9 restful weekend getaways around Australia

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Whether it’s a city staycation, a digital detox in the wild or a long weekend exploring new places, a short break can be all the reset you need.

1. The Limestone Coast, SA

Pristine beaches, lush vineyards and dazzling sinkholes, all just a 3.5-hour drive from Adelaide. It’s entirely possible to enjoy three separate holidays around South Australia’s 350-kilometre-long Limestone Coast over one long weekend. From a refreshing dip at Mount Gambier’s Kilsby Sinkhole to an exclusive wine tasting experience with Zema Estate in Coonawarra and a boutique stay at Church on the Hill in Robe, your easy, breezy itinerary awaits.

diving in Kilsby Sinkhole

Diving in Kilsby Sinkhole. (Image: Jessie Cripps)

2. Pumphouse Point, Tas

Travelling with: Imogen Eveson

If your idea of a perfect weekend means a digital detox in the wilderness, this unique, adults-only retreat in a historic hydro-electric station on a glacial lake might be just the ticket. Pumphouse Point is located on Lake St Clair in the central highlands of Tasmania Wilderness World Heritage Area, just 2.5 hours’ drive from Hobart and Launceston. Here, your boutique digs offer front-row seats to the drama of the landscape that envelops you.

the Pumphouse Point, Tasmania

Switch off in the Tassie wilderness. (Image: Adam Gibson)

3. The Hunter Valley, NSW

Travelling with: Carla Grossetti

There are myriad ways to experience the Hunter Valley, just a two-hour drive from Sydney. While the region is best known for its award-winning restaurants and cellar doors, teetotallers aren’t completely left wanting. Float in the sun-blushed skies over the vineyard-laden landscape with Balloon Aloft, join an outdoor cooking class at Majors Lane in Lovedale or head to Hunter Valley Resort and Farm for a range of activities, from barrel rolling to horse riding. Squeeze every drop out of your visit with a pampered stay at Elysia Wellness Retreat.

Balloon Aloft in the Hunter Valley

Take it above and beyond in the Hunter Valley. (Image: Destination NSW/Chris Elfes)

4. Trentham, Vic

Travelling with: Imogen Eveson

Like its nearby siblings Kyneton and Daylesford, the tiny gold rush town of Trentham in Victoria’s Macedon Ranges has been increasingly luring Melburnians away from the city for a weekend, if not a tree change, with its ever-expanding hit list of eateries, boutiques and galleries. The latest addition seals the deal: a luxuriously renovated two-bedroom weatherboard cottage has opened at The Cosmopolitan Hotel, a historic country pub and dining destination in and of itself.

a weatherboard cottage at The Cosmopolitan Hotel, Trentham, Victoria

A two-bedroom weatherboard cottage has opened at The Cosmopolitan Hotel.

5. The EVE Hotel in Sydney, NSW

Travelling with: Emily Murphy

The EVE Hotel Sydney is more than a stylish new stay – it’s a microcosm of Redfern’s creative energy and Sydney’s ever-evolving cultural landscape. Set within the heritage Wunderlich Lane precinct, The EVE blends biophilic design with thoughtful nods to the area’s past. Sip cocktails at Bar Julius or settle in for a long lunch at Lottie, where authentic Mexican flavours meet premium Australian produce. It’s a stay designed for lingering long after you’ve closed your suitcase.

the interior of The EVE Hotel, Sydney

The EVE blends biophilic design with thoughtful nods to the area’s past. (Image: Georg Roske)

6. A weekend cruise along Australia’s coastline

Travelling with: Imogen Eveson

The concept of a weekend cruise has gained popularity in recent years, as the world’s best cruise lines make their way Down Under for the summer season. A two-night weekender onboard Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas (January/February 2026) offers the chance to bliss out on a sea day between porting in Sydney, while a three-day sampler onboard Voyager of the Seas (December to March) offers the same opportunity from Brisbane. Princess Cruises offers similar two-day ‘seacations’ sailing between Sydney and Brisbane (November 2025). Or make an extra-long weekend of it, sailing five nights from Sydney on Celebrity Cruises’ award-winning Celebrity Edge, taking in Eden on NSW’s Sapphire Coast and Hobart (November 2025). It might just prove the ideal reset between busy working weeks.

