Originally published in The Commons Journal.
If you’re – like most – in desperate need of a little getaway (Christmas feels like forever ago already, right?) then we’ve got just the thing: a neat little roundup of some of Victoria and New South Wales’s most dreamy stays, expertly curated by our members and friends at Riparide.
The team have done all the hard work for you, scoping their huge library of Riparide Stories for off the beaten track escapes. Riparide Stories are authentic experiences shared by real travellers. It’s like reading your best friend’s travel journal – packed with photos, honest reviews and visual itineraries. Via their Stories, they’ve shared the latest cool, unconventional and romantic stays for you – and your S/O, family, friends, dog, etc. – to add to your bucket list this year (and beyond).
Victoria
YOKO Luxury Cabin – Mornington Peninsula
$400/night | Cabin | Sleeps 4
Still waiting to take that trip to Japan that Covid put the breaks on? You’re in luck. This luxury cabin (AKA YOKO) is a little taste of Japanese living, only an hour from Melbourne CBD.
Located in Mornington Peninsula’s Rye, YOKO takes note from Japanese and Nordic minimal styling and features a Scandinavian wood fire heater, fully equipped kitchen and paper-like walling. When you’re not relaxing at YOKO, take a short drive to Portsea for a walk through Point Nepean National Park. Or, head to Sorrento for a quick dip. Either way, you’re guaranteed to leave this beauty feeling rejuvenated.
Miles Away Beach Shack – Bellarine Peninsula
$249/night | Beach house | Sleeps 4
Fancy shacking up for the weekend? Us too. Miles Away Beach Shack is your solution for a laid-back trip away filled with saltwater, sunsets and surfing, if you so wish.
Perfectly situated in the picturesque Bellarine Peninsula, the beach house features coastal styling, outdoor dining and blush pink touches throughout. The perfect weekend getaway for friends and lovers, be sure to get a swim in at Ocean Grove Main Beach, located just moments away.
Honey & Coffee – Gippsland
$270/night | Glamping | Sleeps 2
If it’s a digital detox you’re in the mood for, we’ve got you covered. Take a trip through rural Victoria to Gippsland where you’ll find Honey & Coffee, a luxury glamping retreat situated on a hilltop overlooking the ocean.
If that alone doesn’t tempt you, this might – Honey & Coffee has all the comforts of a 5-star hotel, and then some. Including a fully-equipped kitchen, split system heating and cooling, a luxe bathroom and outdoor fireplace. Catch the sunrise at Eagle’s Nest or stay in for a bath under the stars, the option is yours. But one thing is for sure, you’ll never want to leave.
The Water Cabin – High Country
$240/night | Tiny house | Sleeps 2 | Pet-friendly
Escape to the High Country with this breathtaking stay in Goughs Bay. Situated on a secluded dam, The Water Cabin is serenity personified.
Featuring a cozy yet comfortable interior and outdoor deck, the windows frame the dam and surrounding hillside view, making for the perfect postcard. Take a trip to the Mansfield Farmers Market, go kayaking on the dam or set out hiking in the mountains – the opportunities are endless.
New South Wales
Valley View Country Retreat – North Coast
$300/night | Tiny house | Sleeps 2 | Pet-friendly
If you haven’t stayed in a tiny house yet, this is your chance. “Tiny Home, Huge Vibe” AKA Valley View Country Retreat is as it says on the tin: a big old mood.
Located on a 100-acre farm set in North Coast’s Myocum, this beauty features wooden furnishing, modern appliances, is pet friendly and has an outdoor bath for you to truly soak up the serenity in. Stay in our explore the local surroundings which includes waterfalls, beaches and Byron Bay just a 15-minute drive away. Yes. Please.
Unique Boat Stay – Central Coast
$269/night | Houseboat | Sleeps 3
Set your sights on a trip to the seaside with this unique houseboat getaway located on the Central Coast. Moored in Woy Woy, this picturesque stay is perfect for couples in need of a little R&R.
Spend your days reading, napping and picnicking on the back deck, lazing about in the sun or exploring nearby walking trails, waterfronts and lookouts. Whatever you choose, falling asleep to the gentle rock of the water will ensure you wake up feeling relaxed and at peace.
Readleaf Carriage 1238 – Country NSW
$330/night | Train carriage | Sleeps 5
All aboard the Readleaf Carriage. Next stop, heaven. If it’s a unique stay you’re looking for this year, you can’t go past this 1920s converted train carriage.
Located on a farm in Country NSW, this getaway is charming in more ways than one. Featuring two bedrooms, a bathroom, cooking facilities and outdoor fireplace, take a wander through the farm and meet some of the locals including sheep, chickens, goats and Hector, an affectionate donkey. Or, head out to Belmore Falls to snap a pic of the two-tiered waterfall, located just 20 minutes away.
The Farmers Hut – Country NSW
$450/night | Cabin | Sleeps 2
Check your worries at the door with this idyllic cabin escape located in Country NSW. The Farmers Hut is a luxurious self-contained cabin just three hours from Sydney.
Situated on private farmland with 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside, this getaway features an indoor fireplace, unique grass roof, king size bed and sheltered BBQ area. Distinctly Australian with upcycled furnishings and textures throughout, The Farmers Hut is a must-visit for couples or singles looking to escape the city for a little while.