Plan Your Warm Winter Escapes in Queensland, Northern Territory, and New South Wales

Uncover the most popular winter trips across Australia

When the southern states shiver through winter, the northern half of Australia comes alive. With dry, sunny days, clear skies, and fewer crowds, winter is actually the best time of year to explore many parts of Queensland, the NT, and inland NSW. Whether you’re craving natural wonders, cultural history, or country town charm, there’s a warm winter escape waiting — and Southern Cross Motel Group provides comfortable accommodation along the way.

1. Cairns & Tropical North Queensland

Why go:

Cairns is a launchpad to two of the world’s most incredible natural attractions: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Winter temperatures hover in the high 20s, and the dry season means perfect conditions for swimming, hiking, and boat tours.

What to do:

  • Snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef
  • Explore the lush Daintree via boardwalk or river cruise
  • Ride the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to Kuranda
  • Swim at Babinda Boulders or Josephine Falls

Where to stay:

While Southern Cross doesn’t have a motel in Cairns, travellers heading north by road can rest at the Windmill Motel & Events Centre in Mackay.

2. Tennant Creek, Northern Territory

Why go:

A true red-centre experience, Tennant Creek is bursting with Indigenous culture, dramatic landscapes, and sun-filled winter days. It’s also one of the most peaceful places in Australia to watch the stars. You’ll find serenity beneath open skies and a real sense of connection to the land.

What to do:

  • Witness the massive boulders of Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles
  • Learn history and culture at Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre
  • Enjoy bush sunsets and outback silence

Stay at:

Outback Caravan Park and Cabins — a well-shaded, comfortable spot for campers, road trippers and explorers alike. The park offers powered sites, cabins and a peaceful night’s sleep after a day under the outback sun.

Warm winter escapes - Koala hugging tree in Australia bush

3. Gunnedah, New South Wales

Why go:

Known as the Koala Capital of the World, Gunnedah in inland NSW is a perfect winter getaway for wildlife lovers, families, and those after crisp days and country warmth. You’ll encounter gumtree-dotted landscapes and a relaxed pace that’s pure Australiana.

What to do:

  • Spot wild koalas at Koala Park or along bushwalking trails
  • Hike to Pensioners Hill Lookout for panoramic views
  • Experience Indigenous culture at the Porcupine Reserve

Stay at:

Gunnedah Lodge Motel — your cosy, central base with everything you need for a restful country night. With well-appointed rooms and friendly hosts, it’s perfect for couples or families.

4. Narrabri, New South Wales

Why go:

This little-known gem is a stargazer’s paradise. With low humidity and open skies, Narrabri is ideal for winter bushwalks, hot springs, and deep space discoveries. You’ll also find rich agricultural history and community spirit.

What to do:

  • Visit the Australia Telescope Compact Array
  • Bathe in the warm waters of Pilliga Artesian Bore Baths
  • Bushwalk in Pilliga Nature Reserve
  • Try local eats at Watson’s Kitchen or Narrabri Fish Farm

Stay at:

Adelong Motel – a quaint but modern motel, close to local bars, restaurants, banks and shops in town.

5. Cloncurry, Queensland

Why go:

Often dubbed one of the friendliest towns in the Outback, Cloncurry serves up warm days, rich history, and rugged beauty during the winter season. The town is steeped in aviation and mining heritage.

What to do:

  • Visit John Flynn Place Museum (founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service)
  • Walk the Chinaman Creek Dam Track
  • Discover regional mining history at Mary Kathleen Mine ruins

Stay at:

Gidgee Inn — modern comforts in the heart of the true outback. Spacious rooms and on-site dining at Buddy Boy Kitchen Cloncurry make it a standout.

Mary Kathleen Mines crystal blue waters

6. Charters Towers, Queensland

Why go:

Step back into the 1800s in this historic gold rush town, which still sparkles with charm. In winter, Charters Towers shines with cool mornings and bright days for exploration. It’s an atmospheric hub for history lovers.

What to do:

  • Explore the heritage-listed Venus Gold Battery
  • Visit the Zara Clark Museum
  • Hike Tower Hill Lookout for epic sunsets

Stay at:

Cattleman’s Rest Motor Inn — enjoy hearty country meals and restful rooms. It’s a reliable choice for road-trippers and heritage explorers alike.

7. Katherine, Northern Territory

Why go:

With highs around 30°C in winter and zero humidity, Katherine is the gateway to spectacular natural attractions, including Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. It’s also a place of deep Aboriginal heritage and adventure.

What to do:

  • Cruise, paddle or hike through Nitmiluk Gorge
  • Soak in the Katherine Hot Springs
  • Visit Top Didj Cultural Experience for authentic Indigenous storytelling

Stay nearby:

While we don’t have a motel in Katherine, you can base your outback drive from Tennant Creek if you’re road tripping north.

8. St George, Queensland

Why go:

Sitting along the Balonne River, St George is a tranquil inland escape ideal for fishing, wine tasting and warm, lazy afternoons. It offers serenity and slow travel at its best.

What to do:

  • Sample local drops at Riversands Vineyards
  • Fish for Murray cod and yellowbelly on the river
  • Explore the Heritage Trail on foot or by bike

Stay at:

Balonne River Motor Inn — a clean, comfortable riverside stop with real country hospitality. Rooms are spacious and ideal for both short and extended stays.

Start planning your escape

Winter doesn’t have to mean cold toes and rainy days. In fact, it’s the best season to explore inland Australia, where the days are warm, the landscapes are glowing, and the experiences are unforgettable.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in Cairns, paddling through Katherine Gorge, or stargazing in Narrabri, Southern Cross Motel Group offers the ideal place to rest between adventures.

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