the Celebrity Cruises’ award-winning Celebrity Edge villa

Sail five nights from Sydney on Celebrity Cruises’ award-winning Celebrity Edge. (Image: Michel Verdure)

7. The Blue Mountains, NSW

Travelling with: Emily Murphy

Treat yourself to a luxury weekend in the tranquil surrounds of Spicers Sangoma Retreat, perched in the Bowen Mountain landscape of NSW’s Blue Mountains National Park. Lush bushland, sandstone cliffs and the sounds of native birdlife set the scene for deep relaxation. Indulge in spa treatments at Spa Anise, savour hatted dining at Restaurant Amara, float in the heated infinity pool or wander bush trails. It’s a secluded haven designed for restorative escapes.

relaxing in the tub at Spicers Sangoma Retreat

Lean into restorative R&R in the Blue Mountains. (Image: Destination NSW/Jem Cresswell)

8. Explore Fitzroy in Melbourne, Vic

Travelling with: Katie Carlin

Melbourne’s oldest neighbourhood is a hub of contrasts: designer boutiques and fine-dining restaurants sit alongside graffitied terrace houses, tattoo parlours and historic pubs. Now, the world’s first StandardX hotel is drawing travellers out of the CBD and into the heart of Fitzroy. Its location, tucked behind the main drag across from Rose Street Artists’ Market, is prime for exploring Melbourne’s hidden art scene. You can’t walk a block without spotting a building-sized mural or painted stencil underfoot. To truly appreciate it, join a Street Art Tour with Blender Studios. You’ll never look at a tag the same way again.

al fresco dining at StandardX hotel, Fitzroy, Melbourne, Victoria

Join the cool set at the world’s first StandardX hotel. (Image: Rhiannon Taylor)

9. The Lodge Wadjemup, Rottnest Island, WA

Travelling with: Fleur Bainger

the Salt Lake view at The Lodge Wadjemup

Cast away on Perth’s favourite island.

Grinning quokkas? Check. Sixty-three perfect-smile beaches? Yep. A flash new way to spend the night? Well actually, yes. The opening of The Lodge Wadjemup may just unlock the insatiable demand for sandy-footed weekend getaways on Rottnest Island. The $40 million redevelopment will add 102 rooms to Perth’s favourite dot on the horizon once works are finished mid-May. More than half are already open, earning the resort global kudos as the only Australian hotel included in TIME magazine’s 2025 World’s Greatest Places list.

the interior of The Lodge Wadjemup

Spend the night at The Lodge Wadjemup. (Image: Shot by Thom)

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Win 1 of 10 luxury holidays worth over $38,000!

What’s better than booking your dream holiday? Winning it, of course!

Enter the 2025 Australian Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards for your chance to win big in our mega prize giveaway!

To celebrate our Readers’ Choice Awards, we have curated 10 incredible travel prizes worth $38,871 to give away, to inspire you to explore Australia.

Please note: you will not be able to choose which prize you win.The winners will be contacted after the competition closes and announced in issue 108 (on sale from 3 November 2025).

Read the general competition terms and conditions, as well as the Australian Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards terms and conditions, before you enter. You only need to enter the giveaway once.

Entries for this competition close at 5 pm AEST on 25 September 2025.

Intrepid Travel | JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa | Pair’d Margaret River | Kingfisher Bay Resort | Prancing Horse | Star RV | Lancemore | The Fullerton Hotel Sydney | Glenayr Farm | Taronga Zoo

Intrepid Travel’s six-day exploration of Tasmania’s Cradle Coast worth $6430

Intrepid-Travel-Tasmania-Cradle-Mountain-leader

Explore the edge of the world on this six-day exploration of Tasmania’s untamed Cradle Coast.

Discover the wild and rugged beauty of Australia’s most southern state on Intrepid Travel’s Best of Tasmania’s Tarkine & Cradle Mountain trip. The ultimate six-day escape for two loops in Tarkine/Takayna rainforest, a Cradle Mountain hike and inspired pit stops along the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail. Spot wombats, stargaze in remote stays, and connect with Indigenous culture in stunning national parks. Includes accommodation, select meals, and unforgettable scenery.

