Regional Glow-Ups: 10 Towns and Cities Having Their Moment

Regional towns and cities across Australia are having their moment, welcoming trendy eateries and upmarket hotels, giving us more reason to explore our backyard.

The local pub is more than a place to swill a beer. It is often the heart and soul of a community. A gathering place of familiar faces. The setting for core memories. Regional towns are often built around these institutions – and when the local pub is reinvented, so too is the entire community.

When last drinks were called at Kirra Beach Hotel in 2021, many of its salt-of-the-earth patrons farewelled their second home, marking the end of an era. The original pub, which opened in 1956, was bulldozed and a cool $380 million was injected into its resurrection. The humble low-rise hotel was replaced with a chic multi-storey complex designed by global architectural studio Woods Bagot featuring curves, natural stone and lush greenery.

The hotel is part of the larger Kirra Point precinct, which includes a stylish bar and restaurant on the first floor and premium holiday apartments above that. According to KTQ Group development director Jeremy Holmes, everyone is vibing to the “new Kirra rhythm". Slated as the Gold Coast’s hottest new destination, the first stage of Kirra Point “brought the Kirra Beach Hotel back to life", he says, while the second stage will “showcase the best of the southern Gold Coast all in one location". It will include a retail laneway with restaurants, a fresh food marketplace, wellness facilities and a separate luxury hotel with a rooftop pool and restaurant.

the pub interior of Kirra Beach Hotel — The pub remains a community hub.

Regional ‘glow-ups’ are a growing trend, according to the Unpack ’24 global consumer survey by Expedia Group. Some 34 per cent of Aussies express a desire to travel to a regional destination based on new openings of iconic restaurants and world-class hotels. On the list of hot-right-now regional destinations are Victoria’s Geelong (thanks to the Geelong Quarter food and beverage precinct), Lorne (which has welcomed Sydney institution Totti’s to its dining scene) and Bellingen in northern NSW (the latest locale for iconic restaurant Three Blue Ducks).

the Three Blue Ducksin Bellingen — Dine at the iconic Three Blue Ducks in beautiful Bellingen. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

NSW’s second-largest city, Newcastle, was also earmarked as a regional destination luring in travellers this year. The former industrial city has been riding a rollercoaster of renewal for decades, propelled by its unique drinking and dining scene.

the rooftop bar at QT Newcastle — Drink in great views from the Rooftop at QT. (Image: Mark Lane)

First came a string of multimillion-dollar makeovers of renowned pubs The Lucky Hotel , The Prince of Merewether and the 160-year-old Great Northern Hotel . These watering holes bid farewell to their beer-stained carpets and smoky pokie rooms for sleek interiors and local produce-led menus. Small bars and restaurants began to spring up thereafter, many in lovingly restored heritage spaces around the city.

the property exterior of The Prince of Merewether in Newcastle — The Prince of Merewether continues its reign in Newcastle. (Image: Shan Rose Photography)

But what really cemented Newcastle as a destination worth lingering in is the addition of luxury hotels in two of the city’s most iconic buildings in 2021 and ’22. The 1970s Brutalist-style building that once housed the council administrative offices was transformed into Crystalbrook Kingsley and the century-old former David Jones store on Hunter Street was reimagined as QT Newcastle.

the hotel suite at QT Newcastle — QT Newcastle retains the landmark building’s facade. (Image: Mark Lane)

Some 100 klicks down the freeway, the Central Coast is another region that has seen significant change in recent years. Much like Kirra and Newcastle, the beachside locale just north of Sydney has long been loved for its beaches, surf culture and scenery. Its beachside enclaves, such as Terrigal, have moved with the times, welcoming sophisticated restaurants and happening bars that could easily slot into a big city.

the dining table at Meribella, Terrigal — Meribella brings seaside chic to Terrigal. (Image: Kitti Gould)

Over in Gosford, the multimillion-dollar opening of Bon Pavilion (now Railway Hotel ) in 2019 reignited interest in the languishing CBD. The project was backed by entrepreneur John Singleton, who has long advocated for the city and continues to invest in its growth.

