Are you in desperate need of a holiday, but can’t seem to find the time or budget, to take one? We get it. We’ve all fallen into the travel trap of thinking a holiday isn’t really a holiday unless it involves jetting off for a Euro summer like everyone else seems to do every year, while you’re stuck in the same sleep-wake-work cycle. That’s where weekend retreats come in handy. Just because it doesn’t involve getting on a plane (or at least, a long haul one) doesn’t mean it can’t be just as restorative.
After all, sometimes, all you need to fully recharge is a little R&R somewhere that isn’t your own home. Where the endless loads of laundry, grocery lists, or cleaning is all but a distant memory.
Just 48 hours of sweet, responsibility-free bliss.
Whether you’re looking for a spontaneous sojourn somewhere warm, or a cosy, but close, country homestead to live out your cottagecore dreams, these short-stay accommodation options, perfect for a long weekend of letting go, will have you checking in and switching off.
The Best Places To Stay For A Long Weekend Getaway
Hotel Morris
Sydney
Best for: A romantic city staycation
Dreaming of a night (or two) away from your day-to-day, but don’t want to waste a moment of your precious time off in transit? Lucky locals can now experience Handwritten Collection’s first Sydney hotel, situated just 500 metres from Central Station. The boutique accommodation has been meticulously restored by interior design studio Tom Mark Henry, with a contemporary spin on its Art Deco context within a heritage-listed building. If you’re keen to head out and explore, then the hotel’s location is mere moments from the best of Sydney CBD hospitality and retail offerings, but, if the goal is to stay as close to your suite as possible, then this is the hotel for you. Head downstairs to Bar Morris, the hotel’s sultry, Italian-influenced wine bar for dinner and a cocktail to get you in the mood, or simply pick up the phone and have any number of delicious menu items delivered straight to your room.
Key features:
- 24-hour front desk
- Room service
- Free WiFi
- Parking
- Central location
Basq House
Byron Bay
Best for: Group getaways
The new kid on the Byron Bay block is a 32-room boutique hotel that caters to guests who need a weekend away to unwind but still want to keep their social battery buzzing. Basq House strikes the perfect balance between resort-style energy and the privacy of a boutique hotel, making it the go-to for a weekend away with a little bit of play. Of course, the rooms are stunning, but you’ll be hard-pressed to stay away from the communal spaces, with a magnesium pool deck that includes access to a self-serve bar, a fully-stocked library, and a luxe lounging area that’s made for coming together. And, when you feel like venturing out, guests have complimentary use of the hotel’s Lekker bikes, beach shades, and surfboards, which makes exploring the nearby beaches or hinterland a breeze.
Key features
- Outdoor magnesium pool
- Free WiFi
- Located in central Byron Bay just 1km from Main Beach
- Concierge service
- Private parking
Sona
Molong
Best for: Families
Located in the historic town of Molong, just a three-hour drive from Sydney or a quick 25 minutes from Orange, the newly-opened Sona is an interior lover’s heaven. Designed by Pip Brett of Orange-based homewares store Jumbled, along with her husband, Nick (a seasoned builder) and architect Felicity Slattery of Studio Esteta, the luxury accommodation includes five bedrooms, three bathrooms, and two living spaces. The 1930s Spanish mission-style former bank has been overhauled to include interiors replete with luxury finishes, colour-drenched bathrooms, and bedrooms made for drifting off in style, with a showstopping kitchen that mixes modern Mediterranean accents and Art Deco influences, to provide the ultimate family hangout area for groups big or small. Plus, with the town’s best shops and dining options within walking distance and a short drive from award-winning wineries, family-friendly attractions, and more, you can make it a weekend to remember.
Key features:
- Sleeps 10
- Fully functional kitchen
- Indoor & outdoor dining
- Two living spaces
- Central location close to amenities and shops
- Family friendly
Blue Water Motel
Kingscliff
Best for: Sunseekers on a budget
Just moments away from the white sands of Kingscliff Beach, the Jason Grant-designed Blue Water Motel is a piece of retro heaven that fits perfectly into its low-key, coastal locale. Offering the best in laid-back luxury without the premium price tag, this boutique motel is so much more than just a stop on your East Coast road trip. Its 17 uniquely designed rooms are perfect for solo travellers, couples on a romantic getaway, or families – and with pets welcome, there’s no need to leave anyone behind. Take advantage of the saltwater swimming pool and inviting alfresco common areas if you want to stay in, or head into town where any number of delicious cafes or retail offerings await.
Key features:
- Malin + Goetz toiletries
- Family rooms available
- Free WiFi
- Dog friendly
- Outdoor saltwater swimming pool
Le Cabanon
Phillip Island
Best for: Nature loving families or groups
Just two hours from Melbourne’s CBD, this chic coastal retreat is the ultimate escape for families or groups looking to switch off from city stressors and get back to nature. Located in Cowes, Le Cabanon is surrounded by the very best Phillip Island has to offer, from pristine beaches and scenic hikes to the renowned Penguin Parade – all within a short drive or walk from the designer beachside property. The four bedroom property can sleep up to six adults and three children comfortably with space to spare thanks to the fully landscaped outdoor entertainment area made for long lunches and lawn games. Plus, the best of the island’s local providores and eateries are all within a five minute drive.
Key Features:
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Family friendly
- Free WiFi
- Beach access
- Sleeps 10
This article originally appeared on Marie Claire Australia and is republished here with permission.
