9 Stress-Free Australia Towns For A Weekend Retreat
From time to time, everyone needs a little bit of a break. There may be plenty of wonderful local spots nearby that you could take a road trip to, but sometimes, you are craving the kind of relaxation that a weekend road trip cannot quite fill. That is where Australia comes in, one of the most dazzling places in the world to visit for any length of a retreat. If you are looking to shake off all that stress and take in the sights of an entirely new place, these Australian towns are more than ready to provide you with unmatched magic as you let all that stress melt away.
Margaret River, Western Australia
The great thing about Western Australia’s Margaret River is that you can have the best of both worlds for your visit to Australia. With a population of just over 10,000 according to the 2021 census, Margaret River can provide a small-town feeling, while providing much more to explore, including a short trip down to the coast for a visit to Margaret River Mouth Viewpoint, a breathtaking sight for many.
Margaret River might be the perfect spot for lovers of the outdoors, as you can head over to the Meelup Regional Park to learn about how people thousands of years ago would have foraged on the land, all thanks to the Wadandi people. Go explore the Capes Raptor Center to learn all about various birds of prey and then stop in for some local wine at Clairault Streicker Wines.
Byron Bay, New South Wales
Despite New South Wales’ Byron Bay being a near two-hour drive from Brisbane, that does not mean it is not the perfect place to get away. Head on down to the Cape Byron Lighthouse, standing tall for well over 100 years, and see a piece of local history as you take in the view of the ocean. Do not stop there, as there is also Arakwal National Park to explore, and a few other delightful beaches like Belongil Beach, Tallow Beach, and Palm Valley, all waiting to be uncovered, and you might even spot a few whales along the way.
Its popularity may cause the area to be a bit busier than some would like, but with a population of roughly 6330 according to the 2021 Census, the area is capable of providing a relaxing, small-town-feel. For deeper relaxation, take in the Eléme Day Spa Byron Bay, Navia Bathhouse, or enjoy one of the many Byron Bay Detox Retreats in order to leave your worries behind.
Broome, Western Australia
If Western Australia is on your mind, you may want to consider the beautiful seaside resort town of Broome. Few places offer the kind of relaxation that Broome does, after all, where else do you know that you can ride a crew of camels at sunset down the nearby Cable Beach?
If you love to relax by uncovering the history of the towns you visit, you can book a pearling tour of Broome through Willie Creek Pearls in order to understand how the region was built up by the industry. With a deep and fascinating history, and lots of local cultures and customs to learn about — from World War II to the Yawuru people who call the land home — you will have no shortage of ways to unwind in Broome.
Penneshaw (Kangaroo Island), South Australia
If you are planning a trip to Australia, you might as well consider the journey to Kangaroo Island, and a fun stay in Penneshaw. You will need to take a SeaLink ferry in order to reach Penneshaw, but once you do, you will be met with a whole extra island to explore.
Enjoy a Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari to spot sea creatures, visit the Penneshaw Penguin Center if you love those little birds, and do not forget to stop by Penneshaw Beach for a spot of sun. From there, head on over to Dudley Wines for a drink, or continue along Kangaroo Island and visit even more hidden spots for premium relaxation, all at affordable prices.
Esperance, Western Australia
Yet another smaller region to retreat to, Western Australia’s Esperance offers some sights that are hard to come by anywhere, notably, a series of lakes that can come in a variety of colors like pink and green. Book your travel and enjoy a 60-minute flight over the area to take in views you have never seen before, and maybe, you will see Twilight Beach and make that your next stop.
The distance from any major city centers may be a problem for some, but Esperance offers a kind of beautiful seclusion few places offer. Take a half-day trip out on Esperance Island Cruises, stop in at Lucky Bay Brewing for local brews, and do not forget to check out Lucky Bay, where you might even see a few kangaroos while you rest and rejuvenate.
Noosa Heads, Queensland
Those who love to get out, get active, and explore the world around them will love the kind of relaxation that Noosa Heads of Queensland Australia offers. There are plenty of beaches to relax on, but for those who love to wake up and surf, head to Main Beach where you can do just that and even book some lessons.
You can hike through Noosa National Park in order to experience a new kind of nature, or you could go on an incredible kayak excursion with Kanu Kapers in order to explore the unmatched Noosa Everglades. With plenty of great accommodation options like The Sebel Noosa or the RACV Noosa Resort, you will wonder just how relaxed you can get.
Daylesford - Hepburn Springs, Victoria
Those of you who prefer to stay dry during your visits to other countries may want to explore Daylesford - Hepburn Springs in Victoria. Though this beautiful area is nearly an hour and a half outside of Melbourne, it’s small-town charm with a population of just over 3,700 as of 2021 may be precisely what you are after to relax. With help from the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa and the Mineral Springs Hotel, relaxation is never far away.
Head over to the Hepburn Springs Mineral Springs Reserve for free in order to explore this historic site that has been in operation since 1865. You can enjoy fresh water right from pumps, you could go off an explore any of the trails of the reserve, or you could skip all of that and take the area’s Historic Village Walk to uncover the art and history of the region, including the Old Macaroni Factory, which was first established in 1859.
Clare (Clare Valley), South Australia
Just under two hours from Adelaide, South Australia, you will find the home of ideal relaxation in the small town of Clare. With lots of accommodation options, you will be able to choose exactly the way you want to stay. You could choose Neagles Retreat Villas for something homier, stay at the Clare Valley Motel for something simpler, or you could go all out and have a fancy camping experience with Bukirk Glamping.
You could go out and enjoy some nature on the Riesling Trail, but if you want something a bit more laid back and a bit boozier, there are plenty of wineries to explore. Check out Mr. Mick Cellar Door before you head out on the trail or choose the Knappstein Winery, or even Greg Cooley Wines, you have got plenty of options.
Hahndorf, South Australia
If you are the kind of person who loves to unwind with a little bit of shopping, Hahndorf might just be the next destination you need to visit. Just a short drive from Adelaide, this old German settlement has become must-see location during different times of the year for different reasons.
You can visit the Beerenberg Farm to pick strawberries, enjoy the local community as they enjoy their Hahndorf Christmas Village for the holiday season, or stop in at the Hahndorf Academy to take in some fantastic art pieces. As you move from spot to spot, stop in at one of the many local stores to find the perfect something for yourself, or a souvenir for a loved one while you enjoy scenic Australia.
Find Your Way to Unwind in Australia
If you are seeking a kind of relaxation that you just cannot quite get back home, it might be time to consider a trip to wonderful Australia. Regardless of the region, regardless of the town, and regardless of all the people you meet along the way, Australia is bound to have something for everyone, and one of those things that will appeal to everyone is, plain and simple, it’s charm. Consider all of these wonderful destinations the next time you start to plan an Australian trip, especially if you want a special brand of relaxation in your life.
