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and sightseeing. Plus, autumn in Australia is also a great time for foodies, as it’s the harvest season for many fruits and vegetables, including apples, pears, and pumpkins.
There are many beautiful destinations to explore in Australia during autumn, from stunning national parks and coastal cities to charming small towns with picturesque autumn foliage. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the top places to visit in Australia in autumn, so you can start planning your trip today!
The best places to visit in autumn in Australia
I. Top destinations for autumn leaves
1. Yarra Valley, Victoria
Located just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, is a picturesque wine region known for its beautiful vineyards, charming villages, and stunning natural scenery. During autumn, the region is transformed into a kaleidoscope of colors, as the leaves of the grapevines, as well as the trees in the surrounding forests and parks, turn shades of red, orange, and gold. This makes Yarra Valley one of the most popular destinations in Australia for autumn foliage enthusiasts.
Activities to do during autumn in Yarra Valley
There are plenty of things to see and do in Yarra Valley during autumn. Visitors can take a leisurely drive through the region’s vineyards and forests, stopping at some of the many wineries and cellar doors to sample the local wines and enjoy the beautiful views. There are also many excellent restaurants and cafes in the region, offering a range of local and international cuisine, as well as artisan shops and galleries showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople. Other popular activities in Yarra Valley during autumn include hot air balloon rides, scenic bike rides, and visits to the region’s many parks and gardens, where visitors can enjoy picnics, bushwalks, and wildlife spotting.
Looking for accommodation? We recommend using booking.com and sorting with price, then consider the ones with the highest reviews plus within 1km of center/old town in order to be between all the actions.
For tours, I recommend using get your guide and walking tours available in most places
2. Bright, Victoria
Bright is a picturesque town located in the Alpine region of Victoria, approximately 3.5 hour’s drive from Melbourne. During autumn, the town is transformed into a colorful wonderland, as the leaves of the deciduous trees turn golden and red. The town is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges and stunning natural scenery, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Activities to do during autumn in Bright
There are plenty of activities to do in Bright during autumn, such as taking a scenic drive through the surrounding mountains, going on a hike to see the autumn foliage up close, or enjoying a relaxing picnic in one of the many parks and gardens. Visitors can also explore the town’s charming cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, or take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic Rail Trail. Don’t miss the bright autumn festival!
Best places to visit in autumn in Victoria
3. Mount Wilson, New South Wales
Mount Wilson is a small village located in the Blue Mountains region of New South Wales, approximately 2 hours drive from Sydney. During autumn, the village is covered in a stunning array of autumn colors, as the leaves of the many deciduous trees in the area turn shades of red, orange, and gold.
Activities to do during autumn in Mount Wilson
Visitors to Mount Wilson can enjoy a variety of activities during autumn, such as taking a leisurely stroll through the village to admire the beautiful autumn foliage, going on a bushwalk in the surrounding national park, or visiting some of the area’s historic gardens and estates, such as the famous Breenhold Gardens. Other popular activities include birdwatching, cycling, and horse riding. And that makes it the best place to see autumn leaves in NSW.
Apart from that, the towns and villages of the Southern Highlands may offer some autumn photo opportunities and Instagram-worthy travel and road trips too. Such as Bowral, Mittagong, Moss Vale, Burrawang, Robertson, or Exeter.
Autumn in Sydney
4. Hahndorf, South Australia
Hahndorf is a charming town located in the Adelaide Hills region of South Australia, approximately 30 minutes drive from Adelaide. During autumn, the town is transformed into a colorful paradise, as the leaves of the many trees lining the streets and surrounding hills turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Activities to do during autumn in Hahndorf
There are plenty of activities to do in Hahndorf during autumn, such as visiting some of the town’s many boutique shops and art galleries, sampling some of the local wine and food at one of the area’s many restaurants and cafes, or taking a leisurely stroll through the town’s beautiful parks and gardens. Other popular activities include cycling along the picturesque Amy Gillett Bikeway or hiking through the nearby Mount Lofty Ranges.
