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.

Make this dazzling stretch of beaches and natural wonders your home base for a grand adventure

Whether you’re setting out solo, bringing a mate, or packing in the whole family, no road trip along Australia’s East Coast is complete without at least a few days spent exploring the Coffs Coast. A stunning stretch of NSW coastline nestled between ancient high-elevation rainforests and magnificent, undiscovered beaches, Coffs offers amazing biodiversity, stunning natural beauty, and heaps of local charm, without the crowds. Pull up in Coffs Harbour , your perfect home base for these unforgettable day-trips.

1. Southern Beaches

The Coffs region boasts 30 of Australia’s most beautiful, unspoiled beaches, directly abutting a dramatic tableau of mountains and rainforests. Drive South of Coffs Harbour to find up-and-coming surf destinations where it’s still possible to catch an empty wave. First up is the picturesque Sawtell village . Wander the famous fig-tree-lined main street packed with laid-back places to eat and drink. Enjoy panoramic views and seasonal whale sightings at Bonville Headland on the Southern end of the beach.

Nearby Bongil Bongil National Park boasts seven kilometres of empty beach, along with hiking and cycling trails through beachfront rainforests – keep an eye out for koalas living in the trees. Boambee Beach and Boambee Creek Reserve are great for families, with shallow waters perfect for kayaking and SUPing, plus an off-leash dog beach.

family eating lunch in sawtell — Experience small-town charm in Sawtell.

2. Orara Valley Tourist Trail

The Orara Valley Tourist Trail has it all: hinterland bushwalks, birdwatching, horse riding, pristine swimming holes and rolling green pastures dotted with dairy farms and historic villages. And it’s only 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour.

Sample produce at a roadside stall, stop into Coramba Hotel for a quintessential country pub lunch, or try the Idle in Cafe in Nana Glen for coffee and scones. Then spend the afternoon kayaking the Orara River or mountain biking on Mt Coramba. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the 4WD touring route along the Orara Escarpment in Bindarri National Park , a rugged landscape with dazzling views that winds through untouched eucalypt rainforests and waterfalls.

A family sitting by the Orara Valley Tourist Trail. — Explore the green heart of Coffs.

3. Dorrigo National Park

Enjoy a classic day trip from Coffs to forest bathe in some of the oldest subtropical rainforests in the world at Dorrigo National Park, part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. These million-year-old ecosystems promise rare bird sightings, towering strangler figs, and epic walking tracks and picnic spots. Try the 6.6 km Wonga Walk to experience dreamy Crystal Shower Falls (where you can walk behind the falls) and the Skywalk Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the valley and coast. Then stop in Dorrigo town for a homey lunch. It’s worth noting that a section of the road between Ulong and Dorrigo – which dates to the 1880s – is unsealed, adding to the area’s end-of-the-earth allure but making travel difficult in adverse weather conditions. Alternatively, head to Dorrigo via the delightful township of Bellingen .

Three people standing at the SkyWalk lookout. — Wander the Skywalk.

4. Northern Beaches

For another tranquil expanse of sun, sand and surf breaks, head north to Woolgoolga (Tourism Australia’s Best Mainland Beach for 2025. Taste the coffee and local-produce breakfast at one of several cafes, then spot whales during their migration season along the Woolgoolga Whale Trail to the headland. Emerald Beach offers clear blue waters and another headland walk, perfect for taking in views of South Solitary Island, a dramatically rocky-cliffed island with a historic lighthouse. Red Rock, some 40km north of Coffs and named for its striking coastal rock formations, boasts a gorgeous estuary reserve that’s perfect for languorous days spent picnicking, swimming, fishing, and connecting with the relaxed local pace.

Freshly caught seafood by the beach, with sparkling ocean views. — Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking Woolgoolga Beach.

5. Jetty precinct

You could easily spend a whole day exploring the Jetty precinct – from its foreshores to the marina to Muttonbird Island. Start with fresh fish and chips from local institution Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Co-op , before browsing the popular Harbourside Markets held every Sunday on the foreshores.

Take a scenic walk along the breakwall to Muttonbird Island , a cultural and ecological treasure with panoramic views and rich Gumbaynggirr heritage. The Giidany Miirlarl Education Space shares the island’s ancient stories, or join a guided moonlight tour to see the seasonal return of the muttonbirds.

Back at the Jetty Strip, find a buzzing mix of cafes, bars and restaurants with cuisines from around the world, open from morning until late. Don’t miss The Jetty Pavilion , a favourite for its unique menu blending modern Australian cuisine with vibrant world flavours.

walk to muttonbird island from coffs harbour — Walk the path where land meets sea and sky.

6. Grafton

Head inland from mid-October to early November to catch Grafton’s jacaranda season, when the town’s streets and parks are covered in purple. Even better, time your trip between 24 October and 2 November to attend the famous Jacaranda Festival, with special food items, performances and more. At any time of year, follow the self-guided Grafton Heritage Trail to discover the town’s historic buildings, landmarks and stories. Or get the blood pumping with a trip along the longest mapped white-water trail in Australia – the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail. Book a tour with Exodus Adventures .

woman walking through jacaranda trees in grafton — Time your Grafton trip to see the jacarandas in full bloom. (Image: @myclarencevalley)

7. Nambucca

Just south of Coffs Harbour sits Nambucca, the ideal town for a relaxed, coastal day trip. Hire a canoe, kayak or boat to explore over 80 kilometres of waterways stretching from the hinterland to the ocean. For those who prefer to stay on dry land (or double up their adventure for the day), stretch your legs along the V-Wall – a scenic coastal walk along the Nambucca River – dotted with boulders painted by the community, sharing messages, art and local stories. Stop along the way to buy Sydney rock oysters direct from local farmers, or try your own hand at fishing. Before heading back to Coffs, refuel on fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas at Matilda’s in Nambucca .

a boat zooming through Nambucca Heads — Explore Nambucca’s waterways. (Image: Seen Australia)

Visit coffscoast.com and download the Coffs Coast Explorer App for more daytrips and trails.

The 10 cosiest winter towns you need to visit