What’s included?

  • Hotel stay (four nights)
  • Cottage stay (one night)
  • Five breakfasts
  • One lunch
  • Two dinners
  • Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail sampling fresh raspberries, cheese, ice cream and brews along the way

A luxury stay at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa worth $5280

JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa_ Saltwater Lagoon Ariel View

Enjoy white sandy beaches, a swim-up grotto and waterfalls.

Treat your other half to a long weekend away in an Ocean View Executive Suite at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa. Enjoy daily breakfast for two at Citrique restaurant, a signature massage or facial at Spa by JW, and a three-course dinner with wine pairing at the award-winning Citrique. This unforgettable experience also includes complimentary self-parking so you can get out and explore while on the Goldie.

What’s included?

  • Three-night stay in an Ocean View Executive Suite
  • Breakfast daily for two in Citrique Restaurant
  • Signature massage or facial for two at Spa by JW
  • Three-course dinner with wine pairing for two in the award-winning Citrique Restaurant
  • Self-parking

A Pair’d festival getaway in Margaret River worth $5000

Beach club at Pair'd Margaret River

Enjoy diverse programming at Pair’d. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Win a three-night luxury escape for two at Smiths Beach Resort during the annual Pair’d Margaret River Festival. Enjoy return flights to Busselton, admission to select signature events from 21–23 November, and access to the best of the region’s bounty. This prize also includes exclusive Pair’d merch – everything you need for the ultimate festival adventure in the heart of WA’s iconic Margaret River Region.

Pair’d is Western Australia’s top wine and food festival, designed with a ‘wine first’ approach. This festival brings together the best of culinary, music and cultural experiences, all thoughtfully curated by sommeliers to create an unforgettable celebration of the senses.

What’s included?

  • Three-night luxury stay at Smiths Beach Resort, nestled on the pristine coastline of the Margaret River Region
  • Festival ticket pack to select signature events across the weekend of 21–23 November
  • Return flights to Busselton, flying into the heart of the region
  • Exclusive Pair’d merchandise, perfect for your weekend adventure

The ultimate K’gari adventure worth $5000

Lake McKenzie aerial shot on K'gari

Paradise awaits on K’gari.

Pack that floppy hat and factor 50+ sunscreen for five unforgettable days on World Heritage-listed K’gari (formerly Fraser Island). This epic prize includes airport transfers, ferry transport to the island, three nights at Kingfisher Bay Resort and one night at K’gari Beach Resort.

This ultimate island escape includes two days of guided 4WD touring, daily buffet breakfasts, touring lunches, national park fees and tickets to the magical Illumina light and sound show.

What’s included?

  • Return airport transfers to River Heads / Hervey Bay Airport
  • Return passenger ferry transfer
  • Three nights at Kingfisher Bay Resort
  • One night at K’gari Beach Resort
  • Full days of guided 4WD coach touring including lunch, National Park fees and permits
  • Daily buffet breakfast
  • Illumina light show experience

A $5000 supercar escape with Prancing Horse

Red Ferrari driving down road with Palm trees.

Drive an unparalleled collection of supercars on exclusive driving experiences across Australia.

Buckle up for the drive of a lifetime with Prancing Horse luxury driving experiences. Take the wheel of the world’s most coveted supercars – think Ferrari, McLaren or Lamborghini – for a breathtaking spin through one of six spectacular Australian regions. The ultimate road trip for two lucky rev-heads includes curated routes with gourmet dining, luxury hotels and jaw-dropping scenery.

What’s included?

  • Gourmet dining at award-winning restaurants
  • Exceptional hospitality and some of the most exciting driving roads in Australia

A seven-day Star RV motorhome getaway worth over $4300

Star RV Polaris 2 MountCook 1 NZ

This is your chance to live the van life dream. (Image: Clint Trahan)

Ready to hit the road? Win a seven-day adventure in a premium Star RV Polaris 6 motorhome valued at more than $4300. Choose to explore Australia or New Zealand with unlimited kilometres, 24/7 roadside assistance, basic insurance and a fully equipped home on wheels that sleeps six. The swanky motorhome is decked out with a full kitchen, bathroom, air-conditioning and outdoor gear included.