Read more here – Best areas to visit in autumn in Adelaide including Mount Lofty botanic garden and more plus Barossa Valley
5. Mount Field National Park, Tasmania
Located in Tasmania’s southeast, Mount Field National Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park is known for its stunning waterfalls, alpine lakes, and towering eucalyptus forests, which turn brilliant gold and red during autumn. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including wallabies, possums, and echidnas.
Activities to do during autumn in Mount Field National Park
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Mount Field National Park during autumn. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the park’s many walking trails, including the iconic Russell Falls circuit, which takes in some of the park’s most stunning waterfalls and forest scenery. For more experienced hikers, there are longer trails that lead up to the park’s alpine areas, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The park is also a popular spot for camping and picnics, with several campsites and picnic areas located throughout the park. Finally, visitors can enjoy the park’s many wildlife-watching opportunities, with plenty of opportunities to spot wallabies, possums, and other native species in their natural habitat.
6. Freycinet National Park, Tasmania
Freycinet National Park is a stunning wilderness area located on the east coast of Tasmania, approximately 2.5 hours drive from Hobart. During autumn, the park is covered in a stunning array of autumn colors, as the leaves of the many deciduous trees in the area turn shades of red, orange, and gold.
Activities to do during autumn in Freycinet National Park
Visitors to Freycinet National Park can enjoy a variety of activities during autumn, such as taking a hike to see the beautiful autumn foliage up close, exploring the park’s many secluded beaches and coves, or taking a boat tour to see the park’s abundant marine life. Other popular activities include birdwatching, fishing, and camping in one of the park’s many scenic campsites.
II. National parks to visit in autumn in Australia
1. Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is a stunning wilderness area located in Tasmania, known for its rugged mountains, ancient forests, and pristine lakes. During autumn, the park is transformed into a golden wonderland, as the leaves of the deciduous beech trees turn a rich shade of red and gold autumn colours. The cooler temperatures during this season also make it a great time for hiking and exploring the park’s many trails.
Activities to do in the national park during Autumn
There are many activities to enjoy in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park during autumn. Visitors can take a hike along one of the park’s many trails, including the famous Overland Track, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Wildlife spotting is also a popular activity, with the park being home to a range of animals, including wallabies, wombats, and Tasmanian devils. Visitors can also take a boat ride on the tranquil waters of Lake St Clair, or simply relax and take in the stunning scenery.
2. Grampians National Park, Victoria
Grampians National Park is a spectacular natural area located in Victoria, known for its rugged mountain ranges, stunning waterfalls, and ancient rock formations. During autumn, the park is ablaze with color, as the leaves of the park’s many eucalyptus trees turn a rich shade of red and gold. The cooler temperatures also make it a great time for exploring the park’s many hiking trails and scenic drives.
Activities to do in the national park during Autumn
There are many activities to enjoy in Grampians National Park during autumn. Visitors can take a hike along one of the park’s many trails, including the famous Grampians Peaks Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Wildlife spotting is also a popular activity, with the park being home to a range of animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, and emus. Visitors can also take a scenic road trip along the park’s many winding roads, or simply relax and take in the stunning scenery.
III. Coastal destinations in autumn in Australia
1. Sydney, New South Wales
Sydney, Australia’s largest city, is a great destination to visit during autumn. The city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, look even more stunning against the backdrop of the changing colors of the trees and foliage around the city. The weather during autumn is mild and pleasant, with plenty of sunshine and blue skies.
Activities to do in Sydney during autumn
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Sydney during autumn. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the city’s many beaches and coastal walks, such as the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, which offers stunning views of the ocean and cliffs. There are also many excellent restaurants and cafes in the city, offering a range of local and international cuisine, as well as artisan shops and galleries showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople. Other popular activities in Sydney during autumn include visiting the city’s many museums and cultural attractions, such as the Art Gallery of New South Wales and the Australian Museum.
