Feeling a million miles away from tourist central, the southern end of the Gold Coast had always led the charge in fuss-free beachside holidaying. Then, along came the ultimate disruptor, The Pink Hotel in Coolangatta. And it wasn’t even subtle. The Instagram-famous digs first opened its doors in 2018, a restored 1960s motel that blazed with wall-to-wall fairy-floss pink. Offering a thrilling new way to experience the Gold Coast, complete with epic party spaces and rooms packed with personality, the hotel brought some serious buzz. We discover how it maintains its charms today.

First impressions

As a 12-pack of Panadol meets me in the hotel lobby, I’m instantly comfortable with my decision to dust the children off for a night. In the mass of retro-inspired motels and hotels popping up on the Gold Coast, could The Pink Hotel at Coolangatta authentically mirror the rock and roll lifestyle of a bygone era? Kid-free fingers crossed.

At the very least, they’ve nailed the façade. Barbie-pink walls paired with a tight edit of bright white, ruby red and cactus green offers one of the most talked-about designs in the city’s hotel portfolio. On the beach fronting side, a giant Medusa mural switches out snakes for flamingo heads. In the front garden, a twin pair of 70s sun lounges are painted in pink and white stripes as plastic flamingos ‘frolic’ at their feet. It’s loud yet sweet, old yet new, Palm Springs-perfect yet suspiciously wayward. I can’t wait to see inside.

The Pink Hotel exudes a laid-back elegance. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Style of the rooms

Entering the level two Medusa Balcony King Room, it’s hard to miss the second instalment of local artist Jamie Peters’ coastal take on Greek mythology’s Medusa. In this room, a drooping cigarette is tucked into her snarl as those cheeky flamingos flare, tall and proud.

The theme flows into two bright flamingo-printed bathrobes, serving as a second feature wall pretty much, amid an eclectic mix of mustard velvet furnishings, glossy timber and a slick black bar brought to vivid life thanks to a neon sign that reads ‘I look for you in everyone’.

The interior is filled with mustard velvet hues. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Every room features its own mix of decor and epic mural art, plus unique neon lighting inscriptions. My bathroom is small, but a mix of materials and influences once again add personality, such as the rugged stone basin, probably better suited to an earthier, stripped-back space if I’m being honest.

I’m impressed by the size of the balcony off the Medusa room, which provides lovely ocean views and is scattered with garden floral-printed plastic sun lounges – the perfect spot to unwind as the sun magically sinks.

Laze on the roof deck. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Ambience and cleanliness of the rooms

A discreet record player, hidden inside a black-lacquered side table I barely even notice, adds yet another layer of authenticity to the rock and roll theme The Pink Hotel at Coolangatta exudes rather effortlessly.

The Medusa Balcony King Room comes with your own personal sunshine.

While pieces like the record player are obviously considered, it’s also entirely plausible that some free-spirited groupie took their love for bric-a-brac and spread it decoratively throughout the hotel between their idol’s nightly sets. Yes, I’m totally thinking of Kate Hudson’s character in Almost Famous right now. The atmosphere at The Pink is achingly artistic, yet the spaces are clean and spacious, providing guests with homely, comfortable accommodation.

The Superior King Room is complete with a flamingo room and quirky wall hangings.

Restaurants and food available

I hear the restaurant slash bar at The Pink Hotel in Coolangatta before I spot it. Eddie’s Grub House, a dimly lit, absolute cracker of a dive bar located next door to the hotel lobby, houses a string of live music throughout the week.

I arrive on Sunday when a jam session blasts the neighbourhood from 3pm until 6pm. While a bunch of bed-haired hipsters natter at Eddie’s front doors, silver-haired rockers are inside thrashing it out for a crowd of delighted locals. A baby bounces to a Nirvana cover as his mum gets ger groove on while wearing bub on her chest. It is all just awesome, and then there’s the grub itself which is available as in-room dining.

The minibar is the ultimate enabler.

Beef patties are stacked with fresh salad and Eddie’s ‘spesh’ sauce, reminiscent of Big Mac sauce (which is heavily underrated, I might add), jammed between further generous fillings and two pillows of sweet brioche. The Chicken and Bacon Nuggers are deep fried minced chicken mashed with slivers of bacon. The wings are legendary. It’s the perfect sustenance for a night on the tiles.

Inside the rooms, a mini bar complete with a black Smeg bar fridge offers snacks including crisps, chocolate, sweet popcorn and nuts plus canned cocktails and a very necessary Hydralyte. If you’re not vibing either option, a range of international cuisines can be found within walking distance from the hotel.

The rooms are clean and spacious. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Quality of room and hotel service

Don’t let their leather boots and grungy t-shirts fool you. The team at The Pink Hotel clearly live and breathe their rock and roll surroundings, but they’re as sweet as cherry pie.

Keen to share their local tips on where to keep the good times rolling, staff are clued in and passionate about the region, spilling over with stories from their favourite rooms and the hotel’s wildest escapades. It’s infectious, and I almost asked one of them in for a wine on my balcony.

There’s no kitchen within the hotel itself, but Eddie’s Grub House delivers from Tuesday to Sunday, plus Ground Coolangatta around the corner can walk a hearty cafe breakfast, coffees, and juices to you between 7am and 2pm each day. Just use your phone to scan the QR code in your room.

The courtyard is decked out with fairy lights, palm trees, plastic flamingos and lawn chairs. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Amenities available

To be frank, there isn’t much. While The Pink Hotel in Coolangatta is screaming out for a Palm Springs-inspired retro pool to catch television sets hurled off balconies, the beach across the road offers great compensation.

No gym and no spa either, however, I do appreciate the kitsch ice machine emblazoned with the phrase ‘Ice, icy, baby’ located on level one, and the venue’s faux lawn-coated rooftop cocktail bar offering sensational views across the ocean and beyond Surfers Paradise. It’s shaking up drinks on Friday and Saturday.

Price of a room

Rates at The Pink Hotel in Coolangatta start from approximately $199 per night for a King Suite, but if you’re chasing ocean views, pay the extra coin for a Superior King Suite, priced from about $209 per night, or climb the tiers to splash out further. The Medusa Balcony King Room, where I stayed, is priced from about $259 per night.

The verdict

Go for the time warp novelty, stay for the party. This is headbanger heaven, transported right from 1950s USA and plonked on prime Cooly beachfront real estate.

Score: 3.5/5

We rated: The bedside ear plugs, attached with varying love notes including ‘Goodnight stars, goodnight air, goodnight noises everywhere’. Very cute.

We’d change: Bring back the four-post cabanas that once oozed glamour on the hotel’s rooftop. The empty gaps they’ve left, allowing more space for white picnic tables, feel more beer garden than VIP.

Address: The Pink Hotel, 171 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

For more reviews and insider tips, we’ve created the ultimate Gold Coast accommodation guide.

The post Hotel profile: The Pink Hotel, Coolangatta appeared first on Australian Traveller.

This former sleepy holiday region has grown into a hub of hospitality, providing cultured options for the adults among us. While a slew of restaurant openings has certainly fed the hungry, the thirsty have been rewarded with a number of heavy-hitting bars and breweries. Here, we list our favourite bars, pubs, and breweries on the Central Coast.

1. Maew Maew, Terrigal

Climb the stairs at this beachside venue to find kitsch Asian eatery and bar Maew Maew (which means ‘cat’ in Thai), Terrigal’s newest bar and restaurant. Serving Asian eats with funky beats, this is the place to come for some ‘late night noods’ and a cocktail with a view (try and nab one of the high tables that line the front window).

The blushing pink and aqua-hued space is styled with a clash of neon and delicate floral-shaped lights. Come night-time, the bar is packed out with party-goers making their way through the Asian-inspired cocktail list: try the elegant Yuzu and Matcha Slipper topped with edible flowers or the fun-loving Pattaya Punch, which comes with fairy floss and a mini disco ball.

Address: 90 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal

2. Hotel Gosford, Gosford

This heritage-listed waterhole was completely reimagined from tired old pub to Art Deco establishment, paying homage to its 1926 roots. Rich dark timbers, ambient lighting, brass accents and leather seating create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Come by for a meal at Earl’s Kitchen, a relaxed dining space with a pub-style menu created around local produce. Or drop in for a tipple from the extensive beverage list – it has 32 tap beers, a whisky vault with optional whisky flights, and creative cocktails (including seven types of margaritas). Come the weekend, this historic hotel is buzzing with people having a good time.

Address: 179 Mann Street, Gosford

3. The Entrance Social Club, The Entrance

A stone’s throw from The Entrance waterfront, this pub-turned-hip hotspot is happening year-round. Mrs May Bistro & Bar is the main eatery, designed with stylish curves, gold accents and soft neutral colours. Its pavilion with fireplace is a coveted spot come winter to relax with a glass of wine. While in summer, the outdoor beer garden is the place to be: its retractable roof lets in the sunshine and good vibes year-round, with live music over the weekends. Sports fanatics will find solace in Taffy’s sports bar, which has booths with personal TVs to watch all the big games from NRL to NBL. The Lager-ita jug is a unique twist to enjoy with friends; tequila, lime, agave and lager.

Address: 87 The Entrance Road, The Entrance

4. Shady Palms, Avoca

Inspired by mid-century Hawaii, this self-proclaimed ‘eclectic surf shack’ is nestled among lush tropical gardens in Avoca. Housed in an old cottage, Shady Palms has multiple areas to sit with a cocktail or beer with mates: comfy booth seating under lush greenery, tables under tropical-style umbrellas in the garden, the rustic undercover ‘pizza terrace’ or a cosy spot inside the weatherboard house.

The lush tropical gardens at Shady Palms are the perfect spot to sip one of their cocktail creations. (Image: Nikki To/ Destination NSW)

Address: 366 Avoca Drive, Kincumber

5. Lost Souls, Terrigal

Calling all metal, rock and punk fans. Lost Souls on the esplanade of Terrigal is right up your alley. Black walls are plastered with band posters, skateboards and dark street art. Pick your poison with cocktails such as Bloody Sabbath, Deadly Nightshade and Fear of the Dark and settle in for a night of late-night metal, emo, punk rock – or whatever the theme for the evening is. Lost Souls provides the nostalgia, too, with rock karaoke, pinball machines, Nintendo and Street Fighter comps.

Lost Souls delivers a hefty dose of nostalgia.

Address: 55 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal

6. Motel Mezza, Wyong

Housed in a former 1930s bank on a corner block in Wyong, the elegant Motel Mezza bar and restaurant is resplendent in Art Deco styling and serves a Middle Eastern menu that’s designed to share with friends. But more impressive is its extensive beverage menu – with Mezza Twist cocktails such as the Zaatar Paloma, with tequila, zaatar syrup and fresh grapefruit, and a Pineapple and Saffron Martini. There is live music every Tuesday, which makes for a bit of mid-week fun, and trivia nights and belly dancing nights once a month.

Motel Mezza’s Middle Eastern menu is designed to share with friends.

Address: 98 Pacific Hwy, Wyong

7. Jerry Sent Me, Wyong

When we think speakeasy, this is what we imagine. Tucked away in a historic building, complete with timber rafters, barn doors, concrete floors and a pressed-metal ceiling, this dimly lit, vintage-style bar feels like prohibition all over again. Settle into a leather chair, cosy up in front of the log fire come winter and order a whiskey to enjoy with a grazing board.

Jerry Sent Me is a speakeasy bar in Wyong that should be on your radar.

Address: 14/16 Alison Road, Wyong

8. Bay Road Brewing, Gosford

Like most breweries, Bay Road was built by mates who love beer and good times. The light and bright space in Gosford produces a long list of brews including the Gossy Good Times hazy pale, Coastal Crush pale ale and a White Russian stout, all packaged in cans with bright and funky designs. The taphouse is kid-friendly and dog-friendly so you can bring the whole gang to sample the goods and enjoy a rotating menu of street food such as burgers, fried chicken and baos. Keep an eye out for the regular comedy club nights for a laugh with your lager.

The tasting experience at Bay Road Brewing. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 89 Donnison St, Gosford

9. The Savoy, Long Jetty

An abandoned 1950s theatre was given a new lease on life in 2018 when it was turned into a multi-purpose bar and restaurant. The chic bar serves up craft beers, cocktails on tap and a wine list focusing on natural drops.

Find a range of cocktails on tap. (Image: Nikki To/ Destination NSW)

While the food menu features casual bites such as pizza and share plates. There is a film screening in the cinema every Thursday night and come weekends a dancefloor comes to life thanks to DJs playing old-school and party tunes.

The multi-purpose bar and restaurant serves up good times alongside casual bites and share plates. (Image: Nikki To/ Destination NSW)

Address: 2/391 The Entrance Road, Long Jetty

10. The Boathouse, Patonga

Hidden away in the seaside village of Patonga, The Boathouse calls for long, lazy lunches in the sunshine. True to The Boathouse Group’s style, the venue oozes a chic nautical theme.

The Boathouse in Patonga is all about lazy lunches in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

Order a Boathouse Bloody Mary, a Patonga Margarita or a Loveboat (a refreshing blend of vodka, passionfruit liqueur, mint, lime and soda) and nab a seat in the alfresco courtyard under the shady Norfolk pines stringed with festoon lighting. Live music adds to the chilled ambience on weekends.

