There’s something about autumn in Australia; it’s like the country exhales after summer’s intensity. The air gets crisper, the mozzies ease off (thank goodness), and the landscapes? Absolutely glowing. If you’re itching for a getaway that hits the reset button, we’ve rounded up five local favourites across five states. Think golden treetops, warm country bakeries, and wide-open trails. Let’s get out there.
5 Things to Do in Australia’s Autumn
Victoria
Come March, the town of Bright becomes a canvas of gold, crimson, and amber. This High Country gem earns its name in autumn when the surrounding valleys burst into colour. Take a slow drive along the Great Alpine Road or wander through town with a hot coffee in hand as every corner feels like a postcard. The Ovens River offers the perfect backdrop for a picnic, and if you’re up for a little adventure, hire bikes and ride the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail. For something special, time your visit with the Bright Autumn Festival in late April, where you can find local markets, open gardens, and that small-town charm you can’t fake.
South Australia
Just 30 minutes from the city, the Adelaide Hills are all about cool air, crunchy leaves, and long lunches. Autumn is when the region really comes to life, with long winding roads lined with turning vines, orchard rows heavy with apples, and wood fires flickering inside cellar doors. Start in Hahndorf, where the German heritage runs deep (and so do the strudels), then make your way through Stirling and Mount Lofty for those sweeping valley views. From late March to early May, the towns are aglow with golden trees, and the cooler evenings make it perfect for wine tasting. Don’t leave without stopping at a fresh, local, and deliciously honest roadside produce stall.
Tasmania
There’s something quietly spellbinding about Cradle Mountain in autumn. As the days grow cooler, the landscape transforms—especially when the Fagus, Tasmania’s only native deciduous tree, begins to turn. From mid-April, its golden leaves set the alpine slopes alight in a show you won’t see anywhere else in the country. Wander the Dove Lake Circuit for an easy loop through ancient rainforest and mirrored waters, or take on Marion’s Lookout for panoramic views dusted in gold. When dusk falls, the chill sets in—perfect for bunkering down beside a crackling fire. And if you’re lucky? You might spot a wombat or two ambling through the mist.
Western Australia
Autumn in WA’s Margaret River is soft glows, empty beaches, and full-bodied reds. The summer crowds head home, but the vineyards, trails, and waves are still calling. Spend your days hopping between cellar doors and your evenings chasing sunsets along the coast from Surfers Point to Sugarloaf Rock; the colours of the sky will rival any autumn tree. This is also prime time for walking the Cape to Cape Track in sections, as the cooler weather kicks in and there are no flies, just you and that salty breeze. If you’re staying the weekend, stop by the farmers markets in Margaret River or Busselton for your picnic stash. The region really comes into its own this time of year.
New South Wales
There’s a hush that falls over the Southern Highlands in autumn, a calming stillness that feels like an exhale. The towns of Bowral, Berrima, and Mittagong are scattered with heritage buildings, boutique shops, and tree-lined streets glowing with fiery foliage from March through May. Lose track of time in the gardens of Corbett Gardens or Everglades House, and when the temperature dips, duck into a café for a spiced chai or a warm apple tart. Antique stores, country pubs, and local bookshops make for a dreamy, slow weekend. And just nearby? Fitzroy Falls, roaring after the summer rains, framed by mist and moss.
Autumn might bring cooler weather, but don’t let it fool you; mosquitoes and sandflies don’t pack up and leave just because the leaves are falling. In fact, with so many of the best spots tucked deep in nature, it’s the perfect time to stay protected. Whether you’re wandering through misty trails, camping by a still lake, or chasing waterfalls off the beaten path, a little prep goes a long way. Our naturally powerful range means you can focus on soaking up the scenery, not scratching at bites.
So wherever this season takes you, make the most of it. Australia puts on quite the show in autumn, with crisp air, golden light, and landscapes just begging to be explored. At The Locals, we’re proud to help you enjoy every moment, itch-free and fully present.
