10 Secluded Winter Stays To Cosy Into

Hibernate in spectacular style at one of the country’s most secluded winter stays.

Curled up by a roaring fire or getting steamy in a heated jacuzzi, winter’s most famous indulgences are best enjoyed at a slow and steady pace. It’s why we’re currently obsessed with overnight stays fitted out with saunas, and why secluded winter stays top our seasonal bucket lists. Here, we round up some of the greatest cool weather accommodation offerings to help you lean into the chill and, well, chill.

1. Silky Oaks Lodge, Qld

Forget swaying palm trees and white sand beaches. Tropical North Queensland’s best-kept secret is its exclusive winter hideaways. Seizing the chance to immerse visitors in the lush beauty of the Daintree Rainforest, Silky Oaks Lodge, just 20 minutes away from Cairns, is a classic.

Bath at Silky Oaks Lodge — Silky Oaks is Tropical North Queensland’s best-kept secret.

Its most luxurious rooms, set amid the treetops overlooking the Mossman River, are dotted with outdoor fireplaces built within private decks.

Slip on your hotel slippers and gaze out into the wilderness from your toasty confines before an onsite day spa and multiple restaurants beckon.

a hammock on the balcony of Silky Oaks Lodge — While away the afternoon on your balcony.

Address: 423 Finlayvale Road, Mossman, QLD

2. Turon Gates Mountain Getaway, NSW

Wake up to mist-laced mountains at Turon Gates Mountain Getaway in NSW’s Capertee, about an hour’s drive north-west of the Blue Mountains.

a woman admiring the mountain views from her window while sipping coffee at Turon Gates Mountain Getaway — Sip coffee while gazing out over the rolling hills.

The jewel in its crown is the Sunvale Lodge with its own outdoor, log-fired, timber-panelled hot tub and an indoor fireplace that’s angled so rolling hills flood your gaze as you huddle around it.

Meanwhile, there’s an outdoor fire pit to keep conversation flowing long into the evening and electric blankets top the beds to ensure maximum comfort when it’s time to crash.

the living room of Turon Gates Mountain Getaway with a balcony and a fireplace — Huddle beside the fireplace with a glass or two.

Address: 942 Turon Gates Road, Capertee, NSW

3. Five Acres, Vic

Located on Phillip Island, three standalone cabins form Five Acres , one of Victoria’s most chic winter getaways.

Five Acres Phillip Island in Victoria — Five Acres is the ultimate boutique retreat. (Image: Marnie Hawson)

Sure, there are log fireplaces to nestle into, farm animals to fall in love with, magical farmscapes to marvel in and concrete outdoor baths to sink into but it’s the cabins’ immaculate styling, plush bedding and sensational fit-outs that you’ll struggle to part with. Stylish digs with all the winter-friendly bells and whistles? Just say yes.

Bed and living areas of Five Acres Phillip Island in Victoria — You’ll struggle to part with the cabins’ immaculate styling, plush bedding and sensational fit-outs. (Image: Marnie Hawson)

Address: 46 Mchaffies Lane, Ventnor, VIC

4. Sisters, Tas

An immaculately presented holiday home set atop a cliff, Spring Beach’s Sisters , located on the east coast of Tasmania, is your dream home away from home.

The star of the show is the outdoor woodfired hot tub, which can accommodate you and three or four other guests depending on how close you are.

friends soaking in the outdoor woodfired hot tub at Sisters, Tas — The star of the show is the outdoor woodfired hot tub.

The views from the restored 1970s home are similarly spectacular and luxuries lie around every corner. A Polaroid camera with fresh film, a hidden cubby house in the kids’ bunk-bed room and an indoor fireplace are just some of the delights.

a living room with a fireplace at Sisters, Tas — Read a book, play chess or drink wine by the fireplace.