The views just can’t be beaten. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 6 – 8 Patonga Drive, Patonga

11. The Box On The Water, Ettalong

The Ettalong Beach foreshore offers punters many things: sprawling views across Broken Bay, ample opportunities for dog-spotting, and a pearler seat for sundowners – provided you’re in the right spot, and The Box On The Water definitely falls into that category. Floor-to-ceiling windows grant panoramic water views to Box Head and over to Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

Come for drinks or an upscale meal at the bar’s adjoining restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Beach Kiosk offers casual dining, drinks and snacks, while the adjoining restaurant serves upscale Australian fare. The BOX bar is for drinks only and they can be enjoyed anywhere within its licensed area, including along the seawall. Grab one of the five spritzes or signature G&T and nab an alfresco seat to soak up a picture-perfect sunset.

The Box On The Water sits alongside Ettalong Beach.

Address: Ettalong Beach Waterfront Reserve

12. Mumbo Jumbo’s, Terrigal

Caribbean-themed Mumbo Jumbo’s is more than just your classic rooftop bar. Founded by four local childhood friends, the space in Terrigal oozes chilled island vibes with views over the beach. Reggae rhythms, colourful quirky interiors and an aromatic Jamaican-flavoured food and drinks menu transport guests to the Caribbean. Espresso martinis are served on tap, alongside tropical cocktails and all classic wines and beers.

Soak up views of Terrigal Beach from the rooftop.

Wherever possible, recycled materials have been used in the fit-out: tables are made from old timber fencing and the bar is made from upcycled wood, adding to the chilled-out beachside vibe. The weekly calendar is pumping with trivia on Tuesdays, live music on Wednesdays and DJs over the weekend.

The interiors at Mumbo Jumbos deliver Caribbean vibes. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 92 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal

13. Pocket Bar, Terrigal

Situated a stone’s throw from Terrigal Beach, Pocket Bar serves as the Central Coast’s sister venue to Sydney’s Stitch Bar. Inside, they combine modern mixology techniques with classic cocktail recipes – alongside fun snacks, of course. The dimly lit space is lined with big couches and tables, exposed brick walls, a colourful painted mural and plants hanging overhead.

Pocket Bar is the sister venue to Sydney’s Stitch Bar.

Like its city counterparts, the cocktails are the big-ticket items at Pocket Bar. Try the Penicillin made with Dewars 12-year scotch whisky or dial it back with a wine or beer from the ever-expanding list paired with a tapas plate and watch the locals pass by.

Address: 1/74 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal

14. Avoca Beach House Restaurant & Bar, Avoca

A session at the Avoca Beach House feels quintessentially Australian. The space makes the most of its prime position with panoramic glass walls that face Avoca Beach. And, like any self-respecting beachside restaurant, it offers a hefty seafood menu featuring freshly shucked oysters and fried fish tacos. Barside, spritzes and sparkling wines go nicely with the view. So next time you’re in town, do as the locals do and partake in a Beach House session.

Avoca Beach House has front-row beach views.

Address: 3/85 Avoca Dr, Avoca Beach

15. Margarita Daze, Umina

If it’s Hampton’s ambience you seek, the beachy whites and seaside greens of Margarita Daze will more than deliver. This Ocean Beach bar and restaurant has sandy shores and an endless waterfront right at its doorstep.

The coastal vibes are in high supply at Margarita Daze in Umina. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Daze Margarita is one of the signature cocktails, with Jose Cuervo, triple sec, fresh lime and sugar, shaken and dumped on the rocks. The Salted Caramel Espresso Martini features salted caramel vodka, Kahlua, espresso coffee and caramel syrup shaken then strained into a caramel-rimmed martini glass – it will put hairs on your chest.

Round out the experience with a standout meal at the restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 345 Trafalgar Ave, Umina

16. Rhonda’s, Terrigal

Yes, they nail their wood-fired pizzas and shine by way of classic Italian fare, but Rhonda’s also provides a great spot for a cocktail. Located a short walk from the beach, this funky little gem is perfect for afternoon drinks and balmy nights out.

With superb cocktails, great food and a rooftop bar, Rhonda’s is easily one of the best bars in Terrigal.

As the sun makes its way toward the horizon, feel the sea breeze and sip on a house-made Limoncello or Aperol Spritz from the upstairs balcony. It also overlooks the popular Terrigal Beach House for ample people-watching opportunities. On Saturdays, pizza is available by the slice upstairs – the perfect salve after a few sundowners.

Feel the sea breeze and sip on a house-made Limoncello or Aperol Spritz at Rhonda’s.

Address: 3/5 Kurrawyba Ave, Terrigal

17. Frankie’s Rooftop, Woy Woy

It’s clear that Coasties are partial to a good rooftop tipple, and few bars or pubs shine as bright as Frankie’s. Head upstairs at The Bayview Hotel – a long-standing pub that underwent an unrecognisable transformation a few years back – for views of sparkling Brisbane Water.

There is a huge selection of whiskey to choose from, dangerously placed alongside a swathe of gins and rums and creative cocktails. Thursdays are for share plates and $14 margs and during happy hour on Fridays you can choose from $10 cocktails.

Indulge in a rooftop tipple and feed at Frankie’s. (Frankie’s Rooftop Bar)

Address: 2 The Boulevard, Woy Woy

18. Bar Toto, Ettalong

Bar Toto makes a case for elegance on the Central Coast. Since its establishment in 2013, it has brought back the old-world charm of wining and dining with an ode to the best of chic Europe.

Bar Toto’s well-crafted cocktail list will transport you straight to the Mediterranean.

Australia’s top 100 cocktail craftsman Peter Clarke has created a list that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean – the Italian classics such as negronis, aperols and garabaldis do it best. The coffee cocktails also shine and provide a kick for those who need it. For food, international pizza competition medallist Jerry Altavilla mans the ovens. Take a seat on a leather sofa and watch the magic unfold before you.

Address: 83/189 Ocean View Road, Ettalong

19. Six String Brewing Co. Erina

Six String Brewing began as a hobby developed from a genuine love of good beer. And like any good side hustle, it evolved into the first home-grown craft brewery and tasting room on the Central Coast.

Six String Brewing Co. is a guaranteed good time. (Image: Destination NSW)

Nowadays, the taproom is a popular watering hole that showcases the award-winning brews produced on-site. Lovers and novices can come in and learn about the process – touching, smelling and tasting the ingredients along the way. There are more than 12 taps in rotation at any given time at the bar; are all preservative-free, unpasteurised and unfiltered.

Six String Brewing Co. is the first home-grown craft brewery and tasting room on the Central Coast.

Come for a beer and a bite (burgers, tacos, charcuterie boards and the like) or book a tour of the brewery (run every Saturday morning) where you can learn the craft of brewing. A new taproom is currently under construction just down the road, with an opening date soon to be announced. Watch this space.

Address: 4/330 The Entrance Road, Erina

The post Sip in style: 19 must-visit bars on the Central Coast appeared first on Australian Traveller.

If you’re planning adventures in the Snowy Mountains, whether that be skiing in winter or hiking in summer, Jindabyne is an epic base camp. You’ll have plenty of dining options to choose from, the convenience of shops at your fingertips, and a range of accommodation that is usually more affordable than an on-mountain stay.

Here, we found 11 incredible Jindabyne accommodation options, in and around town, that suit all travellers.

1.  Snowbell

Best for: groups, families, central location

An easy 10-minute walk into Jindabyne, multi-generational families or groups of friends will feel at home in this brand-new contemporary four-bedroom property that sleeps up to 10 guests.

Stay in a contemporary four-bedroom property with mountain views.

If you’ve got kids in tow, the bedrooms with bunks and a trundle will make for epic sleepovers. Conveniently for families, there’s a full kitchen and laundry, as well as a covered balcony with barbecue and a lower deck with a fire pit – an idyllic apres-ski spot with mountain views.

End the day with a relaxing dip in your tub.

2.  Wonder on Alice

Best for: groups, families, central location

Designed for long days on the mountain, particularly during the snow season, this house has all the mod-cons including an infrared sauna room to soothe sore muscles, a drying room for boots and snow gear, and heated polished concrete floors to keep feet toasty.

Check into Wonder on Alice for long days on the mountain.

The sleek and modern three-bedroom home sleeps eight guests, with a full kitchen, lounge, laundry and a fenced-in backyard with a mini golf set-up.

Wonder on Alice is a three-bedroom home catering for up to eight guests.

3.  NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park

Best for: families, couples, central location

Located on the edge of Lake Jindabyne, a stone’s throw from shops, bars and restaurants, NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park is an affordable way to experience the mountain. It offers both unpowered and powered camping and a range of cabins and villas – but it’s the Glamtainers that really stand out.

NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park is centrally located near shops, bars and restaurants.

These converted shipping containers can sleep four people in a queen bed just off the lounge and two singles in a separate room. Soothing in a cream, tan and eucalypt colour palette with timber and black accents, the stylish stay is complete with a kitchenette, bathroom with a full walk-in shower and an indoor fireplace for snuggly winter days.

Get cosy at NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park.

4.  Hilltop Eco Cabin

Best for: couples, seclusion, off-grid

On the outskirts of Jindabyne (a 15-minute drive), this secluded cabin is what alpine dreams are made of. Set on 40 hectares with panoramic views that stretch to the snow-capped peaks, this high-elevation cabin is often layered with snowfall during winter.

Go off-grid at Hilltop Eco Cabin.

Simple and neutral in design, the cabin has a queen bed, a full bathroom, a kitchenette, a fireplace and bi-fold doors that open onto a deck, the perfect perch to soak up the sunshine year-round with sweeping mountain vistas to boot.

Hilltop Eco Cabin features a stylish minimalist design.

The cabin is energy-neutral, using solar power, a rainwater catchment system and compositing – and there’s no wi-fi so you can truly unwind in nature. 

Take in panoramic mountain vistas at Hilltop Eco Cabin.

5.  Glamping in the Snowy Mountains

Best for: couples, seclusion, off-grid

Go off-grid in this safari-style tent nestled on a 30-hectare property on the Snowy River, with dreamy views of the surrounding mountains. It’s 10 minutes’ drive from the town of Jindabyne and just 20 minutes from Kosciuszko National Park but feels totally secluded.

Relax on the verandah with outdoor tubs.

The off-grid element encourages guests to get back to nature, but with all the creature comforts including a plush queen bed, lounge, kitchenette with coffee machine, verandah with outdoor tubs, and a gas heater. There’s a separate shower and toilet, too.

6.  Banjo’s Rest

Best for: groups, families, central location

The iconic Banjo Paterson Inn is one of Jindabyne’s best places to eat and drink, but its accommodation is also worthy of a look. The newly renovated guest rooms have a contemporary look with a mountain feel and can all sleep four people, featuring a queen or king bed with a bunk.

Banjo’s Rest features a modern design.

Lakeview room types boast views of Lake Jindabyne, which is just across the road, and the Lakeview Superior Apartment can sleep seven people with the added convenience of a kitchenette. Best bit? You’re in the middle of the Jindy action.

7.  Tiny Luxury Escape

Best for: couples, seclusion, off-grid

Completely off-grid but just 15 minutes’ drive from Jindabyne, this tiny house feels like a true escape with views of snow-capped mountains. It can sleep four people in two bedrooms – one is a loft – and comprises a kitchenette, small seating area and full bathroom.

Be surrounded by snow at Tiny Luxury Escape.

Its location means that during the winter months, the ground is often blanketed in snow making for a magical scene when you wake in the morning.

Escape to this tiny house in the Snowy Mountains.

8.  Crafters Cabins

Best for: couples, seclusion, eco-friendly

Blending luxurious design with eco credentials and a quintessential Snowy Mountains bush setting, Crafters Cabins max out on cosiness and romance.

Stay at Crafters Cabins for ultimate seclusion.

A true alpine escape just 10 minutes from Jindabyne, these two cabins boast stone-clad walls, a toasty gas fireplace, and an outdoor woodfired hot tub for soaking with mountain views or under an uninterrupted starry sky.

Soak in the woodfired hot tub while admiring the mountain views.

Each cabin has a king bed, full kitchen, living and dining and views of Crackenback Peak through the expansive sliding doors.

You don’t need to go outside to see spectacular views.

9.  Rydges Horizons Snowy Mountains Jindabyne

Best for: families, central location, couples

Sitting on the edge of Lake Jindabyne with tranquil views, Rydges is a great option for travellers who prefer a resort-style stay.

Get cosy at Rydges Horizons Snowy Mountains Jindabyne.

The property features a restaurant and bar complete with a fireplace, an outdoor beer garden, an indoor heated pool, a gym, a tennis court and bike hire. The three types of self-contained apartments are simple but modern and can sleep up to six guests.

Opt for a resort-style stay at Rydges Horizons Snowy Mountains Jindabyne.

10. Mill Cabin

Best for: couples, seclusion, eco-friendly

A short drive from Jindabyne, this luxe cabin is the ultimate slow stay. Nestled in the alpine woodlands of Thredbo Valley, there are sweeping views of the Snowy Mountains and Mt Perisher.

The luxe Mill Cabin is nestled in the alpine woodlands of Thredbo Valley.

Built from 26 tonnes of granite rock and Australian hardwood timbers, the construction of the cabin was a conscious process.

The cabin is constructed from Australian hardwood timbers.

Inside, a kitchen stocked with essentials, a wood fire and a range of board games and cards to replace tech. Outside, guests can soak in the Japanese-inspired cedar bathtub. During winter, expect snow to make this iconic Aussie setting even prettier. 

Mill Cabin is rustic but chic.

