An excuse to holiday in Noosa

Holidaymakers seeking the colour, vibrancy and sun of Australia, combined with the refinement of the French Riviera, should consider a break in Noosa.

Noosa is based on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, and is a relaxed holiday haven for backpackers and the well-heeled alike.

Often referred to as 'Australia's French Riviera', the food on offer in Noosa is of an exceptional quality, whether you are buying local produce from one of its many markets such as Eumumdi market, or at one of its award-winning restaurants like the seafront eatery, Sails.

One of Noosa's greatest selling points is its white beaches and crystal blue waters, which provide some impressive surf.

The breaking waves are varied enough to make it suit all levels of surfer, from the advanced to the absolute beginner. A number of surf schools are on hand to help the latter along their way to conquering the waves. For more information visit www.learntosurf.com.au.

Surfing, especially for newbies, can be an exhausting experience, and one of the best ways of unwinding and letting your muscles recover is in a bubbling spa, of which Noosa has many.

One of its most interesting spas is the Ikatan Balinese Spa and Gardens, which nestles in uniquely tranquil Balinese-inspired gardens. For more information visit www.ikatanspa.co.au.

Finally, an abundance of wildlife and lush vegetation offer a green and equally tranquil break from the white sands of Noosa's beaches.

A short walk along Noosa's Hastings Street or Sunshine Beach takes visitors to the headlands of Noosa national park, wherein lies an array of wildlife such as koalas, goannas, rain forests and eucalyptus forests.

For more information on holidays in Noosa, visit http://www.tourismnoosa.com.au XXX