There’s no better way to escape the everyday than by packing your bags, saying farewell to your schedule and hitting the road for a weekend adventure. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun in the sun or a secluded romantic retreat, satisfy your wanderlust with one of Australia’s best weekend escapes.
Long weekend escapes in Queensland
Mantra Towers of Chevron Surfers Paradise
Make yourself at home above the action at Mantra Towers of Chevron, right in the heart of Surfers Paradise. Spacious apartments with full kitchens give you room to settle in, while the “Beaches in the Sky” lagoon pool brings a tropical resort feel to your stay. With shops and dining right below and the Gold Coast’s beaches close by, your next sunny escape is all within easy reach.
Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa
Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort & Spa centres around a lagoon pool framed by melaleuca trees, with a lap pool, children’s pool and Lagoon Bar creating an easy rhythm of swimming, cocktails and poolside lunches. When you’re ready to slow things down further, Vie Spa offers personalised treatments in a tranquil setting, while Temple of Tastes brings Southeast Asian-inspired flavours and local produce to the table. With studio rooms, self-contained apartments, private plunge pools and rooftop spas, the resort gives couples, families and groups different ways to settle into Palm Cove.
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Wake up beside the water at Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns, set between Marlin Marina and the Coral Sea. Take in marina or Trinity Inlet views from your private outdoor space, then cool off in the pool among tropical gardens. With the Reef Fleet Terminal just steps away, your Great Barrier Reef adventure is close at hand; afterwards, linger over a poolside drink as the day winds down.
Misty View Cottages
Escape to Misty View Cottages, where private cabins nestle in Montville’s rainforest with sweeping views over misty Lake Baroon. Cosy up beside the fireplace, soak in your cottage spa and let the hinterland quiet set the pace. When you’re ready to explore, Montville’s cafés and boutiques are just a short drive away.
Long weekend escapes in Western Australia
COMO The Treasury
Stylish above all, COMO The Treasury’s carefully crafted interiors and invigorating atmosphere are sure to leave a lasting impression. Become immersed in a world of five-star opulence as soon as you step through the 19th-century heritage facade and into glittering spaces filled with eccentric furnishings. Endowed with a cascade of awards and currently rated the #1 Perth hotel on Tripadvisor, a stay at COMO provides the best of the West in the way of old-world grandeur and modern luxury. From the comfort of plush, masterfully styled rooms and curated fine dining spaces, bask in panoramic views of Perth’s impressive skyline, best admired as the sun sets.
Discovery Rottnest Island
Reconnect with nature without sacrificing modern luxury with an eco-glamping beachside escape to Discovery Rottnest Island, easily reached from Perth’s Barrack Street Jetty via a 90-minute ferry or just a 25-minute ferry from Fremantle. Enjoy alfresco dining sheltered by a verdant canopy of native trees, or snap a selfie with the world’s happiest animal, the smiling quokka. Snorkel over coral reefs and encounter passing dolphins in pristine waters before sipping a chilled chardonnay at sunset by the pool.
Pullman Bunker Bay Resort, Margaret River Region
Experience coastal luxury in Western Australia’s Margaret River wine region, set alongside the pristine sands of secluded Bunker Bay. With direct beach access and breathtaking native landscapes across 35 acres, this is tranquillity unmatched. With its serene beachfront setting and pristine facilities – including an infinity pool, two tennis courts, a fitness centre, complimentary Saturday yoga classes (advance booking required) and a world-class day spa – this resort is the perfect launchpad for adventures in the spectacular surrounds of the greater Margaret River region.
Pan Pacific Perth
After a huge $50 million-plus refurbishment, Pan Pacific Perth stands in the heart of the city with its floor-to-ceiling windows revealing commanding views across the Swan River to Langley Park and the green edge of Kings Park beyond. Book into the Pacific Club Lounge and settle into one of Perth’s most celebrated premium hotel experiences, with Swan River views as the backdrop to afternoon refreshments and evening drinks. Downstairs, award-winning UMA delivers South American cuisine that has earned multiple Australian Good Food Guide Chef’s Hat awards, while Más Vino Wine Bar pours a carefully curated lineup of local and international wines just steps from the lobby.
