Spa serenity, champagne dinners, heritage luxury or off-grid seclusion: whatever 'romance' means to you, these Australian escapes deliver in abundance.
For some, a romantic escape means five-star luxury, champagne breakfasts and poolside pampering. For others, it’s all about glorious solitude, unadulterated relaxation and windswept wonder. Then there are those who prefer gilded elegance and pastoral bliss over urban hideaways.
Whether you’re looking for a cosy sojourn to reconnect together or an extra-special escape to pop the big question, fulfil your every desire with our roundup of Australia’s most romantic hotels.
NEW SOUTH WALES
Château Élan at The Vintage, Hunter Valley
Tuscany is arguably one of the world's most romantic destinations, but there's no need to reach for your passport when a taste of Tuscany can be found in the NSW Hunter Valley. Enter Château Élan at The Vintage, which takes the romance of Tuscany and marries it with an award-winning 18-hole golf course (designed by Greg Norman, no less), a 25-metre lap pool and serene day spa. Upgrade to a Spa Suite if you really want to go all out.
Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains by MGallery
Cradled by the most breathtaking, Bronte-worthy landscape, under a cover of blue mist, is Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains by MGallery, a slice of serenity less than two hours from Sydney. Here, dinner is served with a side of Jamison Valley views, chilled bubbles beside the crackling fire and fine local whiskies at the underground tavern. Want to take date night next-level? Rug up and head to the indoor ice skating rink for a hand-in-hand spin.
Bannisters Pavillion
Swap city stressors for the laidback life of NSW's South Coast at one of Australia’s leading boutique hotels: Bannisters Port Stephens. This charming seaside haven has light and airy decor, stunning ocean views and casual beach vibes. Laze by the rooftop pool or take hand-in-hand strolls along the white-sand beach (less than 100 metres away from the hotel). When hunger calls, sit down to Bass Strait scallops and Nelson Bay tuna at Rick Stein at Bannisters, one of the most acclaimed seafood restaurants in Australia.
Laurina Estate, Darawank
For a true taste of Australian history, look no further than Laurina Estate, which reclines on six beautiful acres in the shadow of the North Coast mountainscape, on the edge of the Darawank. This adults-only private home is wildly romantic and sublimely comfortable, with all the opulent luxury of a glamorous boutique-hotel-meets-country-retreat. Inside, a blend of traditional and contemporary – ‘country modern’ – are worth the journey alone, with romantic aesthetics that manage to be both cosy and elegant, natural and sophisticated. With an outdoor bathhouse overlooking the gardens, a romantic fire pit and a swimming pool, plus alpacas to keep you company, you’ll want for little else.
The Hydro Majestic Hotel
Expect spectacular valley views and unique heritage interiors, plus exceptional dining experiences, at the spectacular Hydro Majestic Hotel, set amid the UNESCO World Heritage Site-listed Blue Mountains. This iconic Art Deco property – once Australia's first health retreat – has been beautifully restored to its former glory and promises a slice of history with a side of romance with grander facilities, including the lauded The Wintergarden restaurant.
QUEENSLAND
InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, Whitsundays
A private island as a postcard-perfect setting for romance is precisely what you can expect at this iconic five-star stay. While a catamaran transfer (complete with glass of sparkling wine) from Hamilton Island Airport can set the tone for your stay, those particularly keen to take the luxury up a notch can also arrange for a helicopter or private yacht to whisk them to Hayman Island. The world-class Hayman Spa beckons for couples wanting pampering and cosseting; the signature treatments for two encompass all manner of scrubs, massages and facials. Ready to take romance outdoors? Sunset beach picnics, island escapades and cruise adventures await.
Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat, Sunshine Coast
If you want to close the door to the rest of the world, look no further than this adults-only villa amid ancient rainforest near Kondalilla National Park. There are just eight onsite at Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat, each designed for romance with fresh roses, handmade chocolates and crackling log fireplaces. Long walks in the forest, rock pool dips and picnics in the heart of nature are all on the menu, with the only soundtrack the babbling of brooks and birdsong.
