Walk the Mornington Peninsula, Victoria
The Cape Schanck Boardwalk is one of the highlights of the Mornington Peninsula, and following its route down to the sand has the added benefit of a decent cardio workout. And, while everyone loves instagram, photos you take here will only hint at the true beauty of this seascape. Start the walk from the Cape Schanck Lighthouse with your chosen accomplices for motivation, or power across the wooden boards on a solo jaunt to be left with your own thoughts. The walk can be steep in sections and a round trip requires approximately 45 minutes. Take advantage of the myriad photo ops as you trek from cliff to sea, but pay caution to unexpected waves as you cross the rock platforms.
Where to stay on the Mornington Peninsula
Walking may have been a priority during the day, but the evening calls for putting your feet up and unwinding. Once you have conquered the boardwalk, return to the spacious and stylish Polperro Winery Villas in Red Hill. These villas are wedged between vineyards, promising guests the chance to uncork an eponymous bottle of wine and enjoy it on the villa’s private view-blessed deck. Guests also have the option to participate in daily HotHut Yoga classes.
Hike through the Freycinet Peninsula, Tasmania
Set aside a full day to roam an iconic hiking circuit by combining two world-renowned locations: Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach on the Freycinet Peninsula. Marvelling at the white sand beaches and rugged landscape is a year-round pleasure, but the warmer months allow for the added opportunity of cooling off with a swim in sapphire waters. Travelling along the Freycinet loop, from east to west is about 11 kilometres. The average time for completing the hike is five hours but may take longer if you’re unable to resist stopping for frequent photos. The track can be broken down into smaller sections too if hikers are pressed for time. Opt to start the day early to ensure a car park at Coles Bay and discover the tracks without the crowds.
Where to stay on the Freycinet Peninsula
Feeling as if you don’t want to leave the beautiful East Coast landscape behind just yet? Linger a little bit longer – all in the name of health and wellness of course – with a stay at Saffire Freycinet. This award-winning coastal sanctuary allows guests to completely indulge their senses with all-inclusive luxury accommodation, fine dining and an exclusive day spa. It creates an intimate experience combining nature and leisure for an escape you will never forget.
Surf at Burleigh Heads, Queensland
If you have ever wanted to try your hand at hanging 10, a visit to Burleigh Heads during winter should be on your list. Not only can would-be surfers avoid the peak crowds that come with the hotter months, but they will also have a better chance of catching waves as the swell is often at its peak during winter. Those visiting in summer won’t be disappointed however, as Burleigh is a top surfing destination year-round and is said to have some of the most consistent waves on the Gold Coast. If you’re new to surfing, there are multiple options for learning the ropes before heading into the water. Try a lesson at The Gold Coast Surf Academy, or seasoned surfers can hire boards from Action Outdoor Hire.
Where to stay on the Gold Coast
Straight from the front door and into the water; Toby’s Beach House is the perfect getaway for those wishing to wake up close to the foreshore and within walking distance to local amenities. Take the whole family or make it a girls’ getaway and unwind in this contemporary home, fitted with modern appliances plus a swimming pool. The beach house is the perfect post to stretch out, soak up the sun and feel refreshed the moment the suitcases drop at the foot of the door.
Cycling in the Barossa, South Australia
Not only famed for the extensive gourmet food and wines locations, the Barossa Valley is a hub for multiple cycling tracks that take riders from one vineyard to the next. The Barossa hosts a stage of the prestigious cycling race, Tour Down Under, but if you’re not up for competing on two wheels just yet, you can still pedal out on a path that suits your fitness level, with varying options of mountain, road and trail routes. There is no need to bring your own bike to the region either, as there are places to hire your ride or some accommodations may also offer bike hire at a small cost. See corners of the valley less-visited by riding to lookout points that offer incredible views, or take a tour at your own pace, stopping regularly at boutique cellar doors along the way.
Where to stay in the Barossa
Planted on the hills slightly north of Lyndoch, each of the three abodes at Barossa Pavilions boasts panoramic views towards the Barossa Valley Ranges, overlooking vineyards and the valley’s expanse. The freestanding chalets built spaciously apart from one another have been designed for privacy, and also provide maximum views of the cascading hills courtesy of huge floor-to-ceiling windows. The double spa baths in each pavilion are a welcome retreat after a full day of cycling, and invite romantics to crack open a locally sourced cellar souvenir for total restoration.
Yoga in Byron Bay, New South Wales
There are some undeniable health benefits to yoga, as it not only stretches your muscles but also encourages mind-positivity. There are several schools in Byron Bay, such as the Creature Yoga Industrial Estate or the Byron Yoga Centre for yogis wanting instructor help with their downward dogs and firefly pose. With the help of apps, books, or memory work, it is also possible to practice your flows just about anywhere around the sublime coast. A Byron Bay getaway makes a stunning destination for any yogi, whether a novice or a seasoned practitioner, to slow down, appreciate the moment and be present.
Where to stay in Byron Bay
Elements of Byron offers on-site yoga classes where guests can participate in either group or one-on-one sessions to deepen their practice. This five-star retreat is a short walk from the beach and main town, but it’s unlikely you’ll wish to leave as the resort grounds are perfectly equipped for couples and groups alike. Swim some laps in the adults-only heated pool or gather around a fire pit in the evenings. Fuel your body with fare from Graze, the newly established world-class restaurant, or take your rejuvenating getaway up a level by booking in a treatment or bespoke massage in the Osprey spa.
This collection of wellness escapes has been handpicked by the travel editors at Beautiful Accommodation— a destination for luxury boutique accommodation across Australia.