Escape the big city at Australia’s top regional hotels

There’s a lot to love about city escapes – a near-endless array of restaurants and bars to thrill your palate; festivals and stage shows to fire your imagination. But sometimes, the slower pace of the regions is exactly what you need.

Switching off from the digital world, spending your days flitting from deserted beach to rolling hinterland, and taking the time to get to know the locals you inevitably meet along the way.

Naturally, there are countless hotels, resorts and estates in which to base yourself (including some fabulous options in the wine hubs), and some truly do stand out above the rest. 

In no particular order, and by no means a complete list, here are some of the ones worth travelling for.

InterContinental Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula, VIC

Victorians are well-versed in the charms of Mornington Peninsula, from its renowned wineries to quaint beach towns lined with Norfolk pines. Sorrento is one of those towns, and five-star hotel InterContinental Sorrento is the epitome of its seaside glamour. 

Your view from the Penthouse Suite.

The centrepiece of reborn Victorian icon ‘The Conti’, a heritage-listed building with sweeping views of Sorrento’s long jetty and white sand beaches, the hotel is filled with historic photographs and vintage-inspired artworks paying tribute to the past, while warm timbers and modern design touches help it feel firmly in the present.

Interiors are warm and inviting, and a perfect fit in the seaside setting.

Standard Rooms are angled for views of Riley Lane and Sorrento town, while Executive Rooms and Suites feature terraces overlooking the sea. Naturally, the Penthouses are the standout. 

Audrey's by Scott Pickett definitely needs a place on your itinerary.

Staying true to its social roots, The Conti houses a Mediterranean-style guest-only pool deck fringed by sun lounges and cabanas, the Aurora Day Spa, and multiple food and dining options developed by publican Craig Shearer and Melbourne restaurateur Scott Pickett. 

Mount Lofty House, Adelaide Hills, SA

Just 15 minutes from Adelaide CBD, Mount Lofty House is one of the top luxury hotels in Australia. Built in 1852 as a summer home for a wealthy statesman, the estate exudes heritage charm from all angles. 

Mount Lofty House is surrounded by botanic gardens and boutique wineries.

In addition to 33 guest rooms, the five-star hotel features a late night lounge bar and three-Chef Hatted restaurant Hardy’s Verandah, as well as the pampering Gatekeeper’s Day Spa. There are also extensive gardens to explore, and a library to lose yourself in a good book. 

The view from Hardy's Verandah is a perfect accompaniment to its degustation menus.

Taking full advantage of its fertile Adelaide Hills location, Hardy’s Verandah plates up seasonal, locally-inspired four- to seven-course degustation menus, paired with a multi-award-winning selection of premium wines and sake, as well as creative cocktails.

Ardo, Townsville, QLD

It’s been a long time coming, but Townsville finally has its first five star hotel – and ‘Ardo’ looks right at home gazing out to Magnetic Island.

An infinity pool with a view.

Home to a stunning rooftop deck with panoramic views over to Magnetic Island, the new hotel counts no less than 132 tastefully-appointed rooms and suites within its stable, of which eight feature baths on their Coral Sea-view balconies.

Interiors are simple and elegant, saving the drama for the view.

Rooftop steak and seafood restaurant Marmor takes cues from the world-class produce on its doorstep, alongside a rooftop bar serving curated cocktails and tantalising tapas bites. They’re joined by the lively Terasu Japanese on the ground floor.

Sun Ranch, Byron Hinterland, NSW

Personality-rich hotels are always worth seeking out – and Sun Ranch in Byron Bay hinterland definitely fits under that banner. It’s quirky, it’s kitsch, it’s a throwback to the 1970s by way of California, and it could be exactly the regional stay you’re after.

Saddle up for a memorable stay at Sun Ranch in the Byron Hinterland.

Set on a hillside only a few minutes from Bangalow, it offers three distinct accommodations: four Rambler Rooms in the main house, six two-bed Sun Ranch Barns, and one private suite described as “the ultimate urban cowboy den”.

The Pool Club is best enjoyed at sunset.

Featuring a rustic aesthetic of recycled timber and brick, mosaic tiles and comfy linens, rooms are fitted with an outdoor shower, mini bar, vintage sound system and more.

Vintage vibes run deep throughout every room.

If it’s a little socialising you’re after, make your way to The Pool Club, where you’ll find a 25m basalt pool and daybeds on which to unwind. Or, for something a little wilder, set out for a horseback ride of the property.

Kittawa Lodge, King Island, TAS

Good things often come in small packages. Take Kittawa Lodge, for example. Situated amid 96 acres on Tasmania’s windswept King Island, this exclusive escape has picked up a slew of global accolades in recent years, and its small scale is key to the appeal.

Find yourself a world away from care at Kittawa Lodge, King Island.