Shortly after, a glamorous $13-million Art Deco makeover of the century-old Hotel Gosford really gave locals new hope. Two years on, Gosford’s skyline is full of cranes – with developments including a new regional library, high-tech University of Newcastle campus and waterfront precinct. The most exciting addition is The Archibald, a $375-million development by ALAND that will feature a 130-room voco hotel by IHG and restaurant led by Sydney chef Dany Karam.

This glow-up is set to change the face of Gosford with ALAND founder and director Andrew Hrsto saying the development will “enliven the CBD" and “reposition Gosford as a major destination for holidaymakers".

Whether it be the reimagining of a local pub, a newly built hotel or a collective run by cool and clever tastemakers, here are the regional towns, cities and regions being given a glow-up.

1. Kirra, Queensland

A stone’s throw from Coolangatta, this southern Gold Coast enclave has shied away from attention, thanks to its boisterous neighbour Surfers Paradise taking much of the limelight. But holidaymakers in the know have long been lured by its chilled-out charm and world-class waves. Home to the famous Kirra Surfriders Club , which has fostered pros such as Mick Fanning and Joel Parkinson, Kirra is a place rooted in surfing culture.

The addition of Kirra Point – comprising Kirra Hotel , chic restaurant and bar Kirra Beach House, and premium one- to three-bedroom holiday apartments above – has thrown the town into the spotlight. Sleek pan-Asian diner Billy Chow , mod-Oz beachside restaurant Siblings , boho-style cafe Love Street and premium bathhouse Native State are also worth a visit.

food and drinks at KirraBeach Hotel — Drink and dine at the revamped Kirra Beach Hotel.

2. Huon Valley, Tasmania

Just 40 minutes from Hobart, this is a region of incredible natural beauty, shaped by the Huon River, mountain ranges and tall forests.

the Huon River in southern Tassie — The region in southern Tassie is known for being a food bowl. (Image: Huon Valley Council)

Of late, this bucolic food bowl – known for its apples, cider, wine and salmon – has had an influx of new accommodation, tours and dining options, such as a soon-to-open diner by Analiese Gregory, The Kiln Eatery set in a restored oast house (a building designed for drying hops), and architecturally designed cabins at Hunter .

a table-top view of foof at The Kiln, Huon Valley — The Kiln is a hotspot in the Huon Valley.

the exterior of The Kiln in Huon Valley — The Kiln celebrates its agricultural heritage.

3. Townsville, Queensland

With a similar climate to Cairns, less rain and close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, Townsville is a destination that has flown under the radar. Until now. With big-city offerings and a small-town feel, Townsville boasts a lush 2.5-kilometre waterfront promenade and a historic town centre, both brimming with cool places to eat and drink. In 2020, however, the multimillion-dollar transformation of its casino, now The Ville , introduced a luxe destination to stay and play.

Palm trees and beach in Townsville — It’s not hard to find the perfect oasis in Townsville. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)

Some four years on, the arrival of five-star hotel The Ardo next door has upped the ante even further. The city itself is also undergoing huge changes, namely with the redevelopment of the former Reef HQ – the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium – into a state-of-the-art educational, immersive and sustainable experience. The Global Great Barrier Reef Centre of Excellence will be the first of three new waterfront precincts for Townsville. Watch this space.

Views of the Coral Sea from the pool at Ardo in Townsville — Ardo has front-row seats to views of the Coral Sea. (Image: Simon Shiff)

4. Newcastle, NSW

By day, Newcastle’s sparkling coastline and charming ocean baths draw in those seeking sun and surf. Its thriving arts scene lures in creatives, from The Lock-Up contemporary art gallery in a 19th-century former police station, to the ever-expanding outdoor gallery (and correlating Big Picture street art festival) that has given beauty to formerly empty spaces. And, after dark, the city’s iconic pub and live music scene has been enriched by a flurry of small bars popping up in historic spaces that have been charmingly reimagined.

