The most beautiful outdoor baths in Australia

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Australia’s outdoor baths are quickly becoming one of its star attractions.

Soaking away the day in an outdoor bath with a view has become the holy grail of relaxation. So it’s no surprise to learn that Australia has an ever-increasing list of properties that feature bathtubs situated right in the heart of the great outdoors.

Don’t pass up the chance to marvel at dazzling, natural landscapes from the comfort of your own private bath. Let us tempt you with our pick of the best of the bunch below.

El Questro Homestead, The Kimberley

You’ve probably heard of El Questro , the 700,000-acre cattle station with a made-up, Spanish-sounding name that offers one of the most expensive laid-back luxury experiences in the outback. With prices that start at $2155 per room per night, El Questro’s Homestead is certainly the most covetable getaway in the Kimberley.

The Chamberlain Suite is the most amazing room by far, thanks in large part to a private outdoor double bath overlooking a gorge. A soak here will deliver views of the stunning, wild and unlike-anywhere-else-in-the-world landscape that really sets this lodge apart.

Outside the luxury of egg-shaped tubs, Egyptian cotton sheets and crisp air conditioning in your room, you’re always in the thick of nature.

El Questro Homestead bath
El Questro’s Homestead is certainly the most covetable getaway in the Kimberley.

Hope Springs Retreat, Mt Eliza

Affordable luxury and romance combine in this stunning, self-contained apartment. Featuring a fully equipped modern kitchen and light-filled bedroom, Hope Springs Retreat makes full use of its scale with cathedral ceilings and an oversized bathroom.

An adjoining private deck features the magical cedar hot tub. Hop on in with a glass of local wine in hand to enjoy the sweeping garden views or, once the sun sets, gaze at the stars in absolute tranquillity.

My Eliza retreat cedar hot tub
The magical cedar hot tub.

Kookawood Farmhouse, Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains lay claim to some of the most spectacular scenery in NSW and Kookawood Farmhouse boasts the perfect private bath to enjoy it from.

The 200-acre property is a nature lover’s paradise, while the country-style farmhouse is packed with character and charm. Alongside the outdoor, claw-foot tub, guests are treated to an open log fireplace, two large bedrooms, and the natural beauty, culture and culinary delights that await in the Blue Mountains.

Visit our complete guide to the Blue Mountains here.

Kokawood farmhouse bath blue mountians
Bathe in the beauty of the Blue Mountains.

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Kingsford Homestead, Barossa Valley

Located on a 225-acre property on the edge of the Barossa Valley, Kingsford Homestead  has been the home of a wealthy 19th-century pastoralist, the set of McLeod’s Daughters and since 2009 an ever-so-elegant, but oh-so-Australian boutique getaway.

This exclusive 16-suite retreat caters to just 32 guests, but the real drawcard here is the glorious outdoor claw foot bush bath, which sits in a secluded corner of the property. Surrender to nature and relax with only North Para River and giant gum trees for company. Grown Alchemist bath salts are complementary.

Read our comprehensive travel guide to the Barossa Valley here.

Relax with only Para River and giant gum trees for company.

Longitude 131, Uluru

There are a lot of magical ways to experience Uluru, and while many of them come without the price tag of a stay at Longitude 131, there’s a reason this place is consistently named one of the best properties in all of Australia.

When our editorial director Leigh-Ann Pow visited in 2018, it was the bath that took her breath away. “If there was ever going to be such a thing as an Academy Awards ceremony for bathtubs then this would be the winner hands down.

“It’s a bit about the design of the thing – it resembles a luxe rainwater tank – but it’s mostly about the outlook. It sits in front of a floor-to-ceiling window that perfectly frames the hulking form of Uluru in the distance. A front-row bathtub to one of the most breathtaking views in the world."

Read more about Longitude 131 here.

Longitude 131 uluru bath
Bathe in Uluru’s glorious shadow.

Glenayr Farm, Mudgee

Mudgee’s Glenayr Farm  offers a traditional upmarket glamping experience set among a 320- acre sheep farming property. Not only do you get to bed down for the night surrounded by the quintessential Australian landscape, but you’ll also be nearby the famous wineries and restaurants.

