By Experience Oz

The 10 most romantic places in Australia

By Chloe · August 2023 · 8 min read
Found a window of time to take a break from the kids? These destinations will help give you 'us time'.

While each individual or couple’s idea of what makes for a romantic experience may be different – a secluded beach might sound like heaven to one couple, while a day at a winery may suit another – Australia presents a wide range of environments and locations that can kindle the spark of almost anyone.

Given its diversity as a country however, picking from the thousands of potential romantic break locations for an experience can be an overwhelming prospect, with no two destinations quite alike.

If you’re in need of a romantic Aussie getaway, we’ve helped narrow the selection down by taking a detailed look at the results of your voted 10 Most Romantic Places in Australia for those looking for an unforgettable – yet intimate – Australian getaway.

10. Palm Cove, QLD

Why it’s romantic: Beautiful tropical beachfront atmosphere, great sunrises, a laid-back and peaceful Reef alternative

Where is it?: Approximately halfway between Cairns and Port Douglas in Tropical North QLD

Who is it best for?: Those looking for a beach and reef destination with fewer crowds and less noise

Most romantic places to stay: Alamanda Palm Cove, The Reef Retreat, The Elysium

Those wanting all the warm-weather benefits of a Queensland reef and rainforest environment with less noise and bustle than the hotspots of Cairns and Port Douglas can instead lay their eyes on the idyllicPalm Cove.

Located roughly 25 to 30 minutes north of Cairns, Palm Cove strikes a nice balance between seclusion from busier tourist hubs while still allowing easy access to all the activities andGreat Barrier Reeftrips which serve as the main drawcard for visitors to the region.

Palm Cove mixes together high-end accommodation with lovely stretches of beach and has a main hub on Williams Esplanade that is lined with palm trees to convey an additional sense of being in the tropics.

This is a village where taking things slow, walking barefoot and admiring the ocean views is the norm. The long, sandy beach is one of the main attractions and is within walking distance of most accommodation. This means you’ll be able to take full advantage of the beautiful beach all day and night without having to trek too far to get home.

Views from the shoreline reach out to the adjacent Double Island and its surrounding coral sea, and the majority of dining options in its main street overlook this panorama for a truly romantic food-and-scenery spectacle. Head to the beach at sunrise to witness an incredible sight, you won’t regret it.

Palm Cove also has a well-deserved reputation for being a hotspot for wellness, hair and massage treatments, with many of its resorts offering bundled pampering packages in addition to luxurious poolside amenities. You’ll have multiple options for drifting away under the spell of a quality beauty treatment, relaxing in a bubbling spa or simply lazing poolside. Recommendations for romantic types include Alamanda Palm Cove with views directly out to the beach and excellent spa right on the beachfront, The Reef Retreat nestled snugly amongst the palms and paperback trees, and The Elysium, a fresh and modern low-rise with a great outlook.

However, the village isn’t strictly high-end accommodation, there’s also a caravan park at the far end, as well as options for backpackers on non-romantic occasions. A number of charming speciality shops along with an elegant and tasteful nightlife scene that’s more of a concentration on the cocktails/conversation/wine blend than raging music round out the Palm Cove experience.

In terms of things to do, the theme with Palm Cove is definitely less is more. There’s relatively little to do in town in terms of activities, however, most Great Barrier Reef tours offer pickups from Palm Cove, and should you rent a car your options open up substantially. You can head up the Captain Cook Highway for a great road trip, perhaps try the unique Flames of the Forest rainforest dining experience, or take the time to explore the Daintree Rainforest nearby.

There’s a reason this is one of Queensland’s most popular spots for destination weddings and the small village atmosphere makes for a good choice for those looking to avoid large tour groups. Once you arrive at Palm Cove you’ll be able to see that everything is within walking distance and nearly universally tranquil.

9. Hunter Valley, NSW

Why it’s romantic: Rolling greenery, plenty of accommodation for couples, enjoying wine around the fireplace, hot air ballooning with champagne

Where is it?: 150km to the north of Sydney

Who is it best for?: Those who prioritise quality food and wine

Most romantic places to stay: Cedars Mount View, Blackwattle Luxury Retreats, Lillies Luxury Retreats, Spicers Vineyards Estate

Wine country is often a favoured getaway for couples looking for an escapist retreat from civilisation. The thought of nestling around open fires while sampling a drop of Australia’s finest red can be hard to top and the Hunter Valley is New South Wales’ most prominent answer to this.

