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 an adventure to remember:
A private island experience in a secluded, unspoiled tropical paradise awaits at Orpheus Island lodge in the Whitsundays. Stretching across 11 km of immaculate turquoise coastline, the island is surrounded by a pristine fringing reef and features a main pavilion bar and alfresco-style dining area, restaurant, day spa and infinity pool.
This food lovers' haven means each meal is an event in itself, from gourmet breakfasts and shared tapas-style lunches to memorable degustation dinners; think fresh seasonal produce from the island's own vegetable garden and local seafood delicacies, all crafted into tempting dishes by Group Executive Chef Paul Wilson.
Inspiring authentic experiences and lasting memories, discover the spirit of adventure in the outback at Mount Mulligan Lodge. Located on an entirely private 28,000-hectare property on Mount Mulligan Road north-west of Cairns, this all-inclusive luxury lodge accommodates just 20 guests at any one time, ensuring a rugged and intimate escape.
Featuring four different accommodation types, a main pavilion for meals and relaxation, an infinity pool and sunset bar; every desire is taken care of including an electric buggy for guests to zip around the communal areas.
For an ideal destination to reconnect with nature and the people you love, head to Daintree Ecolodge on Mossman Daintree Road. Offering unique boutique accommodation in eco-friendly bayans immersed in the canopy of the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest; this lodge is a rare jewel in Mother Nature’s crown, where lush tropical rainforest meets sweeping white sandy beaches.
Featuring a main lodge with bar, Julaymba restaurant, wellness spa and swimming pool; there is something for everyone at this retreat, along with a private and pristine waterfall, swimming hole and dedicated rainforest walks.
Enjoy being in the hub of native plants and wildlife and experience natural wilderness without compromising comfort at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village, on Cradle Mountain Road. Nestled in a secluded bush setting in Cradle Valley, on the edge of World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, these private, cosy, self-contained cottages have been carefully sited in the surrounding bushland.
After a day exploring head to onsite Hellyers Restaurant for a glass of red in front of the roaring stacked stone fireplace before devouring the likes of pan-roasted ocean trout, Bearnaise sauce and a full-flavoured meat jus, with sides of duck fat fries and pumpkin gratin.
For the Mornington Peninsula’s ultimate vineyard escape head to Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate on Harrisons Road in Dromona. Perched on a lake overlooking the lush vineyard, these fully self-contained villas provide luxurious comfort and relaxation; ensuring your stay is a unique experience of good food, wine and accommodation.
Open plan living and a full kitchen, which spills out onto your own private balcony over the lake, create a feeling of spaciousness and warmth; while onsite tennis courts and the Crittenden cellar door take care of all your physical and relaxation needs.
Relax, rejuvenate and replenish at Warrnambool’s premier coastal resort, Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs on Worm Bay Road. Well worth a trip down the Great Ocean Road, this hotel and spa is less than three hours’ drive from Melbourne and perfectly positioned on a peninsula between Lady Bay and Stingray Bay.
With a wide range of options, including ocean-view suites and penthouse apartments, Deep Blue is the ideal weekend getaway, featuring an outdoor hot springs sanctuary, restaurant, day spa, sauna, bathhouse and salt room; wash away cares in natural geothermal waters with health-restoring minerals and heat.
For more accommodation spots near you to get away this Winter, click here.