Long weekend escapes in New South Wales
Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges
Bannisters Port Stephens brings a relaxed retro spirit to the Soldiers Point shoreline. Here, days revolve around the infinity pool, long views and an easy choice of dining: Rick Stein at Bannisters keeps the focus on fresh local seafood, while Julio’s Mexican adds colourful plates and classic cocktails by the water. Beyond the resort, the region’s beaches, koala habitat, whale-watching cruises and marine adventures make it easy to balance slow afternoons with time spent exploring the coast.
Bells at Killcare Boutique Hotel, Restaurant & Spa
Tucked into the Bouddi Peninsula just 90 minutes north of Sydney, Bells at Killcare is a Hamptons-style retreat that feels genuinely worlds away from the city. The Wild Flower Bar & Dining draws a crowd in its own right, serving Mediterranean-inspired food with a strong focus on locally sourced seafood, and the Bells Day Spa and 20-metre lap pool complete the picture. You can even arrive in style by seaplane or ferry from Palm Beach.
Parklands Country Gardens & Lodges
Leave it all behind for the natural beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains with a stay at this romantic destination less than two hours from Sydney. Housed in a beautifully renovated heritage building, surrounded by acres of perfectly kept gardens reminiscent of a grand European estate, this retreat is the ideal destination to relax and explore the Blue Mountains National Park in pure luxury. Days here can be spent discovering the national park (including the famous Three Sisters and Govetts Leap lookout) being pampered with spa treatments, and embracing the atmosphere of this unique part of Australia.
The Sebel Kiama
Make a coastal escape of it at The Sebel Kiama, where deluxe rooms frame Kiama Harbour and the Pacific Ocean. Take your time over morning coffee or a sunset drink on the balcony, then head out to explore the harbour and town. Yves Social brings ocean views to long lunches and relaxed drinks, while Kiama Surf Beach is within walking distance. This is your base for South Coast stay shaped by sea air, local dining and easy coastal strolls.
Château Élan at The Vintage
Settle into a restored country retreat surrounded by gardens, vineyards and the Hunter Valley’s food and wine scene. The Convent’s 19 individually designed rooms bring heritage character together with contemporary comforts. Savour seasonal, farm-to-table dining at hatted Circa 1876, or enjoy breakfast at Restaurant Eighty Eight overlooking the Wisteria Courtyard. Pepper Tree Wines is right on the estate, making a tasting an especially easy addition to your stay.
The Convent Hunter Valley
Find tranquility with a stay at Château Élan at The Vintage, a European-inspired retreat set in the picturesque rolling hills of the Hunter Valley, New South Wales’ premier wine region. This estate is a little piece of Tuscany, with rooms designed to take full advantage of the valley’s verdant greenery and golf course. Situated on an idyllic 100 acres, this property is a romantic rendezvous within 2.5 hours of Sydney, or just a one-hour drive from Newcastle Airport (NTL). The award-winning 18-hole golf course, 25-metre lap pool and The Spa at Château Élan are just the cherry on top.
Cupitt’s Estate
Cupitt’s Estate is the kind of South Coast stay where a winery visit can easily become a full day. This family-run estate sits between Ulladulla and Milton, overlooking vineyards, Burrill Lake and the Budawang Ranges. Settle into one of the boutique villas, then wander to the historic Cellar Door for a tasting before choosing between the farm-to-table Dining Room and the more relaxed Wine Garden. Seasonal menus draw on produce from the kitchen garden and local suppliers, while the estate’s handcrafted wines make an easy companion for a long lunch or sunset drink.
Paperbark Camp
Twelve canvas safari tents raised on hardwood decking among the eucalyptus and paperbarks of Jervis Bay – each with a private open-air ensuite, wraparound veranda and birdsong for an alarm clock. The Gunyah, an architect-designed treetop restaurant, serves candlelit three-course dinners showcasing local produce, and Sunday’s legendary paella is reason enough to plan your dates around a weekend. Complimentary canoes, paddleboards and bikes put the white-sand beaches of Booderee National Park within easy reach.
