International tourists are infatuated with the Australian outback, but many of us here in Oz take the view “I want to see it…once I’ve seen (insert wilderness destination overseas) “. But what you may not know is that there are all kinds of ways to blend Aussie wilderness experiences with other holiday pleasures. So if you’re looking to mix adventure with luxury, culture, family fun – or even a tan on the sand - here are five great reasons take your holiday right here in the lucky country:

1. You can enjoy the Red Centre in luxury
You don’t have to get hot and sweaty like Hugh Jackman on a cattle run to see Australia’s outback (although at least half the population would be happy to make the journey just to see Hugh like that). If you prefer, you can take the daintier Nicole Kidman version complete with some sunrise ballooning over Alice Springs.

As you float, you’ll see the deep colours of dawn splash across the desert sands and the creatures of the wild get ready for their day ahead. Then it’s back to terra firma for a very civilised and even more delicious champagne breakfast.

While you’re on a roll, lap up even more luxury at the Desert Palms Resort in your own villa with a private veranda – the perfect spot for a romantic sunset meal after a wade in the tropical pool.

See more great Alice Springs hotel deals.

2. You can see the Snowys from a saddle
Fancy a taste of Man From Snowy River action on the friendly cousin of a brumby? Whether you’re a first time city slicker or a veteran in the stirrups, you’ll love a horse riding tour of the Snowy Mountains. Experienced guides take you through a wilderness sanctuary on horses that match your experience, pointing out emus, wallabies, wild brumbies and more all to the backdrop of stunning gum trees and babbling streams.

Feast and relax at the Quality Resort Horizons on the foreshores of Lake Jindabyne.

See more great Snowy Mountains hotel deals.

3. You could make your fame and fortune
Who needs $2 scratchies when there are gold nuggets out there waiting to be discovered! Take a trip to Victoria’s goldfields, near Ballarat and Sovereign Hill, to wander around the 1850s settlement, watch shows, listen to yarns and, of course, get the whole family out there hunting for your golden meal ticket.

Whatever the result, those old time prospecters would be green with envy if they knew you’d be ending your day splashing around in the spa at the Best Western Barkly Motor Lodge Ballarat.

See more great Ballarat hotel deals.

4. You don’t even have to leave the beach
Love the idea of an outback holiday, but can’t bear to part with the delights of Aussie sand and surf getaways? Then have the bush come to you at the Australian Outback Spectacular dinner show on the Gold Coast.  It’s a fun alternative for those who want a taste of the bush without heading hundreds of miles inland to experience it.

You’ll see stockmen and horses galloping around the arena performing stunts to the tale of the Australian Light Horse, while you tuck into a hearty Aussie BBQ feast. And when it’s over, there’s all those wild times to be had at the other big theme parks nearby.

Sitting right in the heart of Surfers Paradise action is the Mantra Legends Hotel Gold Coast, ideal for families, couples and friends.

See more great Gold Coast hotel deals.

5. You can mix the best in bush tucker with Barossa plonk
Like to find out a bit about how Australia’s indigenous people have managed to live in harmony with the outback for tens of thousands of years?

The Adelaide Aboriginal Cultural Experience has an amazing botanical gardens bush food trail where they teach you how boomerangs are made and where you can find bush medicines, followed by a tasty morning tea with bush foods. Meanwhile at the Aboriginal Cultures Gallery in the South Australian Museum, you can see artefacts on display and interactive exhibits.

Not far from Adelaide is the beautiful Barossa wine region where you can do some tastings and perhaps find out exactly which fine Shiraz or Riesling would best accompany a nice roast witchetty grub.

Eat in or dine out when you stay in a spacious studio apartment at the BreakFree Directors Studio Adelaide.

See more great Adelaide hotel deals.