the Merewether Beach in Newcastle — Merewether Beach is home to the largest ocean baths in the Southern Hemisphere. (Image: Tourism Australia/Andrew Smith)

The city’s Victoria Theatre is the oldest surviving heritage theatre in NSW and is undergoing an extensive restoration to reopen as a live performance space. And its once lacking accommodation offering has been boosted by an influx of new stays including QT Newcastle , Crystalbrook Kingsley and the recently opened Little National Hotel in the city’s waterfront precinct.

the hotel room at Crystalbrook Kingsley — Crystalbrook Kingsley is a jewel in Newcastle’s crown. (Image: Crystalbrook Kingsley)

5. Lorne, Victoria

When a big-name restaurant enters the scene, it gains attention from the beau monde. And so, a domino effect is triggered. As the fifth outpost from hospitality juggernaut Merivale, the opening of Totti’s Lorne in the renovated Lorne Hotel was highly anticipated. The town has always been a drawcard for its position on the Great Ocean Road and its natural beauty – waterfalls, beaches and coastal walks – but the seaside town really packs a punch for its food offerings. Totti’s joins Greek diner Ipsos and hole-in-the-wall pizzeria Pizza Pizza.

a table-top view of food at Totti’s Lorne — Totti’s Lorne bowls over visitors to the Great Ocean Road. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

6. Central Coast, NSW

This beachside region smack-bang between Sydney and Newcastle has come into its own in recent years, with a smattering of sophisticated new restaurants, bars and accommodation options increasing its relevance to tastemakers.

food on the table at Meribella, Terrigal — Meribella adds sophistication to Terrigal. (Image: Kitti Gould)

There’s hatted restaurant Osteria il Coccia , located in the quaint seaside town of Ettalong; the complete overhaul of The Beachy at Toukley with chic accommodation and a happening drinking and dining scene; and a plethora of establishments rejuvenating the nightlife in Terrigal (playful diner Maew Maew , grungy bar Lost Souls , uber-chic Meribella restaurant , and plans for a $5-million makeover of Terrigal Pavilion by the same folk behind Queensland’s Burleigh Pavilion in Burleigh Heads).

the restaurant interior of Osteria il Coccia in Ettalong — The hatted restaurant Osteria il Coccia is located in the quaint seaside town of Ettalong. (Image: David Li)

But perhaps the most dramatic change is still to come, with multimillion-dollar developments now dominating the Gosford CBD skyline.

an Asian plate at Maew Maew on pink and blue-green background — Asian eatery Maew Maew has helped transform Terrigal.

7. Bellingen, NSW

Once known as a hippie hideout, this small hinterland town between rainforest and coast has been described as the new Byron (or perhaps good ol’ Byron). The town is an idyllic base for exploring the Waterfall Way and Dorrigo National Park, with well-preserved heritage-listed buildings and an impressive culinary scene. Joining the likes of stylish Italian osteria Fiume and Mediterranean kitchen Brunos , the farm-to-table restaurant group Three Blue Ducks has now moved in. Housed in motel-turned-luxe stay The Lodge on 6.5 hectares, the restaurant has uninterrupted views of Dorrigo Mountain and serves its signature ethical, local and seasonal food from breakfast to dinner. The news gives city folk reason to drop in and linger a little longer while driving along the east coast.

the scenic landscape at Three Blue Ducks, Bellingen — Three Blue Ducks lands in bucolic Bellingen. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

8. Geelong, Victoria

Things are happening in Victoria’s second-largest city, a seaside hub with wide-open beaches lined with palm trees, Art Deco architecture, a bounty of new restaurants and a brand-new hotel. Within the new Geelong Quarter, Holiday Inn and Suites is playful and stylish accommodation with onsite restaurant Maestro headed by master-of-meat chef Adrian Richardson (ex-La Luna Bistro and Bouvier).

a look inside the drinking den at Non Disclosure, Geelong — Non Disclosure is a glam new drinking den in Geelong. (Image: Crystal Baker)

