Dynamic, artsy, urban, coffee-crazy with inner neighbourhoods that are quirky and full of character – Melbourne is one of Australia’s most popular destinations. It’s easy to see why, with so many culturally enriching places, awesome food, and great weather (well, in summer at least!). But for those looking to experience more than the city, travel just under two hours from Melbourne’s CBD and you’ll find the spa country of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, the wine country of the Yarra Valley, and the idyllic Bellarine and Mornington Peninsulas — the perfect spots to rekindle that fire.
Here are 10 gorgeous romantic retreats that will help to entice you to leave Melbourne for a restful and romantic getaway in country Victoria.
Breakneck Gorge Oikos, Spa Country
A luxury holiday villa just for two, Breakneck Gorge Oikos promises to take your romantic escape to the next level. This gorgeous architectural masterpiece in Hepburn Springs offers unparalleled views, a spacious open-plan living area, and an expansive outdoor deck perfect for relaxing and breathing in the country air. Expect contemporary styling, a bedroom that overlooks the amazing landscape and a bathroom with a freestanding tub and separate shower. Strategically poised over a gorge and located close to the main street, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy or can simply spend time relaxing in the comfy bliss of Breakneck Gorge.
Lon Retreat & Spa, Bellarine Peninsula
A divine hilltop hideaway located in the beautiful region of the Bellarine Peninsula, Lon Retreat and Spa is a private property featuring seven adults-only suites within 200 acres of lush grounds. Explore the outdoors, swim in the ocean, or wander along farm tracks with a complimentary picnic hamper from Annie’s Kitchen. With breathtaking sea views, a superb onsite spa, private gallery, and a fantastic location just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Lon Retreat is a luxurious haven for couples to completely relax.
Jackalope Hotel, Mornington Peninsula
Find bliss and luxury at Jackalope Hotel, an award-winning boutique hotel on the Mornington Peninsula, with stunning views, kangaroos, emus, and birds in abundance. There’s no other place that offers a unique interplay of design, art, and function to bring you one of the best places to celebrate romance. Each of the 46 gorgeous rooms comes with king-size beds, bespoke Zuster furnishing, floor-to-ceiling windows, and decadent bathrooms. Surround yourself with beautiful commissioned art, wine and dine at Rare Hare or Doot Doot Doot, or simply relax by the 30-metre infinity pool.
Kurrajong Retreat, Spa Country
Less than two hours from Melbourne, Kurrajong Retreat feels like another world. The concrete jungle replaced by 2 hectares of private grounds with the resident kangaroos and ducks as your only neighbours. This contemporary hideaway for two has everything you need for a romantic getaway. Think seamless indoor-outdoor living with views to kill, dreamy leather sofas perfect for snuggling, a fully equipped kitchen to cook dinners in, and a plush bedroom with a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Campbell Point House, Bellarine Peninsula
With its picturesque sea views and idyllic towns, the Bellarine Peninsula entices many for a romantic weekend away. And it is here where you’ll find the enchanting Campbell Point House. The eight ultra-luxe suites of this boutique hotel are set on the banks of Lake Connewarra and offer the elegant but charming stylings of a French chateau. Choose how to spend the day: lounging by the infinity pool with a cocktail in hand, enjoying an unforgettable culinary experience at the on-site restaurant, or exploring the sites along the Great Ocean Road. Later you can enjoy a pampering massage at the onsite day spa.
Lake House, Spa Country
Imagine waking up to the whisper of nature in lovely Daylesford, and gazing out to endless greens and blues. This is the reality of staying at the tranquil Lake House, an elegant 33-room retreat fronting the picturesque Lake Daylesford. This unique luxury lodge provides a spacious and romantic setting where you can relax and unwind. Enjoy direct access to the lake, six acres of lakefront gardens, massages at the onsite spa, and delectable meals at the award-winning restaurant.
