Australians looking for a weekend away have plenty of options close at hand. From adventure trips that get the heart racing to quiet weekends away to recharge the batteries, there’s something for all types and at all budgets. These are five of the best options for people in the south looking for a weekend getaway.
Camping adventure
When it comes to camping spots you’re really spoilt for choice. From secluded beaches offering you plenty of privacy to forest parks with extra facilities for your convenience, there are camping holidays available for people who want to truly embrace nature and their sense of adventure or those that would rather feel a little more secure with serviced camp grounds. National Parks such as Lerderderg State Park and The Macedon Regional Park are all within an hour’s drive of Melbourne and provide excellent opportunities for trekking, campfires, and enjoying wonderful natural sights.
Cottage hideaway
Do you like the idea of a few days out in the country but not so keen on sleeping on the ground or cooking over an open fire? Then a cottage holiday is just what you need. Whether you’re a couple after a romantic few days alone or you want to bring the whole family there are a wide range of holiday cottages available to suit your needs. The Yarra Valley is just one spot that attracts many people – adults no doubt enjoy the chance of going on a wine tour while kids will love the experience of visiting the nearby working chocolaterie. Best of all is that at the end of a long day discovering the local surroundings you can return to the comfort and privacy of your very own cottage.
Wildlife retreat
A trip to Phillip Island is a must for everyone at some point in their lives. The island is most famous for the Penguin Parade, which sees Little Penguins swim in from the water and toddle up the sand, but there’s so much more to see. At the western tip of the island is Seal Rocks, which is appropriately named as its home to around 16,000 fur seals, making it the largest fur seal colony in Australia. Meanwhile the wildlife park is home to kangaroos and wallabies that can be hand fed.
City break
The obvious place for a short city break is of course Sydney, which is just an hour and a half flight away from Melbourne. If you’ve already seen the world famous Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge you might think you’ve experience all that Sydney has to offer – on the contrary, now you’re ready to start exploring the real Sydney. Take a stroll through the Addison Road markets in Marrickville and sample some delicious food, enjoy a splash by kayaking at the Olympic Penrith Whitewater Stadium, or educate yourself at the La Perouse Museum at Botany Bay. If you come ready to explore you won’t be disappointed.
Spa break
If the idea of a camping weekend or an action packed city break leaves you feeling tired just thinking about it then what you need is a spa break. Enjoy a relaxing weekend getting pampered at one of the many 5* luxury resorts. When you’re not getting a facial or massage you can enjoy the steam rooms and swimming pools, letting all the stresses of daily life soak away. Many luxury spa hotels are set within stunning grounds that you can enjoy walking through, which is just another way to help you forget about your troubles and enjoy the bliss of complete relaxation.
The choice is yours
Some people can think of nothing worse than two days trekking through the outdoors, while others might think that there’s nothing relaxing about being pampered all weekend. Thankfully there are so many options it’s easy to craft a trip away that’s just perfect for you.
Image of national park by Humpalumpa