8 of the best accommodation options in Dubbo to retreat into

Whether you’re after a safari site, a boutique stay or a self-contained cottage, Dubbo has got it all.

It’s easy to come undone by a simple ‘Accommodation Dubbo’ search online. After all, this vibrant regional town, located a five-hour drive west of Sydney, is the sort of place where you can camp among the giraffes one night, then stay in a slick space with an interior that would put the curation at The Met to shame.

Happily, our list of the best accommodation options in Dubbo, perfect for relaxing after a day of activities.

1. Zoofari Lodge

Zoofari Lodge Dubbo — Check into one of the safari tents at Zoofari Lodge.

Insisting on a slice of Kenya in the ‘wilds of Dubbo’ isn’t the stuff of fairies and pixie dust, but a reality with a stay at Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo’s atmospheric Zoofari Lodge .

Positioned by a savannah teeming with all manner of giraffe, rhino, zebra and antelope, guests have the option to bed down in one of two styles of spacious canvas lodge options: Animal View Lodge, which sleeps up to four people and features a shaded, furnished deck overlooking the wildlife; or Bushland Lodge, which sleeps up to six and includes a shade outdoor area to make the most of that leafy setting.

It can’t all be about the lodges of course and happily, every stay at Zoofari Lodge is inclusive of breakfast, dinner, exclusive tours, zoo entry and bike hire.

Address: Obley Road, Dubbo

2. The Repose

the exterior view of The Repose accommodation in Dubbo — The Repose is a charming cottage complete with a Tuscan courtyard.

Two-bedroom cottage, The Repose , has been dominating column inches since the media caught a whiff of this elegant property and it’s easy to see why.

Nested amidst the western plains just a short stroll from Dubbo City Centre, the historic property – meticulously restored and flawlessly curated to blend the charm of yesteryear with the mod-cons of the present, boasts a master bedroom, a queen bedroom and what could be called a garden, but is instead described by its owners as a ‘verdant garden oasis’.

Does The Repose have all the essentials for that romantic getaway – that roaring fireplace, a clawfoot bath, a Tuscan courtyard and a coffee machine for the morning after? Not only that, it even has an outdoor fireplace – the perfect thing to keep you warm while you watch the stars.

Address: 263 Darling Street, Dubbo

3. The Westbury Dubbo

the accommodation interior of The Westbury Dubbo — Vintage meets contemporary design at The Westbury Dubbo.

Everyone needs a friend who owns an impressive 1910 homestead set to entertain, yet only moments away from the city centre. For those of us who are in short supply of such acquaintances, we present The Westbury Dubbo , a luxurious home-away-from home featuring five guest bedrooms, each one individually (and tastefully) decorated and furnished.

Located in the heart of Dubbo’s CBD, this is a property that has it all: a library, a sun-drenched courtyard, complementary continental breakfast and a sumptuous guest lounge, as well as rooms rich on the finer details, from local original artworks to antique touches (the ensuites, happily, are modern).

Popular with large groups and families, The Westbury Dubbo is available for exclusive use but a two-night minimum on weekends is required.

Address: 169 Brisbane Street, Dubbo

4. Jacaranda Cottage

We could talk about how meticulously restored Jacaranda Cottage is and wax lyrical about its convenient location mere moments to the local shops. There is definitely a pull to discuss how this four-bedroom, two bathroom property offers the ultimate in all the modern luxuries, from easy self-check-in, complimentary access to Netflix and reverse-cycle air conditioning to a fully equipped kitchen with Nespresso machine.

Instead, we’re going to leave you with the imagery of venturing into the leafy backyard to enjoy a picnic under the vibrant blooms of a jacaranda tree, your faithful pooch by your side (yes, the cottage – like all others under the Country Chic Cottages umbrella – is pet-friendly).

Address: 21 Jubilee Street, Dubbo

5. Arthur

a door opening up to the outdoor deck at Arthur, Dubbo — Enjoy relaxed al fresco lunches and dinners.

