Crackling wood fires, brisk morning walks, lush countryside settings and cosy, texture-filled interiors — what’s not to love about winter escapes? Very little, we think. In fact, some would argue that a memorable weekend away that includes a stay in a boutique hotel that brings the best of winter’s little luxuries makes it a season to embrace, not wish away. With only a couple of weeks of winter remaining, we recommend making the most of the last of the cooler days by booking a stay at one of Australia’s cosiest hotels.
Moss Hotel, Hobart, TAS
As the newest boutique hotel to Hobart’s ever-evolving accommodation scene, Moss Hotel has already become a must-stay for discerning travellers visiting the Tasmanian capital. The hidden retreat in the heart of the bustling Salamanca Place is located inside original warehouses that were once home to traders, whalers, publicans and convicts. Not only is Hobart’s new hotspot steeped in history, but it also pays homages to the beauty of Tasmania’s untouched wilderness by the use of local timbers, green hues and indoor greenery in its décor making for a very memorable Tasmanian experience. What’s more, its location is the perfect springboard to the best of Hobart’s rich culture, history, world-class cuisine and a short jaunt to the territory’s unspoiled nature.
Lindenderry at Red Hill, Mornington Peninsula, VIC
Dubbed one of Australia’s best — and most romantic — regional hotels by Luxury Travel Magazine, Lindenderry at Red Hill is undoubtedly one for the for the Australian hotel’s bucket list. Conveniently and scenically located just a one hour drive south-east from Melbourne in Victoria’s desirable travel destination of Mornington Pensinsula, Lindenderry embodies the very best of the region that is renowned for its pretty landscapes, award-winning wineries and fine local cuisine. The boutique hotel is home to 40 refined and spacious guest rooms that are as much an escape as the region itself. Explore the hotel’s paddock-to-plate style restaurant (go for the food, stay for the Hecker Guthrie-designed interior) and cellar door, before venturing out to discover the area’s long stretches of pristine shorelines, hiking tracks and famous gold courses.
The Sir George, Jugiong, NSW
If you didn’t already know that the tiny — and once very sleepy — town of Jugiong is fast becoming NSW newest country hotspot, then you do now. In recent years, the quaint village in south-west NSW on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River has been filled with charming local businesses from cafes to homewares stores and a beautifully restored pub that has seen travellers veering off the Hume Highway between Yass and Gundagai and flocking to the township home to only around 300 residents. To add to its appeal, The Sir George — the newly renovated historic pub — has opened its accommodation offering. Over the past two years, the team have restored and converted the 1845 stone stables into three luxury rooms as well as eight barns into contemporary rooms. The Stables offer a unique stay in a heritage listed, historical reconstruction that has been thoughtfully fitted out with luxury flax linen, 100-year-old oak floorboards and modern furnishings; while The Barns offer extended ceilings and large fixed windows that boasts views of the manicured gardens and stream natural light in abundance. The next time you’re travelling the Hume, opt for a stopover at The Sir George — you won’t regret it.
Terragong 1858, Jamberoo, NSW
When you envisage the most picture-perfect Australian country house of all-time, it’s highly likely Terragong 1858 — a bed and breakfast on the NSW South Coast — will still exceed all of your country house dreams. The two-story, National Trust-listed property exudes traditional Colonial Georgian architecture and is the definition of idyllic. Nestled in extensive gardens of grand figs, towering pine trees, magnolias and traditional cottage garden beds, Terragong 1858 offers true county hospitality — warm welcomes, hearty breakfasts, local produce and sprawling gardens. Get your phones at the ready, because you’re going to want to Instagram every single corner of this picturesque place.
Dovecote, Gerringong, NSW
If you love modern luxury and spectacular views, Dovecote is your ultimate winter escape. Located just two hours from Sydney in Gerringong on the NSW South Coast, Dovecote is set on 150 acres of oceanfront farmland overlooking Werri Beach and offer two private, beautifully appointed accommodations — The Headland and The Range. Both modern and spacious with sweeping ocean views, a pool and intimate living areas with fireplaces, this is a stay you won’t be forgetting anytime soon. If you can bring yourself to leave these dreamy spaces, the doorsteps of Dovecote offer untouched beaches, Hinterland rainforest walks, wine tasting and outdoor adventures. Luxury lovers, we suggest adding Dovecote to your travel wish-list.