11. The Jindy Inn

Best for: couples, central location, wellness

Smack-bang in town, this simple lodging offers motel-style accommodation. Choose from the Garden Rooms, Standard Balcony rooms that overlook Lake Jindabyne and Superior Lake View rooms, all of which feature a king bed.

Jindy Inn is a simple lodging that offers motel-style accommodation.

Many of the spaces in the inn have been recently refurbished, giving the old motel a modern look and sense of place with Australiana wallpaper and artworks of native wildlife. Owners Claire and Eric wear many hats: they are passionate about wildlife, and caring for injured and sick wombats at their home, and Claire also runs The OM Collective, with yoga classes held regularly at The Jindy Inn.

Follow our guide for the best things to do in Jindabyne.

The post 11 incredible stays in and around Jindabyne appeared first on Australian Traveller.

More than half of the Central Coast is made up of natural areas, comprising 10 national parks and reserves, almost 50 beaches and a vast hinterland area, all dotted with lush rainforest, bushland, waterfalls, lakes and lagoons. What better way to elevate your nature-based escape and soak up this beautiful landscape than by sleeping under the stars? From bush campsites to family-friendly holiday parks to luxury glamping, there are many places to go camping on the Central Coast.

National parks and reserves

The Central Coast is home to several protected natural areas, where you’ll find a plethora of hiking and biking trails, Aboriginal sites and native wildlife. The below three have camping facilities.

Bouddi National Park

With the eight-kilometre Bouddi Coastal walk tracing its ancient headland, past sparkling ocean and to empty beaches, the expansive 1500-hectare Bouddi National Park is a top spot to camp. It has three campgrounds, all located a short stroll from picturesque beaches. The park also has more than 100 important Aboriginal sites (with cultural tours available) and is an excellent place for whale watching (May to July, September and October) and bird watching – you may spot the white-bellied sea eagle soaring overhead.

Features: Little Beach Campground (toilets, picnic tables, barbecues, unpowered, beach access), Putty Beach Campground (toilets, showers, picnic tables, barbecue, drinking water, unpowered, beach access), and Tallow Beach Campground (toilets, unpowered, beach access).

The expansive 1500-hectare Bouddi National Park is a top spot to camp.

Munmorah State Conservation Area

Pristine beaches meet the rainforest in the beautiful Munmorah State Conservation Area. Frazer Beach has sugar-white sand and is good for surfing; there’s also rockpools and a lagoon which the kids love. A little further down, clothing is optional at Birdie Beach (if that’s your thing you can find more of Australia’s top skinny dipping spots here). Inland there’s eucalypt woodland and rainforest, home to birds such as the fairy wren, native cabbage palms and grass trees. There are two campgrounds available, for both tents and caravans.

Features: Frazer Campground (tents only, picnic tables, barbecues, showers, toilets, unpowered, beach access) and Freemans Campground (tent, camper trailer, caravan, picnic tables, barbecues, drinking water, showers, toilets, unpowered, beach access).

Frazer Beach has sugar-white sand and is an excellent spot for a bit of surf.

Patonga Caravan and Camping Area

Patonga Caravan and Camping Area is in the small village of Patonga, near the southern section of Brisbane Water National Park, which has excellent bush walks, ancient Aboriginal rock art, wildflowers come spring, the cascading Somersby Falls, and native wildlife including platypus. Set on the tip of a small peninsula between Patonga Creek and Patonga Beach, it’s great for fishing, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding and swimming. There’s also a playground, and tennis court and The Boathouse Patonga is a 10-minute walk away.

Features: powered, unpowered, showers, toilets, barbecues, laundry, boat ramp, fires allowed between April and August only.

The small town of Patonga has excellent bush walks, ancient Aboriginal rock art, and native flora and fauna to fawn upon. (Image: David Ross)

Holiday Parks

If you enjoy camping but don’t want to rough it, a holiday park is the way to go – especially when travelling with kids.

Toowoon Bay Holiday Park

If a sun, sand and sea holiday is right up your alley, Toowoon Bay Holiday Park will deliver. Set right on the shores of Toowoon Bay, a calm beach with water in all shades of blue, you have the option of powered and ensuite sites here for camping and caravans. Or, if you would prefer a more permanent set-up, there are one- and two-bedroom cabins available. The park also has a pool, playgrounds and a jumping pillow.

Features: pet-friendly sites, beach access, powered, unpowered, toilets, showers, camp kitchen

Toowoon Bay is a calm beach with water in all shades of blue.

NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort

The NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Park is kid heaven (which equals parent heaven, right?). There is a heated pool, jumping pillow, water park, go-karts, games room, playground and tennis court in the park. Family-friendly Umina Beach is within arm’s reach and is perfect for learning to surf. Accommodation-wise, you can choose from powered and unpowered sites for caravans and camping, a huge range of villas and cabins that sleep up to eight plus glamping (see under ‘glamping’). There’s a café and kiosk on site, too.

Features: pet-friendly sites, access-friendly, beach access, toilets, showers, powered, unpowered, camp kitchen, barbecues, laundry

Family-friendly Umina Beach is within arm’s reach at NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Park. (Image: Christopher Flaxman)

Canton Beach Holiday Park

For a change of scenery, the Canton Beach Holiday Park is set on Tuggerah Lake while still being within close proximity to the Coast’s famous beaches (Lakes Beach, Soldiers Beach and Norah Head). There are powered, unpowered and ensuite sites available as well as one- and two-bedroom cabins. Kids are entertained by the playgrounds and jumping pillow, and with the lake at your fingertips there’s also fishing, paddle-boarding, kayaking and boating. If you want to escape the park for a day, we’ve got your go-to list of kid-friendly things to do nearby.

Features: Pet-friendly sites, toilets, showers, lake access, powered, unpowered, camp kitchen, barbecues, boat ramp

One of the charming cabins at Canton Beach Holiday Park. (Image: Canton Beach Holiday Park)

Free Camping

Dharug National Park, to the west of the Central Coast Hinterland area, is the only option for free campsites on the Central Coast.

Dharug National Park

The national park borders both the Hawkesbury River and the Central Coast’s Mangrove Mountain area. It’s home to the World Heritage-listed Old Great North Road, which was built in the early 19^th century by convicts and is now explorable by a heritage walk. The park is also thriving with birdlife such as the gang-gang cockatoo and satin bowerbird, as well as many possums and sugar gliders. The magical Hawkesbury River and its dramatic sandstone cliffs border the southern end of the park. Mill Creek Campground and Ten Mile Hollow Campground are both free campsites where sleeping under the stars is the only way to go.

Features: Mill Creek Campground (tents and camper trailers, barbecues, car park, toilets, unpowered. Fires allowed) and Ten Mile Hollow (tent only, barbecues, toilets, unpowered fires allowed).

The Dharug National Park borders the Hawkesbury River—perfect for scenic views. (Image: Getty)

Glamping

Get your wilderness fix with a side of champagne with these luxury camping experiences.

Glenworth Valley

This sprawling property located in the Central Coast Hinterland is an adventure playground with activities such as horse riding, abseiling, quad biking and kayaking on the agenda. You can extend the adventure and immerse yourself in  wilderness by staying overnight at Glenworth Valley. Creekside traditional campsites are available, but if crave creature comforts book one of the bell tents, equipped with luxury linen and soft beds, providing the best of both worlds. Eco cabins are also available.

Features: unpowered, bedding, cafe, toilets, showers, barbecue, fires allowed

Immerse yourself in wilderness when you camp (or glamp!) in Glenworth Valley.

NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort

Just when you thought the NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort had everything you need and more, they throw some glamping options on top. Choose between the raised safari tent, which sleeps up to four with a queen bed and a bunk bed, or an uber-modern ‘glamtainer’, which basically is a tiny home with a queen bed and double bed as well as a kitchenette and bathroom.

Features: beach access, powered, unpowered, toilets, showers, camp kitchen, barbecues, laundry

The uber-modern ‘glamtainer’ in NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort is more glam than camp. (Image: Shan Rose Photography)

The post The most beautiful spots for camping on the Central Coast appeared first on Australian Traveller.

Jindabyne may be at its busiest and most lively when it’s subzero temperatures outside but the alpine town has ample activities up its sleeve for the spring and summer months, too.

Here, we’ve found 15 awesome things to do in Jindabyne (and its surrounds), from bushwalking in the Snowy Mountains to fishing in Lake Jindabyne to yoga and pottery classes in town.

1. Hit the slopes during winter

Name the first thing you think of when visiting the Snowy Mountains? Hitting the slopes. Jindabyne is just a 30-minute drive to Thredbo and Perisher, making it a popular and convenient base camp for snow trips.

Glide along the snowy slopes. (Image: Destination NSW)

Charlotte Pass Snow Resort is also easily accessible from Jindy: the resort has an Oversnow transport shuttle that runs from the Perisher Valley Skitube Terminal to the slopes.

Soak up the cold and crisp air from above. (Image: Destination NSW)

Skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing are available at all resorts, while Perisher is the only resort with dedicated tobogganing areas.

Hit the slopes in the Snowy Mountains. (Image: Destination NSW)

If you’re heading to Thredbo, be sure to take a ride on the newly opened Alpine Coaster, the first in the Southern Hemisphere to operate year-round.

2. Ride the mountain bike trails in summer

Come the warmer months, the Snowy Mountains become a mountain bike playground, with a varied terrain of dense bushland and forest, alpine lakes, giant boulders and breathtaking peaks. Thredbo has the country’s only lift-accessed mountain bike trails, offering 40-plus kilometres throughout the majestic High Country. If you want to tackle Australia’s highest peak, the Mount Kosciuszko Summit Trail, from Charlotte Pass to the summit (the last 1.4-kilometre section needs to be walked).

Pedal your way to the scenic Lake Crackenback Resort. (Image: Destination NSW)

Lake Crackenback Resort is a 20-minute drive from Jindabyne and features 18 kilometres of bike trails. While in Jindabyne, the Bungarra Alpine Centre is a purpose-built mountain bike park with 20 kilometres of trails catering to all abilities.

3. Go bushwalking in Kosciuszko National Park

When the snow melts, hundreds of kilometres of walking tracks in the mountains are revealed. From short walks such as the two-hour Thredbo River track from Thredbo Village to the four-day Snowies Alpine Walk that covers 55 kilometres between Guthega, Charlotte Pass, Perisher and Lake Crackenback, including the summit of Mount Kosciuszko.

Tackle the Mount Kosciuszko Summit walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

It traverses valleys of mountain ash, snow gums, wildflowers in spring, the Snowy River and granite outcrops. You can also reach the ‘rooftop of Australia’ on a shorter 13-kilometre-return day walk, starting at the top of the Kosciuszko Express chairlift at Thredbo. You may spot wombats, echidnas and wallabies.

Twist and turn your way along the Kosciuszko National Park. (Image: Tourism Australia)

4. Take a walk around Lake Jindabyne

From town, you can stretch your legs along the foreshore of Lake Jindabyne.

Take scenic walks along Lake Jindabyne. (Image: Destination NSW)

The pathway traces the lake for up to 30 kilometres between Banjo Patterson Park in the centre of Jindabyne, extending east to Tyrolean village over the dam wall and west to Hatchery Bay.

Lake Jindabyne is bathed in a honeyed light at sundown. (Image: Destination NSW)

The walk along the lake is spectacular at sunrise and at sunset, when you may also spot trout. And it’s also perfect for taking the kids on scooters or bikes.

Spend the day with your kids on a relaxing bike ride around Lake Jindabyne. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Hire a kayak on Lake Jindabyne

Swap your ski poles for paddles in the summer months and get out on one of the country’s highest lakes. Kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing and sailing are all popular activities on Lake Jindabyne. You can hire water sports equipment from Sacred Ride in town.

Go paddling around the scenic Lake Jindabyne. (Image: Destination NSW)

6. Take a scenic flight with Snowy Mountains Helicopters

Whether the landscape is blanketed in white or covered in wildflowers, these scenic helicopter flights operate year-round. Take a quick 10-minute flight over Lake Jindabyne to see the sparkling waterway and surrounding towns from a different perspective.

See the sparkling waterway on a helicopter. (Image: Destination NSW)

Choose a 30-minute flight to Mt Kosciuszko to see the country’s highest peak up close and view the ski resorts below. Fly deeper into the Snowy Mountains with a 60-minute flight over High Country plains where you’ll likely see wild brumbies. Or take a 90-minute aerial tour of the engineering marvel of the Snowy Mountains Scheme, following rivers, ridgelines and spotting brumbies.

Take a scenic flight over High Country plains with Snowy Mountains Helicopters.

7. Taste locally made schnapps at Wildbrumby Distillery

Located between Jindabyne and Thredbo, Wildbrumby is the highest distillery in Australia and uses pristine alpine water and native mountain botanicals in its award-winning schnapps, gin, vodka and gluhwein.

Sample schnapps in a bubble-shaped dome at Wildbrumby Distillery. (Image: Destination NSW)

Schnapps flavours include baked apple, butterscotch and limoncello, perfect heart-warming tipples for apres ski. The distillery door is open daily and there is a cafe on-site from Thursday to Monday, as well as a sculpture garden to wander through.

Taste heart-warming tipples at Wildbrumby Distillery. (Image: Destination NSW)

8. Join a foodie tour with Sip the Snowies

This bespoke culinary tour company takes visitors around the Snowy Mountains, one delicious stop at a time to showcase the local produce and clever providores of the region.

