The 10 Cosiest Winter Towns You Need To Visit

Broaden your horizons beyond wine country (just slightly) to explore Australia’s most charming winter wonderlands.

Slip on your Uggs and fire up the heater – winter is here. And while the prospect of devouring a cheese platter in the comfort of your living room is especially tempting, Australia is littered with adorable townships that come into their own right about now.

From foodie indulgences and blossoming cultural festivities to heavenly hot springs and, of course, wine-fuelled revelry, winter presents exclusive thrills and spills. You just need to know where to go…

1. Mudgee, NSW

The magic of Mudgee is relentless this time of year as chilly conditions turn the air even cleaner and crisper.

winter landscape in Mudgee — Winter in Mudgee is magical. (Image: Destination NSW)

Sunrises blaze brighter and country scapes glow with rich seasonal colour as the NSW town, located 3.5 hours north-west of Sydney, becomes a magnet for weekenders.

the accommodation interior with fireplace of Sierra Escape, Mudgee, NSW — Get cosy at Sierra Escape. (Image: Sierra Escape Mudgee)

Seize the great outdoors in style with a glamping experience at Sierra Escape , one of the region’s most exceptional places to stay, before you tackle the colonial town centre’s boutiques, bars, historical architecture (grab a selfie at The Old Bank) and eateries.

the accommodation exterior of Sierra Escape, Mudgee, NSW — Stay in style at Sierra Escape. (Image: Sierra Escape Mudgee)

Once you’re done, it would be an absolute sin to skip the wineries and cellar doors, so don’t. Our tried-and-tested recommendations includes Logan Wines , De Beaurepaire Wines and Moothi Estate .

the scenic grounds at Logan Wines, Mudgee — Sample wines at Logan Wines. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Tamborine Mountain, Qld

Tackle the winding road all the way up to the top of Tamborine Mountain to discover one of the most character-filled corners of the Gold Coast hinterland.

an aerial view of the scenic hinterland landscape in Tamborine Mountain, QLD — Tamborine Mountain is a character-filled corner. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

One of the best day trips from Brisbane, this historic town is filled with bizarre boutiques (German cuckoo clocks , perhaps?), your stock-standard, utterly irresistible confectionery shops, spirit distilleries, a handful of excellent wineries and luxurious rainforest retreats.

the bedroom interior of Verandah House Country Estate in Tamborine Mountain — Settle into the area’s charming accommodations.

3. Richmond, Tas

Just 30 minutes north-east of Hobart lies Richmond, a Tasmanian city to transport you right back in time. Original Georgian architecture, lush rolling hills and the showstopping Richmond Bridge, Australia’s oldest bridge to still be used, create an almost surreal backdrop like you’ve travelled onto the set of a British period film.

an aerial view of the Richmond Bridge, Tas — Richmond Bridge is Australia’s oldest bridge. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Go with it and don’t leave without poking your head through the town’s antique stores, galleries, museums, cafes and scattering of wineries to ensure you live your ultimate winter village life.

an outdoor dining setup by the pond at Puddleduck Vineyard, Richmond, Tas — Spot the ducks at Puddleduck Vineyard. (Image: Tourism Australia)

4. Daylesford, Vic

Come for the day spas, stay for the unexpected. Daylesford, located one hour’s drive northwest of Melbourne, is an all-out charm assault as the suburb’s mineral springs and spa rituals don’t even scratch the surface of what you get out of a winter visit.

an outdoor fire setup at Daylesford Lake House — Get cosy by the fire at the Lake House in Daylesford.

First, marvel in Hanging Rock of cinematic, literary and volcanic plug fame, then hit up the excellent Daylesford Sunday Market to gain a sense of its community and one helluva baked goods haul.

a busy market scene with people shopping at stalls along Daylesford Farmer's Market — Shop your way around Daylesford Farmer’s Market.

Don’t miss all the stunning gardens too, including Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens (home to a cafe that delivers even more buttery bakery delights).

two women enjoying their visit at Daylesford Sault Estate — Brace the cold and explore Daylesford’s many gardens.

