The top spots for a winter weekender in 2023 have been revealed with many Aussies choosing to escape the cold down south.
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Queensland coastal city Cairns topped the list ahead of NSW's Tweed Heads and Fremantle in WA.
The new data from travel site Wotif analysed the availability of accommodation, value and traveller interest to determine the top locations for a holiday this winter.
With temperatures dropping and rain arriving in the first week of June it's little surprise Aussies are looking north for a winter escape.
Cairns' tropical climate is just one drawcard, it also offers great access to the Great Barrier Reef during the May to October peak season.
Not all destinations offer a warm escape with Aussies also seeking out culture and art from regional cities such as Bendigo and Canberra.
The top ten according to Wotif are:
- Cairns, QLD
- Tweed Heads, NSW
- Fremantle, WA
- Airlie Beach, QLD
- Darwin, NT
- Bendigo, VIC
- Launceston, TAS
- Lakes Entrance, VIC
- Canberra, ACT
- Albury, NSW
Winter escape comes with a discount
Winter is often a cheaper time to travel to areas in the off-peak season.
According to Wotif accommodation rates on the NSW South Coast can be 40 per cent cheaper than in summer.
IN OTHER NEWS:
A stay on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula may be 30 per cent less expensive and in Queensland the Fraser Coast and Sunshine Coast are also close to 30 per cent cheaper.
"Whether you're looking to chase the sun or embrace the chill, there are plenty of options within Australia," Wotif managing director Daniel Finch said.
"As a nation of summer lovers, winter is a smart time to be holidaying in Australia with accommodation rates generally cheaper at this time of year."
He said Aussies are being savvy about their winter travel.
"Many are preferencing three to four-star accommodation which not only helps travellers stay within a budget, while still providing some excellent facilities and amenities, but may also mean travellers can upgrade to a better room type, providing even better value."
