Winter is THE best time of the year for a cosy getaway… think red wine, log fires, cheese and chocolate, massages… sounding good? lastminute lovely Angela rates the best Aussie spots for a snuggle break.
Blue Mountains, NSW
Why we love it
If you’re a nature lover, the Blue Mountains is where it’s at. Home of the iconic Three Sisters rock formation and eight national parks, this beautiful World Heritage listed area is the ideal location to escape the hustle and bustle and breathe in the fresh air.
The Three Sisters
Plus, it’s only a 90 minute drive from Sydney so you’ll be settled in at a cute cafe enjoying your first Devonshire tea before you know it.
Things to do
- Play tourist – Soak up the scenery and get snap happy at the various look-outs (the Three Sisters look-out at Echo Point is a must-see).
- Get your shop on – Pick up treasures galore at the many vintage clothing and antique stores. If you can only convince your man to partake in one shopping trip, our top pick is Leura.
- Get back to nature – Bushwalking is highly recommended but if you’re after something a little different, go horse-riding.
Hotel picks
Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa – If absolute indulgence is what you’re after then this is the hotel for you. All suites include a private pool with adjoining gardens and a spacious verandah, and inside, a central, double-sided fireplace.
The Heritage Suite private pool at Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa
Echoes Boutique Hotel & Restaurant – A wonderful choice if you’re looking for something luxurious. Perched at the very edge of the Jamison Valley, each room has spectacular views of the national park.
Barossa, SA
Why we love it
Self-proclaimed as Australia’s most famous wine region, the Barossa is a great spot for those of us who like a drop or two.
Jump in your car for the quick hour drive from Adelaide, and be ready to indulge in cold and cuddly season favourites – food, wine and pampering – all of which the Barossa does extremely well!
Things to do
- Go on a wine tour – As the Barossa is home to over 170 different wine companies, a wine tour is a must-do. Renown for its Shiraz and full bodied reds, the area also boasts an abundance of whites and European variations.
Sunrise over the Barossa
- Get gourmet – For foodies, a meal at Appellation – a world class restaurant emphasising freshness, seasonality and regional produce is an absolute must.
Let your tastebuds be tantalised at Appellation restaurant
- On your bike – If fresh air (with the added advantage of burning off some of your indulgences) appeals, hiring a bike and seeing the cellar doors at your own pace is another great option. How romantic!
The Butcher, Baker, Winemaker Trail is a great idea for lunch, including a picnic with dried fruit, cheesses and a bottle of wine for you to enjoy during the day.
Hotel picks
The Louise – Home of Appellation, the five star property is a great choice for luxury getaway. Suites feature a cosy fireplace, king bed and spa plus deluxe continental brekkie, fresh fruit and cookies to get you feeling cosy and content.
Novotel Barossa Valley Resort – Has all your modern comforts, whilst still feeling a million miles away from city life and is also home to an Endota day spa – the perfect way to unwind.
Daylesford, VIC
Why we love it
Only a 90 minute drive from the Melbourne CBD, the Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges have it all. Home to the largest area of naturally occurring mineral springs, fantastic award-winning restaurants and provedores, and pristine nineteenth century streetscapes and historic mansions, you can truly get lost here.
Tranquil Daylesford
Things to do:
- Pamper plus – Known as Australia’s spa capital, a visit to Daylesford means a trip to the day spa.
Ahhh bliss!
- Get into the art scene – Many local artists open up their studios to the public so drop in and even pick-up a souvenir or two.
- Indulge in the history – History buffs and architecture lovers alike will want their camera at the ready with the region’s beautiful sandstone, granite and bluestone buildings of the gold rush era offering a step back in time.
You can take a guided historic tour of the area, or if you want to explore it for yourself visit the local information centre for more info.
Hotel picks
Shizuka Ryokan Japanese Guesthouse – For something a little different, this traditional Japanese accommodation offers all of your creature comforts, delicious cuisine and luxurious spa treatments.
Hepburn at Hepburn – If chic and stylish is more your style, this one is for you: each villa has a secluded north facing deck overlooking Creswick National park and is fitted with your own cosy fireplace. Bliss.
Sunshine Coast Hinterland, QLD
Why we love it
QLD may not be the first state in Oz that you think of when daydreaming about snuggling by an open fire, but the elevation of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland brings with it a much cooler climate than other Queensland regions… bring on that hot chocolate!
Things to do
- Go-kart – Indulge your inner ‘big kid’ with a trip the Big Kart Track, the largest commercial go-kart track in Australia. It’s sure to entice even the most anti-romantic getaway blokes away for the weekend!
- Head to the mountains – The Glasshouse Mountains are a must see. If you’re feeling adventurous, see it up close and go abseiling.
Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Food and wine – If you’re after something a little calmer, a winery and gourmet trail tour could be for you.
Hotel picks:
Maleny Tropical Retreat Balinese B&B – The Balinese inspired resort is luxury all the way. With your own private view of the Obi Obi Creek and Lake Baroon, fireplace and cosy room; you won’t want to leave!
Treetops Seaview Montville – If a bit of novelty factor might entice your partner away for a romantic escape, look no further. Nestled on the escarpment in the heart of Montville Village, each treehouse (yep, you read that correctly) is open plan with double spa, log fireplace and breathtaking views.
Treetops Seaview Montville