Sometimes a landscape doesn’t just pique your interest or simply whisper to your adventurous heart. Rather, it shouts at it: "Get here NOW! And bring the adventure kit." So, where are Australia’s top ten most inspiring adventure destinations that are just too hard to ignore? Here’s our pick of places and matching adventure activities that will leave you breathless and eager for more.

Known as a sailing and cocktail-swilling haven, the calm waters of the Whitsunday Islands off the coast of Queensland also offer quality sea kayaking experiences. There’s even an official kayaking trail – the Ngaro Sea Trail – that links some of the islands and the mainland into a paddling circuit. There’s some walking matched to the boating, with trails enjoyed at each white sand berth across Whitsunday, South Molle, and Hook Islands. Walk through open forests, grasslands, and rainforests. Climb rugged peaks or stroll along winding pathways. Then grab the paddle again and float over crystalline waters, catching glimpses of abundant sea life and perhaps plunging in for a refreshing swim after each paddle leg. The main route loops from Sandy Bay on South Molle, linking north to Hook Island and then all the way around Whitsunday, with an offshoot route tracking down the west coast of the latter. Camping is the accommodation of choice here.

Tasmania’s South West National Park is recognized as the most remote bush and mountain wilderness in Australia and hosts some of the most beautiful, if challenging, multi-day walks. Choose from the South West, Port Davey, Federation Peak, the Western Arthurs, or any number of shorter but no less impressive walking trails. Be prepared for slow going and to be self-sufficient – this is not a hosted hut-to-hut experience, like the Overland Trail to the north. Weather can be unpredictable year-round. However, the reward for effort is a true sense of being in an isolated wilderness, with big views from atop stunning ridgelines, and a sense of being amid a giant landscape that will leave you impressed.

The Mitta Mitta River in Gippsland, East Victoria, is often described as a classic snow-fed river, “rising quickly with the onset of spring and depending largely on the season’s snowpack.” This river is a paddler’s favorite and is frequently used by guiding companies as an entry-level trip. Successfully navigating the Mitta without screaming is a prerequisite before tackling more challenging rapids. Paddlers will be awestruck by the sight of the Mitta gorge walls, with soaring rock columns dubbed the ‘Faulty Towers’ marking the start of the serious rapids. There are fifty rapids on the most popular run, providing a thrilling experience. The Mitta is just one of many rivers in East Gippsland, including the Cobungra, Avon, Mitchell, Dargo, Genoa, and Snowy rivers. This region boasts the highest percentage of national and state park wilderness areas in Victoria, offering endless paddling options for all levels of experience.

The Jatbula Trail, located in Nitmiluk National Park, Northern Territory, offers a breathtaking 66km trek that follows the western edge of the Arnhem Land Escarpment. This trail traverses diverse landscapes, including sandstone plateau scrub, woodlands, open forest, sandstone monsoon forest, and riverine areas. Walkers journey through the stunning Katherine Gorge, past magnificent waterfalls, and enjoy panoramic views of the Seventeen Mile Valley. The trail follows an ancient Song Line or Dreaming Trail used by the Jawoyn people, connecting it to the Dreamtime creators. Typically completed in five days, trekkers can expect to cover between 10 to 17km per day. The walk is less heavily signed than many other trails in Australia, so it is essential to be well-prepared with detailed maps or consider using a guided tour option for a safer and more informative experience.

The Arapiles in Victoria and the Blue Mountains in NSW are often the focus of the climber community's attention and are considered the cultural heartlands of rock climbing. However, many top climbers will tell you that the Grampians, also in Victoria, is actually the premier destination to harness up. According to experts, this granite region offers more climbing routes than any other place in Australia, spread across a vast yet easily accessible National Park. The dramatic mountain ranges and rock faces within the Grampians provide spectacular climbing opportunities. Popular climbs include The Gallery, Van Diemen’s Land, and the ever-popular Summer Day Valley. For those tackling bigger climbs, Taipan Wall is a must-try. Independent climbers will need a car to navigate the area, and there are plenty of camping spots to base yourself from if you prefer to stay outside the central village of Halls Gap. Alternatively, you can connect with one of the local climbing guides for a more structured experience. The Grampians' combination of varied routes, stunning scenery, and accessible camping makes it an unparalleled climbing destination.

Ensure that you are well prepared for these destinations with all the right hiking gear from Camping Australia.