Easily accessible fromSydney, the Hunter may not be the largest or most famed of Australia’s wine regions, but it ticks all of the boxes for a winery destination and is easily reached with a day trip from the country’s largest city.

Home to a dizzying array of cellar doors along with plenty of accommodation perfect for that couples retreat, the Hunter Valley is a hub of secluded boutique resorts dotted amongst its landscape of rolling hills and lush vineyards.

As you travel into the Hunter Valley region you’ll pass a number of quaint houses and cottages that paint the perfect picture. If you’re not staying in a resort or retreat, you might look to hiring a boutique B&B for a night or two. The region itself is beautiful to explore and with wonderful mountain views, glowing sunsets and rolling vineyards, you’ll have the perfect backdrop for your winery escape.

Famous labels such as Lindemans, Wyndham Estate and Drayton’s stand alongside plenty of smaller wineries which are all open to the public and tour groups to explore, dine and taste test. While the Hunter is famed for its Semillon, the likes of Shiraz, Chardonnay, Cab Sav and more can all be sampled here.

Food also plays a prominent role in the Hunter Valley’s reputation as a holiday hotspot, and visitors will be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining. There are numerous choices for degustation dinners, with dishes that come impeccably matched with local wines produced in the vineyards surrounding you.

In all, it’s an excellent spot to enjoy quality food, with many of the accommodation choices in the area having attached restaurants that are a testament to the skill of the chefs that staff them. Boutique accommodation oriented towards couples in the region includes the self-contained Blackwattle Luxury Retreats, the private Cedars Mount View, the elegant Lillies Luxury Retreats, and the award-winning Spicers Vineyard Estate.

Outside of indulging your palate and resting your head, while the Hunter isn’t a hotspot for upbeat activities there are still plenty of attractions and experiences available. A hot air balloon ride at sunrise accompanied by champagne is always a favourite while enjoying a picnic on the banks of the Allyn or Paterson Rivers, playing a round of golf, or strolling through the serene Hunter Valley Gardens are all romantic in their own way.

Perhaps the best thing about visiting a destination such as the Hunter Valley is that relaxing and enjoying quality food and wine are not weather dependent, so should the weather take a turn for the worse, you’ll still be able to indulge in its offerings without hindrance.

8. Southern Highlands, NSW

Why it’s romantic: Lovely green and floral landscape, beautiful waterfalls and lookout points, quiet and secluded accommodation options, a number of townships to choose from

Where is it?: 1-hour drive south-west of Sydney

Who is it best for?: Those who enjoy natural exploration and famously friendly locals

Most romantic places to stay: Crystal Creek Meadows, Links House, Peppers Manor House

This expansive part of rural New South Wales echoes elements of many of the other popular spots on this list, being a verdant slice of the scenic country side that’s as visually impressive as it is peaceful. However, it’s the combination of diversity of townships and the attitudes of its locals that help set the Southern Highlands apart.

The region boasts a sleepy, old-world feel with attitudes to match, and there’s rarely a time where first-time visitors are not made to feel welcome here. The Southern Highlands are home to multiple sub-destinations, and the region is host to an enjoyable, mild climate that offers welcomed relief during the summer months.

The Southern Highlands is surrounded by a blend of bush and National Park, with a lovely mixture of gorges and rainforests to explore via various scenic walking tracks winding through the wilderness. Chief among these is the Cave Creek Walking Track which culminates in a beautiful waterfall, while the rest of the array of natural highlights in the Morton National Park makes finding a serene spot for a picnic an exercise in exploratory enjoyment.

In addition to the natural offerings, the Southern Highlands boasts all the typical mixture of cafes, galleries and antique stores that one might expect of a mountain-village district, and there’s plenty of enjoyment to be had browsing the various storefronts in search of a handcrafted good or trinket.

Of all the locations in the Southern Highlands from which to base yourself, Bowral serves as perhaps the best choice given its larger quantity of restaurants, cafes and shops. There’s also possibly the best panorama of the region available to be had from Bowral Lookout, with a scenic view over the town itself and its ranges in the distance. Other popular locales such as Mittagong and Berrima have retained their smaller, village-type feels now that Bowral has grown in both popularity and development (and is often subject to heavy traffic and scarce parking).

