Romance… charm… privacy… it’s these elements that make cottage accommodation a winner for a short break or weekend away. If you’re headed to New South Wales or you’re a local looking to get away with your love, take a look at these five seriously romantic cottage short break or holiday options…
Related article: Charming cottage accommodation in South Australia
Jasmine Cottage, Berry
The historic township of Berry (two hours south of Sydney) is utterly charming and old-world, making it the perfect setting for quaint little cottages. Within walking distance of its restaurants, cafés, markets and vintage stores, the self-contained Jasmine Cottage is as sweet as the name suggests. Situated on two-and-a-half acres of beautifully landscaped gardens (complete with veggie patch, orchard, duck pond and friendly labrador, of course), the jasmine-covered cottage is home to features like a claw-foot bath, fireplace and loft bedroom. Perfect for an escape in the country…
Amaroo Cottage, Hawkesbury River
If it’s a costal getaway you’re seeking, you can’t get much more ‘on the water’ than Amaroo Cottage, just one hour north of Sydney. Sitting on the scenic Hawkesbury River, Amaroo’s Boathouse Studio is the stuff of daydreams, featuring a queen-size bedroom, enchanting French doors and a private over-water deck. Getting here is an experience itself, with Amaroo only accessible by boat, water taxi or river ferry. When you get here, spend your stay chilling out with a book on the deck, swimming in the river, exploring the nearby walking tracks or hire a tinny and head over to the Berowra Waters Inn for an unforgettable degustation dinner.
Cottage 79, Orange
Known for its acclaimed cool-climate wines, fresh produce and fine restaurants, Orange (just under four hours’ drive northeast of Sydney) is a food- and wine-lover’s heaven. While exploring this gem of a region, base yourselves at the centrally located Cottage 79. Built circa 1880, the self-contained cottage sits on the Orange Heritage Walk and has been updated to fuse its heritage character with modern, luxurious touches. The result? A romantic home away from home with a private garden and outdoor patio, fireplace, light-filled living spaces and plenty of mod-cons (think under-floor heating, air-conditioning and double-glazed windows). While it may be tempting to hole up in this cosy hideaway, there’s plenty to see and do, with picture-perfect Cook Park and Orange’s CBD just a short stroll away.
Related: A foodie’s guide to Orange, NSW
Hindmarsh Park Holiday Cottage, Kiama
If you can’t decide between a holiday at the beach or in the countryside, enjoy the best of both worlds at laid-back Kiama (just under two hours’ drive south of Sydney). Here, there are pristine stretches of sand, rolling green hill surrounds, spectacular coastal walks and rainforest trails, plus the well-known Kiama Blowhole, to discover. Located right in the heart of the region’s CBD, the self-contained Hindmarsh Park Holiday Cottage offers the perfect relaxing getaway. Fronting Hindmarsh Park and sitting directly across from Kiama’s coffee strip, shops and restaurants, the 150-year-old weatherboard cottage is also just 50 metres from Kiama Harbour. Expect historic charm and features like an executive kitchen, beautiful living spaces and a spacious wraparound timber verandah.
Stonehurst Cedar Creek Cottages, Wollombi
Wine-lovers, this one’s for you. Tucked away in the green landscapes of Wollombi (around two hours north of Sydney) and right on the doorstep of the Hunter Valley, Stonehurst Cedar Creek is a family-owned and operated vineyard with six private self-contained cottages. Each boasting verandahs with valley and vineyard views, fireplaces and spa baths, Stonehurst’s cottages are ideal for couples looking to relax with a bottle of wine after spending their day driving around the picturesque region, stopping at cellar doors and restaurants along the way. Sigh.
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