As the cooler temperatures descend upon us, it is time to plan a cosy winter escape complete with crisp, wood-fire scented air, a soul warming hot chocolate by an open fire and an indulgent soak in a private hot tub overlooking some of the most magnificent views in the world.
Spicers Peak Lodge, Maryvale, Queensland
Famed for being Australia’s “highest non-alpine lodge” the exclusivity of Spicers Peak begins with a helicopter tour of the awe-inspiring Scenic Rim and Great Dividing Range.
Upon arrival at Spicers Peak Lodge, you will be greeted with a drink of your choice to ensure that your stay starts off on the right cocktail. After a lovely, long, rustic style lunch in their Chef Hatted restaurant The Peak, you may wish to go for a walk around the grounds or, better still, treat yourself to the Mountain Man or Mountain Woman signature treatment at Spa Anise. After two hours of pampered relaxation, it is time to watch the sunset from the infinity spa in your secluded villa, or relax in the lounge next to the large roaring fireplace and feel your cares drift away.
Following a luxurious night’s sleep, you may wish to engage in one of the Lodge’s many activities including tennis, lawn games, self-guided bush walks with a gourmet picnic or simply rug up with a book by the fire.
Déjà vu Estate, Hunter Valley, New South Wales
There is nothing cosier in the cooler months than snuggling up near the fireplace with a great glass of wine, so why not make a trip to one of the best Hunter Valley Wineries, The Déjà vu Estate, to sample and choose that wine in person.
The very definition of an exclusive getaway, each of the three villas at Déjà vu Estate, are set on 35-acres of bushland and are equipped for all the essentials of a winter getaway including a hot tub, two wood burning fireplaces and a gourmet breakfast hamper to ensure absolute relaxation.
A must do experience in the Hunter Valley is, of course, a winery tour with one of the many exceptional wine tour operators in the Valley. Personable and knowledgeable, they tailor the day to suit your wine preferences, driving you around the wineries in a luxury Range Rover.
Elevate your stay with a visit to the Chef Hatted Muse Restaurant and indulge in their delicious degustation with wine pairings, of course.
Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge, Tasmania
Situated on the edge of the World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, the Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge is fairy tale inspired luxury accommodation in the wilderness of Tasmania with views that will astound you.
Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge boasts four different accommodation styles, all offering complete privacy, seclusion and a chance to completely unwind away from the rest of the world. Picture yourself curled up next to the double sided wood fire, relaxing in the indoor spa, or warming up in the wintery surroundings in your own private hot-tub overlooking the snow-capped mountains. The delights continue each evening with sumptuous gourmet surprises and a warming fireside port.
Offering a daily activity program including Horse riding, native animal night-time tours, wine and cheese tasting sessions and, of course, bushwalks where the satisfying sound of snow crunching underfoot will carry you into new levels of serenity.
Discover more of Tasmania: A Mini Break in Tasmania's Freycinet National Park.
Find more indulgent close-to-home accommodation: A Guide to Luxury Australia Accommodation.
Matakauri Estate, Queenstown, New Zealand
For those wishing to adventure overseas, it is hard to look past the Matakauri Estate in New Zealand. Perched on the mountainside with sweeping views of Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables, Cecil and Walter Peak mountain ranges, the beautifully appointed yet understated suites blend into their surrounds making for an immersive experience in the iconic New Zealand landscape.
Offering a multitude of activities from a relaxing guided photography safari, to a thrill-seeking adventure that Queenstown is known for, like heli-skiing, the possibilities are endless during your stay.
Whichever luxury accommodation you choose for your escape, indulge yourself in the cosiest way possible this winter.
Planning your next luxury winter escape? Let a Travel Associates advisor help you put together the perfect cosy getaway.