Sample spirits with Sip the Snowies at a winery, brewery or distillery. (Image: Rhys Newton)

Each tour is slightly different but includes two tastings at a winery (such as Shut The Gate wines), brewery or distillery (such as Jindabyne Brewing) and a grazing platter. Others include a creative workshop, visiting boutique stores in Jindabyne and lunch.

Join a local tasting with Sip the Snowies. (Image: Rhys Newton)

9. Browse local art or catch a flick

Rain day? Rest day off the mountain? Kids to entertain? Whatever your reason, a day at the movies can be just the ticket. Jindabyne Cinema is a small cinema located right in town showing the latest blockbusters. From film to art, Jindabyne Art Gallery is run by local artists in the Jindabyne Memorial Hall. The exhibition includes paintings, photography and sculpture – many of the artists were inspired by the surrounding alpine landscape and mountain culture. The gallery occasionally hosts events and creative workshops, too – check out the Facebook page.

10. Throw in a line at Lake Jindabyne

Rain, snow or shine, fishing at Lake Jindabyne is a popular activity, thanks to its prolific population of trout.

Try your luck in catching a trout at Lake Jindabyne. (Image: Don Fuchs/Destination NSW)

Trolling is the easiest method for catching fish in Lake Jindabyne (AKA dragging a baited line through the water from a boat, not the online kind) but fly-fishing is also possible from the shore and best done at first and last light (when the lake is at its most spectacular, too). Or head out with a local fishing expert with Eucumbene and Jindabyne Fishing Charters, which operates half- and full-day charters from Jindabyne and Eucumbene including all supplies (such as rods, reels, tackle and morning or afternoon tea).

Lake Jindabyne is blanketed in wildflowers. (Image: Destination NSW)

11. Find your zen with a yoga class

Skiing and snowboarding seem to work muscles that you never knew you had. Stretch and unwind at The Jindy Inn, where The Om Collective runs yoga classes daily. There are gentle yoga classes that flow at a more relaxed pace to Hatha-style yoga that focuses on power and lateral poses. The collective occasionally runs yoga and wellness retreats, too, which include accommodation at The Jindy Inn, daily yoga and meals. You can book casual classes or purchase a six-class pack, which is ideal for travellers.

12. Hone your skills at Jindabyne Skate Park

After a whopping 1.5-million-upgrade Jindabyne Skate Park reopened this year to the excitement of local skaters, BMX riders and scooters riders. It boasts a brand-new half-pipe, mini ramp and refurbished bowl, designed for everyone from beginners to pros, young and old alike. It’s located next to the Jindabyne Bowling Club, on the shores of Lake Jindabyne, and has night lights so the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down.

13. Try your hand at pottery

Forget a key ring or a tea towel. Take home a hand-made piece of pottery that you crafted yourself as a souvenir from your Snowy Mountains holiday. Feldmark Pottery specialises in functional pieces, with a gallery and studio located in town.

Take home ceramic pieces from Feldmark Pottery.

Come by and peruse the ceramic homewares and sculptural pieces by artist Andrei Davidoff or pre-book a Clay and Graze class to make your own. The three-hour experience will teach you how to create simple vessels on a pottery wheel, while grazing on a platter of local produce and sipping on Kosciuszko Wines.

Craft your own hand-made homeware at Feldmark Pottery.

14. Museum hop in Cooma

This largest town in the Snowy Mountains is a 45-minute drive north of Jindabyne and home to three museums. Dedicated to the incredible engineering feat that is the Snowy Hydro Scheme, the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre explains how the state-of-the-art Snowy Hydro works and features a virtual flyover experience of the Snowy Mountains.

Glimpse at the interactive displays to learn how Snowy Hydro works. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Cooma Monaro Railway Museum is housed in the restored Cooma railway station and allows visitors to step back in time to the golden era of train travel. While the Motor Museum will get the hearts of car enthusiasts revved up, with its exhibition of historical cars, motorbikes and motoring memorabilia, as well as its 1950s American diner.

Tour around the state-of-the-art Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre. (Image: Destination NSW)

15. Explore Thredbo Valley by horseback

Explore the magic of the mountains by horseback with a trail ride that will have you channelling your favourite scene from Man from Snowy River.

The Thredbo Valley horses are adorable. (Image: Destination NSW)

Located just 15 minutes’ drive from Jindabyne in Crackenback, Thredbo Valley Horse Riding offers short one- and two-hour rides through sub-alpine wilderness and half-day rides that venture further into the valley, through alpine meadows and along snow-fed streams.

Meet one of the friendly horses. (Image: Destination NSW)

Owner Ned Barrass has played an important role locally protecting and supporting wild brumbies that would otherwise be culled from regional Wilderness Areas. He has many brumbies within his mob at the property.

Explore the Snowy Mountains on a horseback. (Image: Destination NSW)

Snowy Wilderness in Jindabyne also offers memorable 2 to 7-day horse treks where you will stay in wilderness campsites in between exploring the snowy mountain terrain.

Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Jindabyne.

The post 15 things to do in Jindabyne (with and without snow) appeared first on Australian Traveller.

The alpine town of Jindabyne in the Snowy Mountains is base camp to Australia’s highest peak, Mt Kosciuszko. With ample cafes and restaurants at your fingertips, it makes for a fuss-free stay near the mountain, year-round. Here are some of the best Jindabyne restaurants.

1. Banjo Paterson Inn

This alpine-style stone-clad hotel is open year-round is a favourite gathering place for both locals and travellers. Clancy’s Brasserie on the ground floor offers a pub-style menu with classics such as chicken schnitzel, Caesar salad, a grill selection and its famous ‘Snowy’ trout.

Gather into the alpine-style Banjo Paterson Inn for a satisfying pub-style dinner.

In The Overflow upstairs, you’ll find burgers and pizzas. It’s also home to Musters Bar, which spills out onto an outdoor terrace with views of Lake Jindabyne and regular live tunes, and microbrewery Kosciuszko Brewhouse, where the original Kosciuszko Pale and limited-edition seasonal ales are on tap.

Sip on elevated cocktails.

Address: 1 Kosciuszko Rd, Jindabyne

2. Bacco Italian Restaurant

Bacco has been serving delicious Italian cuisine for 25 years. It’s a rustic, cosy spot right in the centre of Jindabyne to enjoy a la carte dining – think pizzas, pastas and mains such as pollo bacco and veal scallopini, topped off by affogato or homely lumberjack cake for dessert.

Wine and dine at Bacco Italian Restaurant.

Or you can order pizza and pasta from the takeaway menu to eat back at your accommodation or perhaps by Lake Jindabyne, which is a few minutes’ walk from here, during warmer months.

Bacco Italian Restaurant has served delicious Italian cuisine for 25 years.

Address: 10 Snowy River Ave, Jindabyne

3. Birchwood

Fuel up for a day on the slopes or traversing the Snowy’s best bushwalks at Birchwood. In the heart of town, this cosy café serves wholesome breaky dishes such as granola, avo on toast, and Turkish eggs, as well as all-day options including a B&E roll and toasties. For lunch, a creamy soup, poke bowls and burgers are added to the menu. Add a coffee made with Single O beans or a house-brewed kombucha to sip on – or peruse the booze options after 10am. We love Birchy’s Lunch Packs, made especially for days up on the mountain: think a jam-packed sandwich, fresh-squeezed juice, veggie sticks and fruit, and a store-baked sweet slice.

Address: Unit 3/3 Gippsland St, Jindabyne

4. Cocina Taqueria

Here at Cocina Taqueria, they encourage long dinners, deep conversations and losing track of time. Add in an entire menu dedicated to tequila, mezcal and margaritas and we don’t have any problem doing that. The intimate, dimly lit restaurant has subtle Mexican styling, while the menu is traditional Mexican dishes with a modern twist.

Enjoy Mexican fare with a modern twist at Cocina Taqueria.

There are tacos and burritos, as well as small and large plates such as ceviche, jalapeno poppers and Oaxacan lamb barbacoa. Smaller gringos are also offered nachos and quesadillas.

Cocina Taqueria celebrates tequila and mezcal.

Address: Shop 5/33 Kosciuszko Rd, Jindabyne

5. Brumby Bar & Grill

A stalwart of Jindabyne since 1982, Brumby Bar & Grill serves pub favourites such as chicken schnitzel, beer-battered fish and chips, burgers and steak. Don’t let the outdated deter you: inside the dining room is warm and stylish, complete with a stone fireplace for the cooler months.

Brumby Bar & Grill offers generous servings of food.

If you come by on a Sunday, you’ll be treated to open mic night and there’s also a big screen for footy fans and after-dark DJs and entertainment.

Savour pub favourites at Brumby Bar & Grill.

Address: Cnr Kosciuszko Road &, Kalkite St, Jindabyne

6. Takayama Restaurant and Bar

Sit down for some Japanese izakaya in the mountains at this town centre restaurant. The menu spans small plates such as edamame, sushi rolls and pork gyoza, to large share plates including karaage, katsu and tataki beef. Or order some piping hot ramen for one. Top off the experience with a glass of Sapporo or a yuzu cocktail.

Address: Shop 19/5 Snowy River Ave, Jindabyne

7. Jindabyne Bowling Club

Who doesn’t love a casual dinner at the bowlo? This one is perfect for families, not only for the affordable food but also because there’s an indoor playground that the kids (and parents) will love, no matter the weather outside. Chow down on a burger, prawn cutlets, chicken parmi, a steak sandwich and all your other pub favourites, and try your hand a trivia on Thursdays. There’s also a courtesy bus that services Jindabyne and surrounds – a bonus when you’re on holiday and want to enjoy a drink while out at dinner.

Address: 2 Bay St, Jindabyne

8. Jindabyne Brewing

After a day on the mountain, ski instructor Karl Veiss was enjoying a beer in a hot tub at a friend’s place when he had the idea to start up a family-friendly brewery. And so, Jindabyne Brewing was born. A warehouse-style brewery tucked away in a quieter street of town, on a property that has views of Lake Jindabyne.

Choose from their signature dishes or order from the succulent meat skewers menu.

Sample the five beers on tap – including Alpine Red X, a dark lager, and Hefe Veiss, a German wheat beer – and order from the succulent meat skewers menu with a side of house chips and aioli.

Sample the five beers on tap with your feed.

Address: 5 Nettin Cct, Jindabyne

9. Panorama Thai

Just around the corner from Jindabyne Brewing, this Thai restaurant is tucked away in an unassuming motel. But if you’re craving Thai cuisine, you won’t be disappointed. The dining room is simple but light and airy and has an incredible view of Lake Jindabyne. The menu is concise but full of extremely flavoursome dishes such as Massaman beef and chilli basil eggplant. The pad kee mao is delicious but they don’t lie when they say spicy.

Address: 16 Nettin Cct, Jindabyne NSW 2627, Australia

10. Sundance Bakehouse

Just follow the crowds to this cult bakery, located within the Nuggets Crossing Shopping Centre in Jindy – the flagship store of three in the Snowies, the other two are in Bullocks Flat and Perisher. Grab a takeaway coffee and a freshly made pastry, toastie, pie or roll to pack for a day on the mountain.

Stock up on freshly baked bread from Sundance Bakehouse.

Address: 6 Kosciuszko Rd, Jindabyne

11. Nimmitabel Bakery

Founded in the town of Nimmitabel, east of Jindabyne, this bakery has been serving freshly baked goods using traditional methods since 1950. Its Jindabyne outpost in Nuggets Crossing Shopping Centre has a cosy fireplace, perfect to sit around and enjoy a coffee made with Seven Miles’ Black Mountain coffee beans, with a brekky wrap or a homemade pie. Grab a rock cake for the road.

Address: Shop 3 Nuggets Crossing Shopping Centre, 13 Kalkite St, Jindabyne

12. Parc. Cafe

Adjoining the Snowy Region Visitor Centre in town, Parc. Serves an all-day menu featuring a big brekkie, burritos, sambos and wraps. Pouring Madding Crowd coffee, organic juices and smoothies, alongside local brews from Jindabyne Brewing and Shut the Gate wines. Sit out in the sunshine – where, during summer, they occasionally have live music – or retreat inside when it’s subzero temps out.

Address: 49 Kosciuszko Rd, Jindabyne

13. Pinot’s Wine Bar

There are plenty of lively pubs in Jindabyne, but if it’s a glass of wine in a dimly lit and elegant bar, then Pinot’s is your place. Named after owner Hannah’s dog, Pinot’s has a succinct wine menu, a rotating selection of craft beer on tap, and cocktails.

Raise a cocktail glass or two at Pinot’s Wine Bar.

Enjoy with bar bites such as fresh Merimbula rock oysters, baked camembert or one of Pinot’s signature potatoes – loaded with indulgent toppings including the Golden Arches, which has beef, cheese, pickles, lettuce and a secret sauce.

Pair your cocktail with Pinot’s signature dishes.

Address: Shop 18b Nuggets Crossing Shopping Centre, Snowy River Ave, Jindabyne

14. Holly Go Lightly

Holly Go Lightly is a good-time diner serving Southern American staples such as poutine, fried cheese balls and burgers such as maple bacon, beef and cheeseburger.

Sip a spicy margarita at Holly Go Lightly.

Craft beers, spicy margs, and Holly’s house wines are served to DJs spinning live tunes. The beer garden is the place to be, especially when the weather warms up.

Holly Go Lightly serves up savoury Southern American staples.

Address: 6 Thredbo Terrace, Jindabyne

The post 14 of the best Jindabyne restaurants and eateries appeared first on Australian Traveller.

