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10 relaxing getaways just a quick drive from Melbourne

Melbourne’s allure is undeniable, with its vibrant culture and bustling city life making it one of the most liveable cities in the world. Close to the city, visitors can also enjoy beautiful sceneries and serene getaways on the Great Ocean Road, the Yarra Valley, High Country Victoria, and Mornington Peninsula to name a few. There are a number of incredible destinations just a short drive away from the city, and if you’re staying a while, exploring these spots will definitely be worth it. Enjoy a slower pace and indulge in some much-needed rest and relaxation at these beautiful retreats.

InterContinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula

The recently refurbished InterContinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula harmoniously combines modern style and traditional elements throughout its stunning guest rooms and suites. This renowned hotel in Sorrento has undergone a significant transformation—breathing a new life into the beloved and iconic hotel. On-site, guests have the opportunity to indulge in upscale dining with great views of the bay and outdoor seating options at any of its four restaurants. Additionally, guests can also enjoy a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool or revitalise their well-being with deluxe spa treatments at the Aurora Spa & Bathhouse. It has a wonderful range of modern hydrotherapy therapies!

Hepburn Spa Retreat

Hepburn Spa Retreat offers ten stunning suites that exude elegance and modernity while promoting wellness and a calm state of mind. These accommodations boast breathtaking views of the tranquil bushland. The rooms are filled with gentle natural light emanating from a carefully curated selection of pendant and wall lamps. What we love about the interiors is that the lighting (even the ones underneath the steps) is designed to support your circadian rhythm and promotes a deeper sleep during your stay. The luxurious spa tub and cosy fireplace serve as the perfect complement to this chic and tranquil sanctuary making it a lovely choice for romantic trips.

Hotel Bellinzona

Hotel Bellinzona is a charming boutique hotel in Hepburn Springs that has recently undergone renovations. An ideal retreat for smaller groups or couples, it boasts beautiful artwork and interior design as well as convenient amenities like an on-site restaurant, heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, and spa. It has only 43 guestrooms with bespoke interior furnishings and a stylish curated flair. In addition, it’s just a brief walk from the Hepburn Bathhouse where you can take your relaxation to another level.

Balgownie Estate Bendigo

Discover the hidden gem that is Balgownie Estate Bendigo, a mere 10-minute drive from the bustling city centre of Bendigo. As the oldest winery in Bendigo, Balgownie Estate has a rich history, established back in 1969 and renowned for its exquisite Cabernet and Shiraz blends. Enjoy the delectable wine and dine experience while spending some quiet time in any of its rooms and private glamping tents nestled among sprawling vineyards and serene bushlands. If you’re looking for a more unique yet still luxurious experience, its glamping tents are perfect for you.


Cumberland Lorne Resort

Nestled in the town centre with a prime location directly facing the beach, Cumberland Lorne Resort is an ideal destination for an escape from the city. With a variety of fully equipped apartments and penthouses to choose from, this resort serves as an excellent starting point from where you can explore the Great Ocean Road. A particular highlight of this resort is the Rennie Ellis Two-Bedroom Apartment which features stylish interior design inspired by the social documentary photographer Rennie Ellis. Such a chic stay with amazing ocean views!

Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs

As Victoria’s first hot springs hotel, The Deep Blue offers visitors an idyllic retreat to unwind and be rejuvenated within its elegantly appointed accommodations and 15 revitalizing hot spring bath experiences. This sanctuary provides an opportunity to rediscover oneself or bond with a loved one. Savour nutrient-packed menu items at the Nourish Dome or spoil yourself with an organic facial, soothing massage or other beauty rituals at the day spa. Be sure to take a soothing dip in the hydrothermal jetted pool, the beautifully lit geothermal rockpools (a must-visit during twilight hours!), and the aromatherapy pool.

Lancemore Milawa

A boutique hotel nestled amidst the Brown Brothers winery vineyards in the King Valley, Lancemore Milawa reopened after a multi-million dollar renovation. The refreshed hotel offers 40 refined guestrooms, each featuring a private balcony or patio with picturesque views of the neighbouring vineyards and alpine peaks in the distance. Dine in tranquillity at Restaurant Merlot and savour the country-style meals (with 2 to 3 sumptuous courses) that are highly regarded by both residents and tourists alike.


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The Mitchelton Hotel Nagambie

Set in Victoria’s picturesque Goulburn Valley, The Mitchelton Hotel offers a range of stylish rooms adorned with earthy design elements that lend it an inviting warmth. This contemporary getaway has its own cafe and restaurant, cellar door (they also have a wine club), day spa, outdoor pool, and an art gallery too. A refined experience awaits at this beautiful getaway. From the charming setting of The Muse restaurant and the collection of Aboriginal artwork in the gallery, you’ll definitely feel refreshed and reinspired after a stay at The Mitchelton Hotel Nagambie.

Clifftop at Hepburn

Architecture fans will enjoy any of the luxury villas at Clifftop at Hepburn. Boasting spectacular views of the surrounding bushland from its high vantage point, the villas are also equipped with kitchenettes, fireplaces, deep soaking tubs, and have furnished living areas–both indoors and outdoors. Merging industrial chic and contemporary design, you can choose from villas named after the vibe they give. Some of the villa styles are: Samurai, Sahara, or Solitude, each channelling that atmosphere with carefully selected design elements associated with that aesthetic.

Yarra Valley Lodge

Indulge in a refined and serene escape at Yarra Valley Lodge situated within the grounds of the prestigious Heritage Golf & Country Club, welcoming you to the gateway of the stunning Yarra Valley. Wake up to refreshing views of the 120-hectare estate from the comfort of your room. Each of the rooms has a gardened terrace or private balcony where you can relish your morning coffee in natural surroundings. Yarra Valley Lodge is the perfect hideaway to unwind and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Yarra Valley.

Escape for a bit and unwind at these getaways near Melbourne. You’ll come back to the city feeling recharged and ready for anything after some time away!

Mat Lewis is Co-Founder & CEO of View Retreats. View Retreats is a luxury travel agency offering a handpicked collection of the world’s best hotels, resorts and villas.

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

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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9 Comments

  1. If only this piece had been published this time last year.

    We had a great week in Melbourne and really enjoyed it. Although there were times when we felt that maybe we should have taken a look to see what else there was to do nearby.

    1. Hi Lorna, there is so much to see and do outside of Melbourne. Maybe on your next visit. But I’m sure you would have had an incredible time regardless.

  2. The things is that it’s all too easy to get caught-up in Melbourne. It really is one of the world’s great cities. It’s all about FOMO. It’s hard to leave, even for a day, as you don’t want to miss a thing.

    1. It is sometimes hard to leave Melbourne…so many things to do but exploring the nearby regions is great too ;)

    1. By coincidence I was just talking yesterday about my dream of a drive along the Great Ocean Road.

    2. It certainly does do great things when leaving the city. Getting one with nature, experiencing the beautiful world we live in…I believe it’s a must to leave the city, even if just for the day.

      The Great Ocean Road is one of my favourite places to go in Victoria. So stunning!

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