Holiday bliss that's only a few hours’ drive away.
Considering we’ve spent the most part of this year dreaming of a weekend away from home and away from this desk… it should come as no surprise that we’ve spent wayyyyy too much time on Airbnb and Google, searching for places to venture to when we were able.
Now with the ability to venture outside our own town, we’ve put together a list of unique weekend getaways on offer in regional Victoria – perfect for when you just need to unwind and just ‘get away from it’ all.
Birregurra Tea House
Step back to a simpler time with a few nights in this snug cottage steeped in history. Located in the quaint town of Birregurra, less than an hour’s drive from Geelong, this renovated retreat is truly inspired by wonder.
The house actually began its life as a boot maker in 1864, and has seen many uses over the years, including butchery, surveyor’s office, and in more recent years a tea house, café and function venue and a boutique.
Following six months of renovations, you’ll now find two living areas, a private courtyard, bar and games shed, and three themed bedrooms inspired by local legends, with enough space to sleep up to eight. Tapping into the rich history of the house and the area, the owners have clearly poured their creativity into the update.
If you’re looking for a break from urban life – and right now, who isn’t – this is the ideal location to do just that, providing an escape to both country and coast. It’s also just a short drive from the excellent Brae restaurant which is definitely a bucket list item for many.
This accommodation is located at 73 Main Street, Birregurra. Find out more via Dufflebird.
Yandoit Church
If you’ve had to cancel your trip to Europe or your six week vacay to America, this could be just the treat you need!
The Yandoit Church, built in 1884 by Giacomo Satori served the local Swiss-Italian community until 1993, and has now been beautifully refurbished, turning it into an award-winning property that can be enjoyed by those looking for an exceptional country getaway. Located only 15 min from Daylesford – famous for its healing mineral springs – and 20 min to Castlemaine, this is a getaway that oozes elegance with remnants of the original hand-painted friezes, a massive vaulted ceiling and Gothic windows.
It’s pretty exxy (looking at more than $600 a night) but it you’ve been wanting to treat yourself for a while, it’s got everything you need for a heavenly stay. Think reverse-cycle air-con, wood fire heater, oak floors, sweeping views across adjoining farmland to Mt Franklin, handcrafted floating timber and steel staircase, original artworks, and a triple-grill gas barbecue out on the deck. There are even three bedrooms, which means it’s perfect for your family, your whole crew or a luxe romantic getaway.
A testament to style and grace, this one is a damn fine example of sympathetic, yet modern, renovation of a building that has been rescued from ruin.
Check it our here.
Unique Recycled Shipping Container in Warrnambool
Warrnambool is stunning this time of year and it’s just over a two-hour drive from Geelong making it the ideal distance for a weekend away.
If glamping is more your style, you will have everything you need to enjoy a comfortable holiday in these eco-friendly containers, boasting impeccable interior with a modern design and there is plenty of space both indoors and outside to enjoy the views of the surrounding fields.
Guests have a full kitchen and other handy amenities include cable TV, pocket Wi-Fi, free parking, and a BBQ, alongside spectacularly bright and open living areas. This one can accommodate up to eight guests (with four bedrooms), making it ideal for a girl’s trip or family getaway.
Holiday rentals in Warrnambool really can’t compare to this truly one-of-a-kind retreat!
Find out more via Glamping Hub.
Steam: Train Carriage, Forrest
Ever wanted to spend a weekend on a steam train carriage? Well, now you can.
Located in Forrest, just over an hour’s drive from Geelong, this is a chance to take a step (or two) back in time, to bygone era, where life was simpler, where people spent time with dignified entertainment and life seemed to have more space and time.
Originally used as a workshop, when the original owner was building the house next door, the derelict carriage was renovated back in 2015 to the vaguely steam-punk style holiday accommodation.
Sleeping up to six guests, there’s an open plan kitchen and living room, wood fire box heater with wood supply included, a small kitchen, and a stereo, books and boardgames. You won’t find a TV, nor a washing machine or dryer, so it’s a great option if you’re looking to have a break from the screens running our day to day lives.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway to reconnect, or a low-key weekend away with the family, this is as unique as they come. Check it out here.
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Looking into the Master bedroom at Steam Carriage : Forrest. : @patrickthomas
Stylish Tiny House in Lorne
Nordic-inspired and hand-built, this tiny house is what home design magazine dreams are made of. Surrounded by the countryside, this stylish getaway in Lorne is the ideal place to reconnect with nature.
Located along the Great Ocean Road, there is a wide array of activities both onsite and nearby, such as yoga, biking, hiking, climbing, and more. With room for two guests, this hand-built cabin-style property is the perfect place to take a loved one for some R&R.
They say a picture is worth 1000 words, so take a look at here and we guarantee you’ll fall in love.
Cottage with private Rainforest and Waterfalls, Tanybryn
Escape the city madness and immerse yourself in the secluded magic of The Source – rest, explore, create and connect with yourself, your loved ones and pristine nature.