Named for the subtle blue haze that has settled over its landscape – from the evaporating oils of the eucalypt trees in its lush forests – the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains is a must-visit destination.

Families will have a fun-filled stay, visiting the famous Three Sisters and riding the steepest passenger train in the world; it’s an idyllic place for a romantic getaway with crisp mountain air and cosy fireplaces to snuggle before; it’s a bushwalking mecca, with sheer sandstone escarpments, deep valleys and gushing waterfalls; and the perfect location to take a reset away from life’s busyness.

No matter the reason for your trip, there are many resorts and hotels in the Blue Mountains, set within its charming villages, in remote bushland or perched atop escarpments with breathtaking views of the ancient mountain landscape.

1. Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa, Katoomba

Best for: Couples, Heritage charm, Central Location

When it comes to the best location to stay in the Blue Mountains, Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa can’t be beat. This historic hotel sits on an escarpment overlooking the Jamison Valley, just a 500-metre walk to the Three Sisters and Scenic World and in Katoomba, where you’ll find plenty of places to dine.

Check into the quaint, historic hotel in Katoomba. (Image: Destination NSW)

The hotel is housed within a heritage-listed homestead and its style reflects this old-world charm, with decorative wallpapers and traditional furnishings. While there are ample things to do in Katoomba, the hotel also has two swimming pools, a tennis court, a day spa and a handful of places to dine and drink, including Darley’s, which has become a Blue Mountains fine dining institution.

Soak up the sun on warmer days in the onsite pool. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 5-19 Lilianfels Avenue, Katoomba

2. Kyah Boutique Hotel, Blackheath

Best for: Families, Couples, Style

This could be the Blue Mountain’s coolest accommodation. The Kyah Boutique Hotel opened in 2022 in the village of Blackheath, which has some excellent dining options and some of the best bushwalks in the Blue Mountains.

The stylish Kyah Boutique Hotel delivers Palm Springs-inspired vibes. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

With a style inspired by Palm Springs but with its Australian mountain surroundings in mind, The Kyah is all soothing earthy and pastel tones, curves and accents of gold. There’s a restaurant on-site, which has a menu centred around local produce and ingredients foraged from the kitchen garden.

Blaq Restaurant is housed within Kyah. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

But the best bit about the Kyah is the accommodation options – with hotel suites that can sleep up to four and five guests, offering affordable and stylish accommodation to families and groups of friends.

Hearty comfort food and refined snacks are on offer at Blaq. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

Address: 13-17 Brightlands Ave, Blackheath

3. Hydro Majestic, Medlow Bath

Best for: Heritage charm, Luxury, Mountain Views

Teetering on the edge of an escarpment, with breathtaking views of Megalong Valley, Hydro Majestic is the mountain’s most iconic stay. Reopening in 2014 after many years of abandonment, the historic hotel was restored to its former glory of the Art Deco era with a range of accommodation guest rooms.

Hydro Majestic overlooks the mighty Megalong Valley. (Image: Destination NSW)

It’s well worth a nostalgic visit, even if only to enjoy high tea in the Wintergarden or a cocktail in the notorious Cat’s Alley or soak up the hotel’s fascinating century-old history on a guided tour. The hotel is located in Medlow Bath, between the towns of Katoomba and Blackheath and is a charismatic base to explore the best things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Address: 52-88 Great Western Hwy, Medlow Bath

4. Parklands Country Garden & Lodges, Blackheath

Best for: Heritage charm, Families, Couples

Set on 11 hectares of manicured gardens, Parklands in Blackheath is both a romantic escape for couples and a comfy stay for families.

There is plenty of space to roam at Parklands Country Garden & Lodges.

The suites can sleep up to four people and ooze country charm, with fireplaces and bay windows overlooking the leafy grounds. Breakfast is served in the sun-lit Lakeview Breakfast Room and there is also a tranquil day spa on-site.

Settle in by the fireplace during winter.

The lodge’s location is central to the village of Blackheath, where you’ll find restaurants and shops, and is close to many bushwalking tracks such as the spectacular Govetts Leap Lookout, just down the road.

The accommodation is luxe and modern.

Address: 132 Govetts Leap Road, Blackheath

5. Eagle View Escape, Rydal

Best for: Couples, Adults-only, Seclusion

Dreaming of a romantic escape to the country where it feels like you’re the only two people on Earth? Eagle View Escape is an adults-only accommodation nestled on a 40-hectare property in the mountain village of Rydal, 45 minutes north-west of Katoomba.

It comprises five self-contained suites with views of the surrounding valley and lake, each with cosy gas log fires and spa baths.

Bunker down in your boutique suite and take advantage of the gourmet packs: self-cook breakfast, dinner and barbecue packs, picnic hampers and cheese and wine platters.

Address: 271 Sandalls Drive, Rydal

6. Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains, Leura

Best for: Families, Mountain Views, Affordability

Located in the charming town of Leura, the Fairmont is arguably the most family-friendly resort in the Blue Mountains. You could easily spend your entire stay at the resort, flitting between the swimming pool, indoor and outdoor playgrounds, a treetops adventure course, an ice-skating rink and a miniature train. But all the Blue Mountain’s best things to do are close by.

Take in incredible views of the Jamison Valley at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains. (Image: Destination NSW)

There are many room types to choose from, including a pet-friendly option, and multiple dining venues, including a steakhouse and fine dining restaurant, a cosy lobby lounge and an underground whisky bar. There’s also an 18-hole course for golf lovers.

There are a variety of activities to join at the resort. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 1 Sublime Point Road, Leura

7. Love Cabins, Bilpin

Best for: Couples, Seclusion, Unique Accommodation

Step into a real-life fairytale at the Love Cabins, set across 240 hectares of private bushland near Bilpin, north-east of Katoomba. Our two favourite cabins are the (very grown-up) Treehouse, set high in the treetops and resplendent in natural woods, and the primitive-style Enchanted Cave, which is carved out of bedrock.

One of the Love Cabins is set up high in the treetops.

Both have gorgeous views of the vast property, which is home to gorges, creeks, mountains and rainforests. From Sydney, the accommodation can be reached via the scenic Bells Line of Road, an idyllic Greater Blue Mountains road trip past orchards, with pick-your-own experiences and honesty boxes.

Recharge and unplug at the rustic cabins.

Address: The cabins are located on two properties in Mountain Lagoon and Berambing, near Bilpin, NSW

8. Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

Best for: Luxury, Couples, Seclusion

Note: This resort is closed for the foreseeable future due to a landslide that caused ongoing accessibility challenges.

Touted as one of the country’s most luxurious stays, and part of the Luxury Lodges of Australia portfolio, Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley is located on more than 2800 private hectares an hour’s drive north of Katoomba.

Surrounded by rugged and peaceful bushland and the Wolgan River, the exclusive lodge is managed by One&Only and has an Australian bush aesthetic, featuring premium freestanding villas, all with a fireplace, verandah and private pool. The all-inclusive accommodation comes with extremely attentive staff, exceptional cuisine and a host of activities such as archery and horse riding, as well as a day spa.

Address: 2600 Wolgan Rd, Wolgan Valley

9. Spicers Sangoma, Bowen Mountain

Best for: Couples, Adults-Only, Luxury

Sangoma is named after the Zulu word for healer, which indicates what a stay at Spicers Sangoma is all about. Perched on the edge of the Blue Mountains ranges and boasting views of the Nepean River delta, this adults-only retreat is wedged between the Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury River and its seclusion is part of the charm.

The luxe bathtub is a standout feature. (Image: Destination NSW)

There are just eight suites, each with deep baths and fireplaces, an on-site restaurant serving organic and local produce and a restorative spa. Guests can spend their time with zen activities such as yoga and meditation or get amongst nature bushwalking or canyoning.

Address: 70 Grandview Lane, Bowen Mountain

10. Logan Brae Retreats, Mt Kanimbla

Best for: Couples, Families, Mountain Views

Logan Brae Retreats is set on 14 hectares atop Mt Kanimbla, located west of Blackheath. There are two cabins, Hilltop Cabin and Woodlands Cabin, perfect for a romantic getaway.

Stay in the secluded Logan Brae Retreats.

Both feature warm timbers and stone walls, a deep indoor bathtub, a fireplace, and a mineral plunge pool with sweeping Blue Mountains views. The Lodge can sleep up to eight and has a barbecue and outdoor dining, billiards table, fireplace, kitchen and plunge pool.

Take a dip in the plunge pool overlooking sweeping views of the Blue Mountains.

All stays at Logan Brae Retreats include breakfast and a picnic on arrival, and local experiences include horse riding, bushwalking and visiting orchards and farm gates.

The hilltop cabin comes with a luxury oversized bathtub that’s begging to be used.

Address: 43 Megalong Place, Kanimbla

11. Cloud Parade, Leura

Best for: Families, Mountain Views, Style

Its name will give you a hint to its location, located high on an escarpment in the Blue Mountains with views of Mt Solitary and the Three Sisters. Cloud Parade is a short walk to the quaint town of Leura, which is home to an abundance of cafes and boutique shopping, and Gordon Falls is just down the road.

Wake up next to scenic mountain views at Cloud Parade.

It’s also a quick drive to Katoomba, where the famous Three Sisters and Scenic World are located. Sleeping 10 guests, this uber-stylish stay is great for groups of friends and families (though the yard is not fenced), with a full kitchen, laundry and an open fireplace for the cooler months.

Check into Cloud Parade, a stylish mountain retreat in Leura.

Address: Located in Leura

12. Echoes Boutique Hotel, Katoomba

Best for: Mountain Views, Central Location, Affordability

Echoes Boutique Hotel sits atop one of the Blue Mountain’s sheer escarpments in Katoomba. Welcoming guests since the 1990s, the guest rooms are simple, however they are comfortable and the panoramic views from the windows and private balconies make up for the style.

Echoes Boutique Hotel is wrapped in well-manicured gardens. (Image: Destination NSW)

Echoes Restaurant and Bar is located on site and serves a menu of Australian cuisine with Asian influences.

Dine with breathtaking views of the mountains. (Image: Hugh Stewart; Destination NSW)

Address: 3 Lilianfels Ave, Katoomba

13. The Little Black Cabin, Blackheath

Best for: Couples, Seclusion, Style

This 120-year-old cottage was restored and given an architectural makeover to become a sleek tiny stay. Sleeping just two guests, The Little Black Cabin has views of the Megalong Valley, an outdoor fireplace, a pot-belly fire inside for cooking, a projector for movies, a rain shower with a heated bathroom floor and a laundry.

Opt to stay in the luxurious and cosy Little Black Cabin.

It’s an easy walk from Blackheath to grab a meal or browse the shops, and at the foot of many bush trails.

It’s the perfect hideaway for a reset from life’s busyness.

Address: Located in Blackheath

14. Norwood Arthouse, Blackheath

Best for: Heritage Charm, Families, Groups

Built in 1888, this charming home is State Heritage-listed and has been restored to its original glory, with an eclectic mix of vintage furniture and curios, vibrant colours and decorative wallpapers.

Step into the charming, State Heritage-listed Norwood Arthouse.

There are seven ensuite bedrooms, which sleep 14 guests, two lounge rooms, a full kitchen, a grand verandah and original indoor fireplaces. Modern comforts have been added, such as air-conditioning, espresso machine, electric vehicle chargers, solar panels, and an infrared sauna.

Each room is complete with modern comforts.

Families will enjoy exploring the large property filled with old pine trees, and Blackheath village which is a short walk away.

Soak up the healing heat from the outdoor barrel sauna.

Address: Located in Blackheath

15. Orchard Cottage, Leura

Best for: Heritage Charm, Families, Luxury

In the heart of Leura village, Orchard Cottage is a restored heritage property that accommodates up to 10 guests and features a front verandah just begging to be sat on with a cuppa.

It’s a light-filled space with high ceilings and white interiors; the authentic French flooring adds warmth and the bespoke furnishings by the likes of Ralph Lauren and Coco Republic elevate the luxury.

Guests can cook in the galley kitchen, on the outdoor barbecue or pizza oven, or walk to one of Leura’s many restaurants.

Address: 112 Railway Pde, Leura

Are cosy cabins more of your vibe? We’ve listed our favourite Blue Mountains cabins for you here.

The post Blue Mountains accommodation: 15 stunning places to recharge at now appeared first on Australian Traveller.

Having our finger on the pulse of all that’s happening in the domestic travel landscape is what Australian Traveller does best. We get excited by the shiny and new – whether that be a luxury hotel opening such as Ardo in Townsville or a restaurant by an acclaimed chef such as Luke Mangan’s new Melbourne diner – but we also love to revisit old favourites that have been reimagined. Iconic rail journey The Ghan has a fresh new look; Darwin has become a cool and creative city of contrasts; and a long list of regional towns and cities have been given a ‘glow up’. We also explore some incredible new experiences, such as the country’s latest Great Walk in Tassie and a repurposed abandoned railway in the Northern Rivers. Start planning your next big holiday around these next big things.

1. Darwin’s cool change

Australia’s hottest capital city is having a cool change. Darwin is a city of contrast; the wet and the dry, the old and the new, the gritty and the glorious. A city of ancient Larrakia songlines and modern street art; of spicy laksa and ice-cold mango daiquiris; of dramatic sunsets and storms and laid-back locals.