Little Malop Street is a bustling dining precinct, with a host of small speakeasies such as the new Non Disclosure Bar . In the 173-year-old Sawyers Arms Tavern, Southeast Asian restaurant Two Noble and Eileen’s Charcoal Grill , a Euro steakhouse, are two exciting additions. And the century-old Eureka Hotel recently reopened after an extensive refurbishment, drawing in the crowds for classic pub grub in a modern setting. The Geelong Arts Centre also just opened its doors after a $140-million redevelopment, which includes theatres, studios, events and dining spaces and is slated to be Victoria’s boldest cultural asset.

the light-filled Geelong Arts Centre — The city is in the spotlight thanks to the Geelong Arts Centre. (Image: John Gollings)

9. Rottnest Island, WA

Wadjemup, or ‘Rotto’ as it’s known colloquially, is a long-time favourite destination for Perth locals (and visitors alike), returning time and time again for laid-back no-fuss getaways. In 2020, however, the island got a polish with its first luxury resort – beachfront stay Samphire Rottnest – the epitome of barefoot indulgence. The Lodge Wadjemup is a brand-new low-rise build set to open later this year. Newcomers on the culinary scene add to the excitement, including Italian restaurant Isola Bar e Cibo and relaxed Mediterranean eatery Havza.

the poolside restaurant at Samphire Rottnest, WA — Drink and dine by the ocean at Samphire Rottnest, WA. (Image: Jillian Mchugh)

10. Bendigo, Vic

In 2019, Bendigo became Australia’s first UNESCO Creative City and Region of Gastronomy for its diverse and sustainable food culture and creative industries – a huge accolade for the former gold rush town. Since then, Bendigo has carved a niche for itself as an epicentre for art and design, hosting some of the world’s largest fashion and design exhibitions including Marilyn Monroe and Elvis: Direct from Graceland in its regional art centre. The buzz about town got even louder when Wotif named Bendigo ‘Australia’s best town to visit for 2024’.

a plate of food at Restaurant Terrae in Bendigo Ernest Hotel — Restaurant Terrae is the latest spot to frequent at Bendigo Ernest Hotel.

Bendigo Ernest Hotel , a 10-suite boutique housed in the town’s oldest bank, makes for an elegant stay. And discerning tastebuds can be satisfied with on-trend eateries such as North American-inspired The Woodhouse , Melbourne-style speakeasy The Dispensary , chic rooftop bar Nimbus and Bendigo Brewing, opening soon.

The wild, otherworldly beauty of The Grampians offers a perfect place to unwind, slow down and relax.

Not all holidays yield the same result; some are bustling, with endless things to do, events to book and places to see. All great things, but they leave you feeling more tired than before. Then, there are destinations that help you slow down, making real connections and participating in self-care.

Destinations like The Grampians : surrounded by untouched nature, allowing a chance to reconnect with yourself and loved ones at a slower pace.

Discover six science-backed ways to enjoy a holiday and feel restored at the end of it.

1. Practice mindfulness

Hamilton Gallery, the grampians — Be present at Hamilton Gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Mindfulness – the practice of tuning into the present moment – has been found to help in reducing stress, anxiety and depression. One way to practice this art is by immersing yourself in art.

Hamilton Gallery has been in operation for over 60 years, and is not only home to many significant art pieces but also runs workshops and events for all ages to expand their awareness and understanding of art. The gallery is also the custodian of the largest collection of Gunditjmara artefacts held on country.

If you prefer to practice mindfulness through movement, visit Halls Gap Zoo to feed the meerkats – who wouldn’t feel better after focusing on these little guys? Or visit The Grampians Horse Riding Centre for an unforgettable morning ride through 10 kilometres of bushland. Enjoy the soothing movement of the horse and experience the bush anew.

2. Indulge in self-care

two people swimming in the Venus Baths, the grampains — Take an immersive bath in nature on the Venus Baths loop walk. (Image: Visit Victoria)

While the term self-care might conjure up images of indulgent bubble baths or a soothing massage, there’s more to it than pampering. Self-care is any action that protects your physical, emotional and mental well-being.

