Melbourne’s off-grid hidden gem that’s perfect for a winter adventure

In the world of travel, ‘hidden gem’ has perhaps become a bit of an overused expression. As social media can make places go viral instantly, it’s hard to find places that truly have the energy of being undiscovered.

Thankfully, there are still plenty of these places out there – if you know where to look. Especially here in Australia.

Now that it’s winter, with fewer people out and about, it’s high time to start exploring to find the best spots right in our own backyard.

AllTrails has curated a list of hidden-gem hikes across the country, revealing lesser-known trails from hidden caves of Western Australia to secluded waterfalls in New South Wales.

Most of them are short jaunts that shouldn’t take more than an hour, but reward you with epic views and untouched nature that are a far cry from the mainstream tourist sights we’re used to.

So pack up your backpack with snacks and water, and get out on the trails.

Burkes Lookout (Vic)

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The best Aussie 'hidden gem' places you may never have heard of

Often cited as one of the best hidden sunset (and sunrise!) spots for Melburnians, this lookout offers sweeping views across the Yarra Valley and Silvan Reservoir.

If you’re keen to take on an adventure to visit at sunrise for fewer crowds – pack a thermos of coffee and soak in the view from above. The hike is only about 800m return, with the carpark an hour’s drive from the CBD.

Rocky Pool via Schipp Road (WA)

Hidden in the Perth Hills, this trail leads to a secluded rock pool surrounded by granite boulders and native bushland. It’s a 5km loop through the Kalamanda National Park, with a freshwater swimming pool that you can dive into if you really need to cool off.

Otford Lookout via Bulgo Hill (NSW)

This coastal bushwalk hugs the edge of the Royal National Park just south of Sydney, passing through eucalypt forest and offering up epic ocean views down the rocky coastline.

This trail is a 10km segment of the famous Coast Track (pack snacks and plenty of water), but the elevation is still manageable.

Leliyn Trail to the Upper Pool (NT)

This horseshoe walk through Nitmiluk National Park takes you waterfalls and rock pools, where you can strip off and jump in to escape the Territory’s heat.

If you’ve got the energy, you can extend the loop and head to the best sunset spot. 

Connelly Cave (WA)

Tucked within Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, this two-hour coastal trail leads to Connelly Cave among rugged cliffs and ocean views. It starts at Conto Campground and winds through the heath and peppermint groves that line the southern WA shorelines.

Terrace Falls Loop (NSW)

Everyone knows the Blue Mountains region is full of incredible hikes, most of which involve a waterfall or two. But if you want to escape the crowds, this 4.3km loop is the perfect option.

Found near Hazelbrook, the circuit takes you past five falls, plus secluded swimming holes you can use for a cooling dip in the warmer months.

O’Donohue Track, Sherbrooke Falls and Sherbrooke Track Loop (VIC)

Embrace winter with this trail through cool-climate rainforest, where towering trees and massive ferns line the path. It’s about 2km, so a great way to get out in nature without having to tackle a strenuous hike. The trail also takes in Sherbrooke Falls.

Saddleback Track via East Track (VIC)

This 4.5km loop takes hikers through the You Yangs granite peaks and bushland, with wide views across the volcanic plains and out toward the coast at regular intervals. Keep your eyes peeled for the wallabies that are likely to bound across your path.

Trephina Gorge Walk Loop (NT)

A short loop near Alice Springs, the trail stays cool even in the heat as it winds past the creek bed down in the gorge. A ridge climb gives great views of the landscape and red rock cliffs, and if you’re lucky, you might see a black-footed rock wallaby.