The Awards are determined by Wotif data which looks into accommodation affordability, quality, and traveller satisfaction and pulls out Aussies’ top 10 towns.
Two beautiful and thriving regional Victorian locations have been recognised amongst Australia’s best travel destinations for this year, as part of travel website Wotif‘s 2023 Aussie Town of the Year Awards.
Injecting a sense of pride within Victoria, VIC’s Ballarat and Echuca have secured fifth and tenth place respectively on the list of top travel destinations around the country.
2023 Wotif Aussie Town of the Year Award winners:
1. Albury, NSW
2. Bundaberg, QLD
3. New Norfolk, TAS
4. Port Lincoln, SA
5. Ballarat, VIC
6. Merimbula, NSW
7. Toowoomba, QLD
8. Dunsborough, WA
9. Orange, NSW
10. Echuca, VIC
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
Now in its sixth year, the Wotif Aussie Town of the Year Awards recognise trending Aussie destinations for the year ahead and is based on a Wotif data index that looks at accommodation affordability, quality, and traveller satisfaction. Using reviews and price points on its site Wotif has condensed its findings into the top 10 towns in Australia.
Putting the spotlight on destinations that have met the continuously changing needs of travellers over the last 12 months, the top towns reflect the current trends amongst Aussie travellers, who are carving out their own long weekends on the calendar, opting for shorter, more frequent domestic trips.
Taking out the top spot in the awards, the crown returns to New South Wales, as Albury claims this year’s win, proving the border town has become far more than a pit-stop destination. Bundaberg, Queensland, and New Norfolk, Tasmania round out the top three.
Coming in at number five, regional favourite Ballarat is a worthy addition to the list. The largest city of the Central Highlands, Ballarat’s appeal lies in its natural surrounds, heritage and modern culinary scene. Wandering along the laneways, you’ll find countless cafes, restaurants and bars with clever menus offering local produce and tasty brews. Wotif accommodation tip places The Provincial Boutique as a must-stay for your next trip.
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A little further North, Echuca is the other Victorian to take out a top spot. Known for its river, port and paddle steamers, Echuca’s highlights include an amazing culinary scene, unique accommodation and great events, including the Winter Blues and Moama Lights. Following a challenging summer in The Murray which saw Echuca impacted by floods, its array of resilient tourism operators — from wineries to hotels and restaurants to museums — are well and truly open for business, ready to
welcome visitors with open arms. Wotif accommodation tip: Quest Echuca
The awards come as 46% of Aussies plan to travel in April to take advantage of the public and school holidays. Three-day-stays prove to be the new sweet spot for domestic holidays, with demand on Wotif growing by more than 30% in 2022, compared to 2021.
“By all accounts, Aussies remain committed to travelling locally in 2023,” says Wotif Managing Director, Daniel Finch.
“While cost considerations are top of mind for everyone this year, it’s clear travellers are not deterred and instead are prioritising accessible, experience-rich getaways. We know 29% of Aussies are open to travelling to new destinations this year to keep costs down*, and we hope by spotlighting these deserving destinations, all of which are extremely accessible, the awards inspire Aussies to explore and connect with regional destinations beyond the typical tried and tested.”
Looking to the year ahead, almost half of Aussies (49%) plan to take short trips of up to 3 nights, with many wanting to explore their own state. 44% of Aussies simply prefer short weekend trips, while another 44% are making this decision for financial reasons, as the rising cost of living impedes household budgets.
You can find out more information or start planning your trip via the Wotif website.
