As overseas travel remains unlikely in 2021 due to the pandemic, Australians are exploring beautiful staycation options on their doorstep – and they don’t disappoint.
Ahead of Valentine’s Day, couples are looking for new and romantic spots to enjoy with their significant other, and there are six stunning getaways still available throughout February and March that are sure to impress.
Each destination is accessible by car and range from spots surrounded by mesmerising vineyards to hideaways tucked away in lush rainforests.
Guests can enjoy six hidden romantic getaways and relax in luxurious locations surrounded by mesmerising terrain, such as vineyards, valleys or even a woodland rainforest (Barossa Valley in South Australia pictured)
Paperbark Camp – New South Wales
One unique glamping getaway some may not be aware of in New South Wales is the paperbark Camp in Jervis Bay.
The accommodation is a premium African safari text-like experience offering wonderful food and hospitality in the peaceful Australian bush.
The camp is located two and a half hours south from Sydney’s CBD and is part of the Shoalhaven region – which is known for its wealth of natural beauty with calm water and soft, sandy beaches.
Guests can choose from three different types of camps – original, deluxe and king deluxe – which are of varying sizes but all incorporate a safari style.
All tents have a wraparound deck with outdoor furniture setting, full inset screening for bug protection, solar powered lighting and wooden décor inside.
Prices vary depending on the size of the tent but a $300 deposit is required to secure each booking.
The accommodation is a premium African safari text-like experience offering wonderful food and hospitality in the peaceful Australian bush
The camp is located two and a half hours south from Sydney and is part of the Shoalhaven region
The Castle on Tamborine – Queensland
Travel back in time in Queensland’s magnificent two-level castle experience like no other.
Located an hour south of Brisbane, The Castle on Tamborine offers a divine experience to all guests and is split into two wings – the Ross Wing and the Carmichael Wing.
The Scottish ambiance and superb services will leave guests feeling as relaxed as a royal after a weekend away.
As guests enter the castle their eye will be immediately drawn to the elegant chandelier over the lounge area near the folding doors that open to an indoor seven-foot deep plunge pool and backlit waterfall.
Each room also includes reverse cycle air-conditioning, plush carpet, opulent curtains and a grand king size bed.
Prices start at $360 per person per night for the Royal Relaxation package, which includes a three night stay and champagne and chocolate on arrival.
Located an hour south of the city of Brisbane, The Castle on Tamborine offers a divine experience to all guests and is split into two wings – the Ross Wing and the Carmichael Wing
Each room also includes reverse cycle air-conditioning, plush carpet, opulent curtains and a grand king size bed that’s said to be reminiscent of Versace
Woodlands Rainforest Retreat – Victoria
Nestled away on 16 hectares of native forest in Victoria’s east, 31 km from the Yarra Valley, is the Woodlands Rainforest Retreat.
The beautiful secluded cottages provide a rare combination of privacy and indulgent luxury surrounded by nature.
Guests will be able to enjoy a unique part of Australia in a temperate rainforest with native flora and fauna and wildlife.
The cost varies but the average price is $490 for a two-night stay for two guests.
Nestled away on 16 hectares of native forest in Victoria’s east is the Woodlands Rainforest Retreat
The beautiful secluded cottages provide a rare combination of privacy and indulgent luxury surrounded by nature
Guests will be able to enjoy a unique part of Australia in a temperate rainforest with native flora and fauna and wildlife
The Louise – South Australia
Situated only an hour north from the city of Adelaide in the Barossa Valley is The Louise luxury vineyard retreat.
Owners Jim and Helen Carreker have spent more than ten years researching and curating the business to perfection and sought inspiration from past trips to Europe.
These European experiences are represented in the luxurious accommodation that compliments the remarkable food and wine experience.
The Barossa is said to be the wine capital of Australia, as it is home to more than 600 grape growers and more than 100 wineries.
Situated only an hour north from the city of Adelaide in the Barossa Valley is The Louise luxury vineyard retreat
Owners Jim and Helen Carreker have spent more than ten years researching and curating the business to perfection and sought inspiration from past trips to Europe
Cradle Mountain Lodge – Tasmania
Cradle Mountain Lodge in Tasmania is described as one of Australia’s most iconic wilderness experiences, as it sits on the edge of the spectacular World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.
The incredible landscape showcases the best of what the region has to offer with great hospitality, exceptional food and wine, spa treatments and breath-taking scenery.
The lodge itself has four different accommodation styles including contemporary through to luxurious.
Cradle Mountain Lodge in Tasmania is described as one of Australia’s most iconic wilderness experiences, as it sits on the edge of the spectacular World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
The incredible landscape showcases the best of what the region has to offer with great hospitality, exceptional food and wine, spa treatments and breath-taking scenery
The lodge itself has four different accommodation styles including contemporary through to luxurious
La Foret Enchantee – Western Australia
Those in Western Australia may wish to visit La Foret Enchantee – an ideal honeymoon destination for guests seeking a luxury, indulgent experience with complete privacy in an Italian-inspired property.
The business was established in 1995 and is a three hour drive south from Perth.
The fountains and urns around the property are reminiscent of the Renaissance period, along with sweeping terraces and beautiful marble bathrooms.
For an additional price, guests can choose to have a relaxing massage or helicopter experience to see the incredible views from above.
Those in Western Australia may wish to visit La Foret Enchantee – an ideal honeymoon destination for guests seeking a luxury, indulgent experience with complete privacy in an Italian-inspired property
For an additional price, guests can choose to have a relaxing massage or helicopter experience to see the incredible views from above