Nord House, Mornington Peninsula
The Mornington Peninsula, with its charming seaside towns, superb wineries, and gourmet restaurants, is Melbourne’s summer playground. And at its heart, you’ll find the sumptuous Nord House. This three-bedroom holiday home is designed for couples or a small family looking for a relaxing escape out of the city. Be wooed by this stylish and spacious home with its sleek interiors, open-plan layout, designer kitchen, and luxe amenities. Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Nord House offers you a place to enjoy the sun and sand at nearby Point Leo Beach and savour spectacular wine and food.
Solitude, Spa Country
If you’ve always wanted to try staying in a shipping-container-turned-hotel-room, then this is your chance. Solitude’s gorgeous couples retreat offers four container accommodations named after some of the most romantic cities in the world — Paris, Venice, Rome, and Vienna. Compact but superbly furnished with floating king beds, Bose sound systems, fireplaces, and equipped kitchenettes. Soak in the lavish Tasmanian blackwood tub or take in the beautiful surrounds of Hepburn Springs by hiking the lush forests or indulging in the region’s famous mineral springs and bathhouses.
Matisse Cottage, Dandenong Ranges
A couple who adventures together stays together can certainly be said about those who stay at Matisse Cottage in the Dandenong Ranges. This charming one-bedroom retreat is the perfect base for exploring the majestic landscapes, lush forests, and idyllic villages of the Dandenongs. Spend the day hiking the National Park, touring the lavender farm, ziplining at Glen Harrow Park, savouring the local fare, or capping the day with tea and scones in a quaint teahouse. Then go back to Matisse to soak in the freestanding tub and relax by the fireplace.
Clifftop at Hepburn, Spa Country
Find not only spectacular clifftop accommodation in Hepburn Springs but also a place that offers you a modern and luxurious enclave for exploring Victoria’s famed spa country. Marvel at the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, relax in a private spa bath just for two, and delight in the luxe amenities that spoil the senses. These luxury villas feature exquisite fittings like hand-hewn fireplaces, Bose sound system, Hafele kitchen shelves, stone baths, and L’Occitane amenities. Truly, unparalleled comfort at every turn.
Extend your romantic getaway with other activities in each region, such as scenic flights over plains and valleys, steam train rides, or perhaps a road trip on the renowned Great Ocean Road. Whatever you choose to do with your loved one, the many wonders in and around Melbourne are certainly worth the trip and effort.
Mat Lewis is Co-Founder & CEO of View Retreats. View Retreats is a boutique travel agency featuring handpicked, luxury accommodation across Australia & New Zealand.If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
Mat Lewis is a co-founder of View Retreats and has been in the travel and hospitality industry for over two decades. He established View Retreats in 2013 in Australia as a specialist platform for luxury hotels, resorts and one-of-a-kind havens of relaxation where unforgettable travel memories are made. The online travel company now features over 5,000 properties in more than 120 countries worldwide. Mat is a self-confessed travel junkie who has lived in Asia, the UK and Europe, and currently resides in the beautiful Barossa Valley wine region in South Australia. He loves fine wines and local culinary creations that tell the story of the land. His epicurean tastes don’t get in the way of enjoying life’s simpler pleasures though, and he enjoys gardening, bush-walking, and exciting street food flavours too!
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11 Comments
Sometimes you need a break from your holiday and travels so I get the idea of escaping from Melbourne for a few days.
A few years ago I was in Sydney and just decided to get away, like many Sydney folk do, for a long weekend. I went and stayed at Lennox Head, about a dozen miles south of Byron Bay. It was great to have a long (6 mile?) beach to ourselves and go into the deli and wine shop without facing huge queues.
When I go to Melbourne next I’ll repeat the format and escape to one or two of these great retreats.
