The long weekend is approaching and we’re all trying to find somewhere to go in the seemingly short amount of time we have. There are plenty of options available to you so we’ve picked out our favourite places around Australia to go for a mini-break for whatever type of traveller you are!
Relaxing
Our pick: Peninsula Hot Springs, VIC
Why we love it: When you’ve had a long week at work and all you want to do is treat yourself to a weekend of relaxation, the Peninsula Hot Springs is definitely the place to be. Only an hours’ drive south of Melbourne, you can experience the natural hot mineral spring, full body massage, and more luxe treatments available at the spa centre. The therapeutic benefits of the mineral springs can help with alleviating stiffness of the shoulders, recovering from fatigue and muscular complaints. It’s the perfect way to unwind and relax after a solid week’s worth of work.
How to get there:
By car: just an hours’ drive from Melbourne
By bus: Melbourne on the Move run a shuttle bus service to Peninsula Hot Springs on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday.
By public transport: Take the train from Southern Cross Railway Station (Melbourne City) to Frankston Railway Station then take the 788 bus to Rye Hotel where you can catch an uber or taxi service. If you’re a keen walker, it’ll take approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Food & Wine
Our pick: Leeuwin Estate, Margaret River, WA
Why we love it: Escape to Margaret River in WA and visit the Leeuwin Estate, renowned for it’s five-course degustation and award-winning wineries. There is also an art gallery with a unique collection of contemporary Australian artworks on the premises. Every year, Leeuwin holds a spectacular concert to celebrate amazing art and music, with their eclectic mix of the world’s finest musicians and entertainers. It’s the ultimate food and wine experience, with a touch of arts and culture. There’s something for everyone at the Leeuwin Estate.
How to get there:
By car: Margaret River is located 3 hours’ drive from Perth. You can rent a car at one of the many rental car companies in Perth. Driving is the ideal means of transport as you’ll have the option to take the scenic inland route, which would add just an extra half an hour or so onto your trip.
By coach/bus: South West Coach Lines connects Perth and the South West region, departing daily from the City Bus Port, Domestic and International Airports and Perth.
Nature
Our pick: Bay of Fires Lodge Walk, TAS
Why we love it: When you do any walking trail, the views at the end always make up for the treacherous trek and this is definitely the case for the Bay of Fires Lodge Walk. The Tasmanian Walking Company runs a 4-day adventure covering 32km on foot, including a mixture of sandy beaches and stunning coastal vegetation. There is also a 6km kayak plus plenty of delicious food to fuel your journey. You get the chance to stay overnight in lodges overlooking the beautiful ocean while you sit around an open fire enjoying delicious meals prepared with the freshest local produce and the finest Tasmanian wines.
Don’t just take our word for it. Make a trip down to Tassie and see for yourself!
How to get there: The itinerary starts off in Launceston which is easily accessible – whether you are driving or flying in from interstate.
Luxury
Our pick: Qualia, Hamilton Island, QLD
Why we love it: One of Australia’s most exclusive destinations sits on an island just a couple hours’ flight off the east coast. It doesn’t get more luxurious than getting off the seaplane, helicopter or luxury yacht (which serves complimentary champagne) and embarking upon white sandy beaches and celestial-blue sea. Then when you arrive at your beach house, you’ll be greeted with stunning ocean views overlooking the Whitsunday Passage and Coral Sea, a private 12-metre infinity swimming pool, fully stocked bar and VIP chauffeur service.
If you really wanted to treat yourself over the long weekend, Qualia in Hamilton Island is the place to be and you definitely won’t be disappointed.
How to get there: Travellers can fly into Hamilton Island Airport from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Cairns. Private flights and charters also fly into Hamilton Island Airport, along with locally operated helicopters, light planes and seaplanes.
Adventure
Our pick: Blue Mountains, NSW
Why we love it: A charming village with amazing scenery and plenty of activities to do. For those seeking a thrill and yearning for adventure, canyoning in the Blue Mountains will definitely satisfy those cravings. The Blue Mountains has over 900 amazing slot canyons. You’ll be swimming, jumping into pristine pools of water, abseiling through waterfalls and walking amongst the stunning greenery in the Blue Mountains. It’s like a water park for adults! Afterwards, head to Wentworth Falls for a picnic and bask in the lush world of rainforests and waterfalls.
How to get there:
By car: From the heart of Sydney, the drive to Katoomba takes about 90 minutes via the M4 Motorway.
By train: Taking the train from Central Station, it takes about 100 minutes to Katoomba Station.
By coach: Many coach companies offer day trips to the Blue Mountains, generally leaving from Circular Quay in Sydney. There are various companies offering tours to the Blue Mountains.