House of Darwin is a cutting-edge label with a cult following. (Image: Jeremy Simons)

And of late, an influx of local creatives is igniting the art, fashion and foodie scenes, such as Nina Fitzgerald, who runs the game-changing Laundry Gallery in Parap, and Larrakia man and former AFL-player Shauny Edwards, who founded cult label House of Darwin – just two of many adding grit and glory to this tropical city.

Laundry Gallery is a multidisciplinary creative hub in Parap. (Image: Jeremy Simons)

2. Flinders Island – Australia’s latest Great Walk

North-east of Lutruwita/Tasmania, Flinders Island is one of 52 in the Furneaux group of islands scattered across the Bass Strait. Boasting a landscape of untamed beauty, from the coastal delights of Castle Rock and Red Bluff to the rugged heights of Mt Killiecrankie and Mt Strzelecki, this island is best explored on foot.

The guided six-day walk takes you to the most breathtaking locations around the island.

Tasmanian Expeditions’ six-day small-group walking tour has just been inducted into the Great Walks of Australia collection – the first new addition in seven years.

Stargaze through the see-through roof of your tent of an evening.

3. The Ghan: Evolution of an icon

Our country’s greatest railway icon is celebrating its 95^th birthday with a contemporary new look that draws from the Australian landscapes it travels through.

The Ghan has been travelling through the heart of Australia for almost a century. (Image: Journey Beyond/Hip Photography)

With redesigned Gold Premium suites, communal lounge and restaurant carriages by homegrown design studio Woods Bagot, The Ghan’s aesthetic brings transcontinental train travel into the modern era while paying homage to its incredible history.

The Gold Premium Suite is converted for sleeping. (Image: Journey Beyond)

Soft luxury with Art Deco leanings, in tribute to the train’s original 1930s carriages, the pared-back design lets the landscapes and experiences throughout outback South Australia and the Red Centre sing.

Menus onboard are influenced by local produce. (Image: Journey Beyond/Christopher Morrison)

4. The Northern Rivers Rail Trail

Repurposing an abandoned railway corridor that was, for two decades, mooched over by livestock, graffitied by bored teenagers and overgrown with pine trees, is a boon for the Northern Rivers region.

Northern Rivers Rail Trail The rail trail opens up The Tweed and beyond to travellers.

First opening in the Tweed Shire 2023, the cycling trail – which connects Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek – is just the beginning of what will ultimately be 132 kilometres of trail, unfurling through the Byron Shire, out to Eltham, Lismore and Bentley before terminating at Casino.

Burringbar’s Natural Wine Shop is one of many highlights to be found.

Showcasing this adorable string of rural towns and bucolic landscapes is a win-win for avid pedal-pushers, tourists and locals alike – and it is just one of many rail trails across Australia taking centre stage.

Basq House is a 32-room hotel hideaway in Byron.(Image: Elise Hassey)

5. Swimming holidays

Move over hiking holidays, culinary adventures and photography trips – aquatic escapes are one of 2024’s coolest trends.

Soak in the saturated colours of Margaret River. (Image: Jarrad Seng)

It’s a basic concept, in which you sign up to explore a dreamy destination with others, only you do it in the water, wearing goggles and a swimming cap.

A women’s only swimming adventure is the ultimate immersive therapy. (Image: Jarrad Seng)

Escorted swim groups in the ocean and wild waterholes have popped up all over the country: Heron Island, Lord Howe Island, Nitmiluk National Park, the Mornington Peninsula, and Margaret River, to name a few – usually accompanied by a post-swim coffee, picnic or wine tasting. It’s time to dive in.

A picturesque picnic adds to the magic of a swim holiday. (Image: Jarrad Seng)

6. Astrotourism Towns

In a world that glows brighter every day, Western Australia is working hard to keep its night sky as dark as possible – to allow for some of the world’s best stargazing.

Beautiful Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge). (Image: Alamy/ Brad Leue)

Many of the state’s regional communities have been declared Astrotourism Towns, with reduced artificial lighting and dedicated observation sites. And from Geraldton, star-seekers can join an astronomer-led, five-night Astro Cruise with Eco Abrolhos, for modern and ancient Aboriginal stargazing sessions at sea and on land.

Eco Abrolhos is expanding the galaxy of astrotourism.

Elsewhere in the country, Siding Spring Observatory in NSW; the Cosmos Centre in Charleville, Queensland; and River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve in South Australia also put on a night show.

7. Melbourne’s Italian restaurant revival

Melbourne has long loved its Italian restaurants. But recently the Italian scene has upped its game, with new openings and many old favourites reinventing their offerings.

Expect seasonal favourites from Al Dente in Carlton.

From inner city to the outer ’burbs, cacio e pepe is popping up everywhere, regional cuisine is having a moment and negroni sbagliato is on repeat order – we find some of the city’s best restaurants to make a booking.

8. Stays with saunas

Saunas are one of the wellness industry’s latest hot trends, with recovery clinics and bathhouses popping up all over the place (including Victoria’s bathing trail). But they’re also making their way into holiday home across the country, with almost a 40 per cent increase of Australian listings with a sauna booked on Airbnb. We explore some stylish and steamy stays across the country, from Salty Brush on Kangaroo Island to Tassie’s Still at Freycinet.

The traditional Finnish barrel sauna at Salty Brush. (Image: Rhyy Gaskin Photography)

9. The Pilbara’s new hotspots

A region known for its blazing red earth and industrial prowess – where colossal iron ore ships fill its horizon and cargo trains snake the desolate landscape – the Pilbara is being held under the spotlight for an entirely different reason.

One of the Pilbara’s spectacular sunsets near Port Hedlund. (Image: Greg Snell/ Tourism Western Australia)

Notably, Port Hedland’s 1960s hotel has undergone a multi-million-dollar redevelopment, becoming a lush Palm Springs-inspired bar and restaurant that clasps the Indian Ocean.

Views of the Indian Ocean from the verandah of The Hedlund Hotel.

It comes with a new, world-class marina, cycling paths and a smattering of new bars and restaurants across town, while west at Karratha a desert oasis is found at the refurbed Karratha International Hotel.

Ray’s is a Palm Springs-inspired restaurant in Port Hedlund.

10. Townsville goes luxe

Sitting between the reef and the rainforest, the North Queensland city of Townsville has often been overlooked for the more famous Great Barrier Reef gateway, Cairns. But things are heating up in Townsville.

Ardo has front-row seats to views of the Coral Sea. (Image: Simon Shiff)

Namely, the newly opened Ardo, a five-star hotel on the edge of the Coral Sea, has become the city’s most luxurious accommodation. Adjacent to sister property, resort-casino The Ville, Ardo is a sleek stay with first-class dining.

The vibrancy of the tropics comes to life when dining and drinking at Ardo, the epitome of North Queensland luxury. (Image: Simon Shiff)

Nurture mind, body and soul at the Ardo Day Spa. (Image: Simon Shiff)

Upping the ante, though, is another Morris Group property: Pelorus Private Island, the single most luxurious lodging to grace the Great Barrier Reef in years.

Try paddleboarding off Pelorus Island. (Image: Jason Ierace)

11. Culinary capers in Tassie’s Huon Valley

Both Conde Nast Traveler and The New York Times have declared Tasmania’s quaint Huon Valley as one of the top places to visit in 2024.

Tasmania’s Huon Valley has been touted as a top place to visit this year. (Image: Adam Gibson)

Indeed, a suite of newcomers is luring in gourmands to this bucolic region, namely an intimate 10-seat farmhouse restaurant by lauded chef Analiese Gregory.

Inside Analiese Gregory’s cosy farmhouse, which will be the setting for her new diner. (Image: Adam Gibson)

Wines and sourdough pizzas at Kate Hill’s cellar door, fresh Bruny Island oysters with local brews at riverside Lost Captain, and a stay in a sleek cabin at Hunter round out a delectable weekend in this flourishing food bowl.

The Hunter cabins are nestled among bushland. (Image: Dearna Bond)

12. Bangalow’s ultra-chic ranch stay

Cut from a different cloth to others in a region known for its breezy, rustic-luxe aesthetic, Sun Ranch – 15 minutes’ drive from Byron Bay – is a place to commune with nature and like-minded people.

Stay in one of six, two-bedroom, off-grid barns. (Image: Anson Smart)

Set on 22 hectares of former farmland in Bangalow, the ultra-chic yet offbeat retreat has been inspired by the ranch houses of 1970s California. It acts as a hub for the local creative community, where workshops and music gatherings are held with a healthy dose of hedonism to boot.

The interiors are a visual feast of warm colours. (Image: Anson Smart)

The Lair is a vibrant sunken lounge located within The Rambler Long House. (Image: Anson Smart)

13. Regional glow-ups

Regional towns and cities across the country are having their moment in the sun, welcoming trendy eateries and upmarket hotels that rival those in big cities.

Just across the road from Kirra Beach, Kirra Hotel is the Gold Coast’s hottest new stay. (Image: Elise Hassey)

Dubbed the ‘regional glow-up’, once-sleepy regions such as Kirra in Queensland, Newcastle in NSW and Lorne in Victoria are being roused with multi-million-dollar makeovers of their humble watering holes, newly built accommodation options and an influx of tastemakers from hospitality bigwigs and celebrated chefs making their mark.

Totti’s Lorne bowls over visitors to the Great Ocean Road. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

14. Illumina comes to K’gari

Kingfisher Bay Resort has announced a new permanent light show installation on K’gari.

Choose one of four packages to experience Illumina.

Melbourne/Naarm-based artist and creator of Uluru’s hugely successful Wintjiri Wiru, Bruce Ramus (of RAMUS Illumination) says the installation allows the landscape – from the ripples of the lake to the shifting sands – to tell an interpretative story. The installation will launch in September 2024 at the ecotourism retreat.

Bask in the ethereal glow of the K’gari’s new light show.

15. New foodie fests

The focus is firmly on food and wine festivities in 2024. Savour The Tweed, an inaugural five-day event curated by local restaurateurs, producers and agritourism businesses, is a taste of NSW’s Northern Rivers, from 30 October.

Savour the Tweed is a five-day event curated by local restauranteurs like Ben Devlin of Pipit.

NSW’s South Coast will host Coastal Forage between 14–15 September, showcasing produce from the Shoalhaven during a walking feast that stretches between Moona Moona Beach Creek Reserve and Plantation Point.

Coastal Forage will showcase produce from the Shoalhaven.

And the Margaret River region will welcome Pair’d in November, a program of premium events in iconic destinations on Wadandi (Saltwater) Country.

Pair’d will arrive in the Margaret River region come November.

16. Outdoor pursuits of the Eyre Peninsula

The Eyre Peninsula is an intoxicating blend of nature-based experiences and culinary delights, drawing in visitors for its ample outdoor pursuits.

Swim with sea lions on the Eyre Peninsula. (Image: Anita Jokovich)

In Coffin Bay, sample oysters that you’ve plucked straight from the salty waters; go swimming with playful sea lions in Baird Bay; forage for bush tucker and enjoy live music under the stars at Yarnbala; spot wild koalas at Mikkira Station; and fly down the dunes on a sandboard in Lincoln National Park.

Koalas at Mikkira Station. (Image: Anita Jokovich)

17. A cool new stay for Hamilton Island

At the northern end of Catseye Beach, nestled among palm and gum trees, Sundays is Hamilton Island’s newest stay, set to open mid-2025. The boutique hotel has been conceived with families in mind, with 59 guestrooms that all gaze out to the Coral Sea. Boasting cabanas and a water’s-edge restaurant, the hotel pool will be the place to while away hours in the sunshine, making every day on this holiday-favourite island feel like a beloved lazy Sunday.

Sundays is set to open in mid-2025. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

 18. A walk through Shoalhaven’s Indigenous history

The South Coast of NSW has more than 60,000 years of Aboriginal history, which small group tour operator Djiriba Waagura, which means ‘two crows’ in Dhurga language, wants to share with visitors. During a two-hour walk around the Shoalhaven River, co-founder and Wandi Wandian man Matt Simms points out native plants and trees used in bush tucker and medicine, tells Dreamtime stories and leads visitors to sacred sites with 6000-year-old rock carvings, in a bid to revitalise and strengthen local Aboriginal culture and foster education.

Djiriba Waagura co-founder and Wandi Wandian man Matt Simms offers a two-hour tour around the Shoalhaven River. (Image: Trent Micallef)

19. Bistrot Bisou, Melbourne

Luke Mangan’s first Melbourne/Naarm venue in more than a decade has opened within Hotel Indigo, commanding views over busy Flinders Lane where the city’s iconic trams trundle past.

Flinders Lane is on full display from Bistro Bisou. (Image: Jana Langhorst)

The interiors of Bistrot Bisou – which means kiss in French – are simple yet elegant. The sumptuous menu designed by Mangan and head chef Rory Kennedy flirts with French classics such as wood-roasted poussin and decadent lobster thermidor.

Dine on steak tartare and charcuterie. (Image: Jana Langhorst)

20. Jam Record Bar, Sydney

JAM Record Bar is named after Sydney/Warrane’s hospitality pioneers John and Merivale Hemmes. For the record, JAM is also somewhat of ‘a passion project’ for Merivale CEO Justin and sister Bettina Hemmes, who has flipped the colour wheel to pink for the little but loud venue. Expect Japanese-inspired snacks and a soundtrack of records from a 15,000-strong collection of vinyl.