Hi Carolyn, yes a lot of travellers visit the big cities without realising there are so many beautiful spots within a short drive from the city! Byron would have been a lovely change from the busy-ness of Sydney! I highly recommend it next time you’re in Melbourne :)
I’m always a sucker for an infinity pool. No doubt then that Campbell Point House would be my first choice. I could definitely unwind looking out over Lake Connemara.
I also like the fact that it’s quite small with just the 8 Suites. If it’s a retreat you don’t want too many people around.
Oh you can’t go wrong with an infinity pool, can you Kate :) One of my favourites too. I visited Campbell Point House and it is just beautiful. A very peaceful part of Victoria.
To start with I was struggling with the concept that anybody would want to leave Melbourne. It’s a city that has got so much to offer and it’s always near the top in those best places to live league tables like the ones that Monocle comes up with. Listening to the cricket commentary on Sky Sports during the last England v Australia test, Shane Warne started describing it as the world’s greatest sporting city.
Then I looked through these places and begun to understand why, just occasionally, you might want a retreat for a bit of peace and solitude.
I can see why you may struggle to leave Melbourne. Our lovely city is beautiful but then again, there are so many stunning places around that it would be a shame to not explore more of the state. So many different sceneries! And we do love sport in this city. Hope to see you one day at the MCG :)
I’d love a summer vacay to Melbourne and nearby, maybe do a little road trip to explore more of the area. All of these, especially the Kurrajong, Breakneck Gorge Oikos and Lon Retreat look like such peaceful places to stay, being a little more ‘out in the sticks’ so to speak and surrounded by nature. Actually, even a winter trip would be nice because somewhere like Kurrajong would be lovely to snuggle up in, with hot chocolates and a cozy fire and the sounds of the outdoors as you’re wrapped up warm. My relatives live in Oz and adore Melbourne. Not hard to see why so many fall in love with it.
A roadtrip sounds like an excellent idea! The properties you mentioned are some of our most popular ones and you can see why! Daylesford (Kurrajong Retreat/Breakneck Gorge) is very popular during winter – to do exactly as you said; snuggle up in front of a fire, hot chocolate, reading a book… that sounds like the perfect getaway :)
I can definitely see the appeal in winter now, Mat. You can’t beat snuggling up when it’s cold outside, and Daylesford seems so spot on for this, paired with those incredibly scenic views out your window!
I sort of collect infinity pools, not in a sort of dig them up and take them home kind of way. It’s far less intrusive than that. I like to do a selfie with me, the pool and the infinity pool in the background. So for me my top choice would be Campbell Point House on the Bellarine Peninsula, that’s such a stunningly beautiful view out over the lake.
If only we could dig them up and take them home with us, Lynne! Haha you did make me laugh this morning. Can’t beat Campbell Point House, it’s so beautiful so I can see why you went with this one :)
Lon Retreat & Spa, Bellarine Peninsula
A divine hilltop hideaway located in the beautiful region of the Bellarine Peninsula, Lon Retreat and Spa is a private property featuring seven adults-only suites within 200 acres of lush grounds. Explore the outdoors, swim in the ocean, or wander along farm tracks with a complimentary picnic hamper from Annie’s Kitchen. With breathtaking sea views, a superb onsite spa, private gallery, and a fantastic location just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Lon Retreat is a luxurious haven for couples to completely relax.
Lon Retreat & Spa, Bellarine Peninsula
A divine hilltop hideaway located in the beautiful region of the Bellarine Peninsula, Lon Retreat and Spa is a private property featuring seven adults-only suites within 200 acres of lush grounds. Explore the outdoors, swim in the ocean, or wander along farm tracks with a complimentary picnic hamper from Annie’s Kitchen. With breathtaking sea views, a superb onsite spa, private gallery, and a fantastic location just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Lon Retreat is a luxurious haven for couples to completely relax.