Featuring just two one-bedroom rooms, each an architectural off-grid gem, the lodge is all about personalisation, tailoring the experience to each guest’s interest and desires.

King Island is accessible by air from Melbourne and mainland Tasmania.

Soaking in the dramatic ocean view from your private bathtub, indulging in premium wines and local delicacies, or exploring the protected coves of Fitzmaurice Bay – directly accessible from the property – are just a few of the ways to while away your stay.

A bathtub view worth travelling for.

Of course, it’s close to civilisation when you need it (Currie is some 15 minutes away), giving you an ideal base from which to explore King Island, or perhaps play a round at the remarkable Cape Wickham and Ocean Dunes golf courses.

Pumphouse Point, Central Highlands, TAS

Perched above the sleeping waters of Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest lake, Pumphouse Point is a unique, former industrial site turned luxury hideaway – a place where visitors can breathe in the surrounding Wilderness World Heritage Area, exploring by day and indulging by night. 

The former industrial site has been transformed into a luxury hideaway.

Despite its utilitarian role, feeding water into the state’s hydroelectricity network, it was built more like an Art Deco theatre than a remote industrial outpost. This prompted Australian developer Simon Currant AM to embark on an 18 year passion project to transform it. 

Spring temperatures are perfectly suited to exploring the surrounds by bike.

Located around 2 hours 30 minutes from Hobart, the boutique hotel features just 19 rooms in total: including 12 above the water in the Pumphouse and six on land in the Shorehouse, together with a striking one-bedroom hideaway known as The Retreat. 

The Retreat is a gorgeous free-standing hideaway gazing out to the Pumphouse.
Adam Gibson

Relaxing in-house massages, delicious share table dinners, inspiring bushwalks and e-bike rides along trails, and feasts by the fire are just a few ways to fill your days and nights.

El Questro Homestead - Kimberley, WA

The exclusivity of El Questro, deep in the wild Kimberly, cannot be understated. Perched on the edge of Chamberlain Gorge and River, the remote retreat caters to just 20 guests at a time – and only during the dry season, as it becomes inaccessible when the annual rains arrive.

El Questro Homestead is set alongside the mighty Chamberlain River.

Homestead accommodations are truly stunning, with striking features such as private decks and even a cantilevered bath overlooking the gorge in the Chamberlain Suite. Catering to guests 16 years and above, the resort includes gourmet meals daily, as well as a selection of wine, beer, basic spirits and sparkling wine (for the adults, that is).

This outdoor bathtub is the perfect way to indulge after a day exploring the outback.

Throughout their stay, guests have access to complimentary activities designed to help them connect with their surroundings. These include helicopter flights above the mystical mountain ranges, serene river cruising, wildlife watching, exclusive access to nearby thermal springs, and guided walks. 

Brae Guest Suites, Otways, VIC

Dan Hunter is one of Australia’s most talented chefs. His three-hatted destination restaurant Brae, nestled amid 30 acres of beautiful organic farmland south of Geelong, is regularly named among the best in the country. And it has accommodation onsite too. 

Brae Restaurant is set on an organic farm in Birregurra, approx. 130kms southwest of Melbourne.

Rather than dine and dash, Brae Guest Suites invites you to stay on. After a seasonal degustation lunch that showcases local produce, enjoy a stroll through the property, maybe venture out for a drive, and then retire to your environmentally-conscious suite. 

Rooms are liberally-furnished in timber and brick.

Filled with custom artworks, each suite features a king bed and stargazing skylight, cocktail bar and vinyl collection, and private outdoor area with views to The Otways. When you wake up, tuck into a house-made breakfast of wood-fired sourdough, pastries and preserves. 

Brae Restaurant is set on an organic farm in Birregurra, approx. 130kms southwest of Melbourne. 

Crystalbrook Byron - Northern Rivers, NSW

Byron Bay has had quite a journey, from whaling town to hippie haven and now playground for the rich and famous. One thing that thankfully remains unchanged is its striking natural beauty, which is something that's firmly on show at Crystalbrook Byron. 

Dining on the deck at Forest, with the symphony of nature your dining soundtrack.

Designed to complement the property’s natural charms, each of its 92 suites feeling connected to the forest outside. If you’re keen to get closer, a meandering boardwalk will lead you through the resort’s 45 stunning acres. 

One of the newly-refreshed Treetops Suites at Crystalbrook Byron.

Dining venues Forest Byron Bay, Verandah and Blue Pool Bar are also on hand to take your tastebuds on a locally-infused journey, with a core of Crystalbrook’s ‘responsible luxury’ ethos seeing at least 80% of produce sourced within three hours of the resort. 

Crystalbrook Byron Bay is designed to make you feel a part of nature.

