Five winter getaways to book when you need to get out of town
Posted on
Need a change of scenery? These winter escapes within about three hours of Canberra are well worth booking.
If you’re feeling the mid-year slump, it might be a sign you need a microvacation. What’s that, you ask? A short getaway lasting anywhere from a long weekend to a week, it hits the sweet spot when you need a break but don’t have the leave to commit to a month-long holiday.
Budget-friendly while still offering all the benefits of a more traditional break (like a new destination to explore), the microvacation still gives you that ‘reset’ feeling without the stress of pre-holiday planning.
So, whether you’re seeking a night away or a full-blown weeklong holiday, add these winter escapes to your bookmarks bar.
Mona Farm (Braidwood)
View this post on Instagram
A stay at the Shearer’s Quarters at Mona Farm is ideal for couples looking to add some romance to their escape.
Dating back to 1873, this luxurious two-person Guest House (designed by renowned architect Louise Nettleton) is not only steeped in history but also boasts a generous alfresco deck, uninterrupted views of Mona Creek, a Japanese-inspired bath house, two wood-burning fireplaces and a heated spa.
But a stay at Mona Farm is so much more than just a night away. The team also offers a range of carefully curated experiences for you to enjoy – from a fishing lesson on Mona Lake to interactive farm tours. Not to mention memorable dining experiences celebrating the best of the region’s produce and suppliers.
Be sure to take the time to explore the farm to uncover the unique collection of contemporary sculpture hidden amongst the gardens.
Travel time: One hour and 10 minutes.
140 Little River Road, Braidwood | monafarm.com.au
Dolphins Motel (Mollymook)
View this post on Instagram
A beachside escape in winter is the reset you didn’t know you needed – especially when you add in a 1950s Californian aesthetic.
Located just moments from Mollymook Beach, The Dolphins is a classic Australian roadside motel transformed into a thoughtfully reimagined boutique stay, inspired by the optimism and simplicity of mid-century coastal living.
Along with the choice of a three-bedroom apartment or 10 retro style King Studios –featuring a private terrace, kitchenette fitted with Sam Gordon crockery and Smeg appliances, Dyson hair dryers, St. Ali coffee and more – there’s also an onsite pool for those brave enough to take a dip.
As for food? You can’t go past Dolly’s Café, where you can grab a morning coffee or matcha alongside ricotta hotcakes, breakfast buns, rainbow trout salad and a seasonal plate shaped by the region’s produce. Plus, local wines and craft beers are on offer, with guests able to order directly to their room or poolside.
With Mollymook Beach just down the road, it’s a refreshed taste of coastal cool.
Travel time: Two hours and 43 minutes.
17 Shepherd Street, Mollymook | dolphinsmollymook.au
Nimbo Fork Lodge (Killimicat)
View this post on Instagram
Nestled in the foothills of the Snowy Mountains and set on the banks of the Tumut River, Nimbo Fork Lodge offers a luxurious escape for when you’re craving something quiet but refined. Book a stay in a cosy cottage and soak in the serenity and views of the spectacular landscape.
Nimbo Fork Lodge is also home to Three Blue Ducks, known for its intimate farm-to-table dining experience highlighting the Riverina district’s local producers.
Looking for an incentive to book a day trip or night away? On Saturday 26 July, Three Blue Ducks will celebrate Christmas in July with a menu filled with festive favourites. Dishes will include Christmas Gilda with grilled chorizo, pineapple, cheddar and onion; a ham and turkey roast, Yorkshire pudding, pigs in blankets, proper gravy and all the trimmings.
Grab yourself a mulled wine and make a weekend of it.
Travel time: Two hours and 16 minutes.
330 Nimbo Road, Killimicat | threeblueducks.com
Wilga Station (Evans Plains)
View this post on Instagram
An off-grid country escape located between Bathurst and Orange, Wilga Station is a 260-acre working sheep farm that takes relaxed luxury to a whole new level.
It’s home to two choices of off-grid accommodation: the Farmers Hut (which sleeps two) and The Shearers Hall (which sleeps 10). Guests can also enjoy the beautifully restored outdoor cattle trough bath and rain shower, a 600sqm private walled kitchen garden and immersive farm tours, with optional paddock-to-plate catering experiences.
Make the most of the winding, walking tracks and willow-lined creek, before settling in to toast marshmallows and watch the sunset over a roaring fire.
Travel time: Three hours and 16 minutes.
1611 Mid Western Highway, Evans Plains | wilgastation.com.au
Bishop’s Court Estate (Bathurst)
View this post on Instagram
Tucked away next to St Stanislaus’ College, Bishop’s Court Estate is a boutique hotel offering a unique getaway. Private and intimate, it has just six guest rooms – not only making it luxurious, but also exclusive. But it’s worth noting that Bishop’s Court Estate isn’t just a bed for the night.
While the venue is undoubtedly beautiful, it’s owner Christine Le Fevre herself who makes the experience of staying there so special. She goes above and beyond to make guests feel pampered and at home, from serving a two-course gourmet breakfast in the morning to hosting Golden Hour drinks.
Christine masterfully creates a connection with (and between) the guests, turning Bishop’s Court Estate from a hotel to an experience.
Travel time: Three hours and 16 minutes.
226 Seymour Street, Bathurst | bishopscourtestate.com.au