JAM Record Bar is Merivale’s new Japanese-inspired bar, featuring an impressive 15,000-strong vinyl collection on rotation. (Image: Chad Konik)

21. Gibney, Perth

Clutching the ritzy South Cottesloe shoreline, Gibney opened at the base of a bone-hued apartment block earlier this year with a novel concept for WA: coastal fine dining.

Sage umbrellas by the ritzy Cottesloe Beach on the terrace. (Image: Joel Barbitta)

Hints of maximalism – checkered prints, geometric velvet, rippled steel – add a subtle yet offbeat theme that runs throughout. The European menu bears surprise Asian influences, with a side of theatrics – including tableside trolley service by waiters and shirts and ties. This is special-occasion, high-end dining that you must experience at least once.

Watch chefs prepare culinary showstoppers backstage in the dining room. (Image: Joel Barbitta)

22. Money-can-buy experiences

Cultural Attractions of Australia – which curates exclusive experiences at some of the country’s most iconic cultural attractions – has added two new experiences aimed at those seeking more meaningful adventures.

A new 3.5-hour tour offered by the Art Gallery of NSW invites participants to become the Artist. (Image: © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Brett Hemming)

Become the Artist is the new 3.5-hour tour offered by the Art Gallery of NSW that includes a gourmet three-course lunch and drawing class. There’s also the exclusive Keepers’ Collection Tour designed for cricket tragics who will appreciate ogling 25,000-odd sporting treasures dating back to the 1800s at the MCG.

23. Mexican fare

Tacos and tequila are on the menu across the country, including Sydney/Warrane’s Double Bay, with the arrival of upscale Mexican bar and eatery Gitano. Head chef Alvaro Valenzuela (ex-Chula) is from Mexico City and his focus is on honouring flavours favoured by his abuelita.

The flavours of Mexico City are on full display at the upscale Mexican bar and eatery Gitano. (Image: Kitti Gould)

While in the Quay Quarter, Cancun Boat Club recreates the vibe from 1980s Cancun. Retro music turned up to full volume. Pickled jalapeño for days. Neon signs. And a killer Mex-American menu.

Cancun Boat Club’s version of DoriLocos. (Image: Jason Loucas)

And in Melbourne/Naarm, hacienda-style Bar Mexico has brought a vibrant fiesta vibe to the former High Street Northside Food Hall, where tequila, Latin beats and street food are on order.

The post The Next Big Thing! 23 Australian places and experiences on the rise appeared first on Australian Traveller.

The local pub is more than a place to swill a beer. It is often the heart and soul of a community. A gathering place of familiar faces. The setting for core memories. Regional towns are often built around these institutions – and when the local pub is reinvented, so too is the entire community.

When last drinks were called at Kirra Beach Hotel in 2021, many of its salt-of-the-earth patrons farewelled their second home, marking the end of an era. The original pub, which opened in 1956, was bulldozed and a cool $380 million was injected into its resurrection. The humble low-rise hotel was replaced with a chic multi-storey complex designed by global architectural studio Woods Bagot featuring curves, natural stone and lush greenery.

The hotel is part of the larger Kirra Point precinct, which includes a stylish bar and restaurant on the first floor and premium holiday apartments above that. According to KTQ Group development director Jeremy Holmes, everyone is vibing to the “new Kirra rhythm”. Slated as the Gold Coast’s hottest new destination, the first stage of Kirra Point “brought the Kirra Beach Hotel back to life”, he says, while the second stage will “showcase the best of the southern Gold Coast all in one location”. It will include a retail laneway with restaurants, a fresh food marketplace, wellness facilities and a separate luxury hotel with a rooftop pool and restaurant.

The pub remains a community hub.

Regional ‘glow-ups’ are a growing trend, according to the Unpack ’24  global consumer survey by Expedia Group. Some 34 per cent of Aussies express a desire to travel to a regional destination based on new openings of iconic restaurants and world-class hotels. On the list of hot-right-now regional destinations are Victoria’s Geelong (thanks to the Geelong Quarter food and beverage precinct), Lorne (which has welcomed Sydney institution Totti’s to its dining scene) and Bellingen in northern NSW (the latest locale for iconic restaurant Three Blue Ducks).

Dine at the iconic Three Blue Ducks in beautiful Bellingen. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

NSW’s second-largest city, Newcastle, was also earmarked as a regional destination luring in travellers this year. The former industrial city has been riding a rollercoaster of renewal for decades, propelled by its unique drinking and dining scene.

Drink in great views from the Rooftop at QT. (Image: Mark Lane)

First came a string of multimillion-dollar makeovers of renowned pubs The Lucky Hotel, The Prince of Merewether and the 160-year-old Great Northern Hotel. These watering holes bid farewell to their beer-stained carpets and smoky pokie rooms for sleek interiors and local produce-led menus. Small bars and restaurants began to spring up thereafter, many in lovingly restored heritage spaces around the city.

The Prince of Merewether continues its reign in Newcastle. (Image: Shan Rose Photography)

But what really cemented Newcastle as a destination worth lingering in is the addition of luxury hotels in two of the city’s most iconic buildings in 2021 and ’22. The 1970s Brutalist-style building that once housed the council administrative offices was transformed into Crystalbrook Kingsley and the century-old former David Jones store on Hunter Street was reimagined as QT Newcastle.

QT Newcastle retains the landmark building’s facade. (Image: Mark Lane)

Some 100 klicks down the freeway, the Central Coast is another region that has seen significant change in recent years. Much like Kirra and Newcastle, the beachside locale just north of Sydney has long been loved for its beaches, surf culture and scenery. Its beachside enclaves, such as Terrigal, have moved with the times, welcoming sophisticated restaurants and happening bars that could easily slot into a big city.

Meribella brings seaside chic to Terrigal. (Image: Kitti Gould)

Over in Gosford, the multimillion-dollar opening of Bon Pavilion (now Railway Hotel) in 2019 reignited interest in the languishing CBD. The project was backed by entrepreneur John Singleton, who has long advocated for the city and continues to invest in its growth.

Shortly after, a glamorous $13-million Art Deco makeover of the century-old Hotel Gosford really gave locals new hope. Two years on, Gosford’s skyline is full of cranes – with developments including a new regional library, high-tech University of Newcastle campus and waterfront precinct. The most exciting addition is The Archibald, a $375-million development by ALAND that will feature a 130-room voco hotel by IHG and restaurant led by Sydney chef Dany Karam.

This glow-up is set to change the face of Gosford with ALAND founder and director Andrew Hrsto saying the development will “enliven the CBD” and “reposition Gosford as a major destination for holidaymakers”.

Whether it be the reimagining of a local pub, a newly built hotel or a collective run by cool and clever tastemakers, here are the regional towns, cities and regions being given a glow-up.

1. Kirra, Queensland

A stone’s throw from Coolangatta, this southern Gold Coast enclave has shied away from attention, thanks to its boisterous neighbour Surfers Paradise taking much of the limelight. But holidaymakers in the know have long been lured by its chilled-out charm and world-class waves. Home to the famous Kirra Surfriders Club, which has fostered pros such as Mick Fanning and Joel Parkinson, Kirra is a place rooted in surfing culture.

The addition of Kirra Point – comprising Kirra Hotel, chic restaurant and bar Kirra Beach House, and premium one- to three-bedroom holiday apartments above – has thrown the town into the spotlight. Sleek pan-Asian diner Billy Chow, mod-Oz beachside restaurant Siblings, boho-style cafe Love Street and premium bathhouse Native State are also worth a visit.

Drink and dine at the revamped Kirra Beach Hotel.

2. Huon Valley, Tasmania

Just 40 minutes from Hobart, this is a region of incredible natural beauty, shaped by the Huon River, mountain ranges and tall forests.

The region in southern Tassie is known for being a food bowl. (Image: Huon Valley Council)

Of late, this bucolic food bowl – known for its apples, cider, wine and salmon – has had an influx of new accommodation, tours and dining options, such as a soon-to-open diner by Analiese Gregory, The Kiln Eatery set in a restored oast house (a building designed for drying hops), and architecturally designed cabins at Hunter.

The Kiln is a hotspot in the Huon Valley.

The Kiln celebrates its agricultural heritage.

3. Townsville, Queensland

With a similar climate to Cairns, less rain and close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, Townsville is a destination that has flown under the radar. Until now. With big-city offerings and a small-town feel, Townsville boasts a lush 2.5-kilometre waterfront promenade and a historic town centre, both brimming with cool places to eat and drink. In 2020, however, the multimillion-dollar transformation of its casino, now The Ville, introduced a luxe destination to stay and play.

It’s not hard to find the perfect oasis in Townsville. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)

Some four years on, the arrival of five-star hotel The Ardo next door has upped the ante even further. The city itself is also undergoing huge changes, namely with the redevelopment of the former Reef HQ – the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium – into a state-of-the-art educational, immersive and sustainable experience. The Global Great Barrier Reef Centre of Excellence will be the first of three new waterfront precincts for Townsville. Watch this space.

Ardo has front-row seats to views of the Coral Sea. (Image: Simon Shiff)

4. Newcastle, NSW

By day, Newcastle’s sparkling coastline and charming ocean baths draw in those seeking sun and surf. Its thriving arts scene lures in creatives, from The Lock-Up contemporary art gallery in a 19th-century former police station, to the ever-expanding outdoor gallery (and correlating Big Picture street art festival) that has given beauty to formerly empty spaces. And, after dark, the city’s iconic pub and live music scene has been enriched by a flurry of small bars popping up in historic spaces that have been charmingly reimagined.

Merewether Beach is home to the largest ocean baths in the Southern Hemisphere. (Image: Tourism Australia/Andrew Smith)

The city’s Victoria Theatre is the oldest surviving heritage theatre in NSW and is undergoing an extensive restoration to reopen as a live performance space. And its once lacking accommodation offering has been boosted by an influx of new stays including QT Newcastle, Crystalbrook Kingsley and the recently opened Little National Hotel in the city’s waterfront precinct.

Crystalbrook Kingsley is a jewel in Newcastle’s crown. (Image: Crystalbrook Kingsley)

5. Lorne, Victoria

When a big-name restaurant enters the scene, it gains attention from the beau monde. And so, a domino effect is triggered. As the fifth outpost from hospitality juggernaut Merivale, the opening of Totti’s Lorne in the renovated Lorne Hotel was highly anticipated. The town has always been a drawcard for its position on the Great Ocean Road and its natural beauty – waterfalls, beaches and coastal walks – but the seaside town really packs a punch for its food offerings. Totti’s joins Greek diner Ipsos, hole-in-the-wall pizzeria Pizza Pizza and Little Picket – the bowling club bistro that was awarded a Good Food Guide hat.

Totti’s Lorne bowls over visitors to the Great Ocean Road. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

6. Central Coast, NSW

This beachside region smack-bang between Sydney and Newcastle has come into its own in recent years, with a smattering of sophisticated new restaurants, bars and accommodation options increasing its relevance to tastemakers.

Meribella adds sophistication to Terrigal. (Image: Kitti Gould)

There’s hatted restaurant Osteria il Coccia, located in the quaint seaside town of Ettalong; the complete overhaul of The Beachy at Toukley with chic accommodation and a happening drinking and dining scene; and a plethora of establishments rejuvenating the nightlife in Terrigal (playful diner Maew Maew, grungy bar Lost Souls, uber-chic Meribella restaurant, and plans for a $5-million makeover of Terrigal Pavilion by the same folk behind Queensland’s Burleigh Pavilion in Burleigh Heads).

The hatted restaurant Osteria il Coccia is located in the quaint seaside town of Ettalong. (Image: David Li)

But perhaps the most dramatic change is still to come, with multimillion-dollar developments now dominating the Gosford CBD skyline.

Asian eatery Maew Maew has helped transform Terrigal.

7. Bellingen, NSW

Once known as a hippie hideout, this small hinterland town between rainforest and coast has been described as the new Byron (or perhaps good ol’ Byron). The town is an idyllic base for exploring the Waterfall Way and Dorrigo National Park, with well-preserved heritage-listed buildings and an impressive culinary scene. Joining the likes of stylish Italian osteria Fiume and Mediterranean kitchen Brunos, the farm-to-table restaurant group Three Blue Ducks has now moved in. Housed in motel-turned-luxe stay The Lodge on 6.5 hectares, the restaurant has uninterrupted views of Dorrigo Mountain and serves its signature ethical, local and seasonal food from breakfast to dinner. The news gives city folk reason to drop in and linger a little longer while driving along the east coast.

Three Blue Ducks lands in bucolic Bellingen. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

8. Geelong, Victoria

Things are happening in Victoria’s second-largest city, a seaside hub with wide-open beaches lined with palm trees, Art Deco architecture, a bounty of new restaurants and a brand-new hotel. Within the new Geelong Quarter, Holiday Inn and Suites is playful and stylish accommodation with onsite restaurant Maestro headed by master-of-meat chef Adrian Richardson (ex-La Luna Bistro and Bouvier).

Non Disclosure is a glam new drinking den in Geelong. (Image: Crystal Baker)

Little Malop Street is a bustling dining precinct, with a host of small speakeasies such as the new Non Disclosure Bar. In the 173-year-old Sawyers Arms Tavern, Southeast Asian restaurant Two Noble and Eileen’s Charcoal Grill, a Euro steakhouse, are two exciting additions. And the century-old Eureka Hotel recently reopened after an extensive refurbishment, drawing in the crowds for classic pub grub in a modern setting. The Geelong Arts Centre also just opened its doors after a $140-million redevelopment, which includes theatres, studios, events and dining spaces and is slated to be Victoria’s boldest cultural asset.

