Fremantle (Perth) - Auckland Set course for kangaroos, koalas and kiwis

Busselton in Western Australia combines history, idyllic nature and sporting challenges – a place that has something for everyone. The small city was founded in 1832 by John Garrett Bussell and experienced an economic upturn when the first pier was built in 1865. Busselton Jetty, one of the longest board walks in the world, has been extended several times, reaching its current length of 1,841 m (2,013 yards) in 1960. At the end of the jetty, there is an underwater observatory providing insights into the colourful world of tropical fish. Once a year, all eyes of the sporting world are on Busselton: Ironman Western Australia attracts the best athletes to compete against each other along the beautiful coastline and famous Busselton Jetty.

Albany, on the coast of Western Australia, greets its visitors with a long and eventful history. The natural harbour, one of the biggest and most beautiful in the region, was once the site of the first penal colony to be set up in Western Australia in 1826, known back then as Fredericks Town. Albany soon grew into an important trading town and later on became an important whaling centre. Today the city invites you to delve into its maritime past: the museum complex in the harbour has exciting stories to tell about the whaling industry, while excursion boats offer whale watching tours with the possibility of getting right up close to the giants of the seas.

With its picturesque setting and relaxed atmosphere, every visitor to Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island soon falls under its spell. Its origins as a European settlement give the town its historic charm – buildings like the old post office and cemetery have been well maintained. Penneshaw is particularly famous, however, for its rich native wildlife, such as the colony of penguins, which come back to land in the evenings after a day spent in the water and waddle back to their shelters. Nature and animal lovers will find this is the perfect place to take a walk and discover wild animals such as koalas, kangaroos, sea lions and seals.

Nestled between wine regions and natural beauties, Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, has a special charm of its own. Surrounded by the rolling hills of Barossa Valley, Clare Valley and McLaren Vale, well known for their robust vines and award-winning wines, attractive beaches like the Gulf Saint Vincent and Adelaide Hills are also impressive sights to behold. The relaxed attitude to life is reflected in expansive parks, appealing shopping streets and cosy street cafes. The lively pub, restaurant and art scene also offers a varied programme – an experience for all the senses.

Melbourne, one of the biggest cities in Australia, offers an impressively high quality of life – it regularly features amongst the top five best cities to live in the world. As the cultural capital of Australia, it hosts a colourful selection of events and festivals, including the famous Melbourne International Film Festival. Green retreats like the Royal Botanic Gardens, which opened in 1846, offer a moment of peace in the urban hustle and bustle. The lively food scene with countless restaurants and cafes makes Melbourne a culinary hotspot, while museums and galleries like the National Gallery of Victoria and the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art are inviting places to enjoy art and culture at the highest level.

The capital of the Australian state of New South Wales is home to around five million inhabitants. Founded in 1788 as the first British colony in Australia, Sydney has developed into a modern, vibrant metropolis. The iconic Opera House on the harbour is not only architecturally impressive, it is also a place where the focus is on culture and art. The Harbour Bridge offers a breathtaking view over the skyline, while Bondi Beach attracts surfers and those who want to soak up the sun. The district known as The Rocks provides insights into the colonial era, while Darling Harbour with its museums, restaurants and entertainment options shows off the modern side of Sydney.

Off the coast of Auckland lies Waiheke Island, a true paradise for nature lovers and connoisseurs alike. The island in the Hauraki Gulf is enchanting with its charming combination of friendly villages, idyllic scenery and a lively art and cultural scene. Beautiful beaches like Oneroa Beach and Onetangi Beach seem far removed from everyday life, while over 30 vineyards are a great place to try award-winning wines and immerse yourself in the lifestyle of the islanders. Art galleries, cosy restaurants and numerous hiking trails provide further opportunities to discover the many different sides of Waiheke Island.