5 relaxing Aussie destinations to help you unwind and recharge
Need a break? Get away from the stress of modern life with a classic country escape designed to help you find serenity.
Mount Beauty, Victoria
Welcome to Victoria’s high country, frequented largely by adventurers keen to conquer the ski runs at nearby Falls Creek, and enjoy the hiking and biking trails of Alpine National Park.
Four hours from Melbourne, the township of Mount Beauty (and adjoining Tawonga South) remains home base for those looking for fresh alpine air.
Hike to the summit of Mount Bogong, tackle the tracks of Big Hill Mountain Bike Park and go horseback riding in Alpine National Park with Bogong Horseback Adventures.
For a little downtime, Crank Handle Brewery can quench the thirst, while Annapurna Estate is the place to go for paddock-to-plate Italian. Explore the nearby towns of Myrtleford and Harrietville.
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Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Situated a mere 13km off the coast of South Australia, a rugged wilderness wonderland teeming with pristine beaches, gargantuan – and wildlife-filled – national parks, and epicurean experiences awaits.
You could easily check into a luxury lodge (the newly rebuilt Southern Ocean Lodge is due to reopen in December) and keep largely to yourself, but opportunities to unwind can be found all over the island.
Hike the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail, swim with wild dolphins off Emu Bay, visit the seal colony at Seal Bay Conservation Park, and spend the day at postcard-perfect Vivonne Bay.
Kingscote may be home to Kangaroo Island Spirits, Kangaroo Island Brewery and a significant amount of boutiques and restaurants, but don’t miss out on swimming in the beaches of secluded Stokes Bay.
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Mount Field National Park, Tasmania
A cool-temperate rainforest getaway with tall tree nature trails and ski field fun – it’s little wonder Mount Field National Park is often referred to as “the park for all seasons”.
Situated just over an hour northwest of Hobart, this is a place where getting away from it all can mean rolling several holidays into the one destination.
In winter, the park transforms into Mount Mawson ski field, while in the warmer months, short walks to Russell Falls, a tiered cascade waterfall, are piggybacked by the five- to seven-hour Tarn Shelf Circuit.
Bookend the park with visits to nearby Westerway (grab a coffee from The Possum Shed Cafe), and New Norfolk, home to some of Australia’s oldest buildings.
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Berry, New South Wales
With a main street lined with historic pubs, quirky boutiques and cafes, there’s no doubt Berry – just two hours south of Sydney – has what television realtors would call that “chocolate box charm”.
Those craving a lush country escape free of weekender crowds, however, will be thrilled to find Berry is only a stone’s throw from Shoalhaven’s finest vineyards, beaches and farm stays.
Queen Street essentials, such as dining at South on Albany, shopping at Moss Nest and, yes, donuts from The Famous Berry Donut Van ticked, it’s time to head further afield.
Check in for the ultimate farm stay at Mt Hay Retreat, enjoy a tipple – and a bite – at Mountain Ridge Wines and visit nearby Seven Mile Beach and Kangaroo Valley.
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Currumbin Valley, Queensland
Hear the word “Currumbin” and it is easy to become stuck on images of sparkling Gold Coast beaches and our favourite iconic bird sanctuary.
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Take the quintessential country drive west along Currumbin Creek Road for 15 minutes, however, and you’ll find yourself in a lush, rainforest-dotted hinterland teeming with waterfalls, rock pools and more than a few grazing kangaroos.
Soothing birdsong can be found in all manner of places; while you’re swimming at the Currumbin Rock Pools, hiking around Cougal Cascades or enjoying fresh produce at one of a number of local farm gates such as Freeman’s Organic Farm.
Scenic cottages and homesteads are plentiful in these parts but Eden Health Retreat, nestled in 162ha of rainforest, remains a popular choice with the health-conscious.
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
Written by Dilvin Yasa.
