Dynamic, artsy, urban, coffee-crazy with inner neighbourhoods that are quirky and full of character – Melbourne is one of Australia’s most popular destinations. It’s easy to see why, with so many culturally enriching places, awesome food, and great weather (well, in summer at least!). But for those looking to experience more than the city, travel just under two hours from Melbourne’s CBD and you’ll find the spa country of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, the wine country of the Yarra Valley, and the idyllic Bellarine and Mornington Peninsulas — the perfect spots to rekindle that fire.
Here are 10 gorgeous romantic retreats that will help to entice you to leave Melbourne for a restful and romantic getaway in country Victoria.
Breakneck Gorge Oikos, Spa Country
A luxury holiday villa just for two, Breakneck Gorge Oikos promises to take your romantic escape to the next level. This gorgeous architectural masterpiece in Hepburn Springs offers unparalleled views, a spacious open-plan living area, and an expansive outdoor deck perfect for relaxing and breathing in the country air. Expect contemporary styling, a bedroom that overlooks the amazing landscape and a bathroom with a freestanding tub and separate shower. Strategically poised over a gorge and located close to the main street, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy or can simply spend time relaxing in the comfy bliss of Breakneck Gorge.
Lon Retreat & Spa, Bellarine Peninsula
A divine hilltop hideaway located in the beautiful region of the Bellarine Peninsula, Lon Retreat and Spa is a private property featuring seven adults-only suites within 200 acres of lush grounds. Explore the outdoors, swim in the ocean, or wander along farm tracks with a complimentary picnic hamper from Annie’s Kitchen. With breathtaking sea views, a superb onsite spa, private gallery, and a fantastic location just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Lon Retreat is a luxurious haven for couples to completely relax.
Jackalope Hotel, Mornington Peninsula
Find bliss and luxury at Jackalope Hotel, an award-winning boutique hotel on the Mornington Peninsula, with stunning views, kangaroos, emus, and birds in abundance. There’s no other place that offers a unique interplay of design, art, and function to bring you one of the best places to celebrate romance. Each of the 46 gorgeous rooms comes with king-size beds, bespoke Zuster furnishing, floor-to-ceiling windows, and decadent bathrooms. Surround yourself with beautiful commissioned art, wine and dine at Rare Hare or Doot Doot Doot, or simply relax by the 30-metre infinity pool.
Kurrajong Retreat, Spa Country
Less than two hours from Melbourne, Kurrajong Retreat feels like another world. The concrete jungle replaced by 2 hectares of private grounds with the resident kangaroos and ducks as your only neighbours. This contemporary hideaway for two has everything you need for a romantic getaway. Think seamless indoor-outdoor living with views to kill, dreamy leather sofas perfect for snuggling, a fully equipped kitchen to cook dinners in, and a plush bedroom with a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Campbell Point House, Bellarine Peninsula
With its picturesque sea views and idyllic towns, the Bellarine Peninsula entices many for a romantic weekend away. And it is here where you’ll find the enchanting Campbell Point House. The eight ultra-luxe suites of this boutique hotel are set on the banks of Lake Connewarra and offer the elegant but charming stylings of a French chateau. Choose how to spend the day: lounging by the infinity pool with a cocktail in hand, enjoying an unforgettable culinary experience at the on-site restaurant, or exploring the sites along the Great Ocean Road. Later you can enjoy a pampering massage at the onsite day spa.
Lake House, Spa Country
Imagine waking up to the whisper of nature in lovely Daylesford, and gazing out to endless greens and blues. This is the reality of staying at the tranquil Lake House, an elegant 33-room retreat fronting the picturesque Lake Daylesford. This unique luxury lodge provides a spacious and romantic setting where you can relax and unwind. Enjoy direct access to the lake, six acres of lakefront gardens, massages at the onsite spa, and delectable meals at the award-winning restaurant.
Nord House, Mornington Peninsula
The Mornington Peninsula, with its charming seaside towns, superb wineries, and gourmet restaurants, is Melbourne’s summer playground. And at its heart, you’ll find the sumptuous Nord House. This three-bedroom holiday home is designed for couples or a small family looking for a relaxing escape out of the city. Be wooed by this stylish and spacious home with its sleek interiors, open-plan layout, designer kitchen, and luxe amenities. Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Nord House offers you a place to enjoy the sun and sand at nearby Point Leo Beach and savour spectacular wine and food.
Solitude, Spa Country
If you’ve always wanted to try staying in a shipping-container-turned-hotel-room, then this is your chance. Solitude’s gorgeous couples retreat offers four container accommodations named after some of the most romantic cities in the world — Paris, Venice, Rome, and Vienna. Compact but superbly furnished with floating king beds, Bose sound systems, fireplaces, and equipped kitchenettes. Soak in the lavish Tasmanian blackwood tub or take in the beautiful surrounds of Hepburn Springs by hiking the lush forests or indulging in the region’s famous mineral springs and bathhouses.
Matisse Cottage, Dandenong Ranges
A couple who adventures together stays together can certainly be said about those who stay at Matisse Cottage in the Dandenong Ranges. This charming one-bedroom retreat is the perfect base for exploring the majestic landscapes, lush forests, and idyllic villages of the Dandenongs. Spend the day hiking the National Park, touring the lavender farm, ziplining at Glen Harrow Park, savouring the local fare, or capping the day with tea and scones in a quaint teahouse. Then go back to Matisse to soak in the freestanding tub and relax by the fireplace.
Clifftop at Hepburn, Spa Country
Find not only spectacular clifftop accommodation in Hepburn Springs but also a place that offers you a modern and luxurious enclave for exploring Victoria’s famed spa country. Marvel at the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, relax in a private spa bath just for two, and delight in the luxe amenities that spoil the senses. These luxury villas feature exquisite fittings like hand-hewn fireplaces, Bose sound system, Hafele kitchen shelves, stone baths, and L’Occitane amenities. Truly, unparalleled comfort at every turn.
Extend your romantic getaway with other activities in each region, such as scenic flights over plains and valleys, steam train rides, or perhaps a road trip on the renowned Great Ocean Road. Whatever you choose to do with your loved one, the many wonders in and around Melbourne are certainly worth the trip and effort.
Mat Lewis is Co-Founder & CEO of View Retreats. View Retreats is a boutique travel agency featuring handpicked, luxury accommodation across Australia & New Zealand.
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