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.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.