BEECHWORTH has been named in the top five Australian towns of the year according to travel app Wotif.

Now in its eighth year, the Wotif Aussie Town of the Year Awards recognise trending Australian destinations for the year ahead and are based on the Wotif data index that looks at accommodation affordability, quality, and traveller satisfaction.

In being named fifth, Wotif’s destination insight said the town’s spot on the list proved there was more than just the coastline to explore around the country.

“Whether it’s a trip to the bakery to sample their famous beestings, visiting local Beechworth wineries, or enjoying the world-class Indigo Epic Mountain bike trails, Beechworth is the ultimate country town getaway,” it read.

New South Wales was back on top of the rankings as Port Stephens claimed this year’s win, with more than a 75 per cent increase in accommodation interest observed.

Rounding out the top three destinations are Cairns in Queensland, and Mandurah in Western Australia.

The awards come as over a quarter of Aussies want to visit new destinations in Australia this year, according a Wotif survey.

Additionally, short breaks will remain key for many Aussies, with 3 to 5 days being the sweet spot for domestic travel in the year ahead.

Wotif Travel Expert, Rebecca Hurley said Aussie Town of the Year was about celebrating the destinations and world class travel experiences in our own backyard.

“We know value for money will continue to be important in 2025 and this year's top ten destinations offer affordable accommodation options,” she said.

“With Easter and the school holidays just around the corner, now is the perfect time to lock in a short break.”