Designed with space, style and adventure in mind, the Polaris 6 has ample room to stretch out. Whether you’re chasing sunsets along the coast or stargazing in the outback, this is road tripping at its best. Perfect for a family holiday, a friend escape or a couple’s adventure – you get to write the story.

What’s included?

  • Unlimited kilometres
  • 24/7 roadside assistance
  • Basic insurance cover
  • Fully equipped kitchen, bathroom and air conditioning
  • Camping chairs and a table for those al fresco moments

A luxury Red Hill Escape worth over $2500

The Ninch Lindenderry

Rest and dream at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill.

If ever there was a place for you to rest and dream, it is Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill. The escape includes a stay in the luxurious Balcony Suite, tucked away amid 13 hectares of gardens and vineyards on the Mornington Peninsula.

Enjoy daily breakfast and a two-course degustation dinner with wine pairing at the acclaimed two-hatted restaurant, The Dining Room. Just minutes from beaches and top wineries, this is the perfect getaway for food, wine and nature lovers.

What’s included?

  • Breakfast
  • Two-course degustation dinner and wine pairing at the award-winning two-hatted restaurant, The Dine Room

A night at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney worth $2200

The Fullerton Staircase

A night in the Heritage Long Suite offers a truly unforgettable stay.

Experience over-the-top indulgence in the Heritage Long Suite, the largest guestroom at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney in the historic former General Post Office building. The suite features original marble fireplaces, a grand living area, the postmaster’s original writing desk from 1874 and a dining space for six.

Two lucky guests will enjoy Fullerton Club Lounge access with breakfast, afternoon tea, evening canapés and handcrafted cocktails. With its heritage charm and modern amenities, the prize amounts to an unforgettable stay for two.

What’s included?

  • Exclusive access to the Fullerton Club Lounge
  • A full-size refrigerator
  • Stocked mini-bar (on request)
  • A dining area for six
  • Ensuite master bathroom
  • Separate guest bathroom
  • King-sized beds

A luxe glamping stay for eight at Glenayr Farm worth $2000

Glenayr Farm hot tub

Glenayr Farm is a fully sustainable, off-grid accommodation. (Image: Salty Luxe)

Grab seven of your nearest and dearest and make a beeline for wine country in Mudgee. At Glenayr Farm, a 129-hectare working sheep and cattle property, you’ll have four luxe bell tents all to yourselves for two blissful nights. Pick up a bottle of wine at a nearby cellar door and uncork it in a hot tub or by the outdoor fire pit come evening.

Fall in love with the unrivalled views of the sunsets and incredible vistas over one of the most beautiful areas in the region. At night, the sky explodes to life as the area is one of the premier stargazing sites in Australia. Disconnect to reconnect and immerse in the peace of nature and country living.

What’s included?

  • Communal area with kitchen
  • Lounge/games room with billiards table, TV and bathrooms
  • Private hot tubs
  • Fire pits

A Wildlife Retreat experience worth $1159

Taronga Zoo Eco Retreat

Unique eco-retreat accommodation with immersive native animal experiences, modern Australian dining, all overlooking iconic Sydney Harbour.

Wake up with koalas and kangaroos at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga with an unforgettable overnight stay for two in an Animal View Room. Overlooking Sydney Harbour and hidden within Taronga Zoo, this luxury eco-retreat includes two-day zoo access, a guided Sanctuary tour, buffet breakfast at Me-Gal restaurant and free onsite parking. It’s a unique blend of nature, comfort and conservation – the perfect wild escape in the heart of Sydney/Warrane.

Every visit to Taronga Zoo directly supports vital wildlife conservation efforts, meaning your unforgettable experience helps contribute to a greater cause.

What’s included?

  • Two-day access to Taronga Zoo Sydney
  • An exclusive guided Sanctuary tour to meet some of Australia’s most beloved native animals up close
  • A delicious buffet breakfast at the Me-Gal restaurant
  • Onsite parking

Subscribe now to increase your chances of winning big. Simply subscribe to view digital versions of past magazines going back seven years, so you can get plenty of travel inspiration while you wait for your first printed magazine to arrive.