The real drawcard to staying here is the outdoor, wood-fired hot tub, which transitions into a small plunge pool come summer. You’ll fall in love with the unrivalled sunsets and incredible vistas over one of the most beautiful spots in the region. At night, the sky transforms into one of the best stargazing sites in Australia (Mudgee Observatory is 10 minutes away).

Read more on our Mudgee travel guide here.

Glenayr Farm bath
Fall in love with Glenayr Farm.

Thalia Haven, Great Oyster Bay

What better way to envelop yourself in the beauty of Tasmania than with a long, hot soak in the tub, a glass of wine in hand, as the waves of Great Oyster Bay crash below? It’s all possible at Thalia Haven – a rugged, yet elegant house that is completely wind- and solar-powered.

Set on 130 acres of coastal bushland, you’re never far from the ocean, with sounds of the sea audible from each of the four bedrooms – and each room features a deluxe king-sized bed to complete the experience.

It’s stocked with everything you could need for a private winter weekend hideaway including fresh Tassie produce such as eggs, milk, sourdough bread, jam and butter. Oh, and did we mention that outdoor tub?

Thalia Haven bath
Bathe in complete privacy to the ever-changing colours of the sea.

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Saltbush Retreat, Longreach

Longreach is considered the heart and soul of Queensland’s outback, but that doesn’t mean you have to skimp on life’s little luxuries: enter Saltbush Retreat. This spectacular property offers guests accommodation in the rustic, 4.5-star Homestead Stables, the 4-star Slab Huts or the Outback Cabins.

The Homestead Stables are beautifully appointed to tell the full outback story, with old gates repurposed as bedheads and rustic troughs fashioned into bed bases. They also provide access to the all-important outdoor bath terrace where you can enjoy the ultimate soak with a view. The accompanying pamper pack includes comfy slippers, loafers, chocolates and all-important bath salts.

The all-important outdoor bath terrace.

Cliff House, Kangaroo Island

Spend your stay on Kangaroo Island overlooking Snellings Beach at Cliff House . The luxurious pad sleeps six, but you and your partner will want this one all to yourselves.

Boasting several romantic features, including a master bedroom fashioned inside a circular tower with panoramic views of the Southern Sea, the outdoor cliff-edge Jacuzzi is the crème de la crème of luxurious bathing. Hop in after sundown for a truly spectacular atmosphere – just you, the stars, the moon and the Milky Way.

Find more places to stay on Kangaroo Island here.

The cliff-edge Jacuzzi is the crème de la crème of luxurious bathing.

Freycinet Lodge, Freycinet National Park

Freycinet Lodge is a special-occasion-type place. The kind of place that allows you to really get away from it all in luxurious seclusion.

Inspired by its stunning natural surroundings on the Freycinet Peninsula, the accommodation (with options that range from cabins to Coastal Pavilions) features a contemporary yet cosy design made from timber, stone and leather.

For a spectacular sojourn, opt for one of the nine waterfront Coastal Pavilions. These architecturally designed rooms include a private deck that wraps around each pavilion – and it is here where you will find the magical outdoor bath that takes full advantage of the breathtaking views of Coles Bay and out to the Hazards.

Freycinet SAffire Lodge
Freycinet offers special-occasion bathing.
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The ultimate spring and summer guide to Melbourne

    Gemma Kaczerepa Gemma Kaczerepa

    There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

    The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

    If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

    Where to stay

    The Westin Melbourne

    couple inside their room at the westin melbourne
    View the city from above in your suite.

    Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

    Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

    Where to eat and drink

    1. Allegro

    Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

    The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

    2. Lobby Lounge

    the westin melbourne lobby lounge
    Step into the Lobby Lounge.

    Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .

    The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

    For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

    3. Other places to dine

    diners at supernormal melbourne
    There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

    Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

    Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

    Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

    While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

    Things to do

    1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

    a bridge across yarra river
    Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

    Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

    A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

    2. Browse the boutique galleries

    two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria
    See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

    Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery , Arc One Gallery , Outre Gallery , Caves Gallery , Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary , allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

    If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

    3. Catch some live music

    live music at the cherry bar in melbourne
    Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

    Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

    Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

    4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

    three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground
    Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

    The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

    Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

    5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

    the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre
    Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

    Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

    Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

    Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.