It’s a universal traveller’s truth that there are hotels, and then there are hotels. This truth inspires even more meaningful head-nodding when you have a family on board. While self-catering accommodation often becomes the go-to option with kids in tow, sometimes it’s nice to hand over the hard work (and the housekeeping) to someone else for a while.
But there are conditions that must be met. We’re talking the trifecta here: the location must be both scenic and conveniently located for family-friendly activities; amenities must tick the ‘I’m spoiling myself’ box while remaining comfy enough for kids; and service should be warm and welcoming to families with children, but also relaxing enough for parents to feel they’re having some time out. We’ve found three options to help you start your search… Try these
Hayman, Qld
You’re off to a good start with the fact it’s a private Whitsunday island, right on the Great Barrier Reef. Add luxurious amenities and lifesaving services like child-minding, a kids’ club ranger program and junior diving basics courses during school holidays, and you’re laughing (preferably with tropical cocktail in hand). Hayman will close from mid–January til end March before re–opening as One & Only Hayman in April 2014.
Crowne Plaza, Terrigal, NSW
Aesthetic opinions are divided on this pink pyramid-like structure, which dominates the Terrigal foreshore. But there’s no denying its popularity with families. Terrigal has enough to keep everyone entertained, with a great selection of beaches (Avoca, Macmasters, Copacobana) nearby. The hotel has a pool, gym, kids’ club and various dining options, with the beach right in front.
Mantra Lorne, Vic
With hotel rooms or apartments to choose from, a prime beachfront position – not to mention a great base for exploring the Great Ocean Road – and a day spa for mum to enjoy while dad hits the tennis court or beach with the kids, this easy seaside option has ‘happy family’ written all over it.
Get around the natural beauty and bounty of regional Victoria on a guided tour that reveals extraordinary moments from coast to country.
Walk the Great Ocean Road
Swap your car for walking shoes on the Great Ocean Road.
The Australian Walking Co’s immersive three-day, lodge-based walk is absolute bucket-list fodder. The easy-going, guided coastal hike is marked by epic scenery and end-of-day luxury. You’ll have no need for heavy packs or tents, instead expect fresh-caught crayfish, post-walk canapés and local wines. Each day explores the drama of this ocean-facing landscape with an approachable three-hour-ish walk, leaving plenty of time to unwind at the lodge.
Swim with seals and dolphins at Port Phillip Heads
Swim with dolphins in Port Phillip Head Marine Park.
Dive into Popes Eye, within Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park, for this wild swimming experience with mankind’s BFFs of the sea. On the See All Dolphin Swims 3.5-hour experience, departing from Queenscliff, you’ll begin in shallow, calm waters before venturing off to Chinaman’s Hat and beyond to meet seals and dolphins in their own habitat. All gear is provided and all ages are welcome.
Get your ghost on in the Grampians
For those with a penchant for the paranormal, get ready for goosebumps when you embark on the Lantern Tours J Ward Paranormal Investigation excursion that takes place under the moonlight in the west wing of Aradale Lunatic Asylum. As you keep a lookout for supernatural activity, you’ll enjoy tales of the criminally insane inmates that will make the hairs on your neck stand to attention.
Paddle along the mighty Murray
Glide along the scenic Murray on a stand-up paddleboard.
Swoosh softly through the silky waters of the mighty Murray on a stand-up paddle board with Echuca Moama Stand Up Paddle . This gentle downstream sojourn meanders for one-and-a-half hours covering 4.5 kilometres of the river, taking in the beauty on the banks and the vibrant birdlife. From Echuca Moama slip under the Moama Bridge and glide beside its iconic paddlesteamers and the historic port.
Sip and cycle in the Yarra Valley
Cycle around Yarra Valley wine country.
Wine and wheels make a great pairing on the Tour De Vines six-hour Yarra Valley tour that weaves through vine-threaded roads. It’s a relaxed pace along 20 kilometres of the Warburton Rail Trail as you spot native birds and stop in at local vineyards and produce stores. You’ll pull in at a local winery for a tasting and enjoy lunch before hitting up a couple of cellar doors. Depending on your pedal power, there may be time to sneak in a visit to a chocolate or cheese factory.
Dig for gold in Bendigo
Think you have what it takes to unearth a gilded treasure? Try your hand at prospecting and learn the art of gold-digging (in the geological sense) on the two-hour Gold Nugget Hunter tour in the Loddon Valley. On the tour, mine the wisdom of locals Shane and Jackie – who have honed their hobby of gold-detecting into an art – to learn how to read the land and use a gold detector. You may even go home with a nugget of your own.
Cruise around Wilsons Promontory
Cruise around Skull Rock in Wilsons Prom. (Image: Connor Vaughan)
It’s a thrill to drive directly from the sand into the waves aboard the Wanderer Adventures ’ bright-yellow amphibious boat. On this 2.5-hour tour, you’ll skip along the water to take in Wilsons Prom’s top highlights, such as the imposing Skull Rock, The Glennies, Anderson Islets and Anser Island. Spot seals, penguins and seabirds as you absorb the tranquillity of this stunning environment.
Walk with llamas in the Macedon Ranges
Make friends with a llama in the Macedon Ranges.
If you’ve always felt an affinity for long-lashed camelids, then bonding with a llama on a leisurely walk might just be the thing for you. Opt for either a three-hour, five-kilometre hike or a longer 12-kilometre trek along the Domino Rail Trail paired with a gentle, hooved friend. Things kick off with a llama orientation, where you’ll learn how to lead and look out for your new mate before you hit the track. It’s a lovely way to explore the beauty of the region with a sensitive and curious companion by your side.
Go underground in the Grampians
Take a subterranean tour of Seppelt Wines. (Image: Ben Savage/We Are Explorers)
Oenophiles and cave-lovers alike will enjoy going underground at Seppelt’s ‘Drives’ . The largest underground cellar in Australia, The Drives were dug by local goldminers in 1868 and meander for three-kilometres – keeping wine treasures at a temperate 16-degrees year-round. A 50-minute tour through the heritage-listed granite tunnels happily conclude with a tasting of the label’s celebrated sparkling wines.
Discover island life in the Mornington Peninsula
Discover the Mornington Peninsula’s flora and fauna on a guided tour of French Island.
Eject from the mainland on a catamaran bound for the wildlife haven of French Island with Naturaliste Tours . Once you disembark from the boat, you’ll hop into a 4WD to explore the pristine flora and fauna, from salt marshes to vast Fairhaven Beach. Look out for echidnas and koalas and enjoy short walks and historic sites on this half-day tour.
The southernmost tip is a haven for wildlife. (Image: CMcConville)
