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.
There’s nothing like the freedom and flexibility of a road trip – made all the better with local knowledge.
From the rugged coast to the spiritual centre of the country, Australians are spoilt for choice when it comes to legendary drives. And hitting the road and meeting locals who can share their favourite spots along the way is one of the best ways to get to a destination’s heart.
These six epic road trips are a good place to start, basing yourself at locally run Quest Apartment Hotels to take advantage of insider travel tips and convenience aplenty.
1. Journey along the Murray: Mildura – Echuca – Wodonga
Explore the Murray. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Australia’s longest river is dotted with charming towns. In Mildura, a brew from Brother Chris will energise you for a day exploring Mungo National Park, featuring 240,000 hectares of lunar-like landscapes, ending with a restful night at Quest Mildura.
A day cruising with Murray River Paddlesteamers is a must-do. And make sure you visit Two Lads Brewing; Quest Echuca business owner Brendan Du Kamp says its crisp lager “has a wonderful reputation for converting even the most devoted traditional beer lovers”. Unwind at the centrally located Quest Echuca.
In Wodonga, Miss Amelie delivers the region’s best gourmet finds, and Mungabareena Reserve and Water Works offers fishing, swimming and picnic spots. End the day on a high note with a night at the spacious Quest Wodonga.
2. Through the heart of Australia: Adelaide – Alice Springs – Darwin
Stay close to Adelaide’s best attractions at Quest on Franklin.
Venturing through Australia’s spiritual heart is an unforgettable experience. Starting in Adelaide, check into Quest on Franklin, a convenient base for discovering the best activities – including Adelaide Central Market and the Waterfall Gully to Mt Lofty summit hike.
Further north, Quest Alice Springs owner Sherry Li recommends you “take the time to explore the galleries and cafes, chat with the locals and venture beyond the town centre”. The culturally significant Angkerle Atwatye (Standley Chasm) and Alice Springs Desert Park beckon to be explored; afterwards, beat the heat with rooftop cocktails at Quest Alice Springs.
Up north, golden sunsets and barramundi await at Darwin Sailing Club, as does the pet-friendly Quest Palmerston, loved for its outdoor swimming pool and proximity to Palmerston Markets.
Greet the day from Castle Hill. (Image: Katie Purling)
Head from the city to the tropics, starting with a Brisbane culture fix at the Queensland Cultural Centre before enjoying drinks overlooking the river at Howard Smith Wharves. Sleep over at one of 11 Quest properties conveniently peppered across the city, including Quest Woolloongabba.
After heading north to Rockhampton, explore the Dreamtime Cultural Centre then marvel at Mt Archer National Park and Fitzroy River views from Quest Rockhampton.
Next, venture to Mackay, where the picturesque coast and sugarcane fields are easily accessible from Quest Mackay on Gordon.Even further north,in Townsville, Alison Rayner, business owner of the perfectly placed Quest Townsville on Eyre, recommends enjoying the sunrise from Castle Hill and the ‘Just Feed Me’ menu from Shorehouse.
4. The Western Way: Fremantle – Rockingham – Bunbury
Quest Bunbury puts you steps from Bunbury’s Koombana Bay, home to over 100 wild bottlenose dolphins. Make sure to also visit the Bunbury Regional Art Gallery (BRAG), found inside a historic former convent.
5. Follow the vines: Griffith – Orange – Singleton
Don’t miss the steak frites at Monty’s.
Immerse yourself in the flavours of the Riverina viticulture. In Griffith, sip montepulciano at Calabria Family Wines and the award-winning Noble One Botrytis Semillon at De Bortoli. It’s all easily accessible from Quest Griffith, where modern rooms are flooded with natural light.
Amy van de Ven, Quest Orange business owner, recommends visiting family-owned ChaLou Wines and Printhie Wines in Orange. “Finish with a long lunch or dinner at Quest Orange’s newest onsite restaurant, Monty’s Restaurant & Bar, where the steak frites are hard to beat, and you’ll find arguably the region’s best tiramisu,” she says. Make life easy by cocooning yourself at Quest Orange.
In the Hunter Valley, bed down at Quest Singleton, where tasteful rooms feature deep soaking baths and you’re well-placed to sip world-class drops at Brokenwood Wines and dine at two-hatted Muse.
6. Goldfields to Great Ocean Road: Geelong – Ballarat – Warrnambool
Taste Geelong’s delights. (Image: Visit Victoria)
This diverse adventure takes you from port city to historic town to rugged coastline. Begin in Geelong, brimming with culinary delights, culture and natural beauty that’s ready to be discovered at Little Malop Street and the rooftop patio at Quest Geelong.
Ballarat’s colourful Gold Rush history can be explored at Sovereign Hill, and the region’s top produce can be sampled at popular spirit and wine bar Roy Hammond. Quest Ballarat Station and its luxe rooms is the perfect place to hole up during your stay.
For an unforgettable Aussie experience, Naomi Slape – owner of Quest Warrnambool – recommends visiting Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, a dormant volcano where you can spot koalas, emus and wallabies in the wild. Quest Warrnambool is just steps from the idyllic McGennans Beach and across the road from the Warrnambool Art Gallery.