Accommodation options in the region are varied, with many historic B&B’s, colonial style manors and secluded cottages brimming with charm and providing the perfect peaceful escapes. Many of them are within reasonable distance of one another, and given the easily navigable nature of the Highlands as a whole, your choice of where to stay may often come down to simply where you can find the best deal at your time of booking.

For stylish seclusion, highly regarded spots include Crystal Creek Meadows in Kangaroo Valley with its high-end Billabong Spa Cottage, the historic Links House in Bowral that blends an old-world facade and delightful garden with modern furnishings, and the vintage leisure offered by Peppers Manor House of Sutton Forest.

The popularity of the Southern Highlands for those looking to escape from Sydney means that getting accommodation during holiday periods and weekends can be difficult. As a result, visiting during midweek is advised in order to minimise price and maximise your romantic peace and quiet.

Situated just over an hours drive south-west of Sydney and 1.5 hours from Canberra, this is perhaps the best romantic day trip destination available from both cities.

7. Sunshine Coast Hinterland, QLD

Why it’s romantic: Quaint mountain towns with handcrafted goods, wonderful views of Glasshouse Mountains, plenty of hideaway style B&B’s/cottages/holiday homes

Where is it?: 35 minutes from Noosa; just over 1 hour from Brisbane airport

Who is it best for?: Those after a mountain getaway with the possibility of beach access

Most romantic places to stay: Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat, Secrets on the Lake, Glass on Glasshouse, Montville Country Cabins

While theSunshine Coastmight be more widely renowned for its miles of lovely beaches and family-friendly attractions, there’s another element that serves as an alternative lush and secluded getaway destination for the escapist couple.

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland consists of mountainous greenery intermingled with a number of historic and charming towns throughout and offers those looking to head in from the coast the benefits of a combination of fresh, clean air and some truly stunning views. This elevation also brings along with it the benefit of a cooler climate making it ideal for summer getaways that offer a nice balance of relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year.

Chief amongst the hinterland’s natural highlights are the distinctive and sometimes odd forms of the Glasshouse Mountains, with their characteristic volcanic shapes seen jutting out of the landscape.

Great views of the peaks can be seen from a number of walking tracks suited to a range of fitness levels, with the more physically adept able to conquer the longest of these, a 6km walk which leads to the area’s best possible vantage point. This majestic outlook makes for a beautiful spot for a picnic, and timing your trek to coincide with sunrise or sunset brings with it a wonderful glow that highlights the mountains’ quirky shapes even further.

The scenery isn’t the only inspiring part of a visit to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, as its culinary aspects also shine. The region is interspersed with a variety of vineyards at which to sample a rather extensive list of wines, along with supplementary eats such as fudges, cheeses and other delicacies.

Add in plenty of spots to pick up fresh local fruit during the drive and the various award-winning cafes and restaurants on offer and you’ve got a hotbed of offerings for the taste buds.

Art galleries, boutiques and unique shops provide the potential for additional distractions, particularly in the main street of Montville. This town offers plenty of charming little spots to browse and is dotted with colonial-style buildings that offer some great views out over the Blackall Range extending out to the coast.

Maleny is the other main option for first-time visitors, and it’s more of a less-commercialised option, think rural landscapes, plenty of greenery, local markets and a wonderful Botanic Gardens that’s a must-visit.

Romantic accommodation in the hinterland includes B&B’s, cottages and holiday homes that offer plenty of chances for seclusion should you be willing to pay for it. Those looking for couple-oriented places to stay can look towards the likes of Hunchy Hideaway a delightful Montville B&B oriented towards adults-only stays, Glass on Glasshouse and its number of self-contained cottages with full sized windows showcasing views of the range, Montville Country Cabins a hub of 9 deluxe cabins wrapped in greenery, and Secrets on the Lake a wonderful collection of tree houses immersed in tropical bush.

Easily reached from Brisbane and ideal for short breaks, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland offers the chance to relax and take in the beauty of rainforests, waterfalls and mountain views, and is one of South East QLD’s best-kept secrets for a couples getaway.

