Winter Escapes 5 of Our Favourite Spots to Get Away this Winter

While most of us think of the snow and skiing as a Winter getaway in Australia, there are plenty of other escapes to eat, drink and be merry as the chillier months are here.

From outback sunsets to breakfast by the beach, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining, accommodation and attractions to while away the Winter blues.

Pack your bags and let’s embark on a Winter adventure to remember at these five venues:

Offering stunning views from every table, Jonah’s on Bynya Road in Whale Beach is one of Australia’s most spectacular ocean retreats. Located on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, this Chef-hatted venue has uninterrupted sea views from floor-to-ceiling glass windows, while the terrace balcony perches on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean – ideal for whiling away an afternoon with your special someone and a bottle of bubbles.

 

Swim in the clifftop pool, have a massage, then watch the changing colours of the sky as the sun sets before heading to the dining room for whole eastern rock lobster for two with thermidor sauce, orange mayo and lobster vinaigrette. 

Set amidst four acres of bushland on Lakeside Drive in Hepburn Springs, Shizuka Ryokan Japanese Country Spa Retreat offers a traditional omakase dining experience. Admire the manicured gardens, crazy stone path and footbridge as you enter this oasis where all the senses are catered for in traditional Japanese style from massages to yoga and delicious food. 

 

One of only a handful of venues offering a Japanese breakfast daily, delve into an omelette with sake, dashi stock and mirin to start your day; while later diners enjoy an omakase menu with dishes such as teriyaki chicken, seasonal vegetables, rice and soup.

Originally established as a tourist farm and coffee shop, the Red Stag on Hughes Lane in Eurobin has grown and expanded into a restaurant, function centre, gift shop and farm stay accommodation. Situated on a 70-acre farm with stunning alpine views in all directions, this dining destination is a favourite stop for tours and bus groups who love the legendary Devonshire teas with huge scones.

 

Feed, touch and learn about deer, emus and ostriches, before heading to the restaurant for offerings from a menu featuring venison, kangaroo and emu meat if you are ‘game’; perhaps try slow-roasted venison shank, mashed potato, roasted carrots, green beans and red wine jus.

If you yearn for a luxurious Bali-style break, look no further than Bali Hai in the magnificent Mossman Valley. Just a short drive from Port Douglas, this thoughtfully designed retreat offers a blissful getaway among tranquil rainforest surrounds. Life here is about defining luxury from the stunning wet edge pool to looking out to the Daintree Mountains, with not a soul to break your peace and privacy amidst the 80 acres that are solely yours.

 

Sleeping up to eight guests, this unique accommodation offers three ensuited bedrooms in separate thatched bures, along with all mod cons including sunken baths, a state-of-the-art kitchen and entertainment system. 

Escape to the iconic Hydro Majestic Hotel and discover the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains while basking in luxurious accommodation. Located on Great Western Highway in the town of Medlow Bath, this art deco-inspired hotel takes guests on a journey to yesteryear, where grandeur and elegant surroundings await, as well as spectacular views.

 

A destination in itself, plan your next romantic getaway and engage the senses with history and glamour in the Majestic Ballroom, or be tempted by High Tea in Wintergarden restaurant, with its panoramic vistas and opulent dining room.