The wet, cold and wild winter weather has well and truly set in here in Australia, making your work commute just that little bit harder.
Tempted to skip the board meetings, weekly catch-ups and endless layers of clothing with a cosy getaway? ⛄
So are we!
Cuddle up to your loved one or huddle around a fireplace with friends at one of these winter escapes.
NSW
Links House
Why we love it: South of Sydney, near Bowral and the Bradman Museum & International Hall of Fame of Cricket, Links House combines charming vintage rooms with modern amenities. With a roaring fire in the communal reading room, you can wrap your hands around a book or a glass of wine, or both, and while away the hours. As the name suggests, Links House is in close proximity to the Bowral Golf Course.
The Houston
Why we love it: The Houston in Wagga Wagga is a beautifully refurbished neo-gothic hotel set around a grassy courtyard. With just 10 suites, you’re set for a peaceful stay. The Houston is just a 10-minute walk from the (actually still fairly relaxed) hustle and bustle of central Wagga Wagga, so you can stroll through town easily or stay in and lounge around in your luxurious custom kimono. We know what we’d pick. (Hint: the kimono).
VIC
Mt Buller Chalet Hotel & Suites
Why we love it: Sip hot chocolate and warm your belly with whisky at Mt Buller Chalet Hotel and Suites. You could also go for a ski straight from the hotel entrance… but we think you know where you’ll find us.
Opt for a suite or the Lakeland Penthouse for an opulent and warm weekend in the snow. You’ll think you’re high up in the Swiss Alps.
Yarra Valley Lodge
Why we love it: Take the whole family to the country and escape the city this winter with a getaway to the Yarra Valley Lodge. Or leave the kids at home and make the most of Victoria’s stunning wine country (and wrap yourself in a ‘liquid blanket’). There’s also a golf course on site if you’re feeling active 🏌️
QLD
Ruffles Lodge and Spa
Why we love it: Tucked in the Gold Coast hinterland, Ruffles Lodge is a romantic hideaway with stunning views. An infinity pool. And a spa.
We repeat, A SPA.
How else would you rather warm your soul than in a cossie in a cosy spa? Yep, we can’t think of a better way either. See you there!
Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat
Why we love it: Skip town and switch off in the Sunshine Coast rainforest. The Narrows (it’s on Narrows Road) Escape Rainforest Retreat is set on the lush green boundary of Kondalilla National Park. Get pampered with a massage or indulge in a reflexology treatment while the sounds of nature lull you to sleep. Or make use of the in-room spa and get the fireplace going when the temperature drops at night.
Ahh! We’re feeling relaxed already.
SA
Novotel Barossa Valley Resort
Why we love it: Picture it with us – you’re at your desk, looking out the window at pedestrians fighting the rain with broken brollies. It’s dark and the day is nearly over. You wish you didn’t have to come to work tomorrow, that you could wake up in a vineyard with a glass of world-famous Barossa Shiraz in your hand.
Well, dream no more. The Novotel Barossa Valley Resort is primed and ready for your winter escape. The resort also has an in-house Endota Spa to really speed up the de-stressing process. We wonder if they’ll let us take our wine in?
TAS
Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge
Why we love it: Retreat to this incredible bluestone and timber lodge near the shores of Lake St. Clair in the picturesque Cradle Mountain region. Gorge on fine Tasmanian produce before you return to your room and snuggle up by your built-in fireplace. What more could you ask for?
WA
RAC Karri Valley Resort
Why we love it: South of the Margaret River region, set among the gigantic karri trees, is the RAC Karri Valley Resort. Here, truly removed from the rest of the world, you can unwind with a little help from the delicious local produce and wine. Insider tip: Extend your trip and take some time to explore more of the region as you drive back to Perth or Fremantle.
ACT
Hotel Kurrajong Canberra
Why we love it: Quirky yet luxurious, Hotel Kurrajong is the perfect home base for a break in the nation’s capital. We love the funky adornments and interiors that would probably ruffle more than a few ties at Parliament House, just a 5-minute drive away. Bask in the superbly designed surrounds of Canberra or just hideaway inside the plush walls of Kurrajong – the choice is yours!
