Australia’s best winter hotel stays for 2022
From lakeside cottages to hygge hideaways, winter travel doesn’t get comfier than this.
While chasing an endless summer sounds pretty appealing, there’s no denying the pure pleasure of rugging up in front of an open fire, watching an early winter sunset with belly-warming beverage in hand. Better still if said beverage was ordered from room service and the glass required zero washing up.
Australia may not be top of mind as a winter destination, but when it comes to recreating a cosy Northern European vibe, our Southern states offer plenty of ideal hotels and boutique stays for a Christmas in July mini-break.
Peppers Cradle Mountain lodge, TAS
The words ‘mountain’ and ‘lodge’ hold pretty good clues about what to expect at this Tasmanian lakeside retreat. With snow a regular occurrence in the winter months, warmth is a priority and there are plenty of places to escape the chill here while still being able to appreciate the beauty of Tasmania’s winter wilderness. Play a game of chess near the open hearth in the communal guest lounge, or, if you’re lucky enough to reserve a King Billy Suite, dry off in front of your private fireplace after a dip in the suite’s outdoor hot tub.
Pumphouse Point, Lake St Clair, TAS
The former hydro-electric station is arguably one of Australia’s most unique hotel stays. Positioned smack bang in the middle of Tasmania’s Lake St Claire, accessibly only via a 240m-long jetty, the Pumphouse building is secluded, scenic and cosy. Inside, the decor is comfortable yet minimal, letting the striking views of the surrounding waters and national park take precedent while also proving ‘cosy’ doesn’t have to be kitsch. Land lubbers can stay safely on sure in the equally comfortable Shorehouse, or for an ultra-luxe and private experience, opt for The Retreat.
The Kilnhouses, Bright VIC
Gazing out at the frost-laced valley from a comfy window nook while sipping a piping hot cuppa is a key morning ritual at The Kilnhouses. Located in the vibrant Ovens Valley in Bright, Victoria, the three striking accommodations were designed to resemble the concrete and iron kilns traditionally used to dry tobacco in the region. Each features a wood fire and fully equipped kitchen, so you can whip up a hearty winter stew to eat alongside a glass or two of Kilnhouse Row 8 tempranillo.
Crafter’s Cabin, Jindabyne NSW
While the idea of whiling away winter in an authentically rustic wooden cabin sounds kind of romantic, there’s a lot to be said for good insulation, electric lighting, running water and a working bar fridge. Crafter’s Cabin, a beautifully designed property nestled among ghost gums with sweeping views of the misty valley below, may be completely off-grid but still boasts all the modern amenities which make winter in the Snowy Mountains not just bearable, but delightful.
Mount Lofty House, Adelaide Hills SA
British manor houses were built to withstand even the most brutal weather, making them an ideal choice for a cosy weekend getaway. We can thank the late Arthur Hardy for bringing one of these impressive estates to the Adelaide Hills, back in 1852. Originally the English expat’s family home, Mount Lofty House is now a boutique hotel replete with old world charm and acclaimed fine dining restaurant, Hardy’s Verandah. Admire the views of the sloping vineyards from your four poster bed, laze away a brisk afternoon in the library by the open fireplace, or explore the nearby wineries.
Osborn House, Bundanoon NSW
This recently restored estate in the picturesque township of Bundanoon is one of the best places to escape Sydney for a winter weekend sojourn. Designed by Linda Boronkay of Soho House fame, Osborn House’s 22 rooms and communal spaces are a contemporary rift on old world elegance, paying homage to the property’s 19th century heritage. Visitors to the property before its revamp will be happy to know many of the facilities remain, including the tennis court and sauna. The heated indoor pool has also been given fresh update; the perfect vantage point to watch the ‘roos enjoying their dusk dinner on the front lawn.
The Vineyard Retreat, McLaren Vale SA
Wine buffs, or basically anyone who likes the idea of relaxing in front of a fire with a glass of big, gutsy Shiraz, should put The Vineyard Retreat atop the winter mini-break wish list. Five self-contained luxury retreats dotted around the vineyard offer all the trappings you need for a mid-year break, and they’re just a short trip away from the region’s most popular cellar doors.
Alkira Eco-Glamping Retreat, Emerald VIC
The term cosy often conjures up visions of small, cubby-style spaces and that’s exactly the vibe of Alkira Eco-Glamping Retreat in Emerald, Victoria. While the outside kitchen and bathroom might be a downside on a cold night, the warmth and almost fairytale-like yurt more than makes up for this. While a more rustic experience than most, waking up to the sound of birdsong and the local farmyard residents (cows, horses and a few alpacas) is something you won’t find at a run-of-the-mill hotel.