Is there anything better than a romantic spring getaway? The weather’s fantastic, the jacarandas and wildflowers are in full bloom, and the quiet months in the lead-up to Christmas are an awesome time to snap up a great deal on a stay (and have a well-earned break before the end-of-year rush). In fact, we think it’s such a good idea we’re going to indulge in a little holiday daydreaming. Here are six sweet couples’ breaks we think every twosome needs in their (love) life.
1. The luxury love nest
Couples’ massages. Private plunge pools. Secluded, snuggly cabins. If you and your SO are keen for some serious, ahem, ‘adult’ time, then you’ll love one of Australia’s incredible adults-only resorts. Check out Cape Beach House in Byron Bay for boutique beach-house vibes just a few-minutes’ stroll from Arakwal National Park and Clarkes Beach, Spicers Sangoma Retreat in Bowen Mountain for epic views, a steamy sauna, and awesome prenatal massages (perfect for babymoons), Misty View Cottages Montville on the Sunshine Coast for your own private infinity pool (Lalique Cottage only), and Sequoia Lodge in the Adelaide Hills for an unreal on-site spa and tailored proposal packages 💍 😍
2. The amorous adventure
Love’s not the only thing that can get your heart racing. Take your special someone on an exciting adventure getaway and you’ll be making memories as well as whoopee. Head to Kangaroo Valley for awesome kayaking, canoeing, mountain biking and wildlife spotting, as well as a gorgeous stay at Wildes Hotel Kangaroo Valley. Take off to Cairns for snorkelling (or even skydiving!) on the Great Barrier Reef, day trips to the Daintree Rainforest, and some well-earned pampering at Crystalbrook Riley. Or go seriously off-the-grid at Bamurru Plains – a gorgeous all-inclusive safari camp in the Top End, surrounded by some of Australia’s most spectacular bird and wildlife.
3. The foodie frolic
Has your partner ever told you that the way to their heart is through their stomach? Well, it’s time to put that claim to the test! Champagne, oysters, chocolate – it’s no coincidence so many of our favourite foods and drinks have reputations for romance. If you’re as passionate about wine as you are each other, make a beeline for The Louise in the Barossa or the Grand Mercure Basildene Manor in Margaret River – two stunning country hideaways surrounded by some of their region’s best wineries. If it’s seafood you both crave, hit the road to Limani Motel in Port Lincoln – a stylish beachfront stay in the heart of Oz’s ‘seafood capital’. Or if you’re a couple of sweet tooths, have a squiz at Chateau Yering Hotel in the Yarra Valley. You’ll love its old-school European charm – and its location, just a 10-minute drive from Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, isn’t too bad either 😉
4. The relaxing retreat
Fluttering eyelashes, dramatic swooning, racing hearts – it’s hard work being in love. So you should probably check in relaxing, rejuvenating spa and wellness stay, ASAP. Whisk yourselves away to the Hunter Valley for gorgeous scenery, incredible wine, and an unbelievable stay at the Elysia Wellness Retreat, where you’ll enjoy tai chi, yoga, and pilates sessions, a full-service spa, and more. Run away to the Mornington Peninsula for untamed coastlines, adorable wildlife, and all the super luxe indulgence of Intercontinental Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula, VIC (which includes an award-winning spa and bathhouse, a fully equipped gym and a fabulous Mediterranean-style outdoor pool). Or elope to Daylesford, Australia’s mineral and spa capital, for natural hot springs, quaint villages to explore, and the elegant gothic charm of Hotel Bellinzona Daylesford.
5. The naughty by nature
It’s time to go au naturel – and we’re not talking about getting down to your birthday suit (although if that’s what you have in mind, who are we to judge?). Whether it’s a sweet little eco treehouse or a secluded mountain hideaway, a nature getaway is just the thing for disconnecting from life’s distractions and reconnecting with what really matters (hint: it’s each other). We adore Paperbark Camp in Jervis Bay for its bush-glam tents, daily free brekkie, and awesome treetop restaurant, Freycinet Lodge in Tassie for its top-notch daily activities (we’re talking cruises, in-room massages, gourmet dining experiences, and more) and gorgeous bayside location, and Eco Beach Wilderness Retreat near Broome for its stylish tents and cabins, exquisite beachside (and even on-the-beach) dining, and invigorating Mud and Bubbles signature spa treatment.
6. The 😉 in the City
A quickie city getaway is like the ultimate date night, except the fun lasts for days, not hours. Think dinner and dancing, cheeky rooftop cocktails, or even just a night-time stroll under the streetlights and stars… bliss! Lovey-dovey traveller faves include Sofitel Adelaide in Adelaide for its cool designer vibes, unreal modern French restaurant, and seriously tempting indoor pool, and Hotel Realm in Canberra for its chic modern style, must-visit Mudd spa, and easy access to some of Oz’s best museums and galleries. But if you’re feeling really sweet, check out Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne On Spencer, a luxury hotel in the heart of Melbourne that’s OBSESSED with chocolate. With a droolworthy dessert café, a complimentary chocolate hour every day, and the Chef-Hatted Miss Mi’s on site just in case you feel like something savory for a change, it’s a truly decadent stay.
PLAN YOUR ROMANTIC GETAWAY
