A true escape in Tassie
Want a truly bespoke winter getaway that the whole family will remember for a lifetime? How about your own island in a bay surrounded by national park. The Lodge at Picnic Island, which is just 800m offshore from the wilds of Tasmania’s Freycinet National Park and accessible by water taxi, can be booked for a group of up two ten people for a two night minimum stay. The architecturally-designed lodge (and yes there is a fireplace!) sits in harmony with the local environment and just outside, the bay is teeming with wildlife including seals, dolphins and even whales. Have you camera ready!
Try the Cider and Ale Trail in WA
It’s well-known that the Swan Valley is a winemaking hub as well as being home to fantastic fresh produce, heritage listed villages and stunning scenery, just a half hour out of Perth’s CBD. What you might not know about is The Swan Valley Cider and Ale Trail, which winds through nine local breweries. Make a weekend of it and end your day at The Vines Resort, where luxury accommodation, delectable dining options and incredible service (plus golf if you’re keen) await.
A getaway to the Grampians, Vic
Three hours from Melbourne, The Grampians is a home to wonderful vantage points such as Reeds lookout and The Balconies connected by some of Australia’s most scenic bushwalks. Visit the Indigenous-operated and owned Brambuk National Park to learn why the deep winter months of June and July are known as Chinnup, The Season Of The Cockatoo. Unwind after a day exploring by booking into one of the luxury villas at Meringa Springs. Here you can pile the logs on the fireplace, sip a glass of red and relax.
Tour the Southern Highlands
Whether you’ve had a busy day of golf, antiquing, trekking to Fitzroy Falls or eating your way around the famous “pie-trail”, The Southern Highlands has something for everyone this winter. Don’t forget a visit to The International Cricket Hall of Fame Museum in Bowral. Make Mittagong your temporary home by staying at The Old Bank, a supremely cosy boutique hotel with five rooms and two self-contained cottages.
