DayAway’s curated luxury escapes now available in Australia

Emily Murphy Emily Murphy
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The new luxury membership offers exclusive access to curated experiences that elevate everyday escapes.

In the fast-paced world we live in, the concept of travel is no longer just about visiting new places. It has evolved into something far deeper – an immersion into unique experiences that touch on relaxation, indulgence and adventure. As modern travellers, we crave curated escapes that offer us more than just a moment away from the daily grind. DayAway, a trailblazing luxury travel platform, is taking this concept to the next level with the launch of its exclusive community-based membership in Australia.

A new standard of luxury

Founded in Singapore by visionary Martha Waslen in 2021, DayAway started as a public platform offering curated luxury experiences. In early 2023, DayAway transitioned into an exclusive members-only marketplace, further refining its offerings to appeal to those who prioritise experiential travel and wish to access world-class experiences.

Now, with its recent expansion into Australia, DayAway is ready to unlock some of the country’s most iconic locations, offering its members the chance to unwind and indulge in unforgettable moments of luxury.

Spicers Sangoma Retreat pool in the Blue Mountains
DayAway has unlocked some of the country’s most iconic locations.

What DayAway brings to Australia

Australia is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, exceptional hospitality and diverse cultural offerings. But until now, there hasn’t been a single platform that combines access to the country’s most exclusive experiences under one membership. This is where DayAway comes in. With its community-based membership, it provides a seamless way for members to book luxury day experiences across Sydney and beyond.

One of the key features of DayAway is its ability to unlock spaces typically reserved for overnight guests or members of elite clubs. This democratisation of luxury means that anyone with a DayAway membership can enjoy a slice of the good life, without the need to commit to long stays.

Capella Sydney Dining Brasserie
This democratisation of luxury means that anyone with a DayAway membership can enjoy a slice of the good life.

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What do members get?

So, what exactly can members expect from DayAway’s exclusive Australian launch? The platform has rolled out a series of bespoke experiences designed to captivate the senses and deliver the ultimate in luxury. Here are some highlights:

Luxury day at Spicers Sangoma Retreat

Spicers Sangoma Retreat is a hidden haven in the Blue Mountains, offering spectacular views, world-class service and incredible cuisine. DayAway members can spend a day here indulging in a 60-minute spa treatment, followed by a degustation lunch at the award-winning Restaurant Amara. The experience includes complimentary Champagne on arrival and access to the retreat’s pool and sauna, making it a perfect day of indulgence and relaxation.

Spicers Sangoma Retreat at sunset in the Blue Mountains
Spicers Sangoma Retreat is a hidden haven in the Blue Mountains.

Private poolside cabana at Bannisters Mollymook

Fancy a day spent lounging in a private cabana by the pool? At Bannisters Mollymook , DayAway members can reserve a poolside cabana for the day, complete with a spa treatment and a two-course dinner at Rick Stein’s famous restaurant. It’s the perfect way to escape the hustle of the city and dive into a day of relaxation by the sea.

Pool at Bannisters Mollymook
DayAway members can reserve a poolside cabana for the day.

Wellness experience at Capella Sydney’s Auriga Spa

If wellness is your priority, Capella Sydney offers an unparalleled experience at its renowned Auriga Spa . A sanctuary for rejuvenation, this wellness escape includes spa treatments designed to refresh both body and mind, leaving you restored and ready for whatever life throws your way.

Auriga Wellness at Capella Sydney
Relax at Capella Sydney’s Auriga Spa.

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Fine dining at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar

Overlooking the world-famous Bondi Beach, Icebergs Dining Room and Bar offers DayAway members a premium table with a spectacular view, as well as a chef-designed tasting menu that showcases the best of Sydney’s vibrant food scene. It’s a dining experience that fuses luxury with local flavour, creating a culinary journey you won’t forget.

Icebergs Dining Room and Bar
Dine at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar.

Exclusive art viewings at Gallery Sally Dan-Cuthbert

For those with a passion for contemporary art, DayAway has partnered with Gallery Sally Dan-Cuthbert to offer private or guided viewings of the gallery’s latest exhibitions. As one of Sydney’s leading contemporary galleries, this experience offers members a chance to engage with the city’s dynamic art scene in a way that few others can.

Gallery Sally Dan Cuthbert
DayAway offers private or guided viewings of Gallery Sally Dan-Cuthbert’s latest exhibitions. (Image: Simon Hewson)

How much is the membership?

There are three membership types offering different levels of access. The DayAway Sydney membership includes access to all the Sydney experiences listed above for US$100 ($146) per year; the DayAway Sydney with Hungry in Bali membership includes all that, plus privileges at over 90 restaurants, bars, cafes, beach clubs and spas in Bali for US$125 ($182) per year; and the DayAway Jetsetter membership includes all that again, plus a DayAway Singapore membership and a DayAway Global (Little Emperors) membership for US$300 ($438) per year.

Capella Sydney Pool
There are three membership types offering different levels of access.
Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
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The best new accommodation along the Great Ocean Road

    Louis Costello Louis Costello
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    A new wave of retreats, hotels, glamping sites and more is encouraging visitors to savour their time spent along the Great Ocean Road.

