Nestled in the fertile Hunter Valley, Cessnock’s wine region is one of the oldest and most diverse in the world, making it a terrific destination for oenophiles. There are over 100 wineries in the area, and vineyard and cellar tours are among Cessnock’s most popular attractions. World-class golf courses, gourmet eateries, lush gardens and blissful spas round out the local appeal.

Bordering Australia’s New South Wales' coast, just north of Sydney, sunny-natured Newcastle is anchored in indigenous and convict history. Surfing beaches, hand-cut sea pools, a coastal fort, and contemporary bars skirt the city’s harbour, while museums, artisanal restaurants, and microbreweries lie at its heart.

City slickers, culture vultures and beach bums alike fall in love with Sydney. Hang ten at famed Bondi Beach or stroll the calmer sands of Coogee.  Cash burning a hole in your pocket? You’ll find great shopping in the Rocks district and along George and Pitt Streets. Climb to the top of the Harbour Bridge or take a skywalk on Sydney Tower for a 360-degree view of the city. But whatever you do, don’t leave town without cuddling the koalas in the Taronga Park Zoo—they’re ridiculously adorable.

With more than 50 runs served by 14 lifts, Thredbo is patterned after a European ski village, complete with shopping, nightlife and lodging. One hundred and sixty acres for all skill levels are featured, with Friday Flat for beginners. The longest runs in Australia are here too, including a two-mile run with a 2,200-foot vertical drop.

Lovely, laid-back Melbourne has something for everyone: family fare, local and international art, haute boutiques, multicultural dining, Australian and Aboriginal history, spectator sports, and pulsing, swanky nightlife. Cruise on the free City Circle Tram loop to check out unique attractions like the Royal Botanical Gardens and the Healesville Sanctuary, which buzzes with local animal species.

Perched on Tasmania’s southeastern coast, the lively city of Hobart is a unique mash-up of the 19th and 21st centuries. The waterfront cafes, restaurants and studios of the largest city in Tasmania are housed in centuries-old converted warehouses that overlook a harbour bustling with yachts and fishing boats. An active arts scene, vibrant nightlife and leisurely daytime pace add to the city’s charm.

Staggering beauty and heart-pumping thrills await in the resort town of Queenstown, which is also known for its Hobbits—much of the Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed in the area. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Queenstown for the kayaking, bungee jumping, jetboating, white-water rafting, hiking and skiing. More mild-mannered adventurers can take a quiet cruise through nearby Milford Sound, part of the Fjordland National Park World Heritage area, or sample South Island pinot noir from one of the region's 75 wineries.

Perched on the banks of the wide Swan River, between the Indian Ocean and the sands of the Nullarbour Desert, Perth is one of the world's most isolated cities, yet still boasts an active beach scene and smokin’ nightlife. Family-friendly Cottesloe is brimming with swimmers, surfers and snorkelers. Head north to Scarbourough for a spirited beachside club scene. Coo at cute marsupials on ferry-accessible Rottnest Island, and don’t miss the views from King's Park and Botanic Gardens.