It’s hard to go past a property with a name like Arthur – particularly when style, substance and a strong name meet to create this sleek two-bedroom cottage which stands as a testament to minimalist elegance.

Recently renovated to showcase a Danish aesthetic (think plenty of natural materials and natural light), Arthur is located a short walk from Dubbo CBD and offers two soothing lounge spaces (not to mention a solid vinyl collection), an outdoor area with a fireplace, light breakfast and complimentary welcome drinks.

Pet owners will be thrilled to hear Arthur is just as enamored with four-legged guests; expect a dog bed and bowls to be laid out in wait for those visiting with a doggy plus one.

6. The Settler

the living room interior with a fireplace at The Settler, Dubbo — The light-filled Airbnb comes with a fireplace to keep you warm.

It’s rare you’ll come across a private Airbnb property which launches straight into the brands the owners have used to style the house, but the folks behind the newly renovated three-bedroom, two-bathroom The Settler – located a short walk from Dubbo’s CBD – are clearly serious about comfort as well as good design.

Sit back and relax in The Settler’s open-living space, enjoy a barbeque on the outdoor deck, cook a meal for up to six guests in its fully equipped kitchen, or just soak in the freestanding bath. Each room is abundant in natural light, leaving you feeling relaxed and either ready to drift off to the land of slumber, or take charge of what else Dubbo has to offer.

Perfect for groups of friends and family gatherings.

Address: 15 Tamworth Street, Dubbo

7. Paradise on Palmer

the exterior of Paradise on Palmer accommodation in Dubbo — The charming country-style property is spacious enough for families.

There’s so much to love about Paradise on Palmer , a two-bedroom charmer located in South Dubbo near the wilds of Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo, but it would be crazy not to start with the digital guest guide made accessible to guests. Designed to provide those who’ve booked a stay with all the essential information needed to enjoy both the property, you can use the service to request late check-out or ask for more firewood for the backyard firepit.

Firepit? That’s right, Paradise on Palmer is the ultimate place for entertaining, its enclosed deck area practically begging for barbeques. This isn’t to say the property isn’t family friendly; those travelling with little ones will love the fully equipped kitchen with Nespresso machine, streaming services, and you’ll even find a high chair and a portacot on premises. So handy!

Address: 94 Palmer Street, Dubbo

8. Fernley

the terrace at Fernley, Dubbo — Enjoy your morning coffee on the terrace.

Go big or go home? No one lives up to the hype quite like Fernley , a spacious four-bedroom, centrally located cottage.

Popular with larger groups – particularly those who rent out the home to prepare for a wedding or a special event within the Dubbo region – you can expect four queen beds, two generous living spaces (one with a double bed) and two full bathrooms to give everyone the space they desire during their stay.

Address: 17 Quinn Street, Dubbo

Discover the best things to do in Dubbo.

Discover vibrant culture and creativity, gorgeous nature spots and more in lively Newcastle.

Newcastle/Muloobinba has a lot going for it beyond its big skies and beautiful beaches. The city’s creative types are now heading downtown, taking over and transforming warehouses and terraces to offer a more alternative vibe. From its nightlife to secret swimming spots, art to architecture, here’s our insider’s guide to Newcastle in New South Wales.

1. Learn to sail on Newcastle Harbour

The harbour has always shaped Newcastle, so it seems like the most obvious place to start your weekend. Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club offers a range of programs that provide instruction for both novice and experienced sailors. This is an inspired classroom that sets off past the Honeysuckle Foreshore up the Hunter River, with views towards a seemingly infinite vista of blue stretching to the horizon. It’s the perfect way to savour your time by the sea. Other water activities include surfing, swimming in one of the secret ocean baths or whale-watching with CoastXP .