    Long holding a place as one of Australia’s most rewarding drives, cliffs, curves and shifting coastal light continue to draw travellers to Victoria’s coastline year after year. What has evolved more quietly is the range of new accommodation along the Great Ocean Road to add new dimensions to the drive.

    Rather than competing for attention, these stays are shaped by their settings. They sit beside rivers, among vines, on the edge of lakes and close to town centres where local life unfolds at an unhurried pace. Together, they point to a way of travelling the Great Ocean Road that values time spent in place, as much as distance covered.

    1. The Monty, Anglesea

    inside a classic room at The Monty Anglesea Great Ocean Road
    Settle into The Monty’s unique style.

    Anglesea has always appealed to travellers drawn to a quieter stretch of coast, where surf culture, bushland and river scenery blend into one. The Monty complements that character with a recent rebrand and refresh with traditional beach road trip nostalgia in mind. Mid-century retro decor means rooms are contemporary and funky, without being over-styled.

    A highlight of the stay is Nina Cantina, the on-site Mexican restaurant overlooking the Anglesea River. Opening in 2026, it will undoubtedly become a popular gathering point, bringing together locals, day trippers and overnight guests. Watch the river flow while tucking into plates of tacos, before enjoying a digestion swim in The Monty’s pool.

    Mornings in Anglesea often begin quietly. Kangaroos are a familiar sight on the nearby golf course, and walking tracks wind through heathland that reflects the natural landscape of the Surf Coast. From here, the road south feels like a continuation rather than a departure, easing travellers into the next stretch of the journey.

    2. Basalt Retreats, Port Fairy

    Basalt Retreat Private Villa interior
    Discover this new adults-only retreat.

    Near Port Fairy, Basalt Retreats is an adults-only delight set among a 24-year-old vineyard at Basalt Wines . The accommodation is a mixture of luxury and linens (and ultra comfy beds), allowing the long stretches of grapes to take centre stage. As the sun sets, Basalt Retreats settles into stillness. With minimal light pollution, the night sky becomes part of the experience, and star-searchers will delight in the uninterrupted views of our vast universe.

    Poombeeyt Koontapool lookout
    See Poombeeyt Koontapool from the lookout.

    Staying along the Great Ocean Road western region gives you en route access to coastal landmarks. A visit to Poombeeyt Koontapool at Loch Ard Gorge is a must for those fascinated by natural blowholes, with enough walking trails to tucker out the most seasoned hiker.

    The Poorpa Yanyeen Meereeng Trail between Timboon and Port Campbell reveals how wetlands, farmland and coastline connect across the region, best appreciated on foot or by bike.

    3. Lake Colac Holiday Park, Colac

    cabin at Lake Colac Holiday Park
    Book into a cabin at Lake Colac Holiday Park.

    Lake Colac Holiday Park introduces new cabin accommodation set along the edge of a broad volcanic lake. The cabins are modern and light-filled, designed to make the most of the water views and open skies.

    Lake Colac plays an important role in local life, hosting community events and everyday rituals alike. Staying here offers insight into the agricultural heart of the Great Ocean Road region, where the pace is shaped by seasons rather than sightseeing schedules.

    Brae Restaurant great ocean road victoria
    Have a delicious lunch, then join a farm tour at Brae Restaurant. (Image: Visit Vic)

    Colac’s central location places visitors within reach of standout regional experiences. Otways Distillery’s Birregurra cellar door reflects the surrounding forest in its approach to spirits. While Brae Restaurant’s guided farm and kitchen garden tours offer a closer look at the land that underpins its acclaimed dining. Together, they highlight the strong connection between produce, place and people.

    4. Glamping tents, Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve

    Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve Glamping
    Take a breather in Apollo Bay with brand new glamping tents.

    Back on the coast, Apollo Bay has always been known to be a natural place to take a breather, sitting roughly at the Great Ocean Road’s midway point. The brand-spanking new glamping tents at the Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve offer comfortable accommodation that remains closely connected to the outdoors. With ensuite bathrooms and thoughtfully designed interiors, the cabin-tent hybrids offer enough privacy and luxuries to make the trip feel more luxurious than your standard camping affair.

    Set near the river and within walking distance of the town centre, the location allows guests to move easily between beach walks, forest drives and relaxed meals.

    A session at The Corner Sauna fits naturally into a stay here. The wood-fired sauna has become part of Apollo Bay’s way of life, offering warmth and restoration after time spent in the elements (also known as a frolic at the beach).

    Apollo Bay Fishermens Co-op
    Enjoy fresh seafood at Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-op.

    Apollo Bay has enough to entertain and dazzle travellers more than your average town. Graze on fresh seafood at local cafes – like Graze or Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-op – before venturing to nearby waterfalls. Spend hours kayaking among real-life seals, try your hand at surf lessons taught by understanding and patient guides, or simply spend your days reading a book while the surf crashes in front of you.

    Together, these new accommodation openings highlight the Great Ocean Road’s continued evolution. With more places that invite travellers to slow down and stay a little longer, the journey becomes less about rushing between landmarks and more about engaging with the unique towns along the way.

    Start planning your next trip along the Great Ocean Road at visitgreatoceanroad.org.au .