Like taking an immersive ‘bath’ in nature. Do just that on the Venus Baths loop walk – ideal for less experienced hikers or those walking with kids – stopping at freshwater-filled rockpools to cool down along the way.

Serious hikers (we’re talking some rock hopping and traversing slippery tracks) can tackle the Wurgarri, or Mount Sturgeon walk, which rewards the effort with panoramic views from the summit.

For those whose idea of self-care leans more towards arts and culture, a visit to WAMA is a must. Australia’s first national centre for environmental art is home to exhibitions that explore the natural world through film, installation, painting, performance and more.

3. Embrace nature

Boroka Lookout, the grampians — Soak in incredible views over Halls Gap at Boroka Lookout. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Spending time in nature is the ultimate way to soothe your body and mind. It’s been proven to help with all manner of things, from reducing stress to boosting cognitive function. And there’s no better place to enjoy it than among the raw sandstone, wildflowers and native creatures of The Grampians.

Rocklands Reservoir, spanning 6700 hectares, is an ideal spot. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the view over Grampians National Park. Cast a line, hire a canoe or follow nature trails along the water’s perimeter. How’s the serenity?

To appreciate nature’s imposing power, head to Splitters Falls. Here, find unrivalled tranquillity. Spring is the best time to visit, when bouquets of native spring flowers greet visitors.

Those with limited mobility will appreciate Boroka Lookout, a viewing platform surrounded by breathtaking views over Halls Gap and the eastern Grampians. Come early to witness a sunrise you’ll never forget.

4. Prioritise Rest

outdoor bathtub at Nook On The Hill — Recharge at Nook on the Hill. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Above all else, a holiday should be an opportunity to recharge, and there’s no better way to do it than to get a good night’s sleep. We don’t need to tell you how essential sleep is, for everything from mental health to strengthening the immune system.

Try Wanderlust Glamping , where guests fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature after an evening relaxing around the fire pit and wake to your very own green oasis.

For pure luxury in the foothills of the Grampians National Park, look no further than Nook on the Hill – a handcrafted tiny house surrounded by rewilded, lush native Australian bush. It might be small, but Nook on the Hill has everything needed to unwind in style, including an outdoor bath for balmy nights.

For a modern farm stay, book at Mount William Station in the foothills of The Grampians. The station combines old-world charm with modern amenities and easy access to everything this region has to offer.

5. Engage Your Senses

Salingers Cafe, destinations that help you slow down — Indulge in a meal at Salingers. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Few human senses are as fun to indulge in as taste. A meal at Salingers in Great Western is the ultimate treat, and not only for the taste buds. The food is excellent, but Salingers’ really unique attraction is the bustling beehive that lives within the walls of the historic building.

For an expertly smoked burger, ribs, or beef brisket, head to Flame Brothers in Halls Gap. Tuck into delicious food while you enjoy the view.

If you prefer your senses heightened by the pump of adrenaline, Grampians Soaring Club offers an eagle-eye view of the Grampians National Park and Pyrenees Ranges from a glider. Take in the sights with a cross-country flight, ridge soar, or altitude wave flight.

6. Connect and reconnect

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

Making shared memories is a wonderful way to reconnect with old friends or make new ones. These unexpected finds make it easy to discover something new in The Grampians.

Amateur geologists will delight at the Kanawinka geotrail, which covers 60 sites over Australia’s most extensive volcanic province. Visit the Penshurst Volcano Discovery Centre to learn more about volcanic activity in The Grampians, or head to nearby Mount Napier State Park for a trip into the Byaduk lava caves.

Pop in to the Ros McArthur Art Studio to peruse the gardens full of native and exotic plants and flowers that serve as the subjects of Ros’s still life paintings.

For a shopping experience like no other, head to the Dimboola Imaginarium . Far more than a shop, the Dimboola Imaginarium is an immersive experience where you’ll find all manner of quirky bits and pieces. Expect the unexpected.

Put these science-backed holiday benefits to the test during a trip to The Grampians. Plan your peaceful getaway at visitgrampians.com.au.

Regional glow-ups: The towns and cities having their moment