Cosy Winter Escapes in Victoria

With its crisp air, cosy interiors, and the chance to explore beautiful destinations wrapped in their winter best, winter in Victoria offers a unique charm that you can’t get anywhere else. From luxury Urban escapes to country charm, if you’re looking for the perfect winter getaway, there are some breathtaking spots all in, or within a comfortable drive, of Melbourne.

Riverside Retreats in Mildura

Discover Mildura

Nestled on the banks of the mighty Murray River, Mildura is Victoria’s most famous “hidden” gem. Known for its beautiful wine regions, fantastic food, and jaw-dropping parks, tours, and trails.

Things to Do

Whether you want to enjoy leisurely cruises along the Murray River, or perfectly paired wines at one of the area’s best-known wineries, winter is a fantastic time to visit Mildura and with gorgeous star shows to outback adventures, there’s something for everyone.

Visit the Mildura Arts Centre

The Mildura Arts Centre includes the historic Rio Vista House, a gallery with five exhibition spaces, a café bar, and a 500-seat theatre with modern production facilities. The galleries host a dynamic array of exhibitions from local and touring artists, featuring a mix of interesting and diverse works. Although the permanent collection has outgrown the gallery, a selection of these works is always on display for visitors. Relax at the VISTA Café Bar with a coffee or a local wine after exploring the house and gallery, or before attending a theatre performance.

Family Fun

Mildura is an excellent destination for a family holiday, offering a wide range of activities for all ages. Enjoy light-hearted competition and outdoor fun at putt-putt courses, thrilling indoor games with laser tag, and classic family bonding at ten-pin bowling alleys. Younger children will love the parks and playgrounds, while educational centres and museums provide interactive exhibits about local history and the environment. The nearby Murray River also offers boating, fishing, and scenic picnics, ensuring a mix of adventure and relaxation for the whole family.

Find the Fairway

Mildura is perfect for golf enthusiasts, boasting more than five picturesque golf courses in and around the area. These courses offer a variety of challenges and beautiful landscapes, making them perfect for golfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, spending a day on the greens in Mildura is the perfect way to soak up the winter sun and enjoy the sport amidst serene natural beauty.

Where to Stay

Mildura Golf Resort

For a cosy and relaxing stay, Mildura Golf Resort is an excellent choice. This resort offers more than just comfortable accommodation; it offers an inviting retreat for both golf enthusiasts and leisure seekers. Discover a haven of relaxation and enjoy the picturesque first fairway from select rooms. Indulge in delightful dining at Fairways Bistro, offering a modern Australian menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Plan on booking a stay at the Mildura Golf Resort? Use the booking code AUSWE10 for a 10% discount at checkout!

Planning a trip to Mildura? Be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Mildura for more information on everything the region has to offer!

Urban Escapes in Melbourne

Discover Melbourne

Melbourne is a city of endless possibilities, offering an abundance of diverse experiences. Museums, restaurants, bars, stadium tours, markets, concerts, sporting events, shopping, festivals, laneways… there is almost too much to do in Melbourne. But therein lies the beauty, there is always something to do. The true essence of this amazing city lies in its individuality, with each resident and visitor contributing to a rich tapestry of unique and enriching experiences. This is what makes Melbourne a truly special destination.

Things to Do

City Laneways

When you think of Melbourne’s laneways your mind immediately jumps to vibrant street art, the aroma of freshly roasted coffee and unique cuisines from chic restaurants, dainty boutiques, and countless hidden gems. The laneways alone are enough to keep you entertained and occupied for days on end!

Eat, Drink, and be whatever you want to be

Where to even begin with all of the fantastic food around Melbourne? The best part about it – there is a taste for every budget! Dining experiences range from the ultra-fancy Reine and La Rue, to the affordable but undeniably delicious Butcher’s Diner. Here are some of our favourites:

• Butcher’s Diner
• Moroccan Soup Bar
• Supernormal
• MoVida Next Door
• Easey’s

Live Music

The live music scene in Melbourne thrives with a dynamic energy that draws both locals and tourists alike. From intimate jazz clubs tucked away in laneways to bustling rooftop bars with eclectic bands, Melbourne offers a diverse range of musical experiences. Iconic venues such as the Hotel Esplanade, Cherry Bar, and Corner Hotel in Richmond are renowned for hosting both emerging artists and world-class performers. Whether you’re into underground gigs or mainstream concerts, Melbourne’s live music scene promises something for every music enthusiast to discover and enjoy.