Imperial Hotel Gold Coast
Don’t be fooled into thinking the Gold Coast is just a family destination – there is plenty of romance to be had here too, perhaps nowhere more than the Imperial Hotel Gold Coast. The reimagined Palazzo Versace hotel, synonymous with shining gold and Baroque prints, is a palatial retreat fit for a king (or a queen). Your room comes bedecked with Juliette balcony (of course) and a spa bath with space for two, and the hotel's water-facing swimming pool is wonderful for lazy paddles. Prefer lounging to laps? Nab one of the poolside cabanas.
The Reef House, Palm Cove
Whether you’re a honeymooner or a couple looking for luxurious respite, the charming The Reef House Palm Cove feels worlds away from the everyday. Hidden beneath a lush grove of palm fronds and ancient paperbark trees, this colonial-style beach outpost exudes the tropical vibe that is the stuff of holiday dreams; from a beautiful pool area with heated spas (and adults-only pool) to the resort’s Brigadier’s Bar & Lounge, which is run in the old-fashioned way – on an honesty system. Spend your days exploring the nearby Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef or simply laying out on the golden sands of Palm Cove Beach, but don’t miss the resort's excellent range of complimentary activities, including wine-tastings, beachfront yoga and use of vintage-style cruiser bikes.
VICTORIA
The Windsor Melbourne
Old school glamour awaits at what is perhaps Melbourne's most iconic hotel: The Windsor Melbourne. This Victorian-era grande dame is all glittering chandeliers, thick drapes and gilt, and is particularly atmospheric for a romantic winter escape. The likes of Meryl Streep, Anthony Hopkins and Muhammad Ali have walked its halls, while The Cricketers Bar is an impressive showcase of cricketing memorabilia. From its CBD location between Collins and Bourke streets, the best of Australia's culinary and culture capital is at your fingertips, taking date night next-level.
Jackalope, Mornington Peninsula
It's not often you get to float in a 30-metre infinity pool bordered by intoxicating rural acreage or dine beneath a glowing 10,000-globe chandelier, overlooking a stunning vista of terraced vineyards, surrounded by a series of daring and dramatic art installations. Beautiful, whimsical and otherworldly – Jackalope draws more than its name from its part-jackrabbit, part-antelope folkloric inspiration. Jackalope deals wholly in the special and extraordinary. Though its cellar door is sublime, its designer rooms flawless and its accolades countless, it's the dark-hued, Chef's Hat-winning Doot Doot Doot restaurant that's the real drawcard, a place where every bite elevates and celebrates Victoria's extraordinary produce.
Crown Metropol
For a romantic weekend away without leaving the Melbourne city limits, look no further than Crown Metropol Melbourne. It starts with a bottle of sparkling wine upon your arrival, and then settling into your stylish room (tip: The Loft is your ticket to taking your weekend to even more luxurious levels). Breakfast at Mr Hive Kitchen & Bar is on until 11am so mornings can be a leisurely affair, with lay-ins and unhurried starts the perfect way to ease into your day. Your stay includes access to the indoor pool on the 27th floor, and you may also be tempted to book in for a treatment at Crown Spa.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Mount Lofty House, Adelaide Hills
Mount Lofty House is a delicious mix of old and new. Dating back to 1852, this historic manor fast became the state’s premier address for lavish and infamous parties for Adelaide’s elite of the day. Today it's magnificently art deco, while retaining its English country manor feel. Features such as the triple-Chef's-Hat-winning Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant, the 1920s-inspired Arthur Waterhouse Lounge & Bar and Gate Keeper’s Day Spa, along with warm staff, intimate spaces, and indulgent rooms stay true to the refinement, elegance and opulence of yesteryear. This is quite literally one of Australia’s most romantic heritage hotels: it was ranked #10 in the ‘Top 25 Hotels for Romance – South Pacific’ in Tripadvisor's Travellers’ Choice, Best of the Best Awards 2022.