Jackalope Hotel, Mornington Peninsula
Find bliss and luxury at Jackalope Hotel, an award-winning boutique hotel on the Mornington Peninsula, with stunning views, kangaroos, emus, and birds in abundance. There’s no other place that offers a unique interplay of design, art, and function to bring you one of the best places to celebrate romance. Each of the 46 gorgeous rooms comes with king-size beds, bespoke Zuster furnishing, floor-to-ceiling windows, and decadent bathrooms. Surround yourself with beautiful commissioned art, wine and dine at Rare Hare or Doot Doot Doot, or simply relax by the 30-metre infinity pool.
Kurrajong Retreat, Spa Country
Less than two hours from Melbourne, Kurrajong Retreat feels like another world. The concrete jungle replaced by 2 hectares of private grounds with the resident kangaroos and ducks as your only neighbours. This contemporary hideaway for two has everything you need for a romantic getaway. Think seamless indoor-outdoor living with views to kill, dreamy leather sofas perfect for snuggling, a fully equipped kitchen to cook dinners in, and a plush bedroom with a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Campbell Point House, Bellarine Peninsula
With its picturesque sea views and idyllic towns, the Bellarine Peninsula entices many for a romantic weekend away. And it is here where you’ll find the enchanting Campbell Point House. The eight ultra-luxe suites of this boutique hotel are set on the banks of Lake Connewarra and offer the elegant but charming stylings of a French chateau. Choose how to spend the day: lounging by the infinity pool with a cocktail in hand, enjoying an unforgettable culinary experience at the on-site restaurant, or exploring the sites along the Great Ocean Road. Later you can enjoy a pampering massage at the onsite day spa.
Lake House, Spa Country
Imagine waking up to the whisper of nature in lovely Daylesford, and gazing out to endless greens and blues. This is the reality of staying at the tranquil Lake House, an elegant 33-room retreat fronting the picturesque Lake Daylesford. This unique luxury lodge provides a spacious and romantic setting where you can relax and unwind. Enjoy direct access to the lake, six acres of lakefront gardens, massages at the onsite spa, and delectable meals at the award-winning restaurant.
Nord House, Mornington Peninsula
The Mornington Peninsula, with its charming seaside towns, superb wineries, and gourmet restaurants, is Melbourne’s summer playground. And at its heart, you’ll find the sumptuous Nord House. This three-bedroom holiday home is designed for couples or a small family looking for a relaxing escape out of the city. Be wooed by this stylish and spacious home with its sleek interiors, open-plan layout, designer kitchen, and luxe amenities. Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Nord House offers you a place to enjoy the sun and sand at nearby Point Leo Beach and savour spectacular wine and food.
Solitude, Spa Country
If you’ve always wanted to try staying in a shipping-container-turned-hotel-room, then this is your chance. Solitude’s gorgeous couples retreat offers four container accommodations named after some of the most romantic cities in the world — Paris, Venice, Rome, and Vienna. Compact but superbly furnished with floating king beds, Bose sound systems, fireplaces, and equipped kitchenettes. Soak in the lavish Tasmanian blackwood tub or take in the beautiful surrounds of Hepburn Springs by hiking the lush forests or indulging in the region’s famous mineral springs and bathhouses.
Matisse Cottage, Dandenong Ranges
A couple who adventures together stays together can certainly be said about those who stay at Matisse Cottage in the Dandenong Ranges. This charming one-bedroom retreat is the perfect base for exploring the majestic landscapes, lush forests, and idyllic villages of the Dandenongs. Spend the day hiking the National Park, touring the lavender farm, ziplining at Glen Harrow Park, savouring the local fare, or capping the day with tea and scones in a quaint teahouse. Then go back to Matisse to soak in the freestanding tub and relax by the fireplace.
Clifftop at Hepburn, Spa Country
Find not only spectacular clifftop accommodation in Hepburn Springs but also a place that offers you a modern and luxurious enclave for exploring Victoria’s famed spa country. Marvel at the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, relax in a private spa bath just for two, and delight in the luxe amenities that spoil the senses. These luxury villas feature exquisite fittings like hand-hewn fireplaces, Bose sound system, Hafele kitchen shelves, stone baths, and L’Occitane amenities. Truly, unparalleled comfort at every turn.
