5 Aussie getaways for Easter long weekend
Looking to make the most of the long weekend with a little getaway? These spots are great for a quick and easy break.
1. Daylesford, Victoria
Australia’s own little spa town has been welcoming visitors for almost 100 years, drawn by the mineral rich waters of nearby Hepburn Springs. It’s just 90 minutes from Melbourne, so you can be soaking in one of the 72 pools before dinnertime. There is also a great range of restaurants, interesting galleries, stylish boutiques and plenty of gorgeous accommodation. It’s also worth exploring some of the tiny villages in the region, like Clunes, Creswick and Trentham, that are dotted with historic railway stations, courthouses and other relics from the region’s Gold Rush days.
2. Mudgee, New South Wales
Wine regions like the Hunter Valley and Orange usually get all the press, so charming little Mudgee is often overlooked. Three and a half hours west of Sydney, there are more than 30 wineries and cellar doors, as well as a boutique brewery and lots of delicious places to eat. The town itself has a real country feel and is still surrounded by many working farms. It also hugs the western edge of the Wollemi National Park, home to one of the oldest plant on earth, which is great for bushwalking.
3. Darwin, Northern Territory
With direct flights from every mainland capital city, Darwin is the perfect destination for a quick break. From April, the Top End comes alive again after a long, hot wet season. Australia’s only tropical capital has a laid back, cosmopolitan vibe with a blend of indigenous, European and Asian influences. There’s a fascinating emerging foodie scene and you can sample some great local street food at the Parap Village Markets, held every Saturday.
4. Victor Harbor, South Australia
Adelaide’s favourite beach town has been popular since the late 1800s and it’s easy to see why. Just 80 kilometres from the capital, it overlooks the stunning Encounter Bay and you’ll regularly see migrating whales making their way past. You can take a ride on the only horse-drawn tramway in Australia, travelling along the causeway from Victor Harbor to Granite Island. The whole town is unpretentious and thoroughly enjoyable.
5. Moreton Island, Queensland
A short ferry ride from Brisbane, Moreton is the third largest sand island in the world and a favourite short break destination for Queenslanders. Go sandboarding on the dunes, climb Mt Tempest or feed wild dolphins at sunset. In the water, you can dive on the famous Tangalooma Wrecks or take a night tour in a clear plastic kayak with LED lights that will attract fish and curious turtles. At night, you can bed down in stylish glamping tents that blend comfort with the great outdoors.
Are you going anywhere for the Easter long weekend?