Many people love to travel and visit places around the world, seeking adventures in the great outdoors. The U.S. has ten distinct ecosystems within its borders, making it one of the most ecologically diverse countries in the world. However, it came in second on a list ranking the Top Outdoorsy Destinations in the World. The number one spot was awarded to a country that may come as a surprise to some, but it shouldn’t.
The outdoor wear company KÜHL ranked Australia the top country in its Global Outdoor Destination Index. Australia ranks as one of the most comprehensive outdoor travel destinations, excelling across preservation, climate, and variety of activities. It is also at the top of the global rankings for environmental conservation. Before planning your next outdoor adventure, consider Australia.
According to the ranking, Australia leads the list not just because of the numbers but also because of the extensive coverage it provides across every category that matters for outdoor travel. The ranking stated that it’s the first globally in terms of nature preservation, boasting 12 UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites, 45% marine and coastal protected areas, and 22% of its land under protection. Travelers may start with a pre-dawn hike in the Blue Mountains and end watching the sunset behind a sandstone bluff in the Outback. Or drift underwater among coral shelves off the Queensland coast, then camp under stars that feel closer than most will ever see.
Australia’s strength is in balance, high livability, strong peace metrics, and an average temperature of 72°F (22°C), making it a destination where comfort and wilderness meet. It places in the global top 20 for both adventure opportunities and landscape richness. It is also a great place to hit the slopes during the summer months when it is winter in the southern hemisphere.
If you are unfamiliar with Australian skiing, there is skiing during the Northern Hemisphere’s summer. Australians naturally have their favorite ski resort, just like Americans, and each ski resort has its perks. There are eight major ski resorts in Australia: Perisher, Thredbo, Falls Creek, Buller, Hotham, Charlotte, Selwyn, and Baw Baw. When deciding which ski resort is best, breaking it down by the numbers may be the most straightforward approach.
If size matters, the title of biggest Australian resort goes hands down to Perisher. It offers more than twice the skiable area to the second-ranked Thredbo with 1,186 acres (480 hectares). Elevation also matters to skiers and snowboarders who want access to the most vertical. The Mt. Perisher 6 Chairlift opened to the public on Friday, June 27, ushering in a new chapter for Australia’s largest ski resort. The chairlift stands as Australia’s highest lifted point at 2,042 meters (6,699 feet). It is designed to reach the summit in approximately 5.5 minutes—44% faster than the previous double and triple chairs it replaces.
However, in terms of vertical, Thredbo beats Perisher with 672 meters (2,205 feet) of vertical. Buller and Hotham offer 400 meters (1,312 feet) and 395 meters (1,296 feet) vertical, while Perisher ranks fourth with only 355 meters (1,165 feet) of vertical.
When it comes to lift infrastructure, Perisher leads the way in Australia, with 48 lifts servicing the resort, providing a total capacity of 55,008 people per hour. In fact, Buller beats Thredbo in the number of ski lifts, with 20 lifts ahead of Thredbo’s 15. Perisher also leads the country in lift capacity with 53,990 skiers lifted per hour.
Australia’s top ranking as the world’s premier outdoor destination is well-deserved, thanks to its remarkable balance of natural beauty, environmental preservation, and year-round adventure opportunities. From its expansive protected lands and vibrant marine ecosystems to its world-class ski resorts and diverse landscapes, Australia offers something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re chasing powder in the Snowy Mountains, snorkeling vibrant coral reefs, or hiking through ancient rainforests, Australia proves that adventure and sustainability can go hand in hand. For travelers seeking a destination where nature thrives and exploration never ends, Australia should be at the top of the list.
Pictures of Wildlife in Australia During the Winter