Mantra Ettalong Beach
Escape to the Central Coast at Mantra Ettalong Beach, just across the road from the sand and sea. Choose a studio or spacious suite with a balcony and views of the ocean, hinterland or resort pool. Cool off in the outdoor pool overlooking Brisbane Water and Broken Bay, then wander to Ettalong’s cafés and restaurants. With the seaside village on your doorstep, it’s easy to settle into a slower pace.
Long weekend escapes in Tasmania
Cape Wickham Golf Links – King Island
Tee off at the edge of the world on an award-winning championship links course, where the rugged King Island coastline frames every fairway with jaw-dropping beauty. Consistently ranked among the best courses on the planet and named Australia’s top-ranked course by Golf Digest, Cape Wickham is a masterpiece of design with coastal winds that will keep you on your toes. Beyond the greens, make the most of your time on the coast with an early morning swim at Victoria Cove, and put your feet up in a villa-like room with expansive ocean vistas that make it impossible to miss a shot at relaxation.
Discovery Resorts – Cradle Mountain
A long weekend at Discovery Resorts – Cradle Mountain is about getting close to the park without overcomplicating the escape. Spend the morning on the trails, watch the weather move across the mountain and return to a warm meal without needing to drive anywhere. Choose it for outdoorsy families, friends and walkers who want the wilderness within easy reach.
Villa Howden
Villa Howden gives a long weekend a gentler shape. Start the day near North West Bay, head into the Huon Valley or across to Bruny Island, then leave room for an afternoon that goes nowhere in particular. It’s a good fit for couples and small groups who want Hobart within reach but would rather wake to water, gardens and a slower pace.
Long weekend escapes in Northern Territory
H on Mitchell Apartment Hotel
Elevate your stay in the Top End with a boutique, self-contained apartment in the heart of Darwin’s CBD. Whether here for work or play, this modern retreat has everything you need for ultimate relaxation; unwind on a cabana by the shimmering rooftop pool with sweeping city views, stay active at the fully equipped fitness centre and enjoy the atmosphere at the onsite sports bar.
Bamurru Plains
There is nowhere quite like the regional and mesmerising Bamurru Plains. Sitting on over 300 square kilometres of private floodplain, bordering Kakadu National Park, this all-inclusive safari camp places guests inside one of Australia’s most extraordinary wildlife environments. Just 12 bungalows and retreats share exclusive access to the floodplains, each with mesh walls that dissolve the boundary between inside and out. By night, listen to the Australian bush as wallabies and buffalo wander by. Every meal is prepared by an onsite chef and served in the main lodge, with afternoon canapes and sundowners built into your daily rhythm. Your stay includes unlimited free-flow drinks from the moment you arrive.
Long weekend escapes in Victoria
Yarra Valley Lodge
It’s no secret that Victoria’s Yarra Valley is teeming with treasures, and one of its best-kept gems is just waiting to be uncovered. Set within the Heritage Golf & Country Club, Yarra Valley Lodge’s contemporary rooms and suites put you instantly at ease, with each carefully designed to reflect the beauty of the surrounding vineyards. Relax with a glass of wine in hand at the sophisticated Bella Restaurant or practice your swing on the Jack Nicklaus-designed St. John golf course. Beyond the lodge, there’s no shortage of exceptional wineries, distilleries, boutique shops, galleries and national parks to keep you entertained.
The Sands Torquay
Find your Surf Coast rhythm at The Sands Torquay, a relaxed coastal resort just a short walk from Whites Beach. Tee off on the 18-hole championship course, then cool down in the heated indoor pool or stretch out over a meal at Sabbia. Modern rooms and suites make a comfortable base for exploring Torquay and the Great Ocean Road. It’s an easy blend of beach time, golf and fresh coastal air.