6. Daylesford, VIC

Why it’s romantic: Wonderfully clean waters, mineral spas and springs, water meets greenery nature

Where is it?: Over 1 hour northwest of Melbourne

Who is it best for?: Those in search of some rejuvenating pampering

Most romantic places to stay: Samadhi Health and Wellness Retreat, Kudos Villas, 65 Main

While Australia’s not typically a country closely associated with the geothermal activity (hello, NZ), the heart of Victoria’s spa country offers a surprising experience to the uninitiated. The area around the sister towns of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs feature Australia’s highest concentration of natural mineral springs and as a result, it has a well-served reputation for being a hub of relaxation and pampering for couples. The fact that it lies just over an hour to Melbourne'snorthwest doesn’t hurt in terms of accessibility, either.

There’s an incredibly large selection of therapies and treatments all within a small radius here, as it is an area that is densely populated with spa resorts and B&Bs to accommodate visitors in pursuit of the region’s healing and restorative properties.

Everything that makes this a worthwhile spot to visit begins with the excellent quality of water in this part of Victoria. The water visitors immerse themselves in is rich in a number of minerals such as magnesium, silica and calcium all of which are believed to have rejuvenating effects for the skin and recovery for aches and muscle pains. Combine these with additional treatments ranging from mud baths to massages, and those couples looking for shared indulgence will be in their element.

The relaxation element of the Daylesford and Hepburn Springs duo is augmented by its mixture of history and architecture. There’s been a strong Swiss and Italian influence in the region since the 1800’s, and multiple Eurocentric buildings dating back to the 1850’s incorporating elements of granite and sandstone remain in good condition to this day.

The natural backdrop is equally pleasant as there’s plenty of natural bush land to navigate at leisure, while a simple stroll around Lake Daylesford is a tranquil spot for a hand-in-hand walking experience. The valleys of the Macedon Ranges also make for an impressive panorama that can be viewed on the tail end of the drive from Melbourne, or by heading further afield and visiting the summit itself.

Daylesford also brings along with it an excellent balance of accommodation and restaurants to go along with its relaxation-oriented attractions, with many of them quiet and secluded. Choose from top spa resorts, B&B’s and other boutique accommodation including the Samadhi Health and Wellness Retreat an Eastern-themed devotion to peace, tranquility and recovery, the Lakehouse a high-end combination of accommodation and dining in a single spot overlooking the water, Kudos Villas a blend of sophisticated seclusion and individual themed villas based on the elements, and 65 Main a guesthouse dating back to the 1800s overlooking the forest.

The Daylesford/Hepburn combo makes for an excellent choice for Melbourne couples looking for a relatively underrated destination that’s well within reach either for a day trip or overnight stay, with weather that generally trends towards less wet than Melbourne city, too.

4. Adelaide Hills, SA

Why it’s romantic: Charming European influenced region, long lunches and gourmet indulgence, enchanting old-world feel throughout

Where is it? 20 minutes drive fromAdelaideCBD

Who is it best for?: Those wanting a balanced mix of food and European architecture

Most romantic places to stay: Adelaide Hills Country Cottages, Mount Lofty House, Thorngrove Manor Hotel, Amble at Hahndorf

Residents of South Australia’s capital are fortunate in that those looking for a dose of travel romance aren’t subject to much of a journey in order to get it as the Adelaide Hills are perfect for couples and lie a mere 20 minutes drive from the CBD.

The Hills serve as an embodiment of the region’s European influence and it’s a part of South Australia that mixes elements of Germany, France and Australia into a cosmopolitan blend of wineries, craft beers, culinary excellence and varied landscapes to form a wonderfully rich and enjoyable whole.

Visual eye candy of picturesque farmlands, wineries that come with beautiful views, and gourmet meals to be enjoyed over a drawn out period of time is the name of the game here, and the variety is extensive enough to be able to return multiple times and remain delighted on each visit.

Touted as the ‘Land of the Long Lunch’, the food here is an eternal highlight, and the Adelaide Hills are a wonderful region for both catered dining as well as picnics under its ever-changing foliage, with plenty of fresh local produce available to pick up and enjoy at your leisure. This is South Australia’s oldest wine region, therefore wine experiences form a key part of the regional experience, while the likes of old-world ice creameries and sweets stores, and boutique cheese and chocolate producers offer a tantalising array of places to indulge.

