Top 5 Winter Getaways in Australia
Wintertime in Australia means a lot less time spent at the beach. But on a positive note, it also gives us the opportunity to visit some of the other parts of our country that simply shine during the colder seasons.
We’ve selected five of our favourite winter getaway destinations right here in Australia. So, if you like the winter season, toasty fireplaces, scenic views, wine and food, then these are the perfect holiday destinations for you.
What are the best winter getaways in Australia?
Vist our Domestic travel insurance FAQs to find out how you can protect your Aussie adventures.
#1. Hunter Valley
The Hunter Valley is the oldest wine growing region in Australia. You’ll find more than 150 wineries producing world-class wines.
There’s also a huge range of accommodation in the region from hotels/motels/resorts to backpacker hostels, pet-friendly properties, family friend accommodation, romantic or boutique self-contained accommodation - and lots of them contain open fireplaces.
With beautiful restaurants, wineries, day spas and heaps of activities, it’s the perfect secluded location for a romantic getaway.
Find out more: Wine Country
#2. Snowy Mountains
Known informally as “The Snowies” is the highest mountain range in Australia. The mountain range experiences large natural snowfalls every winter, which makes it one of the centres of the Australian ski industry. All snow resorts in New South Wales are located in this region.
If you’re heading to the Snowy Mountains, skiing or snowboarding* is a must. There are ski classes for beginners, night skiing and terrain parks for the more advanced skiers. The region is rich with decadent food and wine for when you come off the slope, and you can stay at hotels, retreat and lodges, backpackers, farmstays, cottages and more.
Find out more: Visit NSW Snowy Mountains
#3. Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains region - known for its dramatic scenery - is a mountainous region west of Sydney in New South Wales. Home to steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests, waterfalls and villages dotted with guesthouses, galleries and gardens, it is a beautiful place to cosy up in front of a warm fire in your pjs.
As far as spectacular landmarks go, you can’t go past the Three Sisters - an unusual rock formation representing three sisters who according to Aboriginal legend were turned into stone. The iconic attraction is visited by millions of people each year.
However, if large rock formations aren’t your thing, the region also boasts art galleries, heritage walks, open gardens, bush walks, and lots of restaurants and food experiences, making it the perfect secluded location for a winter getaway.
Find out more: Blue Mountains
#4. Maleny
Maleny is a small, scenic town 90 kilometres north of Brisbane in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Queensland.
It's home to a strong dairy and fruit industry, has a rich indigenous history, and is home to the Mary Cairncross Reserve conservation park. With an abundance of food, wine, shopping, and nature for you to experience, you’ll love Maleny and all of its hidden secret spots and beauty.
Accommodation ranges from camping to bed and breakfasts or cabins along the Obi Obi Creek. You’re bound to run into a wedding during your visit, too - Maleny and Montville are two of the best destinations for secluded weddings in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
Find out more: Hinterland Tourism
#5. Tasmania
Winter is a great time to visit Australia's isolated island state of Tasmania. It’s known for its vast, rugged wilderness areas, which are largely protected within parks and reserves.
Rich with arts and culture, nature and wildlife, food and drink, Tasmania also has a huge range of locations for you to visit and activities to keep you busy. But if busy isn’t quite your style, Tasmania is also home to some of the country’s most beautiful day spas and wellness retreats. Yes, it’s the ideal place to unwind and leave the stress of work behind.
Find out more: Discover Tasmania
Image: Discover Tasmania
These picturesque locations are the best way to celebrate winter and cosy up for a romantic getaway or trip with your closest friends. Even if you do stay within the country, travel insurance is still important.
Cover-More provides domestic travel insurance that can cover you for:
- Amendments or cancellation costs and additional expenses
- Luggage and travel documents
- Rental car insurance excess
- Travel delay
- Special events
- Loss of income
- Disability
- Accidental death
- Personal liability
Minimise the risk of travel even if you’re staying in Australia with Cover-More Travel Insurance. Get a FREE quote today!
*Snow skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling: If you wish to be covered for these activities, you are required to pay an additional premium. Limits, exclusions and conditions apply. Refer to the Combined PDS/FSG for full details.