Our Top 5 Australian Winter Holiday Destinations

Sitting pretty just two or so hours from the Sydney CBD is the luscious Southern Highlands. This picturesque precinct has long tickled the fancy of Sydneysiders and for good reason. After all, this region can lay claim to the beautiful greenery of Kangaroo Valley, as well as the charm of Berry. But it’s Bowral that tends to tempt visitors – spend your time here wandering local gallery Ngunungula founded by artist Ben Quilty, grab coffee at The Press Shop, and gather homewares at the Green Lane precinct. After a day’s explore, call in to the boutique Osborn House for the night.

What to pack:
Layer up with a big warm scarf, soft knits and casual shoes to keep you comfortable while you stroll the streets.

Not too far from Adelaide is where you’ll find nature’s playground, Kangaroo Island. With more than one third of the island protected by nature reserves, this is the kind of place that you can expect to get up close and personal with Australian wildlife, from penguin colonies to sea lions. As an island, there are plenty of beaches around here, but winter sees temperatures drop to mid-teens, making it an ideal winter escape. Aside from animal meet and greets, spend your time visiting Cape Willoughby Lightstation, Kelly Hill Caves, and the Remarkable Rocks.

What to pack:
Remember to rug up! That’s beanies, jackets, jumpers, if not a woollen glove or two. And pack your sense of adventure too – this place begs to be explored. 

Queensland in particular is a place proud of its surf breaks and warm weather but the northern state isn’t a total stranger to the cold. West of Brisbane sits Toowoomba, up on the Great Dividing Range in the Darling Downs region. This is Queensland’s largest inland city, and as such you’ll find no shortage of ways to spend your days. A burgeoning dining scene promises to keep you well fed – cafes like Sweet Talk Coffee and Sage+Butler are well worth a visit, as is local brewery 4 Brothers Brewing. Special mention should also go to Toowoomba’s public green spaces – it’s nicknamed the Garden City after all. Keep an eye out for its Festival of Flowers which takes place annually every September.

What to pack:
It’s far colder here than the coastline with average winter temperatures rarely reaching 20℃, so dress appropriately – think cosy fleece jackets, boots and a quality coat.

Nothing screams winter quite like a hearty glass of red and where better to tuck into more than your fair share of grape juice than one of Australia’s most popular growing regions. The Mornington Peninsula is close to Melbourne’s city centre, but a world away from the laneways and nightlife of the metropolis thanks to its gathering of rolling green hills, picturesque cottages and healthy population of vineyards. The food is also on par with the city (we promise). Pay a visit to Tedesca Osteria, the Rare Hare, or Point Leo Estate for a memorable meal – venues which aren’t cheap, but worth every penny. Though you’ll likely be just as pleased with some goods gathered from local producers, and eaten in front of the fireplace. 

What to pack:
R.M WIlliams boots and a long woollen coat won’t look a beat out of place. If you’re looking to dress up, try a knit dress with long boots to keep you warm. 

Think cool-climate Australia and no doubt your mind will picture Tassie. But while Hobart is always a good time with its flurry of bars, restaurants, and galleries, its neighbouring Bruny Island may well be the ultimate cold weather escape. Bruny Island may be small but what it lacks in size it makes up for in rugged natural beauty. To top it off, it can also lay claim to a handful of impressive local producers. A visit to Get Shucked Oyster Bar, and Bruny Island Cheese and Beer Co are non-negotiables, as is a stroll around local landmark The Neck.

What to pack:
You won’t want to be without a good beanie, gloves, warm boots and a winter jacket that can withstand a bit of wind and rain.