Six short and sweet spring escapes for your next road trip
Posted on
Hallellujah, the first signs of spring are here, and it has me thinking that after such a long and cold winter, we all deserve a little treat.
Whether you’re craving coastal charm, mountain serenity, or a riverside retreat, here are some luxe lodgings to inspire your spring travels. And the best part is, you’ll never be too far from home.
Paperbark Camp: Jervis Bay
Let’s kick it off with a little chic camping trip. Paperbark Camp is one of Australia’s OG glamping destinations, and it’s less than three hours away in Jervis Bay.
Their safari-style tents are decked out with all the luxuries you could want and will make you feel like you’re on a luxe trip to Africa – think: big bathtubs that open to the bushland, wraparound decks, and plush king beds with netted canopies.
Spend your days on one of the many walking trails surrounding the camp, and at night you’ll dine at The Gunyah, known for seasonal food reflecting Australia’s multicultural and Indigenous heritage.
It’s a stunning escape worthy of all hardy Canberrans who’ve made it through a tough winter.
571 Woollamia Road, Woollamia | paperbarkcamp.com.au
Nimbo Fork Lodge: Snowy Mountains
Surrounded by alpine hills and meandering trout streams, Nimbo Fork Lodge is brimming with indulgent country charm.
Located between Gundagai and Tumut, this rural retreat is just over two hours away, and once there, you can hide yourself away in a luxury riverside cottage or a suite in the main lodge. All rooms are decked out with modern country charm, befitting the gorgeous location.
The lodge offers a range of activities from horse riding and fly fishing to bike riding or massages. And once you’re all worn out from the day, you can dine onsite at Three Blue Ducks, where head chef Frankie will take you on a culinary journey with produce from around the Snowy and Riverina regions.
330 Nimbo Road, Killimicat | nimbofork.com.au
The Buckland Studios: Victorian High Country
A little further afield and over the Victorian border, The Buckland commands a unique setting at the base of Mount Buffalo in the Victorian High Country.
The individual studios provide a private and cosy setting with wood-burning fires and sprawling bathrooms that are beautifully appointed with free-standing baths overlooking native bushland.
There’s no restaurant on-site, but a breakfast hamper is provided, and you’re just around the corner from the bustling town of Bright with ample restaurants and bars to entertain you for a long weekend.
With mountain views and endless access to high-country activities, it’s one of those places you won’t soon forget.
116 McCormacks Lane, Buckland | thebuckland.com.au
Bannisters: Mollymook
Sitting by the infinity pool and overlooking the ocean, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been to Bannister’s sooner.
Located on a private headland and offering a wide range of glamorous room types from suites to penthouses, this might just become a regular destination.
A short stroll and you’ll find yourself on Mollymook’s main beach, but you’ll have to drag yourself away from the stunning spa first, and you won’t have to go far for dinner with the famous Rick Stein’s at Bannisters as your onsite restaurant.
Dinner could just be the highlight of the trip with Rick’s light touch when it comes to freshly cooked seafood accompanied by thoughtful wine pairings from the sommeliers.
191 Mitchell Parade, Mollymook | bannisters.com.au
Seahorse Inn: Eden
For a slice of history on our Sapphire Coast, head to the boutique Seahorse Inn on Twofold Bay.
Set amongst sprawling gardens, the historic sandstone property (which dates back to the mid-19th century), was beautifully restored in 2006 and now provides a refined seafront escape.
The rooms and suites feel bright and fresh with their palette of whites and blues, and the hotel is well known for its friendly and accommodating staff.
Eden is the perfect location for a little outdoor adventure, so plan to head out on a whale-watching trip or ramp up the thrills with the nearby mountain biking trails.
Be sure to leave time to settle back at the Seahorse for an afternoon wine or cocktail in the bar.
In the evening you can dine on fresh local seafood at the onsite restaurant or explore Eden’s restaurants and pubs for a night out.
Boydtown Park Road, Eden | seahorseinnhotel.com.au
Osborn House: Southern Highlands
Promised to be a playful slice of the Cotswolds in your own backyard, Osborn House is redefining highlands charm.
Built in the 1890s and beautifully restored, the contemporary decor sits in harmony with the historic setting, and no needs will go unmet.
Choose to stay in a forest lodge, and you’ll be immersed in a bohemian vintage vibe with timber-panelled walls, a cosy wood fire and a free-standing outdoor bath on the edge of Morton National Park.
If that doesn’t sound luxe enough, guests can access the forest bathing deck, which comes with an ice bath, sauna, jacuzzi and firepit.
To round out the perfect day, enjoy dinner at Fire Kitchen, their new Latin American restaurant that showcases live fire cooking, or align your trip with one of their special long lunches where the chefs fire up the outdoor asado in an impressive display of fire feasting.
96 Osborn Avenue, Bundanoon | osbornhouse.com.au