2. Hobart, Tasmania
Hobart, Tasmania’s capital city, is a charming coastal destination that is particularly beautiful during autumn. The city is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including Mount Wellington and the Derwent River, which turn a brilliant red and gold during the season. The weather during autumn is also mild and pleasant, making it a great time to visit.
Activities to do in Hobart during autumn
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Hobart during autumn. Visitors can take a scenic drive up to the top of Mount Wellington, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. There are also many excellent restaurants and cafes in the city, offering a range of local and international cuisine, as well as artisan shops and galleries showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople. Other popular activities in Hobart during autumn include visiting the city’s many museums and cultural attractions, such as the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery.
3. Margaret River, Western Australia
Margaret River is a picturesque coastal town located in Western Australia, known for its stunning beaches, wineries, and natural beauty. During autumn, the town is bathed in a golden glow as the leaves of the vineyards turn vibrant red and gold. The weather during autumn is also mild and pleasant, with plenty of sunny days and cool evenings.
Activities to do in Margaret River during autumn
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Margaret River during autumn. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the region’s many wineries, which offer tastings and cellar-door experiences showcasing the best of the local wines. There are also many excellent restaurants and cafes in the town, offering a range of local and international cuisine, as well as artisan shops and galleries showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople. Other popular activities in Margaret River during autumn include visiting the town’s many natural attractions, such as the Cape to Cape Track, which offers stunning coastal views and walks through the local forests.
IV. Other destinations
1. Gold Coast, Queensland
Gold Coast is a popular tourist destination in Queensland, known for its stunning beaches, exciting nightlife, and lush hinterland. During autumn, the weather is mild and comfortable, making it a great time to enjoy the many outdoor activities that the Gold Coast has to offer. The foliage in the hinterland also changes to a beautiful golden hue during this time of year.
Activities to do in Gold Coast during autumn
There are many activities to enjoy on Gold Coast during autumn. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the hinterland, which offers stunning views of the changing foliage. Hiking and outdoor activities are also popular during this season, with many nature reserves and parks to explore. For those who enjoy the beach, the water is still warm enough for swimming, and the crowds are thinner than during the summer months. Additionally, the Gold Coast hosts several festivals and events during autumn, including the Gold Coast 600 motor racing event and the Blues on Broadbeach music festival.
2. Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory
Litchfield National Park is a beautiful wilderness area located in the Northern Territory, known for its stunning waterfalls, abundant wildlife, and ancient rock formations. While autumn is technically the dry season in the Northern Territory, the weather is still warm and comfortable, with cooler nights. This makes it a great time to explore the park’s many hiking trails and swimming holes.
Activities to do in the national park during Autumn
There are many activities to enjoy in Litchfield National Park during autumn. Visitors can take a hike along one of the park’s many trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Swimming in the park’s many crystal-clear waterholes is also a popular activity, with visitors often enjoying a refreshing dip in the cool water. Wildlife spotting is also a popular activity, with the park being home to a range of animals, including wallabies, kangaroos, and a variety of bird species. Additionally, visitors can take a scenic drive through the park, stopping to take in the stunning scenery along the way.
Conclusion
Recap of the best places to visit in autumn in Australia
Overall, Australia offers a wealth of destinations to explore during autumn. From the stunning foliage of the Yarra Valley and Mount Wilson to the rugged beauty of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and the Grampians, there is no shortage of stunning natural scenery to enjoy. The coastal cities of Sydney, Hobart, and the Gold Coast also offer plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy during the autumn months.
Final thoughts and recommendations
Whether you’re a nature lover or a city slicker, autumn is a great time to explore all that Australia has to offer. From hiking and outdoor activities to festivals and events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Recommend planning your trip in advance to ensure that you get the most out of your autumn adventure in Australia. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the beauty of Australia during this stunning season.
I hope this autumn in Australia 2023 is the happiest one for you!
best place to see autumn leaves in australia
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if you have any other questions on the best places to visit in autumn in Australia
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