Darwin is surrounded by fascinating places – full of natural beauty, townships and all the colour and quirkiness for which the Northern Territory is famous for. Next time you get the chance, you should check out these gorgeous places for the weekend.
Adelaide River
This small township is full of historical sites to explore, but the real star here are the enormous saltwater crocodiles. This is one of the best places to see these magnificent beasts in their natural habitat – the Adelaide River Queen tour lets you see “jumping crocs” in an exciting and hair-raising display of brute strength and reptile cunning. There are plenty of local restaurants that will happily serve you some croc and barramundi for dinner as well.
Tiwi Islands
100 kilometres out to sea off the coast of Darwin, you will find Bathurst and Melville Islands, collectively known as the Tiwi Islands. Nicknamed the “Island of Smiles” the Tiwi people are famous for their art, which is sold all over the world. Learn some traditional indigenous arts and crafts while you’re here and take in the unique culture of this special place. Stay overnight in a beachfront lodge and wake up in paradise.
Howard Springs
Just half an hour out of Darwin is the picturesque haven of Howard Springs. There’s a Barramundi Fishing Park here, featuring a billabong stocked with thousands of fish, guaranteeing even the most novice angler a “Catch of the Day” with delicious results. You can take a dip in the peaceful spring-fed swimming pool that gives the area its name, just the thing to cool down on a hot day.
Litchfield National Park
There are a wide range of walks to enjoy from the 1.6km Wangi Falls stroll to an adventurous 39 km circuit along the Tabletop track, all offering pristine views of spectacular landscapes found nowhere else in the world. Majestic limestone pillars and giant termite mounds are just some of the fascinating natural wonders on display here. Also worth a visit is the Batchelor Butterfly Farm, which, in addition to beautiful butterflies, has an extensive petting zoo younger travellers will love.