Located in Tanybryn (Otways), just an hour and a half from Geelong, you will find not only a comfortable getaway with all the conveniences and little luxuries, but also a spectacular rainforest and waterfall adventure on a totally private land. There are two separate bedrooms – one with Queen-sized bed, another with two single beds, perfect for a couple, a small group of friends or a small family.
It’s got everything you need to make your stay comfortable – cosy couches, log fire, kitchenette – but the best part is there’s no WiFi, as the hosts believe in the philosophy “less screen, more green”, inviting their guests to “disconnect to reconnect” with themselves, each other and the spectacular nature at The Source, Otways.
There’s even a secret Garden where you can sit around a log fire in the firepit listening to the sounds of the forest and sharing stories, and the options for day-long adventures are endless with kilometers of world class walking tracks, timber boardwalks, bridges and steps that meander through The Source rainforest, past 300 year old Mountain Ash, magnificent Myrtle Beech and ancient ferns. The tracks will take you to each of the three private Waterfalls situated on the property, one of which is 30 metres high, and another in The Grotto that comes alive with glow-worms at night.
Enjoy this magnificent nature experience, away from tourist crowds, in absolute peace and privacy of The Source.
Check it out here.
Romantic Tiny House in the Otways
This romantic getaway is the ideal rental for two guests looking for an experience in a tiny house – an experience that everyone should have.
Located in Gherang, only a half hour drive from Geelong, glampers will be perfectly located to enjoy the beaches of Torquay and Anglesea. The retreat comes with a plush queen-size bed in the loft and linens and towels are also kindly provided by the hosts. The bathroom also comes with a toilet, a sink, and a shower so that’s always a win. Start up the fireplace, curl up with a book and enjoy the stunning surrounds.
Outside, guests have a decking area to relax on and also have access to the beautiful grounds which is home to livestock and vast greenery.
It’s definitely unique, and could be just what you need after months staring at the same four walls.
Check it out here.
The Pole House, Fairhaven
Widely known as the most photographed house on the Great Ocean Road, and probably Australia, The Pole House is a must if you’re looking for something to heal those cancelled overseas holiday wounds.
Suspended 40 meters above Fairhaven Beach, this is truly one of Australia’s most iconic homes. Recently renovated, The Pole House now adds a luxurious modern setting to a holiday experience like no other. Whilst carefully planned and crafted, The Pole House is not about accommodation, nor is it about facilities or amenities, of which it has many, The Pole House is about the experience.
Picture yourself waking to the sound of crashing waves, opening your eyes to find yourself suspended above the most spectacular coastline in the country. The Pole House is adventure, so take yourself to the edge and indulge in one of the most unique, iconic and awe inspiring destinations.
This one is ideal for couples or best friends, looking to get away and just take in all that the beautiful coast has to offer. It’s pretty pricey, but I mean, look at the view?!
Check out all the details here.
EcoPod with Private Waterfalls and Rainforest
Ran by the same crew as the aforementioned Cottage with private Rainforest and Waterfalls in Tanybryn, an hour and a half from Geelong, this adorable little EcoPod is not something you’d see every day.
If you’re not up for camping, but still want the adventure of the great outdoors, the EcoPod at The Source, Owtays is a totally unique experience that brings back the feeling of connection with nature, whilst enjoying the comforts and cosiness of a gorgeous little abode. Smaller than a “tiny house”, this little abode comfortably sleeps two people on a cushy mattress, leaving enough space for your overnight necessities, pillow and sleeping bag.
Honestly, if you’re after solitude or some intimacy with your beloved, this private little nest in the beauty and wonder of spectacular rainforest and waterfalls will kindle ample inspiration, invoke peace, tranquillity and rustic romance. Enjoy the simplicity of a log fire in your own fire pit, the big starry night skies outside, an adventure to the grotto for night time glow worms or simply listening to the song of wind and rain as you gaze out of your EcoPod window.
Unique is definitely an understatement. Check it our further here..
Cozy Beach Getaway in Port Campbell
This relaxing beach getaway is located near the Great Ocean Road in Port Campbell and is an easy two-hour drive from Geelong.
Featuring a king-size, pillow-top bed that looks out onto the open layout of the accommodation and provides an airy, clean atmosphere in which glampers can relax and unwind in style – the best way to glamp if you ask us. In the bathroom, guests will find a toilet, a sink, a shower, and a spa bath with a panoramic view of the rolling hills and ocean outside, perfect for kicking back in bubbles with a glass of red. The getaway is designed with privacy in mind and has full block out and screen blinds.
There’s also a decent sized living area with a gas log fire for cozy nights with your nearest and dearest. There’s even a complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry on site, and a full kitchen for meals in, along with the outdoor electric grill if you prefer to take in the fresh air.
An ideal one if you’re looking to explore the beauties of Port Campbell and the Great Ocean Road.
Check it out here.