Where to Stay

Mantra 100 Exhibition

The Mantra 100 Exhibition puts you in the heart of Melbourne and all of its attractions. Just 30 minutes from the airport and central to everything you need in the City, these 1 and 2 bedroom apartments are spacious, comfortable, and will have you feeling like you are relaxing in your own home. With City and street views, short walks to all of Melbourne’s biggest attractions, and the best public transport on your doorstep, you won’t want to stay anywhere else!

Urban Apartments Melbourne on Elizabeth

Perfectly placed in Melbourne’s bustling CBD, Urban Apartments Melbourne on Elizabeth boasts a central location and a range of one and two-bedroom apartments, ideal for both short-term visits and extended stays. With an abundance of dining, shopping, and leisure options right at your doorstep, this accommodation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all visitors to Melbourne.

Don’t forget to use the AUSWE10 booking code for a 10% discount when you book at either of these amazing hotels!

There is so much more to Melbourne than we could fit in this post. Be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Melbourne for everything you need to know about the vibrant city.

Country Charm in Shepparton

Discover Shepparton

Located on the picturesque floodplain of the Goulburn River, Shepparton is a delightful city brimming with activities for all ages and interests. Whether you’re planning a tranquil weekend retreat for two or a bustling family getaway, Shepparton has something for everyone. Discover a vibrant array of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, alongside expansive parks, reserves, and forested areas with scenic walking trails. Nearby lakes and numerous parks provide perfect settings for summer picnics and barbecues, complemented by plentiful children’s playgrounds and leisure facilities.

Things to Do

The Shepparton Farmers’ Market

Experience the Shepparton Farmers Market, held monthly on the first Sunday, where you can browse about 30 stalls brimming with local delights. Discover fresh pastas, ciders, cakes, breads, and an array of seasonal fruits and vegetables—all showcasing the best of the Goulburn Valley. If you enjoy arts and crafts, visit the Shepparton Indoor Market open every day, featuring local vendors offering everything from footwear and apparel to artisanal candles and soaps. Dive into the authentic spirit of Shepparton by supporting these vibrant community markets during your visit.

Spend the day at Kyabram Fauna Park

With over 600 native Australian animals such as wombats, wallabies, emus, and koalas, the Kyabram Fauna Park promises enjoyment for both children and adults alike. In addition to its diverse wildlife, the park features a reptile house housing crocodiles, lizards, snakes, and turtles, along with an impressive insect display. Spanning 55 hectares of woodland, Kyabram Fauna Park boasts wetlands and lakes that teem with a variety of birds and wildlife. Visitors can also encounter free-roaming kangaroos, adding to the park’s immersive charm. For a unique perspective, climb the observation tower and marvel at the animals from above. Scheduled animal interactions throughout the day offer visitors the chance to get up close and personal with the park’s fascinating wildlife.

Moooving Art

Moooving Art is a dynamic public art phenomenon that adds a unique flair to Shepparton and the Goulburn Valley. Spread throughout parks, gardens, riverbanks, and public spaces, you’ll encounter a vibrant collection of ever-changing fibreglass cows that form the Moooving Art herd.
These life-sized 3D sculptures redefine street art, celebrating the region’s significance in Australia’s dairy industry. With over 90 cows in the herd, you can discover them outside businesses, nestled in gardens, perched on poles, and even integrated into buildings like the Greater Shepparton Visitor Centre.
Local artists continuously reimagine these sculptures, each one bringing its own twist of creativity, humour, or thought-provoking design. Keep an eye out for new additions to the herd, as the cows are regularly relocated to different spots across the city. Challenge yourself to spot and collect sightings of each unique artwork as they roam through their urban pasture.

Where to Stay

Wyndhamere Motel Shepparton

Nestled within the heart of Shepparton, The Wyndhamere Hotel is a spacious, modern and comfortable base for your weekend escape. Four star rooms and spa suites, as well as one bedroom apartments are all on offer. So, whether you’re visiting alone, or taking a trip with the family, you will be catered for here. An outdoor swimming pool adds a layer of luxury to your trip. What’s more, the restaurant on site means high-quality cuisine and casual dining right on your doorstep.

Make your booking today and use the promo code AUSWE10 for a 10% discount!

If Shepparton is calling your name, be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide for everything you need to know about the region!

Whether you’re drawn to the riverside charm of Mildura, the urban allure of Melbourne, or the country warmth of Shepparton, these destinations provide the perfect setting for a cosy winter escape. Each location offers unique experiences, and with our recommended places to stay, you’re guaranteed a comfortable and enjoyable retreat. So, pack your bags, embrace the winter chill, and discover the beauty of these Australian gems.