Extend your romantic getaway with other activities in each region, such as scenic flights over plains and valleys, steam train rides, or perhaps a road trip on the renowned Great Ocean Road. Whatever you choose to do with your loved one, the many wonders in and around Melbourne are certainly worth the trip and effort.
Mat Lewis is Co-Founder & CEO of View Retreats. View Retreats is a boutique travel agency featuring handpicked, luxury accommodation across Australia & New Zealand.
If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
Sometimes you need a break from your holiday and travels so I get the idea of escaping from Melbourne for a few days.
A few years ago I was in Sydney and just decided to get away, like many Sydney folk do, for a long weekend. I went and stayed at Lennox Head, about a dozen miles south of Byron Bay. It was great to have a long (6 mile?) beach to ourselves and go into the deli and wine shop without facing huge queues.
When I go to Melbourne next I’ll repeat the format and escape to one or two of these great retreats.
Hi Carolyn, yes a lot of travellers visit the big cities without realising there are so many beautiful spots within a short drive from the city! Byron would have been a lovely change from the busy-ness of Sydney! I highly recommend it next time you’re in Melbourne :)
I’m always a sucker for an infinity pool. No doubt then that Campbell Point House would be my first choice. I could definitely unwind looking out over Lake Connemara.
I also like the fact that it’s quite small with just the 8 Suites. If it’s a retreat you don’t want too many people around.
Oh you can’t go wrong with an infinity pool, can you Kate :) One of my favourites too. I visited Campbell Point House and it is just beautiful. A very peaceful part of Victoria.
To start with I was struggling with the concept that anybody would want to leave Melbourne. It’s a city that has got so much to offer and it’s always near the top in those best places to live league tables like the ones that Monocle comes up with. Listening to the cricket commentary on Sky Sports during the last England v Australia test, Shane Warne started describing it as the world’s greatest sporting city.
Then I looked through these places and begun to understand why, just occasionally, you might want a retreat for a bit of peace and solitude.
I can see why you may struggle to leave Melbourne. Our lovely city is beautiful but then again, there are so many stunning places around that it would be a shame to not explore more of the state. So many different sceneries! And we do love sport in this city. Hope to see you one day at the MCG :)
I’d love a summer vacay to Melbourne and nearby, maybe do a little road trip to explore more of the area. All of these, especially the Kurrajong, Breakneck Gorge Oikos and Lon Retreat look like such peaceful places to stay, being a little more ‘out in the sticks’ so to speak and surrounded by nature. Actually, even a winter trip would be nice because somewhere like Kurrajong would be lovely to snuggle up in, with hot chocolates and a cozy fire and the sounds of the outdoors as you’re wrapped up warm. My relatives live in Oz and adore Melbourne. Not hard to see why so many fall in love with it.
A roadtrip sounds like an excellent idea! The properties you mentioned are some of our most popular ones and you can see why! Daylesford (Kurrajong Retreat/Breakneck Gorge) is very popular during winter – to do exactly as you said; snuggle up in front of a fire, hot chocolate, reading a book… that sounds like the perfect getaway :)
I can definitely see the appeal in winter now, Mat. You can’t beat snuggling up when it’s cold outside, and Daylesford seems so spot on for this, paired with those incredibly scenic views out your window!
I sort of collect infinity pools, not in a sort of dig them up and take them home kind of way. It’s far less intrusive than that. I like to do a selfie with me, the pool and the infinity pool in the background. So for me my top choice would be Campbell Point House on the Bellarine Peninsula, that’s such a stunningly beautiful view out over the lake.
If only we could dig them up and take them home with us, Lynne! Haha you did make me laugh this morning. Can’t beat Campbell Point House, it’s so beautiful so I can see why you went with this one :)