The city is in the spotlight thanks to the Geelong Arts Centre. (Image: John Gollings)

9. Rottnest Island, WA

Wadjemup, or ‘Rotto’ as it’s known colloquially, is a long-time favourite destination for Perth locals (and visitors alike), returning time and time again for laid-back no-fuss getaways. In 2020, however, the island got a polish with its first luxury resort – beachfront stay Samphire Rottnest – the epitome of barefoot indulgence. The Lodge Wadjemup is a brand-new low-rise build set to open later this year. Newcomers on the culinary scene add to the excitement, including Italian restaurant Isola Bar e Cibo and relaxed Mediterranean eatery Havza.

Drink and dine by the ocean at Samphire Rottnest, WA. (Image: Jillian Mchugh)

10. Bendigo, Vic

In 2019, Bendigo became Australia’s first UNESCO Creative City and Region of Gastronomy for its diverse and sustainable food culture and creative industries – a huge accolade for the former gold rush town. Since then, Bendigo has carved a niche for itself as an epicentre for art and design, hosting some of the world’s largest fashion and design exhibitions including Marilyn Monroe and Elvis: Direct from Graceland in its regional art centre. The buzz about town got even louder when Wotif named Bendigo ‘Australia’s best town to visit for 2024’.

Restaurant Terrae is the latest spot to frequent at Bendigo Ernest Hotel.

Bendigo Ernest Hotel, a 10-suite boutique housed in the town’s oldest bank, makes for an elegant stay. And discerning tastebuds can be satisfied with on-trend eateries such as North American-inspired The Woodhouse, Melbourne-style speakeasy The Dispensary, chic rooftop bar Nimbus and Bendigo Brewing, opening soon.

The post Regional glow-ups: The towns and cities having their moment appeared first on Australian Traveller.

The Adelaide Hills is one of South Australia’s best wine regions – with award-winning wineries, charming cellar doors and incredible vineyard accommodation – all but a short drive from the city. With more than 50 cellar doors touting delicious cool-climate wines to choose from, we’ve made your choice a little easier, with 15 must-visit Adelaide Hills wineries.

1. Longview Vineyard

This family-owned vineyard was established in 2001 on a former dairy just outside the historic town of Macclesfield. Set on 65 hectares, Longview Vineyard creates single-vineyard, estate-grown wines.

Longview Vineyard is on a former dairy farm. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australian Tourism Commission)

The property’s southern location in the Adelaide Hills accounts for a slightly higher temperature for the region.

The vineyard’s undulating landscape covers all aspects and exposures creating a unique spectrum, including a large planting of nebbiolo and barbera varieties.

While away the afternoon strolling around the verdant Longview Vineyard. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australian Tourism Commission)

The cellar door and kitchen, which serves Italian-inspired fare, are housed in a 1918 pink sandstone cottage. Stop by for a glass on any day of the week or book a tasting and lunch from Wednesday to Sunday.

The property also features accommodation including 12 suites, a restored homestead, and a brand-new lodge with a spa, if you fancy staying longer.

Sample wines on offer at the cellar door. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 154 Pound Road, Macclesfield

2. Shaw + Smith

Established in 1989 by cousins Michael Hill Smith MW and Martin Shaw, Shaw + Smith has three vineyards in Lenswood, Piccadilly and Balhannah.

Tour inside the Shaw + Smith’s cellar door. (Image: Andre Castellucci)

It grows varieties that suit the cool climate of the region – sauvignon blanc, riesling, chardonnay, pinot noir and shiraz. Its contemporary tasting room in Balhannah has views of the Mount Lofty range.

Settle in for a wine flight, with the option to pair with small plates from the cold larder menu. Behind-the-scenes tours are also available.

Shaw + Smith cultivates grapes that suit the cool climate of the region. (Image: Andre Castellucci)

Address: 136 Jones Road, Balhannah

3. Hahndorf Hill

On the edge of the historic German town of Hahndorf, Hahndorf Hill is a boutique vineyard that pioneered the cultivating of Austrian grape varieties in Australia, including blaufrankisch, zweigelt, st laurent and the signature white grape gruner veltliner, which is affectionately named Gru.

Hahndorf Hill’s cellar door is set in the heart of the vineyard. (Image: Cheryl Smith)

Set in the heart of the vineyard, the cellar door is open Monday to Saturday, offering wine flights, glasses, cheese platters, chocolate and wine matching and even ice cream and wine matching.

Delight in wine and cheese platters at Hahndorf Hill. (Image: Cheryl Smith)

Address: 38 Pain Road, Hahndorf

4. Simon Tolley

Fifth-generation vigneron Simon Tolley is a traditionalist, creating small batches of high-quality wine at his 22-hectare Adelaide Hills winery.

Simon Tolley produces small batches of high-quality wine. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Flavour-rich and balanced, Tolley’s wine varieties include syrah, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and pinot noir. The cellar door is open Thursday to Monday and serves produce platters, breadboards and jaffles with wine tasting.

Guests can also opt to stay among the vineyards in Simon Tolley Lodge, which accommodates 10 guests in five bedrooms and has sprawling vineyard views.

Cosy up by the fire on cold days. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 278 Bird in Hand Road, Woodside

5. Golding Wines

On the outskirts of Lobethal, this family-owned winery is situated on 32 hectares high in the Adelaide Hills. Here they grow sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, pinot gris, pinot noir, shiraz and savagnin.

Share wines and snacks overlooking the vineyard. (Image: Adelaide Hills Wine Region)

The tasting room is located within the stone barn and is open daily, offering structured wine flights paired with bite-sized dishes crafted in the on-site restaurant Gingko, which serves seasonal plates designed to share. Children are also welcome, with specially designed kids’ flights.

Pair your wine with seasonal plates on offer. (Image: Adelaide Hills Wine Region)

Amp up your tasting by booking a Nido Experience, where you’re served a five-course lunch and wines in a hand-woven nest-like space on the vineyard; a Wine Safari, during which you’ll explore the property stopping for wine tasting and snacks along the way; or a Picnic Experience, whether that’s a group picnic with table service or a bespoke hamper to enjoy on the lawn.

Enjoy the Nido Experience in a hand-woven nest-like space. (Image: Meaghan Coles)

Address: 52 Western Branch Road, Lobethal

6. Greenhill Wines

Greenhill Wines is in the Piccadilly Valley, where you come for the wine and stay for the seasonally driven Mediterranean menu.

Sit down for a glass of pinot noir or chardonnay. (Image: Greenhill Wines)

The cafe and cellar door are housed within a 144-year-old cottage with views over the valley and to Mount Bonython. The Adelaide Hills winery is part of the Piccadilly Trail, a region that specialises in pinot noir and chardonnay.

The trail comprises three other local wineries: Ashton Hills Vineyard, CRFT Wines and Tapanappa.

Greenhill Wines is nestled in the Piccadilly Valley. (Image: Isaac Forman)

Address: 1016 Greenhill Road, Summertown

7. The Lane Vineyard

Set on 42 hectares in Balhannah, close to the village of Hahndorf, The Lane first started producing wine in the 1990s, staying committed to creating quality, handcrafted wines to this day. The contemporary Tasting Room is open daily and overlooks the vineyards and state-of-the-art winery. The Restaurant serves a five-course Provenance menu using local ingredients. The outdoor Terrace is a relaxing space to enjoy a glass of wine from the kiosk bar.

At the Tasting Room, guests can book tasting flights, a blend-your-own experience or a degustation experience with matched wines and small dishes available. For something truly memorable, there’s an Ultimate ATV Experience around the property with a winemaker, an Elevated Tasting Flight, which also includes a private helicopter and gin-tasting experience, and more.

Address: 5 Ravenswood Lane, Hahndorf

8. Bird in Hand

This 32-hectare family-owned vineyard in Woodside is known not only for its award-winning cool-climate wines but also for its food and arts offerings.

Bird in Hand is a well-known Adelaide Hills winery. (Image: Erik Rosenberg)

The grounds here are adorned with original works including sculptures in the gardens and paintings throughout the buildings. And its on-site restaurant LVN has recently been reimagined with sleek and chic interiors with a curated collection of Australian art; its dishes are plated like works of art themselves.

Its cellar door is open daily, hosting guided wine flights and a seasonal snack menu. Guests can enjoy their tasting in the Mediterranean-style terraced gardens or by the fire in the barrel hall.

Wine and dine at the sleek and chic winery. (Image: Meaghan Coles)

Address: 150 Pfeiffer Road, Woodside

9. Sinclair’s Gully Winery

Making small-batch, hand-crafted artisanal wines, Sinclair’s Gully in Norton Summit is known for its sparkling with four of their fizzy drops rated more than 91 points by James Halliday. You can book a session at the rustic cellar door to make your very own bottle of bubbles to take home. Or come to enjoy one of the many live music events held here under shady gums on the property, where you can BYO picnic and enjoy with a glass of wine.

Address: 288 Colonial Drive, Norton Summit

10. Barristers Block

This Woodside winery has been producing tempranillo, sauvignon blanc, fiano, chardonnay and pinot noir at its cool-climate winery since 1997.

Barristers Block is surrounded by large lawns and sprawling vineyards. (Image: Ryan Cantwell)

Today the property also includes The Kitchen, where tasting platters and woodfired pizza are served daily, and The Villa, a three-bedroom accommodation surrounded by lush countryside. It also hosts events from wine-tasting experiences to live music.

The beauty is, you can take your kids along and they’ll have just as much fun. There are large lawns, a sandpit for playing and an enclosure with farm animals, including chickens, geese, horses and sheep.

Spend an afternoon at Barristers Block. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 141 Onkaparinga Valley Road, Woodside

11. Sidewood Estate

This is Adelaide Hill’s largest certified sustainable winery spread over 91 hectares of vineyards.

The grapes here are hand-picked, sheep are used to return organic fertiliser, reduce chemical input and machinery use, and solar runs 50 per cent of the facility’s consumption. It has also achieved Five Red Star Accreditation from James Halliday, and its cellar door and restaurant in Hahndorf are a must-visit.

Located in the old apple shed at the front of the estate, guests can enjoy interactive wine flights (including a zero-alcohol wine flight), wine-tasting masterclasses and even a class to learn the art of Sabrage.

Sidewood Estate is Adelaide Hill’s largest certified sustainable winery. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 6 River Road, Hahndorf

12. Mt Lofty Ranges Vineyard

This boutique family-owned Lenswood vineyard is rated five stars by James Halliday and boasts some of the best views in the region.

Soak up views of the vineyard at Mt Lofty Ranges. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Established in 1992 on a former apple orchard, single-vineyard wine varieties include shiraz, sauvignon blanc, riesling, chardonnay and pinot noir.

The hosted wine tastings take guests from vineyard to glass, accompanied by canapes from the restaurant. Take a seat for lunch or a Friday night sunset dinner alongside live music on the timber deck or inside by the fireplace.

Take a seat for lunch or a sunset dinner. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 166 Harris Road, Lenswood

13. Deviation Road

This boutique winery in Longwood is owned by a husband-and-wife team. Hamish Laurie, whose great-great-grandmother was South Australia’s first female winemaker, and Kate Laurie, who trained at Lycée Viticole d’Avize in Champagne. Because of this, Deviation Road is known for its award-winning sparkling.

Deviation Road is known for its award-winning sparkling. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

The tasting room is nestled on the 50-hectare property, a short drive from Stirling, and is opened daily. Seasonal guided wine flights can be accompanied by the all-day grazing menu designed to share.

There’s also a small selection of beer and non-alcoholic drinks available.

Pair your wine with a grazing platter. (Image: Ryan Cantwell)

Address: 207 Scotts Creek Road, Longwood

14. K1 By Geoff Hardy

In 1986, fifth-generation winemaker Geoff Hardy – a descendent of wine industry pioneer Thomas Hardy – established this cool-climate vineyard in the Kuitpo region of the Adelaide Hills.

The family-owned and operated winery was named K1 because it was the first commercial planting of vines in the region.

K1 By Geoff Hardy’s winery estate has a decidedly alpine feel.

Guests arrive via an avenue of trees to a lakehouse that houses the charming cellar door, which is centred around a handcrafted wooden bench crafted from a 400-year-old red gum and has a decidedly alpine feel.

Enjoy a tasting of K1’s single-vineyard wines and a cheese platter on the deck overlooking the lake, or book a horse ride through the vines with Bluestone Equestrian Centre (subject to availability).

Inside the charming lakehouse, you’ll find the cellar door. (Image: Andrew Correll)

Address: 159 Tynan Road, Kuitpo

15. Cobbs Hill Estate

Cobbs Hill Estate dates to the mid-1800s, when the property was used as pastures for horses employed to pull the Cobb & Co. stagecoaches.

Sip on estate-grown sparkling, white and red varieties from the menu. (Image: Ryan Cantwell)

Today the 100-hectare property comprises farmland for cattle and sheep and 28 hectares of vineyards, which were planted more than two decades ago. As well as estate-grown sparkling, white and red varieties, Cobbs Hill Estate makes gin. The cellar door is open daily for tastings, with exclusive wine masterclasses also available to book.

The on-site Terrace & Garden Dining serves a farm-to-plate menu using local and estate-grown produce, or pre-book a romantic picnic for two, which comes with a bottle of wine and can be savoured in the garden with sprawling views of the vineyards and beyond.

Drink wine overlooking the vines at Cobbs Hill Estate. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 382 Swamp Road, Oakbank

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