7 must-do Aussie escapes for your next long weekend
Need a little reset? Spice up your getaway plans with an unforgettable experience at one of these must-do Aussie escapes.
Whether you’re into luxury holidays, wellness travel or active adventures, there’s no shortage of memorable must-do Aussie escapes that are perfect for your next short break or long weekend away.
From waterfall swims and sunset picnics to sleeping in soft-as-a-cloud beds under a canopy of stars, Australia is awash with bucket list-worthy experiences.
Here are seven weekend getaways to add to your bucket list.
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Capertee Valley, NSW
A plush hotel bed is always a strong start, but what about a bed that allows you to stargaze as you share a pillow?
Located some 200km northwest of Sydney in the Capertee Valley, Bubbletent Australia offers three secluded bubbles, each boasting a queen-sized bed, outdoor wood-fired bath and panoramic views.
Cooking facilities and that all-important bathroom?
Don’t worry, that’s all taken care of, and you’ll enjoy absolute privacy (as long as you don’t mind the odd visit from a curious wombat).
Lady Musgrave Island, Qld
Keen to escape all the modern-day interruptions?
Lady Musgrave Island, a spectacular pisonia forest getaway surrounded by vibrant reefs and gin-clear water, is about 100km northeast of Bundaberg in the Southern Great Barrier Reef.
Out here, there is no phone reception, and all supplies – food, drinking water, snorkel gear, tents and more – must be brought in.
You can reach the island by boat from Bundaberg or Seventeen Seventy.
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Nitmiluk National Park, NT
Heading to the Top End in the wet season may not sound all that enticing initially — until you consider this is the time of year when waterfalls are at their mightiest, the powerful cascades practically begging you snap a photo in front of them.
Southern Rockhole, in Nitmiluk National Park, is seasonal and accessible only with an 8km return bushwalk from the carpark or by the local ferry service.
It’s worth the work; the water is a vibrant green-blue and the sandstone rock formations make for excellent sun loungers.
Kangaroo Island, SA
If you’re going to spend a few days relaxing in front of flickering flames, why not do so at an architecturally designed home overlooking Kangaroo Island’s picturesque Emu Bay?
Hamilton & Dune’s Dune House appears custom-built for calm, offering sweeping ocean views.
Make the most of the sunken living room and its fireplace, enjoy the sun (and a barbecue) on the deck and fall asleep listening to the waves.
Dandenong Ranges, Victoria
Few things are as rejuvenating as bathing in mineral waters, and there are plenty of options at Japanese Mountain Retreat.
Will it be an indoor bath in the Roman bathhouse or outdoors (with or without clothes) in a traditional Japanese cedar hot tub, rock pool or garden pool? Add a massage and/or a Japanese lunch for ultimate relaxation.
If you’re too blissed out to head home, you can even stay the night.
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Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
If you’re seeking a serene escape, Cradle Mountain Lodge is a beacon of tranquility and rejuvenation.
Nestled within the lush wilderness of the Tasmanian World Heritage Area, this luxury lodge offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and unwind.
Indulge in bespoke spa treatments at the Waldheim Alpine Spa, where you can breathe in the crisp wilderness air while basking in the panoramic views of the rugged landscape.
Yallingup, WA
Nestled in the heart of the Margaret River region, Barn Hives offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern sustainability, creating an unforgettable stay for those drawn to nature’s simplicity and beauty.
These eco-friendly hives are meticulously designed to provide comfort while minimising their environmental footprint, offering guests a cosy, intimate connection with the surrounding landscape.
Do a wine tasting, explore nearby walking trails, or simply enjoy the serenity, with each pod boasting panoramic views of the rolling vineyards and beyond.
More holiday inspiration:
- Purr-fect pet-friendly holiday destinations
- The best wellness holiday resorts to rejuvenate your health
- 6 ways to have a wellness holiday on a budget
- 5 seriously wild escapes to try
- Fancy a soak under the stars? Check out these slow stays
Written by Dilvin Yasa.
