15 Feb 2023
Cherish some alone time with your other half on an unforgettable escape in New South Wales. From historical manors to cosy lodges and lush hinterland retreats, feel the romance at these 11 special stays around the state, from north to south.
Unwind poolside at Halcyon House, Cabarita
Lean into the luxe Hamptons-meets-the-Mediterranean vibe at Halcyon House on the Tweed Coast, where your characterful room lies just steps from the sea. Join your loved one in lazing by the pool, being pampered at the spa, feasting at renowned onsite restaurant Paper Daisy and feeling the sea breeze in your hair as you explore Cabarita on vintage-style bikes.
Lap up the privacy at Blackbird Byron, Mullumbimby
Experience the North Coast holiday town of Byron Bay in a new way at Blackbird Byron, where five stylish, detached pavilion rooms tucked up in the Mullumbimby hinterland offer a memorable adults-only retreat for two. Gaze out over lush hinterland towards Cape Byron as you sip a cocktail beside the rejuvenating magnesium pool. Enjoy evening entertainment courtesy of a complimentary star-gazing manual, and tuck into wholesome breakfasts lovingly prepared by your friendly hosts.
Escape to the country at Goonoo Goonoo, Tamworth
Feel enlivened by the fresh Country NSW air on a road trip to Goonoo Goonoo Station, a working cattle station near Tamworth where a 19th-century heritage-listed pastoral village has been transformed into luxury accommodation. Cosy up with your bae in the Shearer's Quarters, which now houses beautifully renovated pitched-roof rooms for couples. Cool off with a refreshing dip in the pool after days out exploring the area, and tuck into refined country fare at the hatted onsite Glasshouse Restaurant.
Savour wine country at voco Kirkton Park, Pokolbin
Celebrate your relationship with an indulgent stay at voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley, a charming manor estate in Pokolbin, just a two-hour drive north of Sydney. Wrap up in plush robes and take in the sweeping wine-country views from your balcony as you sip your morning coffee, before striking out to traipse between the region's cellar doors. Recharge with an elegant high tea overlooking the estate's roses before settling in for an estate-to-plate dinner at the manor's Locavore Restaurant.
Relax by the river at Marramarra Lodge, Hawkesbury
Feel a million miles from Sydney (but really only an hour away) at Marramarra Lodge, a stunning retreat overlooking the serene Hawkesbury River. Embrace the sense of escapism as you take the brief boat transfer to your stylish accommodation, be it a spacious glamping tent or a modern bungalow. Uncover the region's pearling and Aboriginal history on local tours, then taste its bounty during a decadent degustation dinner at the lodge's Budyari Restaurant.
Soak up the scenery at Sierra Escape, Mudgee
Sink into an outdoor (or indoor) tub with room for two at Sierra Escape in Mudgee wine country, a 3.5-hour drive northwest of Sydney, where three ultra-luxe and privately situated glamping tents beckon a romantic escape. Top off a memorable day of wine-tasting with an invigorating walk to the Sierra lookout to admire the gold-tinged landscape at sunset, then cosy up around your own personal fire pit.
Indulge a love of design on Byng Street, Orange
Marvel at the marriage of historic architecture and modern design at the 22-room Byng Street Boutique Hotel in Orange, less than four hours northwest of Sydney, where heritage-wing rooms overlooking the gardens offer a incredibly romantic setting for a couples getaway. Tuck into a sumptuous multi-course breakfast in the beautiful Yallungah Dining Room before heading out to explore, perhaps pausing in the cosy guest lounge to enjoy a glass of local wine upon your return.
Slow down in style at Bangalay, Shoalhaven Heads
Sync to the relaxing coastal soundtrack at Bangalay Luxury Villas in Shoalhaven Heads on the South Coast, where 16 self-contained villas nestle in nature just a short wander from Seven Mile Beach. Seize the opportunity to tee off together at the neighbouring golf course, and savour new flavours at onsite restaurant Bangalay Dining, known for its creative uses of native Australian ingredients.
Savour a seaside stay at Bannisters, Mollymook
Soak up the seaside luxury at Bannisters by the Sea in Mollymook, where 34 stylish rooms are complemented by a clifftop day spa, a serene infinity pool and the acclaimed Rick Stein restaurant, where romantic seafood feasts await. Or welcome the weekend with an invigorating Mollymook Beach swim at sister hotel Bannisters Pavilion just down the road, where you can take your pick from 34 chic rooms and suites.
Get off the grid in luxury at Kimo Estate, Gundagai
Feel a deeper connection to your partner as you gaze up at the canopy of stars twinkling above your EcoHut at Kimo Estate, just 10 minutes outside Gundagai. Each of the Country NSW property's three A-frame huts also command spectacular views across the Murrumbidgee River flats — best enjoyed from your wood-fired outdoor hot tub.
Embrace country-luxe at Mona Farm, Braidwood
Lap up the fusion of history, art, nature and country hospitality at Mona Farm in rural Braidwood, around three hours southwest of Sydney. Among the six standalone accommodations on this 19th-century farm are two stays perfect for couples: the beautifully renovated Old Stables, built in 1859, and the new Lake House, overlooking a glistening lake. Wander the manicured gardens, replete with sculptures and installations, then spoil your lover with a gourmet meal whipped up by the house chef.
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