If camping is not quite your cup of tea (and who can blame you in winter), it’s worth giving glamping a try. Especially when your destination of choice happens to be the adults-only retreat Sierra Escape in wine-growing Mudgee, where a cluster of safari-style tents or a single tiny home reside on 280 acres. sierraescape.com.au
Hibernate at 10 of the best weekend getaways in NSW this winter
Shirk hibernation (for once) and make the cooler season the time you get out and see more of the country. There’s no reason not to, with so many amazing escapes that make for a delightful escape no matter the temperature. Whether it’s the country or coast that tickles your fancy, here are the best winter weekend getaways in New South Wales.
Basalt Studios, Orange
Orange’s Basalt is well-deserving of the title of best winter getaways in NSW. The luxury accommodation consists of a trio of suavely styled studios (with all the mod cons) perched among a cherry orchard – at 1100 metres above sea level you’re guaranteed awe-inducing views of the surrounding Central Tablelands. basaltorange.com.au
Osborne House, Southern Highlands
In Bundanoon is where you’ll find design haven Osborne House, a refreshing take on the country escape where colour and pattern have been welcomed with open arms. The same modern approach to style applies to its latest accommodation offering – the Forest Lodges. These bohemian barns sleep two at a time, and boast an al fresco bath each to sweeten the deal. osbornhouse.com.au
Sun Ranch, Byron Bay
If high vibes is one of your non-negotiables, make way for Sun Ranch. Nestled in Byron Shire’s Coopers Shoot you’ll find the weather more balmy in winter around these parts, but there’s plenty more reasons to visit this 70s-inspired cluster of ranch houses and cabins. Such as the laidback pool, cowboy bar, floating sauna, or the hotel’s access to horse riding or tarot card readings (among others). 17 Byron Creek Rd, Coopers Shoot; sunranch.com.au
Il Delfino, Yamba
Yamba, the surf town just an hour south of Byron is these days heaving in accommodation options – its latest addition is Il Delfino. Leaning heavily on Italian influences, this place is undoubtedly one of the best (and most stylish) winter getaways in NSW, especially if you feel the call of the coastline. The restored 1948 inn sits on the beachfront, a hive of red and white tiles, luxury linens, and bespoke murals. ildelfino.com.au
Rosedale Farm, Orange
Escape to the country, but make it stylish at Rosedale Farm. The 1877 revamped estate is the Instagram-famous project of stylist Steve Cordony, a spot aesthetically-pleasing as they come. And now you can stay the night in one of two one-bedroom suites, housed in the old workers cottage, both every bit as well-dressed as the main house. rosedalefarm.net.au
Lo Scoglio, Byron Bay
It may be a resident of the Byron Bay Hinterland, but private residence Lo Scoglio is far more reminiscent of the Mediterranean. The Italian-style farmhouse is an ode to the owner’s Sicilian heritage, a luxe venture decorated in partnership with design haven Tigmi Studios. There’s a collection of suites to choose from within the main house, or personal retreat Lo Scoglio Piccolo out back if you crave more privacy. loscoglio.com.au
Chalets at Blackheath, Blue Mountains
If you’re fond of a view, you’ll be a fan of the Chalets at Blackheath. Topping the highest point of the ever-luscious Blue Mountains is this unique (yet very luxe) alpine experience. Four modern cabins discreetly tucked among the Aussie bush will welcome you to this self-contained stay with everything you need so that you don’t need to leave (optional barbecue packs included). chaletsblackheath.com.au
Greyleigh, Kiama
Merging the best of country and coast is the estate Greyleigh, where you can spend days with friends exploring the neighbouring south coast and nights snuggled up within the heritage-inspired accommodation. Situated on a working farm, Greyleigh consists of two different options – the 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom homestead awash in pastels, or the slightly smaller 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom guesthouse. greyleigh.com.au
Oakhill Estate, Bathhurst
A gathering of glass studios scattered across a 3000-acre farm on the outskirts of historic Bathhurst make for one of the best winter getaways in NSW. There are two of Oakhill Estate’s aptly named ‘Glasshouse Cabins’ to choose from, each with kitchenettes, queen beds, outdoor fire pits and (above all) outstanding views courtesy of floor to ceiling windows. oakhillestateglasshouse.com.au