A WINTER WEEKEND ESCAPE

Sydney is one of the few cities in Australia that gets to experience all four seasons, one of the many reasons I adore it here. From someone who grew up largely on the northern end of NSW, and southern end of QLD, winter was usually around 20C and autumn/spring didn’t really exist (hence the excitement around autumn leaves and such). However, in the Sydney winter I can find myself craving a little getaway, especially when the heightened melatonin sleepiness and lack of motivation from winter/autumn gets the better of me. A little break from life, whether that be a staycation, trip home, or a holiday to somewhere warmer, is my luxurious way to get back in the swing of things and reset. 

Below, I have curated the perfect winter list of stays and getaways, for Sydney and surrounds during the chillier months. Whatever it is you need during this time of year to reset, relax and replenish, I am sure one of the below will soon be on your 2024 bucket list. I also added a few cute fashion picks for each location, because, well, they were cute.

The Hilton, Sydney

The perfect staycation for Sydney-siders. Check in, enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the hotel room filled with an at home pamper with this face mask, these under eye patches, this cute PJ set, topped with a hotel robe and slippers (because duh). Post your lavish self-care afternoon, get dressed in this cute set, this coat, and these boots, and head downstairs to meet your hot date at the Marble Bar. You will likely order an amaretto sour or lychee martini, because you’re treating yourself (or they are). Then, if it’s going well, head to Hilton’s Glass Brassiere for a delicious bite (I hear their famous spanner crab omelette is to die for). After your date which inevitably goes well, ditch them and go back to your girlboss-hotel room for a Sex in the City season three (because it’s the best season) binge. Apply this night cream, and this night serum whilst watching, because we are skincare girlies at heart. In the morning, indulge in an extra hot, extra long shower, before rolling downstairs for an elegant High Tea or buffet breakfast with your bestie (because you have to fill them in post-date) before a late check out of 12pm. 

Discover a tropical winter in North QLD

For a little more of a literal escape from winter, far north Queensland during their ‘dry season’ offers no less than an exquisite getaway. Whether your day vibes look like a tan and mojito by the pool, or you’re more of a travel girly, there’s plenty room for both. The area is filled with beautiful nature reserves and waterfalls (Josephine falls is a personal favourite) which make for a lovely day trip. One non-negotiable visit, the Great Barrier Reef, will blow you away. This time of year is especially perfect, as the stingers are usually kept at bay and the days aren’t too hot. A cute bikini, sunnies and summer perfume will do the trick for a day pack here. Visit the Palm Cove restaurants on the way home to your hotel, for a tropical dining experience that will make you forget about winter entirely. You will come home from the FNQ feeling refreshed, and with a to-die-for tan that will have your coworkers immensely jealous. 

The Blue Mountains 

An escape from the city for the nature lovers, to the greenery filled Blue Mountains, will breathe life back into your soul. The feeling of waking up to bird sounds, and a morning walk through fog to the nearest coffee shop, fills a part of you you didn’t know was there. Walking under the 100 year old trees and waterfalls, provides connection back to your roots and self-security that we sometimes lose in the hustle of city life. Katoomba is a very cute place to set up camp; a sleepy, folk-like town fit with everything you need, plus a few extras. The italian restaurant and op shops make for a lovely rainy day outing. The 4C nights are a bit nippy, but definitely reset the body temperature, making the transition home a lot easier. Adorable cottage-like stays here provide a cosy sanctuary to rest. I recommend packing these chic gloves, this puffer jacket, a good book, and plenty of tea. 

Wishing you a safe trip, and a reset brain upon return. 

Love always, 

Delaney x