Aerial view of Newcastle Harbour. — Join Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club’s programs. (Image: City of Newcastle)

2. Underground jazz scene

Follow the lively sound of the saxophone bubbling up to find The Underground . The popular basement-level bar, with its dim lighting and speakeasy aesthetic, schedules live jazz performances every Tuesday and Thursday. Newcastle is known around the country for supporting live music and this late-night New York-style jazz bar is, like the city itself, both approachable and sophisticated. For fans of live music, Queen’s Wharf Hotel , King Street Newcastle , Mad Poet and The Lucky Hotel are all popular pubs for their roster of live music.

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3. The city as a canvas

The streets of Newcastle present like an outdoor art gallery , adding beauty to the everyday with large-scale works by artists such as Fintan Magee, Inari Meyers, Tom Henderson and Sophia Flegg. Hire a Flash E-bike and pedal around the streets to find treasures such as Bronte Naylor’s Mirror Ocean in Civic Square or Sky & Ocean at South Newcastle Beach Skate Park. You can also join Newy Tour Co.’s Discover Newcastle tour to explore city highlights, architectural gems and street art with an expert guide.

Friends take in Newcastle Street Art. — Admire stunning works of art displayed all around you. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. An artist’s view of Newcastle

There’s a real sense of optimism around Newcastle, stemming from its many grassroots art galleries and organisations. The city is home to an eclectic array of artists who gravitate toward different mediums; see their works on show at independent galleries such as The Lock-Up , which operated as a police station from 1861 until 1982, and Lighthouse Arts Newcastle in the light-filled cottages on Nobbys Head/Whibayganba. Stop by The Creator Incubator to see the Little and Big gallery spaces. Newcastle Art Gallery will soon reopen after a recent expansion, so keep an eye out.

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5. Newcastle after dark

The small bars confetti’d around Newcastle are a sign of the times. Visitors to the compact city will find a concentration of bars within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail. The after-dark experience, which includes theatre and live music, is designed for visitors who are in search of the offbeat and want to celebrate the city’s creativity. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, the bars that dot most neighbourhoods will tempt you with everything from happy hour to their alt attitude.

A bartender expertly crafting a drink, with a stunning library of spirits in the background. — Enjoy a night out at a lively bar. (Image: City of Newcastle)

6. Indulge in great gastronomy

Newcastle’s proximity to the Hunter Valley has helped establish it as a sophisticated getaway for gourmands with a passion for provenance. Dining options in the city are diverse, with everything from casual cafes to cantina-style Mexican eateries such as Antojitos , through to fine diners such as Flotilla and Jana Restaurant & Bar at QT Newcastle . Visit during Newcastle Food Month to get a snapshot of the local culinary scene – you can take note of the many world-class restaurants and cafes that warrant a return visit. Humbug , Peregrin and Bistro Penny should also be on your radar.

The dining area at Flotilla in Newcastle NSW. — Savour a world-class dining experience at Flotilla. (Image: Flotilla)

7. Crystalbrook Kingsley

Crystalbrook Kingsley is another great example of Newcastle’s new wow factor. Staying at the hotel – in the heart of the cultural centre – makes exploring a breeze, with vintage bikes for guests who want to check out the city streets on two wheels. The design-savvy Crystalbrook Collection reimagined the Roundhouse building while adhering to its ethos of sustainable luxury. The hotel is also a magnet for foodies, with the rooftop Roundhouse restaurant and cocktail bar, Romberg’s, two of the best spots in the city for wining and dining.

The Roundhouse by Crystalbrook Collection. — Step into the reworked Roundhouse by Crystalbrook. (Image: Crystalbrook Kingsley)

8. Newcastle’s creative side on show

Save the date for New Annual , a festival of art, music and ideas from 26 September – 5 October. The program is jam-packed with 10 days of art, culture and creativity. This year’s festival will celebrate the power art has to connect people. Expect to see a diverse program including music, theatre, workshops, and performances in iconic Newcastle locations. Visitors will find a concentration of events within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail.

Dancers performing gracefully, accompanied by a live orchestra. — Celebrate migration, community and belonging at New Annual.

Plan your next trip to offbeat Newcastle.