The Adelaide Hills consists of a number of wonderful little townships each with their own distinct dining options, from Bridgewater and its iconic Mill & Restaurant, and Stirling nestled alongside Mt. Lofty, to perhaps the most famed of all Hahndorf, a small yet comprehensive encapsulation of all-things-German.

Couples looking for a tourist town with a difference can pay a visit to Hahndorf and soon find themselves browsing stores filled with immaculately handcrafted cuckoo clocks, biting into a bratwurst, or clinking a stein of beer at a German-themed pub. Each of the towns is rich in architecture as well, and their historic buildings, enchanting manors and cottages conjure up imagery of fairy tales.

Plenty of charming small-luxury accommodation options including some outstanding B&B’s can be found in the Adelaide Hills, highlighted by the likes of Adelaide Hills Country Cottages, Mount Lofty House, Thorngrove Manor Hotel, and the Amble at Hahndorf to name just a few.

Add to all of this the fact that the delights of the Barossa Valley await just on the Hills’ doorstep, quality wildlife attractions for animal-loving couples, Mount Lofty serving as a wonderful starting point with sweeping views, and it is an amazing region in which to enjoy a leisurely drive and stop at various highlights of your choosing, and you’ve got a flexible destination for romance in South Australia.

4. Heart Reef, QLD

Why it’s romantic: Naturally-formed heart shaped reef, beautiful colours of the Great Barrier Reef, the chance to see marine life from the air

Where is it?: Approximately 80km off the coast of Airlie Beach, QLD

Who is it best for?: Those after the ultimate travel snap of the Whitsundays and those looking to pop the question

Most romantic places to stay: Qualia Resort, Palm Bungalows, Airlie Waterfront Bed & Breakfast, Pinnacles Resort

Slightly cliche? Perhaps. However, there’s a reason that this completely natural reef formation in the heart of the Whitsundays’ Hardy Reef has been the site of more proposals than perhaps any other location in the country. Say what you will about our ability to assign a sentimental value to what is really just a random shape but a trip here still can’t help but feel romantically significant.

It may be just a tiny part of the reef, but Heart Reef still serves as an embodiment of the amazing natural wonder as a whole, and its unbelievable contrast between the colours of the reef and its surrounding waters are striking – no Photoshop needed.

The Heart Reef may have become one of the travel icons not just of the Whitsundays region in which it lies, but Australia as a whole, and it has justifiably been a staple of promotional imagery showcasing the region for years. This is despite its small size – the reef measures only 17 metres wide – and the fact that you can’t actually swim or snorkel due to its protected status.

As a result, the aspiring romantic traveller aiming to propose to their significant other will have to fork out some cash for a scenic flight flown by an expert pilot who understands how important a quality glimpse of Heart Reef is to their passengers.

Enter local operator Air Whitsunday, the original discoverers of the reef back in 1975, who have been flying guests over the reef for decades and run trips above it several times per day. “Heart Reef is extremely popular for proposals, occurring [with us] many times throughout the year”, says Air Whitsunday Operations Manager Sam Collins. “It’s been a natural phenomenon since the 70’s and now a major feature of the international tourism market.”

Additional flights can be arranged over the reef for special occasions, while pilots are skilled in navigating the area and can fly relatively low back and forth to allow for a closer look. This lower altitude affords the chance to spot sharks, turtles and manta rays from the air as well, but be sure to bring a proper camera for the ride as relying on a smartphone simply won’t do the spectacle justice.

Experiences to Heart Reef typically coincide with an extended visit to the gorgeous Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island as a follow-up, with a picnic on the sands the perfect romantic adventure. Finish it all off with some champagne, and you’ve got the ideal capper to one of Queensland’s true bucket list items.

Hardy Reef which Heart Reef lies within is one of the most popular reefs in the entire reef system and it lies off the coast Airlie Beach and offers the chance for travellers to snorkel in a private lagoon nearby. Of course, the Whitsundays as a whole is a hotspot for alternative romantic island escapes, with the potential for luxury and pampering being limited only by the depth of your wallet.

Flights over Heart Reef are available to depart from both Hamilton Island and Airlie Beach, with the more budget-conscious option being to stay on the mainland and fly out from there.