Southern Ocean Lodge
Celebrate new beginnings at the recently renovated Southern Ocean Lodge – a five-star retreat located on Kangaroo Island, a secluded haven off South Australia’s mainland, beloved for its striking bushland and native animals. Known for views overlooking the ocean and coastal wilderness, the resort has positioned itself to capture the best scenery of the island and the ever-crashing cobalt waves. Luxurious pavilions with breathtaking views and private pools can be reached via a scenic 50-minute drive from the island’s airport, or a 90-minute drive from the ferry terminal.
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Longitude 131°
Untouched Australian scenery adds inimitable magic to the celebrated luxury of Longitude 131°, home to tented pavilions overlooking the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Parks. Seek romance amid the iconic red dirt of the outback in this exclusive retreat, designed to honour the heritage of the land and its sacred indigenous culture. Immerse yourself in the astonishing beauty of the region with guided Uluru sunset tours and the Field of Light exhibition, plus dial up the romance as you dine on a four-course degustation beneath a blanket of twinkling stars.
AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY
Jamala Wildlife Lodge, Canberra
Set within the grounds of Canberra’s National Zoo & Aquarium, Jamala Wildlife Lodge offers a romantic experience with a difference, as each of its three individually designed accommodation precincts promises its own unique wildlife experience. The uShaka Lodge, the owner’s former residence, boasts its own shark tank, while a glass wall is all that separates you from a pride of lions, a cheetah, tigers or a pair of Malayan sun bears in the Jungle Bungalows. The Giraffe Treehouses overlook the Molonglo River and a friendly herd of animals including resident giraffe, Skye. For a truly unforgettable experience, book the lodge's four-course dinner with champagne, where you may be joined by some special guests – white lions and hyenas.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
COMO The Treasury, Perth
If food is your love language, this luxury inner-city hotel is romance incarnate. It's home to Wildflower, a three-chef-hatted restaurant with Swan River views, where paddock-to-plate dishes are inspired by the Indigenous six seasons. Post-dinner, the bars of the State Buildings await, including Wine Merchant, an intimate nook in the old Postal Hall, whose extensive wine wall is outshone only by its knowledgeable staff. After indulgence comes relaxation at the hotel's COMO Shambhala wellness centre, where a heated indoor pool and healing spa treatments await.
Berkeley River Lodge, Kimberley Coast
There’s something undeniably romantic about finding yourself on the edge of the far margins of the world. Perched on the coast of the Kimberley wilderness, the 20-villa Berkeley River Lodge offers sublime seclusion unlike anywhere else on the continent. Only accessible by air or sea, reaching your retreat is half the adventure. Banked with rugged cliffs, red dirt and secluded beaches, the far-flung lodge exudes a barefoot luxury-meets-glamping vibe. Each villa is a masterclass in remote luxury, featuring an open-air ensuite with a freestanding bathtub and a furnished veranda made for lazy evenings beneath the stars.
Injidup Spa Retreat, Yallingup
Want to get a world away without leaving your creature comforts behind? This beach spa property in the heart of Margaret River wine country, only 40 minutes from Busselton, boasts just 10 luxurious, adults-only villas, each an ideal escape for couples seeking solitude. Your very own light-filled slice of paradise, each villa comes complete with uninterrupted Indian Ocean views, a private plunge pool and an abundance of understated seaside style. Yallingup is the perfect launchpad for exploring the acclaimed Margaret River region, where an abundance of wineries, chocolate producers and cheese factories await – not to mention spectacular beaches, underground limestone caves and the gorgeous coastal Cape-to-Cape track.
TASMANIA
Ratho Farm
Escape to the country with a fairytale retreat at the heritage Ratho Farm. Let romance find you at this blissfully secluded boutique escape hidden in Tasmania’s lush central highlands just a one-hour scenic drive from Hobart. Surrounded by the manicured greens of Australia’s oldest golf course, there is no finer place to discover the Apple Isle’s charming collection of fine distilleries, wineries and delicious local produce.
Looking for more romance? Discover more inspiration with Romantic Things to Do on the Gold Coast: A Couple's Guide.
Feature image: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains by MGallery.
