Travel
Romantic revival: 10 short getaways for long-time lovers
Long-term love doesn’t have to mean routine and predictability. These unique, dreamy escapes will quickly remind you why you fell in love in the first place.
By Lana Hallowes
You might find yourself feeling more 'calm in love' than 'crazy' these days (which is seriously underrated), but that doesn’t mean you don’t crave some excitement in your relationship. A couple’s getaway can reignite the spark, but is also a lovely way to celebrate your long-term connection.
Here are some romantic escapes that will work their magic in just 3 nights.
1. Hamilton Island, QLD
Laced in coral and surrounded by shimmering turquoise waters, Hamilton island in the Whitsundays is the quintessential romantic tropical getaway that’s easily accessed. Choose from luxe resorts, beachside villas and private holiday homes for your stay. Slip into the various pools, bars and restaurants together while cruising the island by golf buggy. A sunset sail, reef snorkel and an indulgent couple’s spa are also on the cards here. Romance awaits!
Good to know: Hamilton island has its own airport, so there is no need for a boat transfer to get to it. Simply fly in and you’re on holiday!
See here too: 10 great Australian golf destinations you need to hit
2. Glamping in the Grampians, VIC
If you and your partner vibe best when in the great outdoors, then glamping in the Grampians is a luxurious way to drink in nature. Stay in a stylish safari tent and you’ll wake up to the song of birds with local kangaroos visiting your campsite. Hike to breathtaking lookouts, swim in the lakes, taste the local food and wine and gaze at the twinkling stars at night. Bliss!
Good to know: There is no ‘best’ time to visit the Grampians with each season delivering a unique experience - the wildflowers are blooming in spring but the waterfalls are gushing in winter.
3. Houseboat on the Murray River, SA
Let the world (and your worries) float by and drift down the Murray River in a houseboat. Imagine sipping a glass of wine as the setting sun turns the sky pink and the water becomes a mirror? A great romantic pick for those who like to fish and visit riverside towns, too!
Good to know: You don’t need to hold a boat licence to hire a houseboat – you’ll be shown ‘the ropes’ when you pick it up.
4. Sleep in a treehouse, The Blue Mountains, NSW
Be the love birds you are by staying in a treehouse – let’s face it, it’s a childhood dream! You may have visited the Blue Mountains as a quick escape from Sydney before, but this will be totally different – and exciting. With floor to ceiling glass windows, your elevated abode has panoramic bush and valley views.
Good to know: If you can’t book the popular Treehouse for your dates, Wollemi Cabins has some other unique accommodations options, including a luxurious ‘Enchanted Cave’.
5. Get cozy in a tiny home, The Great Ocean Road, VIC
Snuggle up together in a tiny home on The Great Ocean Road. So cute and quirky, you’ll come home feeling like your actual house is enormous – even if it isn’t. The scenic coastline drive is also one of Australia’s best.
Good to know: Avalon Airport is the closest airport to the start of The Great Ocean Road, being only a 35 minute drive from Torquay.
6. Be awed by Uluru, NT
A short but memorable trip to the Red Centre with your love is so very special. Uluru is simply mind-boggling to see from a distance and up close, but it is also of living cultural significance. Watch as the rock transforms in colour with the changing light and you will feel its ancient spirit.
Good to know: Shoulder seasons (April/May and August/September) are the best time to visit Uluru as the days aren't blisteringly hot, and nights not too chilly.
7. Cradle Mountain, TAS
Tassie’s stunning Cradle Mountain offers a pristine wilderness escape like no other. Hike through ancient rainforests and take in views of dramatic, jagged peaks, serene lakes and deep river gorges. After a day’s adventuring, relax by the fire with a glass of wine. Oh, and don’t forget to look up at the twinkly night sky with your one and only!
Good to know: You will need to purchase a Cradle Mountain Parks Pass to trek the many walking trails.
Extend your trip: The hidden treasures of Tasmania's southern capital
8. Relaxing retreat in the Daintree Rainforest, QLD
Disconnect with the world and reconnect with nature (and your love) by staying in the majestic Daintree Rainforest. The Daintree Wilderness Lodge, Silky Oaks Lodge and the Daintree Ecolodge all offer unique eco-stays where you’ll wake up to local birds and be immersed in lush emerald green.
Good to know: The drive between Cairns Airport and the Daintree Rainforest is a scenic 2 ½ hours with views of the Coral Sea, swaying palms and distant mountains.
9. Sail away at Ningaloo Reef, WA
If you reside in WA, the spectacular Ningaloo Reef is around a 3-hour flight from Perth. Stay overnight on a luxurious sailing boat for a totally boutique snorkeling and diving experience. You will both feel alive as you discover the underwater magic of this marine wonder.
Good to know: The best time to visit Ningaloo Reef depends on the marine life you want to see. Whale sharks are most prominent in April and July, Humpback whales in June and October, and you’ll see turtle hatchlings in February and March.
10. Hire a cosy campervan, anywhere!
Feel absolute freedom by hitting the road with your accommodation on board. You can go anywhere and sleep anywhere – in a peaceful national park, by a relaxing river, near the beach, or just wherever your hearts lead you! If you’ve only ever stayed in hotels and holiday homes, this will be an adventure to remember.
Good to know: There are HEAPS of campervan hire companies and you can compare some of them here.
Image: iStock/SHansche
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