Australia's best-known natural wonder stretches 2300km (from the northern tip of Queensland to Bundaberg) and covers an area larger than the UK. Most of the reef dates back 2 million years, although some parts are a staggering 18 million years old. The World Heritage Site provides a home for thousands of species, from fish and sea snails to clams and dugong. Whales migrate from Antarctica during winter and sea turtles lay eggs on the islands.

The Great Barrier Reef's nooks and crannies are best explored by snorkelling or diving. You are best off based in Port Douglas or Cairns, but any town between Gladstone and Cairns can provide a good access-point for the reef. Popular trips include the Cod Hole in Cairns, where you can feed six-foot moray eels and giant speckled potato cod. Experienced divers can nose around the abandoned shipwreck SS Yongala, located approximately 10 miles from Alva Beach, Townsville. There are also several unspoilt atolls to explore, including Marion Reef, the Diamond Islets, Abington Reef and Lihou Reef and cays. Further afield you may find giant tuna, manta rays, nurse sharks and much more.

Weather-wise, the best time to visit the reef is April-November when the climate is not stiflingly hot (June and August are the chillier months of this period). Please respect the fragile ecosystem on any trips you take and go with a reputable and responsible operator.

Non-swimmers can take a helicopter ride over the coastline. Considering the Great Barrier Reef is visible from outer space, you'll get nothing less than spectacularly clear bird's-eye views.