3. Cradle Mountain, TAS

Why it’s romantic: Immersive accommodation within pristine landscape, spotting native wildlife from indoors, beautiful alpine scenery

Where is it?: 2.5 hours’ drive from Launceston, Tasmania

Who is it best for?: High-end couples wanting exclusive wilderness luxury

Most romantic places to stay: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge, Eagles Nest Retreat

Tasmania’s abundant wilderness is romantic in and of itself, as the island state is inherently more mountainous and features a number of dramatic peaks, mountain lakes and rocky cliff faces that form a fairly stark contrast to most of the Australian mainland.

Cradle Mountain – voted one of the 7 Wonders of Australia during our major national campaign in 2018 – remains the most iconic of the state’s peaks, and its surrounding Cradle Mountain/Lake St. Clair National Park is draped in sections of ancient rainforest and untouched bushland making for the perfect secluded trip away.

It’s also remarkably accessible given its alpine beauty. A reasonable 2.5-hour drive from Launceston is all it takes to reach its borders, and once in the region you’ll have a range of options for a romantic base all offering the privacy of wooded bushland that forms natural barriers for peace and quiet.

Travelling and staying in the Cradle Mountain region makes for a holiday that’s all about getting away from civilisation. It’s a part of the country where no TV or mobile reception actually serves as a plus rather than a negative. Bring a book or three and zone out in a land where no time seems to pass, or simply enjoy each other’s company uninhibited by technological distractions.

Visitors here can embrace the best of the great outdoors and take part in the likes of horse riding, canoeing, and mountain biking while there are also plenty of walking tracks available in the region including the famous Dove Lake with its glasslike surface and an impeccable view of the mountain.

Accommodation here is another locale that’s oriented around high-end relaxation and wellness treatments, with lodges located amongst the beautiful Tasmanian wilderness and alpine spas for beauty treatments and massage therapies. These can be enjoyed at the indulgent Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge situated in the closest possible location to the border of the National Park and widely regarded as one of the country’s preeminent luxury hotel experiences.

The Lodge features a large number of cabins of varying accommodation levels (with the topmost being both incredibly pricey and nearly flawless), as well as its excellent Highland Restaurant replete with tavern-style seating, high-quality food and a social atmosphere for meeting other travellers over a drink. Eagles Nest Retreat is another gorgeous option that overlooks Mount Roland and offers outside spas and luxuriously appointed rooms with open fires.

This part of the country is prone to fairly unpredictable weather systems, however, watching it in action from indoors as mountains transition in and out of view all while being pampered is hard to match.

The surrounding area is rich in native wildlife, too, and it’s possible to spot the likes of wombats ambling their way across the terrain from afar. In all, the Cradle Mountain area is a wonderful choice for the summer months and the February Valentine’s season in particular due to both its natural charm and a cooler climate which adds a refreshing bonus to its escapist scenery.

2. Cable Beach, Broome WA

Why it’s romantic: Famously beautiful sunsets, opportunity to explore the amazing Kimberley region, pristine beach without the crowds

Where is it?: Broome within the Kimberley region, far north-west WA

Who is it best for?: Beach-lovers and adventurous couples

Most romantic places to stay: Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa, Pearle on Cable Beach

There are few things more romantic than a sunset, and there are few sunsets in Australia that can compare to those of Western Australia’s Cable Beach. Voted #2 on the list of Australia’s 10 Most Beautiful Sunsets, Cable Beach’s Indian Ocean adds a different spin on the more frequently visited east-coast beach environments of Australia.

Located just to the north of the town of Broome, the spectacle of the sun disappearing into the maw of the Indian Ocean makes Cable Beach a moving experience for couples enjoying a drink while watching this natural phenomenon at work.

The beach itself features 22-kilometres of unspoiled, pristine sand and strikingly crystal-clear water that comes with a chalky-blue tinge, and the warm weather of the region makes it possible to take a refreshing dip all-year-round.

The sunsets in this part of Western Australia take on an additional layer of beauty during the period from March to October when its famed ‘Staircase to the Moon’ optical illusion comes into view. The glow of the moon reflects off the exposed tidal flats of the bay to form a staircase illusion climbing into the evening sky.

However, the best spot to view this is not actually Cable Beach but Town Beach just outside Broome and on nights of minimal cloud cover, it’s a truly spectacular and romantic sight.

This part of the country comes with a laid-back atmosphere that permeates the town and its surrounds, and it’s history-rich as well. There’s a fascinating mix of cultures in the area with a mix of Japanese, Malaysian, Indonesian, Filipino and Aboriginal Australian having played a large role in the region’s development.

