As we start a new year, take a moment to reflect on the amazing time you’ve had, the places you’ve been and the people you’ve shared it with. In 2013, we travelled across Australia searching for the best of the best in each region and here is the list of our favourite, memorable and jaw dropping accommodation to add to your bucket list for 2014.
This apartment exceeds your expectations, impressing from the moment you step into its stylish surrounds. This year we invited the Editor of Travel & Indulgence at The Australian to experience No84 and Susan described the apartments as “No84 must be one of Sydney’s best short-stay apartment rentals.” We couldn’t agree more.
Rocky Hills Retreat, East Coast TAS
One of our absolute highlights this year was relaxing at the inspiring Rocky Hills Retreat. The owners of this oasis have thought of everything, from the extensive minibar, private art studio housed in an old church, to an outdoor Huan pine bathtub. Do as much or as little as you want all while you sip champagne and contemplate life’s wonders.
Spicers Peak Lodge, Scenic Rim QLD
Pure indulgence awaits at Spicers Peak Lodge. Relaxed luxury with personalised professional service, awe-inspiring scenery and incredible, award-wining dining make this the perfect choice for a romantic escape. Our stay was pure perfection kicking off with a seven-course degustation with matched wines and ending with a three-course lunch the following day. You’ll roll out of the retreat sated.
Injidup Spa Retreat, Margaret River WA
A little slice of heaven on the coast at Yallingup. With just 10 suites, all facing the ocean it’s the ultimate romantic escape. Pamper yourself with a treatment in the day spa and spend your day’s wine tasting around Margaret River and retire to your luxurious surrounds for the evening. Bliss.
Adventure Bay Retreat, Bruny Island TAS
This family style holiday house on idyllic Bruny Island perfectly combines style with function. Luxurious interiors include SMEG fridge, sunken lounge room with cosy fireplace and the main bedroom with deep soaking bath. The kids aren’t overlooked with their own bunk bed room, neat upstairs playroom and backyard playground plus bikes to scoot around the island. My tip, ride down to the Penguin Café for the best bacon & egg roll with million dollar views you’ll find anywhere.
Atlantic Byron Bay, Byron Bay NSW
Luxe for less in Byron Bay can be found at Atlantic. You’re perfectly positioned to enjoy the restaurants & cafes of Byron or a walk to the beach from your guesthouse style accommodation. Private en-suite rooms with communal lounge and kitchen for your convenience with décor, inspired by a combination of Caribbean boutique hotels and Australian surf culture creating a stylish beachside setting.
Design Icon Apartments, Canberra ACT
With the new sister property Hotel Hotel now open, it’s a hard act to follow when you’re already in love with Design Icon Apartments. Curated loft style apartments, allows you to live like a local, albeit a very stylish one with individual designer finishes right down to the choice of music in each apartment. Located in a cool urban village of cafes & galleries it’s Canberra like you’ve never seen before.
La Maison Pacifique, Casuarina NSW
One of the most incredible holiday houses we’ve seen this year. The interior design by the lovely and talented Di Hendy has you wanting to settle in and never leave. The parents’ retreat is simply heavenly while downstairs the biggest decisions are whether to laze by the lap pool or stroll across to the beach. Such decisions…
Flinders Hotel, Mornington Peninsula VIC
A stay at Flinders Hotel combines my favourite loves of food & wine with beachside bliss. A stay at Flinders Hotel is not complete without indulging in dinner at onsite fine diner Terminus. It’s the perfect base to meander up the main street to explore the antique shops, wine tasting, a round of golf or soak at the Peninsula Hot Springs.
Crown Metropol, Perth WA
Pure luxury, faultless service and style awaits at Crown Metropol Perth. With incredible dining at Bistro Guillaume and Rockpool Bar & Grill, sunbathe by the Vegas style pool with cabanas or indulge at ISIKA day spa, there’s barely a reason to leave or venture into the casino…
What were your 2013 Travel highlights and what’s on your bucket list in 2014?