The Sebel Yarrawonga Silverwoods
Surrounded by river red gums and Lake Mulwala’s gentle waters, lakeside luxury awaits on the south bank of the Murray River. Swim in the heated pool or fish the day away before returning to the resort’s Stock & Barrel restaurant for country-inspired plates and handpicked spirits. Those who golf together will adore the 18-hole championship Black Bull Golf Course – consistently rated one of the country’s best. After a day on the greens, take a trip to SOL Wellness Spa, offering holistic treatments drawing on foraged Australian active ingredients.
Marnong Estate
Set among 1,200 acres of vineyard and working farmland, Marnong Estate pairs sweeping Macedon Ranges views with a refined country escape just 35 minutes from Melbourne. Taste the estate’s wines at the cellar door, then linger over Italian dining at La Vètta or a relaxed meal at Cucina 3064. Stay in beautifully appointed accommodation, from contemporary rooms with private balconies to suites in the historic homestead. It’s a deliciously easy way to trade the city rush for long lunches, vineyard scenery and a slower pace.
Portarlington Grand Hotel
Portarlington Grand Hotel is for travellers who want the holiday feeling to begin before they arrive. Take the ferry from Melbourne, settle into the Bellarine pace and spend a long weekend moving between local food, bay views and the hotel’s historic rooms. It suits couples and friends who want a proper change of scene without committing to a long drive or a packed itinerary.
Long weekend escapes in South Australia
InterContinental Adelaide by IHG
Settle into riverside luxury at InterContinental Adelaide, where guest rooms look out over the River Torrens or the city skyline. You’re steps from Adelaide Oval and close to the Festival Centre, North Terrace and Rundle Mall. Cool off in the heated outdoor pool with views across the riverbank, then choose between seasonal South Australian dining at Riverside Restaurant or Japanese cuisine at Shiki.
Novotel Barossa Valley
Overlooking Jacob’s Creek Vineyards and the Barossa Ranges, the Novotel Barossa Valley Resort sits adjacent to the 18-hole Tanunda Pines Golf Course, just over an hour from Adelaide. All 140 rooms have balconies with vineyard views, The Cellar Kitchen Restaurant follows a paddock-to-plate philosophy with seasonal Barossa produce, and the Endota Day Spa handles the rest. Complimentary wine tastings run Thursday to Saturday, and more than 80 cellar doors are within easy reach.
CABN Hahndorf
Set on 30 acres in the Adelaide Hills – on the historic grounds of The Cedars, former home of artist Hans Heysen – CABN Hahndorf offers nine off-grid pods just four minutes from Hahndorf’s main street. Standard cabins have a kitchenette, indoor fireplace and solar power; the CABN X steps it up with a king bed, private sauna, full bathroom and an outdoor bath under the trees. Mount Lofty hikes, Adelaide Hills wineries and the Jurlique biodynamic farm are all close by.
Long weekend escapes in the Australian Capital Territory
Ovolo Canberra
Make Ovolo Canberra your base in NewActon, the city’s creative precinct, where bold design and original artworks bring character to every stay. Take a short stroll to galleries, cafés and Lake Burley Griffin, then return to relax in a room filled with vintage finds and modern comforts. At Monster Kitchen & Bar, seasonal produce takes centre stage in share-style dishes, with cocktails to match. It’s a distinctly Canberra stay with art, food and culture right on your doorstep.
Hyatt Hotel Canberra – A Park Hyatt Hotel
Hyatt Hotel Canberra suits travellers who like a long weekend with a little substance. Stay here and the capital’s cultural institutions, galleries and parliamentary history become part of the itinerary, rather than something you squeeze in between hotel facilities. It’s made for history buffs, architecture lovers and anyone who prefers a city break with a slower, more considered pace.
QT Canberra
Here, QT brings its signature eclectic style to Canberra with a vibe that’s as quirky as the city itself, a destination where politics meets creativity and culture. Expect light, bright, modern rooms with colourful splashes and attention-grabbing artwork, and hip dining destinations like Capitol Bar & Grill (order the wood-fired steak), and the 15th-floor QT Lounge, where whimsical high tea is served at elevation.