This is in large part due to the area’s pearl production which was a major reason for its initial western habitation and this remains a strong part of the region’s attraction. Visitors will have plenty of opportunities to purchase their significant other a pearl-oriented keepsake of your visit.

Due to its romantic nature, special packages are often available catered specifically for honeymooners, and both popular accommodation spots the Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa and Pearle on Cable Beach offer the likes of adults-only pools and poolside dining and drink options to complement this. The Cable Beach Club, in particular, comes nestled in greenery right on the coast and is host to both an excellent spa and beautifully secluded tropical garden that’s a popular spot for weddings.

Add in the fact that the Kimberley region beckons as an endlessly appealing adventure destination beyond, and Broome and Cable Beach make for a wonderful winter getaway destination for those looking to escape the cold.

1. Freycinet, TAS

Why it’s romantic: The best of Tasmanian nature all in one location, some of Australia’s best high-end luxury accommodation, one of Australia’s most beautiful views

Where is it?: Eastern Tasmania, 2.5-hour drive from Hobart

Who is it best for?: High-end luxury travellers; camping and hiking enthusiasts

Most romantic places to stay: Saffire Freycinet, Freycinet Lodge

At #1, you voted in this pristine slice of Tassie’s coastline. Standing in stark contrast to the misconception for many of Tasmania as a snow-dusted, farmland draped mini-simulation of the United Kingdom’s landscapes, the Freycinet region of the east coast of Tasmania takes this perception and turns it on its head.

Mixing together the best elements of Tassie’s signature alpine environment with picturesque slices of water and beach all covered in bushland, Freycinet possesses perhaps the best overall balance of romantic factors in a single spot. It’s sparsely populated, it’s host to gorgeous accommodation, there’s something for beach lovers and bushwalkers alike, and it’s home to one of Australia’s most beautiful signature lookouts.

Chief amongst these highlights is the famously beautiful clam-shaped cove of Wineglass Bay, and there are few better spots for aspiring romantics to propose than atop its lookout that showcases sweeping views of its contrast of vivid waters, pristine sand, and pink-granite mountain surrounds.

Staying here means you’ll have all the wonders of the Freycinet National Park right on your doorstep, with a range of short walks through its terrain leading you to hidden lagoons where you’ll be able to laze on the sand or have a dip while surrounded by the echoes of bird life. Visitors to the National Park wanting an extended stay have the option of camping in spots that have direct access to the beach, and there’s no commercialised development to interfere with the landscape or inhibit the views and nature.

Accommodation-wise, this part of Tasmania is home to two of Australia’s signature luxury wilderness retreats, the gorgeous Saffire Freycinet and the wonderfully secluded Freycinet Lodge.

Saffire Freycinet offers the ultimate in romantic luxury and is widely considered one of Australia’s best for this purpose as it comes with numerous appealing highlights for couples looking for a glamorous escape. The building boasts an amazing architectural design along with incredible views, with an outlook to the Hazards Mountain range, along with an incredible in-house Palate Restaurant that features innovative use of flavours and gourmet degustation offerings.

Whoever said that money can’t buy happiness obviously never spent a night in a world-class, high-end suite while indulging in deluxe spa treatments, followed by a cruise before a meal on the beach replete with crisp tablecloths and champagne. Visitors to the region looking to go one step further can even visit an oyster farm to shuck these fresh seafood delights right out of the water.

Freycinet Lodge, meanwhile, sits in an idyllic spot between the Hazards and Great Oyster Bay within the Freycinet National Park, with a range of cabins to choose from for couples of varying budget levels. The complex incorporates a number of timber walkways to adjoin its buildings, and there’s an obvious level of consideration given to making its environment feel as organic and remain as eco-friendly as possible.

While the high-end luxury options may be out of the financial reach of some travellers (aiming for an off-peak season helps greatly in this regard), simply pitching a tent or visiting from the nearby hub of Coles Bay serves as enjoyable substitutes in their own right. Those looking for Australia’s ultimate romantic escape should strongly consider directing their eyes to the southern end of the map.

In addition, if you’re looking for all the top things to see and do in and around Australia including activities, attractions and more, be sure to check out our main catalogue to browse and book experiences online.

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