THE MITCHELTON HOTEL AND SPA, VIC
Set in the Victorian countryside near Nagambie, the Mitchelton Hotel and Spa is setting a new standard in laid-back luxury. Part of the Mitchelton winery estate, it is set on the banks of the Goulburn River. You can sit back with a glass of vino and enjoy the view of the rolling hills that surround the estate. The luxury boutique hotel also has a 20-metre infinity pool. The architecture is magnificent, the spa experiences sublime and the restaurant on-site, Muse, is well worth booking for a memorable dinner.
BELLS AT KILLCARE, NSW
Looking for an easy escape from the big smoke? Just north of Sydney, within lush national park and overlooking the Bouddi Peninsula, is Bells at Killcare. Sit back and have a cocktail among the immaculately- landscaped gardens or book in for a pampering session at the spa. The restaurant is not to be missed as is the nearby Bombini at Avoca, where you can enjoy modern Italian in a gorgeous homestead overlooking beautiful foliage. Save room for their gelato.
THE LOUISE, SA
If the idea of curling up by an open re, sipping in wine from the famed Barossa region appeals – and let’s face it, how could it not? – then look no further than The Louise. The in-house Appellation restaurant will cater to your foodie needs – the chefs can often be seen tending to the on-site kitchen garden, or down at the local farmer’s market on a Saturday morning. Plus there’s spa baths, valley sunset views and simple country walks amongst the lavender. The Louise has rightfully gained the reputation as the region’s best.
THE SEBEL, EAST PERTH, WA
It’s right near the city but seems a million miles away. Looking out to the waters of Claisebrook Clove, the Sebel is a peaceful haven. Watch black swans paddle by, take a cycle along the foreshore with the resort bikes or just sit back in the infinity pool and soak up the atmosphere. There are restaurants just steps away, a gym on site, and if you feel like breakfast in your own suite, there’s a supermarket across the road. Best of all, it’s a short distance from all of Perth’s attractions.