Legend has it that Salvador Dalí designed this intimate whitewashed hotel’s tropical garden and free-form pool. After a superlative 2017 refresh led by interior designer Tamsin Johnson, it’s emerged better than ever, with a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that’s a destination in its own right.

Halfway between the Gold Coast and Byron Bay, this ’60s surf motel turned boutique hotel is ideally positioned for exploring in both directions. But you might not want to leave. The in-house restaurant, Paper Daisy, is widely acclaimed and the fresh blue-and-white interiors encourage all-day lazing.

This is one of Byron's quintessential resorts, and we can see why. Between the luxurious villas, bars, cocktail caravans and – not to mention – the swim-up bar in the adults-only pool, Elements will provide the escape you need.

British celebrity chef Rick Stein is behind this former no-frills motel. Now it offers good eating, spa treatments and an enviable swimming pool.

In the heart of Orange’s world-class wine country, this winery and hotel is just as worth visiting in the cooler months as it is during harvest season.

Soak up the country air at this historic, rambling property south of Sydney. Hang out with chickens, roam the vegetable garden or take the tyre swing for a spin.

Split your time between wine tasting, walking the countryside and relaxing in glamping cabins (which even come with their own fireplace).

Glamping was a thing here before glamping was a thing anywhere. It’s bordered by the Jervis Bay National Park, which means you’re in for pristine swims and spectacular coastal walks.

Cottage Point Inn has been going strong since the 1950s. A waterside degustation here is the main draw, but the Inn also features two boutique apartments with sublime views over Cowan Creek.

Japanese-style timber baths, mini-bar snacks by LPs Quality Meats and room service courtesy of nearby Chin Chin. You could easily stream a movie in your well-appointed room, but with Golden Age Cinema waiting just downstairs, you might as well enjoy the big screen.

Book in for a multi-day retreat to experience meditation, yoga, coaching and stunning rainforest views.

This chic retreat is just two minutes from the closest beach. But it’s so beautiful, you’ll probably just want to stay in.

There are six historic buildings to choose from on this beautiful tranquil property. It's BYO food or there’s a chef on hand to make your meals.

A luxury floating villa anchored in the waters off Palm Beach. Following a fire in 2020, it was revamped with Mediterranean-style interiors and a pioneering solar-powered floating sauna. There’s an onboard cellar flush with booze, breakfast from the Boathouse, plus lunch and dinner by your own private chef.

Whale Beach’s own elegant fine diner and hotel lives inside a wartime-era coach house with one of the best ocean views in Sydney. Staying here is the perfect weekender – Jonah’s feels like it’s a world away, but you actually haven’t left town.

Four luxe villas surrounded by towering sandstone walls and a thick blanket of trees in dreamy Kangaroo Valley.

A budget-friendly hotel in Byron Bay's heritage-listed former council chambers. It has all the style and luxury of a boutique hotel, but with the communal spaces (including shared kitchen and laundry facilities) you’d find in a hostel. Plus, it’s home to Byron’s only open-air rooftop bar.

This luxe canvas bell-tent is fitted with a queen-sized bed and a solar-powered hot shower. And it's just a 30-minute drive from Byron Bay.

An ’80s motel that's been given a mid century Cali refurb. The only choice you have to make is this: room or standalone bungalow? Then comes the relaxing part: laze beside the kidney-shaped pool and order a drink from the Tiki-meets-brutalist bar.

Located in the Bay hinterland, this boutique, adults-only hotel combines brutalist urban design with high-end hospitality. Stay in one of three striking villas and make the most of luxe features, including private chefs, an infrared sauna and magnesium infinity pool.

Find slumber and low-key luxury on the fringe of Thredbo’s ski village with these two stylish cabins, offering a Japanese-style onsen bath for two, stunning views of Mount Kosciuszko, super-comfy beds and well-equipped kitchens.

What was once a lo-fi motel is now a chic, modern retreat filled with well-appointed rooms, apartments and cottages. The design skillfully combines the space’s heritage features with contemporary touches.

Recharge at one of six adult-only, luxe glamping tents pitched near the Blue Mountains. Each private, self-contained hut comes with a two-person bath, day lounge and outdoor deck with views of mountains, bushland and Aussie wildlife.

This 100-year-old harbourside boozer is a destination in The Rocks. Hit the public bar for heart bistro fare and classic cocktails. Or head upstairs to cocktail bar Henry Deane for sweeping views of the harbour.