There’s no denying it – Australians bloody love a long weekend. With half the country enjoying a public holiday over the next few days, now’s the time to book yourself a last-minute long weekend getaway. But where to stay?
“The beach!” I hear you say.
Forget it – unless you want to bunk down in a dump or pay big bucks. Don’t stress though, there are still some neat alternatives out there so you can make the most of your looooooong weekend.
Escape the Ordinary
Top Pick – Notel, Melbourne
Image | Notel Melbourne
Why?
Trailer park glam. If that’s a thing – Notel is it. Picture bubblegum pink interiors, a slick ensuite, comfy queen bed and a bar fridge stocked with quality treats all inside a shiny Airstream caravan. You’ll find this rooftop wonderland on the top level of a carpark in trendy Flinders. If you’re keen to stick with the theme, mosey on over to The Grand Trailer Park Taverna on Bourke Street for a burger and boozy milkshake.
Other options
Spend the night in jail (or an old “gaol”)
Stay in a converted train carriage
Get Out of Town and UnWINEd
Top Pick – The Barossa and Adelaide Hills, SA
Why?
It’s the jackpot for lovers of wine, beer and cider. There are over 150 wineries in The Barossa region and 50 in the Adelaide Hills PLUS a dozen or so craft beer and cider breweries dotted around the countryside. No one will want to be the designated Dave on this trip, which is why I’d recommend you book a tour with someone like Chook from Chook’s Little Winery Tours to learn the ins and outs of the best drops in the region.
Other options
Hunter Valley, NSW Flights | Hotels
Margaret River, WA Flights | Hotels
Yarra Valley, VIC Flights | Hotels
Tamar Valley, TAS Flights | Hotels
Unleash your inner zoolander at a design/art hotel
Top Pick – QT Melbourne
Why?
The seventh property in the QT Hotels & Resorts collection, QT Melbourne is #hotaf with a focus on high-end fashion and quirky design. Edgy and exciting, this is a choice option if you’re looking to splurge or want a cheeky weekend away with your significant other.
TIP: Join the Priority Guest Rewards program for discounted rates and free wi-fi.
Other options
Art Series Hotels (Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Bendigo)
Ovolo Hotels (Melbourne and Sydney)
Enjoy the freebies – continental breakfast, mini bar, wi-fi and daily Happy Hour
The Nest on Newcastle (Perth)
Where are you heading for the October long weekend? Share the deets in the Comments section. I’d love to know where you end up.
The World is Your Wanderland 