Winter in Australia means time to venture into the countryside, snuggle up before a roaring fire, and warm your bones with a decadent nightcap.
As colder months approach, we dream of destinations that celebrate misty mountains, quaint countryside estates and the magic of a local pinot noir — highlights of Australian winter.
Make the most of these brisk mornings in your thickest wool sweater while staying warm in some of the most beautiful, secluded regional destinations. These are the cosiest winter escapes in Australia.
Ready to get cosy? Discover our collection of Australia escapes here.
The Motley, Victoria
Savour a frosty Melbourne morning sipping fresh espresso or perusing eye-popping artwork when you stay at The Motley. This boutique hotel is located on Bridge Road, the buzzing hub of the inner-city suburb Richmond. Dotted along the street you'll find an eclectic mish-mash of craft beer breweries, cosy restaurants, dimly lit wine bars, galleries and shops. After braving the chill, return to the comfort of this stunning heritage stay and warm up with a Code Black coffee or ruby-red glass of Yarra Valley shiraz at Ms Parker restaurant. Belly rumbling? Kangaroo tartare, dry-aged lamb rump with pomegranate, and Southern Ranges Angus beef steak with pepperberry sauce will warm you from the inside out.
Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains by MGallery, NSW
Think rolling mountainsides where mist gathers each morning and native gum trees emit a mystic blue glow in the dawn light. Amid the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed region you’ll find an idyllic winter escape at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains by MGallery. Rug up in your thickest wool socks and step outside your chalet-style room to revel in crisp morning air and the blessed bushwalking terrain of Jamison Valley. Watch as the landscape transforms from ancient rock formations to cascading waterfalls. Then return for a hearty meal and a haven warmed by glowing fire as you step into the Embers Grill Restaurant — or another of the resort’s five exceptional eateries — before ending the night sipping a robust single malt at Two Doctors Whiskey Tavern.
The Picker’s Hut, Tasmania
Cuddle up in seclusion while gazing across the vineyard-strewn hills of southern Tasmania’s Jordan Valley in The Picker’s Hut private cabin. Here, Australia’s winter months are best spent with a glass of red wine in hand, while your favourite sweater hugs you tight and the silence of a sleeping countryside lulls the busy mind. As the sun settles behind a rugged mountain landscape, you can cosy up around the expansive deck’s half-cask fire pit to watch as the Merino sheep frolic in the brisk air. When you’re done, retreat indoors for a hearty meal, hot off the barbecue.
Ampersand Estates, Western Australia
For lovers of wine, gin, and stargazing, the elegant Ampersand Estates is an ideal Western Australian refuge during winter. Reminiscent of a bygone era, this countryside property showcases the sophisticated charm of a thriving vineyard, a picturesque lake with resident ducks, and a night sky lookout point. Layer up to keep yourself from crisp winter’s kiss, and take a stroll from one of three self-contained cottages to the Rainfall Distillery where you can warm up with a nip of vodka or gin infused with essences of the Southern Forests. Sit overlooking the lake from the cellar door and spend the rest of your day tasting homegrown wines before returning to your cottage for a snuggly night and steamy bath.
The Frames, South Australia
Slip into the picture-perfect surroundings of South Australia’s Murray River at the ultimate winter escape for romantics. At The Frames adults-only retreat you’ll discover pure bliss, with views overlooking a magical sunset each evening as it dips below the horizon of the river. Spend your afternoons hopping between the exquisite wineries and distilleries of the region, then return to warm yourself against the frosty breeze in the luxury of the Pastiche Retreat’s private infrared sauna, or listen to the sound of nature as you take a dip in the outdoor heated pool of the Collage Retreat.
Hotel Frangos, Victoria
You don’t need to travel far to experience the cosy ambience of a Parisian winter when Daylesford’s Hotel Frangos is just 90 minutes outside of Melbourne. The ultimate chilly escape, this boutique stay immerses you in the otherworldly character of Victoria’s picturesque countryside, from the sophisticated decor to the naked vines that trim the exteriors of this landmark building. Daylesford is the perfect destination to idle away during winter in Australia with an abundance of antique shops, Chef Hat-awarded restaurants, art galleries and of course, the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa natural hot springs. Stay warm, well-fed and relaxed this winter.
Featured image: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains by MGallery.
Discover our collection of Australia escapes here.
For more inspiration, check out The Bed, The Bold & The Beautiful: Australia's Most Stylish City Stays.