5. Hahndorf, SA

A sensory overload to send you all the way to the beer halls of Munich, Hahndorf is a winter charmer you need to see to believe.

the scenic town of Hahndorf, SA — Visit the osy town of Hahndorf. (Image: Michael Waterhouse Photography)

The tiny Adelaide Hills town is entrenched in its German heritage, from the historic architecture built off traditional German techniques and 100-year-old trees to the Hahndorf Inn , the town’s spiritual heartland. You’ll also find retail therapy up to your eyeballs as boutiques sell everything from German folk art to Birkenstocks.

people dining inside Hahndorf Inn — Drink and dine all things German at Hahndorf Inn. (Image: Jonathan Kissock)

6. Montville, Qld

The Sunshine Coast’s best-kept secret is out of the bag. Montville in the region’s hinterland offers a cool-weather reprise from sun-drenched beach days, swapping beach hangs for gallery hopping and surf shacks for quaint cottages.

shops and galleries in Montville — Spread across the cosy town of Montville are art galleries and boutique shops. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

There’s plenty of hiking to undertake now the heat has subsided so head to Kondalilla National Park for some of the most scenic trails.

a waterfall in Kondalilla National Park, Motville — Swap beaches for waterfalls at Kondalilla National Park. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

7. Swan Valley, WA

The prize for scale always goes to Margaret River but the oldest wine region in Western Australia is the incredible Swan Valley. Journey into the upper reaches of the Swan River via a 35-minute drive from Perth CBD or opt to arrive onboard a Swan River cruise.

an aerial view of the grapevines at Sandalford Wines, Swan Valley — Swan Valley is the oldest wine region in Western Australia. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Unmissable cellar doors include Sandalford Wines , Mandoon Estate and Lancaster Wines , boasting some of the oldest vines around.

a group of friends sampling wines in an outdoor garden setting at Sandalford Wines, Swan Valley — Head to Sandalford Wines to sample premium wines in Swan Valley. (Image: Tourism Australia)

8. Katherine, NT

July is the perfect time to drop into Katherine, a buzzing Northern Territory town located three hours south of Darwin.

sunrise over Nitmiluk Gorge (Katherine Gorge), NT — Nitmiluk Gorge (Katherine Gorge) boasts some of NT’s most dramatic landscapes. (Image: Tourism NT/Mark Fitzpatrick)

Natural thermal springs on the banks of the Katherine River are a must-experience but it’s the annual Katherine Show and Rodeo , staged on the third weekend of July, that’s worth a dedicated day. Think wheelie bin and lawn mower races (for real), dog jumping, stacks of family-friendly stalls, rides and more.

a woman swimming in Katherine Hot Springs — Swim in the toasty water of Katherine Hot Springs. (Image: Tourism NT)

9. Leura, NSW

Home to an abundance of original artisans, natural beauty and fascinating boutiques, Leura is a tiny town flowing with attitude.

a boutique shop in Leura — Browse through the fascinating boutiques around Leura. (Image: Destination NSW)

Located on the edge of Blue Mountains National Park, it encourages you to unwind in style during the cooler months with care of its Finish-style Blue Mountains Sauna , an ever-inspiring art gallery trail and a much-adored collection of cafes.

an aerial view of the streetscape of Leura — Leura is a tiny town flowing with charm. (Image: Destination NSW)

When it comes time to rug up and embrace the outdoors, various lookouts offering sweeping views of the entire region are easy to access.

people admiring the view atop Olympian Rock Lookout, Leura — Make your way to a lookout for breathtaking views. (Image: Destination NSW)

10. Red Hill, Vic

A pick for the foodies, Red Hill is one of the country’s most exciting culinary convergences. The Mornington Peninsula pitstop is home to the likes of Tedesca Osteria , widely acclaimed as one of the most extraordinary dining destinations on the planet, and Laura at Pt. Leo Estate in nearby Merricks.

the dining interior at Tedesca Osteria, Red Hill — Tedesca Osteria is widely acclaimed as one of the most extraordinary dining destinations on the planet. (Image: James Broadway Photography)

And while you’ll undoubtedly devote plenty of time to Red Hill’s cellar doors, the town’s rich hinterland set against wild beaches is worthy of significant awe.

a luxury boutique hotel set in a garden at Lancemore Lindenderry, Red Hill — Be surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill.

No matter your age and no matter your interests, Victoria’s coastal Bellarine region makes for a memorable getaway for the whole family.

Curving into Port Phillip Bay and extending south from Geelong, The Bellarine is a gorgeous coast-meets-country destination. It’s a captivating mix of beachside towns, rolling farms and vineyards, effortlessly cool eating and drinking spots and coastal vistas that seem to stretch beyond the horizon.

Among its many highlights is a plethora of family-friendly activities to suit all ages and all interests. Here’s your guide to the ultimate Bellarine getaway guaranteed to keep every generation happy.

1. Tuckerberry Hill Farm

There may be no better way to spend an early morning than by foraging and feasting on your own bounty of berries. At Tuckerberry Hill Farm , you can pick blueberries, strawberries and stone fruit from November through March. Take them home or enjoy on the farm’s sun-dappled grounds.

Tuckerberry also has a regular market selling farm-fresh produce, plus an inviting on-site cafe doing light lunches, drinks, home-baked treats and condiments – many of which incorporate the farm’s own harvest.

