The cold front has hit Australia and as we all hibernate from the chilly weather we dream about tropical holidays equipped with cocktails and long sleep-ins snuggled under the doona.

Sometimes a weekend getaway is just as good as a holiday to relax, unwind and escape even if it’s only for a couple of days. It’ll brighten up even the coldest of winters.

In Australia we are lucky to have so many fantastic travel options either just a car ride or short plane ride away. Grab a last minute flight deal, pack an overnight bag, send the kids over to their friends for a sleep over and treat yourself to a much needed short break.

Here are 5 of our favourite winter weekend getaway ideas in and around Australia:

1. Head to your local wine region

There is nothing like a big glass of red wine or port to warm up the cockles of your heart.

We are lucky to have some of the world’s most amazing wine regions in Australia from SA’s Barossa Valley to the Yarra Valley in Victoria, the Hunter Valley in New South Wales and of course the Margaret River and Swan Valley in Western Australia. Wine regions have no problem enticing you to stay with lovely accommodation options in and around vineyards as well as plentiful foodie options.

Grab your corkscrew and head off for a weekend of wining and dining in amongst the vines.

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2. Warm up in Broome, Western Australia

Follow the sun and wash away those winter blues with a trip to sunny Broome at an average daytime temperature of 26°C. From sunset camel rides along Cable Beach to seeing the spectacular Staircase to the Moon natural phenomenon in the western skies, you’ll be swept away with the pearling town’s beauty.

It’s the perfect destination for family travel or a much needed romantic getaway with your one true love.

Seeing the famous Stairway to the Moon needs to be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

3. Book into a remote B&B

Are you one of those people who need to force themselves to relax? Then this is one for you!

Book into lovely bed and breakfast accommodation and aim to do just that! Sleep, enjoy the in-room spa, take along some cheese and nibbles and aim to leave the room only for breakfast. Watch some DVDs on your iPad or the TV and keep cosy under the covers for a full weekend! Recoup, laze about and enjoy the peace and quiet.

4. Log fires in the Blue Mountains, New South Wales

It may be an icy 5 degrees with the occasional snow fall however, what has us biting at the bit is the warm spiced mugs of mulled wine in front of a log fire while you take in the breathtaking mountainous wilderness views.

5. Victoria’s natural hot springs

The Peninsula Hot Springs and Day Spa Centre is a mere 90 minutes’ drive from Melbourne city and trust us; it’s worth the trip. With natural thermal mineral pools and private baths alongside massages and beauty treatments you truly will never want to leave. So grab your cozzie and pack your ‘I’m ready to relax now’ attitude and slip into hot water paradise.

Whether you book ahead so you have something to look forward to or escape on a spur of the moment weekend getaway we are sure it’ll give you the little ‘pick-me-up’ you’re looking for this winter.

Do you have a favourite winter escape? Please share in the comments below.

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