Address: Spring Beach, Tas

5. Barranca Kangaroo Valley, NSW

Four stunning homesteads, each fitted with wood fireplaces and outdoor fire pits, are ready to be leaned into at Barranca in NSW’s Kangaroo Valley.

looking from outside into the Barranca homestead. — The secluded winter stays are architecturally striking. (Image: Piers Haskard Photography)

Surrounded by nothing but beautiful unspoiled bushland, each of the secluded winter stays is architecturally striking and trimmed with features such as outdoor showers, freshwater supplied by nearby mountains, terraces with gas barbecues and kitchen collections of eggs, bread and milk.

a couple sitting by the fire outside the Barranca homestead. — Curl up by the bonfire outside the beautiful Barranca homestead. (Image: Piers Haskard Photography)

Address: 408 Bunkers Hill Road, Kangaroo Valley, NSW

6. Pavilions at Lenswood, SA

How does a private sauna session sound? At Pavilions at Lenswood in South Australia’s Adelaide Hills, six unique stays offer basically every cold-weather creature comfort imaginable, particularly the two pavilions that feature private sweat boxes.

one of the accommodations at Pavilions at Lenswood — Pavilions at Lenswood offer cold-weather creature comforts. (Image: Richard Lyons)

No matter which room you book, expect views over landscaped gardens and a picture-perfect lake, an open wood or gas fireplace and either a private hot tub, spa bath or pool.

a private tub at Pavilions at Lenswood — End the day with a relaxing dip in your private tub. (Image: Richard Lyons)

Address: Corner of Swamp and Leslie Roads, Lenswood, SA

7. Nightfall, Qld

Winter is the perfect time to finally give glamping a go, and it doesn’t get more glamorous than Nightfall in the Queensland hinterland, around 90 minutes’ inland from the Gold Coast.

the exterior of the glamping tent at Nightfall, Qld — Go off-grid at Nightfall. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The secluded winter stay is decked out with a string of indulgences including private in-tent fireplaces, extra thick organic bedding, vintage bathtubs, plush robes and health-conscious, fire-cooked meals.

a look inside the glamping tent at Nightfall, Qld — The glamping tent at Nightfall is laid out with modern comforts. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Address: Lamington National Park, QLD

8. Losari Retreat, WA

Can’t resist a jacuzzi? At Western Australia’s Losari Retreat , located within the Margaret River, six two-bedroom spa villas provides you with your very own outdoor spa overlooking a pristine lake and manicured gardens. Meanwhile, inside, there’s a fireplace, heated towel rails in the bathrooms and spacious living areas.

a woman relaxing in a jacuzzi at Losari Retreat — Relax in the jacuzzi at Losari Retreat.

Level up your escape by opting for gourmet food hampers, in-room chef services and in-room massages.

holding a wine glass near the fire at Losari Retreat — Drink your wine by the fire.

Address: 498 Osmington Road, Margaret River, WA

9. Nimbo Fork Lodge, NSW

Tucked within NSW’s Snowy Mountains, Nimbo Fork Lodge is a winter wonderland with its very own destination dining. Located near Gundagai, the secluded stay is home to a Three Blue Ducks , one of the state’s best eateries, as well as beautifully appointed cottages and suites fitted with fireplaces.

the Nimbo Fork Lodge against the fiery and dimming sky — Nimbo Fork Lodge is a winter wonderland.

If you’re lucky, you’ll also score a large bathtub set beneath glass windows so you can relax while staring into the greatest of the outdoors.

a look inside the Nimbo Fork Lodge — The secluded stay is home to a Three Blue Ducks.

Address: 330 Nimbo Road, Killimicat, NSW

10. Cradle Mountain Lodge, Tas

One of Tasmania’s prettiest sights, Cradle Mountain and its surrounding lakes and wilderness, turn into a real-life snow globe during the cooler months – and Cradle Mountain Lodge is a prime location to facilitate your exploration.

the Cradle Mountain Lodge near a lake — Cradle Mountain Lodge is nestled by a lake. (Image: Laura Helle)

The secluded winter stay is home to suites and cabins with private fireplaces, plus there’s an onsite day spa and various dining experiences (cheese and wine tastings are a hit) to savour between your adventures.

a woman dipping in a wooden outdoor tub at Cradle Mountain Lodge — Soak in a soothing bath right outside your lodge. (Image: Laura Helle)

Address: 4038 Cradle Mountain Road, Cradle Mountain, Tas

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

10 secluded winter stays to cosy into