The Southern Sky

Australia is a vast and sparsely populated nation with boundless expanses and a host of remote locations to admire the night sky above. Away from the competing glare of city lights, crystal clear skies ablaze with constellations and distant galaxies preside over incredible nocturnal landscapes.

At Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, in the Northern Territory, stargazers can witness the Southern Hemisphere sky at its most brilliant, especially during the cooler months when there is less heat haze in the atmosphere. During this time the Milky Way’s dusty band is visible across each horizon – a rare and breathtaking sight.

At Longitude 131°, Table 131° is the perfect way to end a day of discovery in the Red Centre. Dine out on hearty outback fare and discover the wonders of the night sky.  Arrive to the mesmerising sounds of an ancient culture and enjoy four courses complemented with the finest Australian wines. After dinner, marvel at the theatre above as Longitude’s resident astronomer shares tales of the Southerly constellations.

The outback of Queensland offers stargazers one of the clearest evening skies in the world. In the state’s north, Crystalbrook Lodge, part of the sprawling 85,000 acre Crystalbrook Station, provides an authentic outback experience to just ten privileged guests at a time. 180km west of Cairns, the unique and utterly remote location of this luxury lodge offers visitors some of Australia’s best stargazing surrounded by the ambient sounds of local wildlife.

Despite a closer proximity to the hustle and bustle of the city, the pristine skies over the Blue Mountains a short drive from Sydney, closely resemble the conditions found in the Australian outback. During clear moonless nights the Milky Way galaxy and the two satellite galaxies, the Magellan clouds, are visible.

Emirates One & Only Wolgan Valley in the Blue Mountains offers stargazing in combination with a nocturnal wildlife tour. Heading out in a 4WD touring vehicle, the tour provides a memorable opportunity to observe some of Australia’s native wildlife at its most active. As the sun goes down, many small birds and mammals emerge from their burrows, nests, tree hollows and dens to start foraging. On a clear night, this activity includes an informative tour of the Australian night sky. The remote nature of the reserve provides a spectacular opportunity to experience the southern sky. Your guide will share some interesting scientific insights into visible planets, stars and the nearest neighbouring galaxies, as well as a combination of mythology and star lore from around the world.

Tasmania offers one of the best natural shows on Earth, the phenomenon of Aurora australis, which can be seen all year round. The spectacle is best viewed in remote locations however if you don’t catch these pastel lights, you’ll still be rewarded with a sparkling sky from most parts of the island.

On a clear night, you can walk through the streets of Hobart and look up at more stars than you'd see in many secluded regions in the world thanks to a combination of limited ambient light, paired with some of the cleanest air in the world.

Another prime stargazing spot is Coles Bay, a short drive from Saffire Freycinet on Tasmania’s East coast. Witness ancient constellations against the rugged backdrop of the Hazards mountain range.

Please contact us to bespoke your walking holiday in Australia. Email: travel@onlyluxe.com.au