While some state borders may remain closed for the school holiday period, there’s plenty to do and see in our own state. Play the tourist at home, it’s great fun plus you could well be helping those towns affected by disaster earlier this year. It’s a win-win!

Southern Downs, Queensland

Just a couple of lazy hours driving south of Brisbane and you’ll hit the Southern Downs and Granite Belt, also home to Stanthorpe, Warwick and a string of friendly villages right near the NSW border.

It’s the coldest place in the state and the perfect location to enjoy the winter fun of Christmas in July. Experience roaring fires, great local food and wine, fresh air and breathtaking natural landscapes.

The Southern Downs and Granite Belt has a great calendar of Christmas in July events to ensure visitors can experience this wintery tradition along with the locals.

Blue Mountains, NSW

This region knows how to celebrate a winter wonderland and host festivities.

Just 90 minutes from Sydney, the Blue Mountains is home to the Three Sisters, the Scenic Railway and some of the most stunning national parks you’ll see. Better still, take a hike through the numerous trails around the region and you’ll come across beautiful waterfalls and amazing views.

Once you’ve burned some energy sightseeing, meandering through the streets exploring the local shops and cafes, there’s a very good chance your chosen accommodation will have a fireplace for you to shake away the chills and relax.

This region was heavily affected by fire earlier this year, the locals would appreciate some support to help their businesses to keep going.

Folk here are friendly and welcoming. It’s definitely worth a visit, there’s so much to do and see here. Just pack the winter woollies.

Puffing Billy found in the Dandenong Ranges

Dandenong Ranges, Victoria

Less than an hour south-east from Melbourne’s CBD you’ll find the picturesque Dandenong Ranges. You don’t need to be a nature-lover to enjoy this beautiful region, there’s so many things to do and see and explore.

It’s home to Australia’s treasured historical steam railway, the century-old Puffing Billy, which runs through the magnificent Dandenong Ranges offering spectacular views, it even stops at various destinations so you can explore.

This time of year the locals host delicious Christmas in July festivities. There are many venues to enjoy the charm of festive winter wonderland lunches and dinners all over the region.

Adelaide Hills, South Australia

Renowned for its fabulous wineries, Christmas in July is the perfect time to experience this region’s delicious varieties of reds.

The Adelaide Hills plays host to the annual Winter Reds Weekend to be held this year from July 24-26. Guests will be welcomed at more than 30 cellar doors and associated venues offering an array of sumptuous wine and food events.

Events range from exclusive ticketed lunches, dinners and wine tastings, to relaxed venues offering rustic food, alluring wine, live entertainment and warming fires. Many venues are also family friendly.

Ticketed events sell out quickly and need to be booked in advance. Entertainment, food, facilities, costs and accessibility all vary depending on venue. Check out the event guide at winterreds.com.au for full program details.