By Leigh O’Connor.
Taking time to enjoy life is part of who we are as Australians…it’s what makes the Down Under lifestyle so iconic.
Our laid-back culture is the envy of the world and downtime is not just ‘nice to have’, it’s an important piece of our make-up. While 2022 has again been a hard year and we’ve all felt the pressure, taking time to detach from work and everyday life is important to our well-being.
There’s never been a better time to reclaim our optimism and find enjoyment in our lives - nothing does this more than a holiday. From the moment it enters your mind, to planning and finally arriving at your destination, it’s undeniable that holidays leave us feeling refreshed and inspired.
Here are five suggestions for an unforgettable Summer getaway:
Experience natural wilderness without compromising comfort at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village, nestled in a secluded bush setting in Cradle Valley, on the edge of the World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Enjoy being in the hub of native plants and wildlife, as the 37 private, cosy, self-contained cottages have been carefully sited in the natural bushland.
After a day exploring, head to Hellyers Restaurant – the only dining destination with an uninterrupted view of Cradle Mountain – to relax, refuel and recharge in rustic surrounds of a stacked stone fireplace, wooden beamed ceilings, comfy booths and intimate tables for two.
Find a sanctuary of comfort, peace and privacy at Capers Guesthouse, Cottage and Barn on Wollombi Road. Nestled in the historic colonial village of Wollombi gateway to the Hunter Valley wine country, Capers is for those wishing to experience a delightful mix of luxury accommodation and stunning views.
Choose from three properties on the grounds, each with individual charm and characteristics to suit the accommodation needs of all guests; take a dip in the stunning outdoor pool, play chess in the garden, or simply soak up the tranquillity on the verandah with a glass of local wine in hand before enjoying fine dining inhouse.
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 accommodation 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.
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.
With 67 guest rooms to choose from, reflecting the rich heritage of hotel, the Hydro Majestic is an ideal location for an intimate wedding, corporate function, private event, or relaxing break away for the whole family.
The J W Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa on Ferny Avenue in Surfers Paradise offers a superior level of comfort, panoramic views and award-winning cuisine to locals and visitors alike. Meeting the needs of multi-generational travellers, guests enjoy a range of options with 200 ocean and mountain view rooms, plus an additional 23 suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, bathing each room in ample light.
Spend the day discovering all the GC has to offer, or snorkel in the resort’s saltwater lagoons and feed the fish; before heading to your room to relax in time for a memorable meal at one of the restaurants such as Citrique or Misono.
For more Summer getaway offerings, click here.
