REGION: The Top End

The city of Darwin is the gateway to the Top End and a cultural destination in its own right. Its surrounding districts and towns have much to offer the traveller. Visitors invariably rave about the city’s bustling markets, its gorgeous harbour, memorable sunsets, spirited nightlife and welcoming locals.

There are a number of attractions within easy reach of Darwin, perfect for laid back excursions not requiring too much of a drive. Half an hour south of Darwin, the Berry Springs Nature Park is a popular recreational area for locals. The bubbling springs and their network of pools provide a rejuvenating fresh-water swimming experience.

Even closer to Darwin, swimmers can splash around with huge barramundi at the Howard Springs Nature Park.

Further south along the Stuart Highway, turn off at Bachelor for Litchfield National Park - a great place to see stunning waterfalls, incredible termite mounds and cool off with a dip in one of its famous rock pools.

Dundee Beach and Mandorah Beach boast huge stretches of sandy shoreline, perfect for long walks and keen fishermen.