2. The Oxley Estate

A memorable holiday starts with a memorable place to stay, and The Oxley Estate delivers. Situated in the relaxed coastal town of Portarlington, the sprawling site offers thoughtfully styled rooms and activities that’ll keep both parents and kids entertained.

Wander the fragrant rose gardens, olive grove and fruit-laden orchards. Meet the resident alpacas, donkeys, goats, sheep, chickens and ducks. Challenge your crew to a round of giant chess or mini golf. Or cool off in the shimmering saltwater pool after a busy day of exploring.

Different room types cater to different groups, with the largest able to comfortably sleep eight.

3. Oneday Estate

Oneday Estate is a must-visit. The winery lets you try small-batch, estate-grown shiraz, pinot noir and riesling. It’s also a vibrant and character-filled Sunday lunch spot.

The on-site eatery and bar hosts weekly Sunday Sessions accompanied by tunes from local musicians, a buzzy atmosphere and flavour-packed food and drink. Order a round of delicious woodfired pizzas with toppings to suit all tastes, alongside a glass of Oneday’s signature wine.

The restaurant is also a sight to behold, an eclectic stone-and-timber hall crafted from recycled materials and 100-year-old relics repurposed from the surrounding region.

4. BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon

BIG4 holiday parks are renowned for their all-ages appeal, and BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon in the coastal enclave of Queenscliff is no different. The pool and gym are a given, but there’s also a playground, pickleball and basketball courts, a jumbo-sized jump pad, an interactive games arena and an indoor games room equipped with toys, activities and entertainment.

The diverse range of accommodation spans compact studios designed for three guests, all the way up to expansive beach houses accommodating up to 10, providing comfort and flexibility to suit every size of family.

5. Bellarine Railway

If your entourage includes any locomotive enthusiasts, book a journey aboard the Bellarine Railway . The more than 100-year-old steam train transports you to a bygone era and takes you through the rolling farmland and windswept coastal landscapes that make The Bellarine so beautiful.

The Swan Bay Express is an easy 45-minute ride perfect for younger passengers (and even allows dogs on board), or you could opt for a themed trip. There are seasonal events like the Polar Express (a festive favourite in the lead-up to Christmas), along with the Blues Train (a high-energy experience of live music and dancing) and the Q Train (a roving fine-dining feast celebrating regional produce).

6. The Dunes

waiter holding desserts at The Dunes, the bellarine — Save room for dessert. (Image: Visit Vic)

The Dunes offers the perfect balance of polished and playful, a breezy beachside bar and restaurant that appeals to adults and kids alike.

Feast on moreish snacks, share plates and mains from the Italian-inspired menu, or a selection of San Marzano-topped pizzas fresh from the wood-fired oven. Pair your meal with a classic cocktail, an ice-cold beer or a glass from the generous drinks menu, which brims with local drops. Little ones are well catered for with a line-up of kid-approved meals for breakfast and lunch.

If you’re simply swinging by en route to the family-friendly beach, grab a bite at The Dunes’ beachside kiosk before strolling down for a paddle or surf.

7. Sea All Dolphin Swims

dolphins playing in The Bellarine — Spot the locals with Sea All Dolphin Swims. (Image: Visit Vic)

The sparkling waters around The Bellarine are home to dolphins, fur seals, little penguins, humpback and southern right whales, plus a flurry of seabirds. Sea All Dolphin Swims lets you see some of these magnificent animals up close aboard one of their small-group vessels.

Head out on a sightseeing tour and spot local wildlife darting around the boat, or dive right in with a swim adventure tour. You’ll be swimming alongside dolphins and seals in their natural habitat – a bucket-list experience you won’t forget fast.

Swimming and snorkelling gear is provided, and guides are trained to ensure a gentle, eco-friendly encounter for both swimmers and sea creatures.

8. Jack Rabbit

aerial of jack rabbit winery and vineyard — Everyone has a menu to enjoy at Jack Rabbit. (Image: Visit Vic)

Jack Rabbit is a one-stop dining destination, with a casual cafe and refined restaurant in one place.

If your mood leans laid-back, the House of Jack Rabbit is a lovely spot for brunch, lunch or dinner. The cafe serves a produce-driven all-day menu filled with seasonal mains, generous sharing platters and a playful kids menu to suit even the pickiest of eaters.

If you’re after something more elevated, Jack Rabbit Restaurant does plates that change with the seasons and incorporate plenty of local produce. Even younger guests are well catered to, with a considered yet familiar kids’ menu that’s just as vibrant as the grown-up one.

To start planning your trip or for more inspiration, head to visitgeelongbellarine.com.au

The 10 cosiest winter towns you need to visit