In a perfect world, we’d all be enjoying breakfast in bed, long walks on the beach and dinner by candlelight with whoever rocks our boat. But romance takes time and in our modern world, we often give priority to other things – like work and to-do lists.
It’s why scheduling a romantic getaway is so important. It’s a chance to hit pause, reconnect and enjoy an overflow of endorphins in a beautiful setting. Whether you’re in the early days of courtship, going on a honeymoon, about to have a baby or in a romantic rut, we’ve gathered some of the most romantic getaways in NSW for couples looking to spend more time in each other’s arms and enjoying life’s simple pleasures, like sleeping in or exploring the great outdoors.
Here are our top picks.
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Lilypad Palm Beach | Palm Beach, NSW
We’d love to know how many babies have been conceived here because let’s face it, this floating villa is sexy as hell. It’s luxurious, private and cleverly designed to be the perfect romantic escape year-round with an infrared sauna, open fireplace, Netflix, swimming platform and more. All meals and drinks are included and there is a private tender service to take you to and from your accommodation.
Gawthorne’s Hut | Mudgee, NSW
This architecturally designed hut offers a quiet, off-grid escape for couples looking for a little bit of luxury in a rural setting. Handmade furniture and a wood burning fireplace make for a unique and cozy stay, while its proximity to Mudgee’s award-winning wineries, restaurants and bush walks means couples get to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Salty Cabins | Northern Rivers, NSW
Dial up the romance with a stay at Salty Cabins – eco-friendly accommodation for couples wanting a luxurious campsite experience or a less conventional honeymoon. There are two options – The A-Frame and The Cabin – both of which are architecturally designed and operate off solar power. Enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle and feel good knowing that with each booking, a tree is planted and $20 is donated to Sea Shepherd Australia.
Bangalay Luxury Villas | Shoalhaven Heads, NSW
If you’d like to spend a night somewhere peaceful, stylish and, well, romantic then this coastal oasis in the heart of Shoalhaven Heads has you covered. There are 16 spacious villas with golf course or garden views, a fireplace and north facing deck, as well as access to the on-site restaurant and heated pool. If you’re feeling fancy, opt for an organic, in-villa massage or a private yoga or meditation session.
Paperbark Camp | Jervis Bay, NSW
The main perk here is being able to “go bush” without having to use a drop toilet or forgo a hot shower (that’s not exactly romantic, is it?). Rather, Paperbark Camp has created 12 safari-style glamping tents with comfortable beds, private decks, showers and (if you book the Deluxe Tent) a freestanding bath and candles. There are beautiful walking trails, bikes, massages and a tree top restaurant on-site and it’s also only a stone’s throw from the crystal clear waters of Jervis bay and two award-winning microbreweries.
Kimo Estate A Frame | Nangus, NSW
These folks truly nailed the brief on creating the perfect romantic getaway with their three private eco-huts huts. Completely off grid (and completely private), each hut features a wood fired hot tub (which doubles as a plunge pool in summer) and views of the surrounding 7,000 acre farm. A perfect place to unplug from technology and reconnect with nature and each other.
Cupitt’s Estate | Ulladulla, NSW
The crème de la crème of romantic getaways in NSW is Cupitt’s winery. That is, if you’re into fine wine, craft beer and dining at an award-winning restaurant. Beyond its food and drink offering, this place is also home to 10 luxurious villas, all designed with couples in mind and several of which boast their own outdoor bath. The mini-bar, hand-made artisan chocolates and breakfast hamper are a nice touch.
Crafters | Jindabyne, NSW
With soft cotton bathrobes, a dual shower and outdoor bath this unique bolthole has thought of everything when it comes to providing a romantic getaway and unique honeymoon destination. Carefully curated to bring couples closer to nature, this eco-retreat is 100 percent off-grid. And while it feels secluded, it’s only five minutes from the popular alpine town of Jindabyne, which offers plenty of top eateries and pubs and activities like hiking, mountain biking and horse riding in the months when it isn’t snowing.
Hideout | Southern Highlands, NSW
Inspired by Scandinavian minimalism this architecturally designed tiny home is a space where relaxation comes easy. Overlooking the dam on a working horse farm (yes, you can ride), its biggest selling point is the luxurious finishings (think baltic pine cladding, custom joinery and brushed brass tapware). It’s also only five minutes from the township of Moss Vale, if you fancy getting out and about.
The Ark | Coolamon, NSW
This divine space has been carefully curated to provide a luxurious stay like no other. Situated in a restored historic church, it provides a welcoming base for exploring the historic region’s many cafes, museums, walking trails and boutique stores. Features include stained glass windows, cypress pine floorboards and beautiful antique furnishings as well as heated flooring and a historic iron clawfoot bath. If you’ve been slack on the romance front, this place is the ultimate redemption.
Bannisters | Port Stephens, NSW
If walls could talk, we’re certain this place would have some saucy tales to tell. This place is the definition of romance with all the ingredients for an enjoyable stay or honeymoon including luxury accommodation (some rooms are even dog-friendly), dramatic cliff top views and an infinity pool. Of course, one of the main draw cards here is the iconic Rick Stein at Bannisters restaurant, which serves exquisite seafood.
Capella Lodge | Lord Howe Island, NSW
If your budget allows it, Capella Lodge is a once-in-a-lifetime experience at one of Australia’s most dreamy destinations. With spectacular views, luxury spa treatments and nine island-style guest suites available, it’s a place where romance is delivered on a silver spoon. Enjoy seasonal meals from the on-site restaurant and fall in love with this World Heritage site’s lush rainforests, pristine beaches and unique wildlife. A place where time stands still and love grows.
Wilgowrah Church | Mudgee, NSW
It would be a sin to visit Mudgee for a romantic getaway and not stay here. Once a place of worship, this deconsecrated church, which dates back to the 1920’s, now serves as one of the region’s best historic hideouts. Located only a short drive from award-winning wineries and restaurants, it’s the perfect base for exploring Mudgee. However, with a fully equipped kitchen and wood burning fireplace you might decide that staying in is the better option
Currajong Retreat | Burragate, NSW
Romance isn’t just about time spent between the sheets. It’s about slowing down, enjoying life’s simple pleasures and reconnecting on an emotional level – and Currajong Retreat is the place to do exactly that. With a number of five star safari tents offering complete comfort and tranquility (think waterfall showers and outdoor baths), as well as stunning views and all-inclusive dining options it’s the ultimate country stay.
Logan Brae Retreats | Blue Mountains, NSW
Logan Brae is a place that will sweep you off your feet. Drenched in history, this century-old apple orchard has always been a small, family run operation. Today, as well as growing apples, Logan Brae offers unique accommodation options for couples across four different dwellings including Hilltop Cabin at Mt Kanimbla (featured) which offers panoramic views, plunge pool and open fire. Spa packages and meals are also available.
Wilga Station – Farmer’s Hut | Bathurst, NSW
Wilga Station is a 260 acre working sheep farm that’s opened its paddocks to couples wanting a unique, romantic getaway in NSW. The secluded Farmer’s Hut is completely off-grid and is positioned in a prime, sunset-viewing spot. The wood fireplace and king size bed make it an inviting space to kick back but if you get restless there are beautiful walking tracks and a willow-lined creek to explore or drive 12 minutes into the historic city of Bathurst.
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