Although it’s sometimes true that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, there are many places whose allure is simply undeniable – especially here in Australia. From hidden enclaves in the hinterland to modern metropolitan marvels, this country’s got plenty of beauty to go around. We’ve pulled together this list of destinations that are generating the most buzz online for their good looks. 

Toowoomba, Queensland

With a nickname like “Garden City”, it’s no surprise that Toowoomba is chockers with fascinating flora. What’s so impressive about gardens, you ask? The Japanese Gardens here have 230 species of trees and plants, and will turn any skeptic into a “budding” florist. Don’t miss the manicured grounds of Queens Park, then keep the theme going with a meal at Gip’s Restaurant, where you can dine in a garden that’s in a historic building. That’s a two-for-one deal.

Bright, Victoria

This town’s name is no coincidence. Bright is bursting with stunning scenery around every corner, especially in the autumn. The mountainous lookouts provide plenty of opportunities to take in the colours. A trip on the Rail Trail to Murray is a must-do, and includes a stop at the garden-side Rail Trail Café, which serves brekky all day long—hooray! For another of the best views in town, stop by Bright Brewery, where you can drink a beer while you drink in the amazing views of the parks, mountains, and river.

Mornington Peninsula, Victoria

If you find beauty in complexity, this peninsula south of Melbourne is the perfect place to get lost. Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens is the country’s oldest and most well-known maze, made up of hedges 3 metres high and 2 metres thick. It lies amid 25 acres of jaw-dropping gardens—so once you solve the puzzle, your wandering isn’t quite done. Mazes not your thing? Rent a board from Peninsula Stand Up Paddle and get out on the water, or take a horseback tour through the striking scenery on Gunnamatta Trail Rides.

 Geelong, Victoria

From bountiful bushland and brilliant beaches to historic communities, Geelong’s beauty comes in a rainbow of colours, making it one of the top things to do in Melbourne’s vicinity. Make the 80 km trip west to Austins & Co. Winery for spellbinding views of local vineyards—and spellbinding wine, too. Geelong Gallery brings the beauty indoors with its incredible collections of 19th and 20th century masterpieces. Or, spend an afternoon browsing local art at the award-winning Aboriginal Cultural Centre, hidden among native trees, walkways, and gardens.