There’s also the fabulous Eléme Spa, which offers a curated menu of treatments designed to relax, firm, smooth, tighten, rejuvenate or whatever else you may be in need of 

Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, Cape Range National Park, WA

Low-impact luxury alongside the world’s largest fringing reef. Sal Salis is a place where you can while away the hours in your hammock, stroll 50m down to the beach and be surrounded by a rainbow of marine life, and then feast on five star food and wine. 

Low impact luxury on the edge of Ningaloo Reef.

Featuring 16 off-grid glamping tents, the all-inclusive experience includes meals, an open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and national park fees, together with complimentary kayaks, snorkel gear, guided wilderness activities and more.

Fine food and fabulous wine are part of the Sal Salis experience.

The cooler months also see the arrival of the whake sharks, with an opportunity to swim with these slow-moving, gentle giants of the sea one you won’t forget in a hurry.

Mona Farm, Southern Tablelands, NSW

Mona Farm is much more than a working sheep and cattle station. Set on an historic 124-acre estate at Braidwood, less than an hour from Canberra and three hours from Sydney, it offers an authentic taste of country life with an artistic, modern twist. 

Art is a key element of the regional hotel's experience.

Though dating back to 1836, contemporary art and sculpture form a large part of the Mona Farm DNA, with no less than 18 installations by Australian and international artists dotted throughout the property. The emphasis on art continues with the guest quarters too. 

Guests can enjoy delicious pre-prepared meals by Executive Chef, Tristan Rebbettes.

Each of the seven beautifully-restored houses on the property – including The Homestead built in 1853, and The Coach House built in 1903 – are adorned with beautifully curated art and statement pieces, yet still retain much of their original character and charm. 

The Shearer’s Quarters is the newest addition to the property, though it dates back to 1873.

Feeling peckish? Guests can enjoy delicious pre-prepared meals by Executive Chef, Tristan Rebbettes, one of the finalists in the 2022 Good Food ‘Young Chef of the Year’ Award.

Cape Lodge, Yallingup, WA

On the sunny west coast, there are two words you need to know: Cape Lodge. Three hours south of Perth, enveloped by the acclaimed Margaret River wine region, this local favourite is one of the best winery stays in Australia.

The lodge has 22 secluded rooms and a magnificent 5-bedroom private luxury Residence.

Featuring 22 rooms spaced throughout 40 acres, the hotel welcomes just 44 guests at one time. It also boasts an award-winning restaurant, private vineyard, and inviting pool and day spa. Like every good manor estate, there’s even a croquet court. 

Cape Lodge's menu is driven by local and seasonal produce.

Beyond its stunning lakes and lush gardens, the wonders of Margaret River are within easy reach. Vasse Felix, Cape Mentelle Wines, Voyager Estate and Cullen Wines are just a handful of the renowned wineries worth taking time to visit nearby.

Beechmont Estate - Scenic Rim, QLD

What do you get when you combine a premium wagyu beef farm with a 'polo club and a five star retreat? Beechmont Estate. Set on 75-acres outside Beechmont, in the Scenic Rim of southeast Queensland, it’s a new experience that’s quickly making a name for itself.

Sunset over The Paddock Restaurant at Beechmont Estate.

Each of its chic pavilions and cabins feature a cosy fireplace, private deck and deep bath angled to enjoy views of rolling hills, with the estate’s restaurant and bar The Paddock is its social hub. A unique ‘wagyu tasting cellar door’ is expected to open soon.

Inside one of the Luxury Pavilions at Beechmont Estate.

Visitors are well placed to explore the Gold Coast Hinterland’s scenic walking trails, with the neighbouring Lamington National Park a must-see, or can choose to relax with a pampering treatment at the Beechmont Estate Day Spa.

Mount Mulligan Lodge, Northern Outback, QLD

Hidden in the rugged bushland of Northern Queensland is perhaps the last place you’d expect to find an all-inclusive luxury resort. But then, Mount Mulligan Lodge, set on an almost 70,000-acre estate 180kms west of Cairns, is no ordinary outback property. 

The lodge is surrounded by dense bushland, some 180kms west of Cairns.

Part of the Morris Escapes stable, which operates the similarly enchanting Orpheus Island, the lodge welcomes just 20 guests, with barramundi fishing, chef-prepared picnics, visits to abandoned townships and mines, and stargazing a handful of the activities on offer. 

How's the serenity? Mount Mulligan Lodge offers a chance to get back to nature.

There are four stunning room types, with each assigned an electric buggy to help guests zip around between the Main Pavilion and Sunset Bar. There’s also a glamping option too. 

Mount Mulligan Lodge is a rare, precious gem in the outback.

Food and wine are essential elements of the experience, with an extensive wine cellar and menus featuring the likes of kangaroo tataki and grass-fed beef with charred peppers and smoked chimichurri. The seven-course degustation under the stars is a highlight. 

Looking for something a little more extravagant? Take a look at Australia’s best luxury hotels and resorts or perhaps indulge at one of its exquisite winery escapes.