The Femme Files

Australia’s best weekend escapes

AUSTRALIA’S BEST WEEKEND ESCAPES

There has been a noticeable shift in the atmosphere within our HYPOXI Studios come Friday.  No longer are there sighs of relief coming from knowing Friday is the last work day for the week. Instead there is an abundance of excited chit chat as the women prepare for the weekend that will see them wake up on Saturday (and Sunday morning if they’re lucky) in a stranger’s bed feeling like a new person.

No it’s not what you think – the fast paced women that attend our studios are quickly morphing into weekend jet setters as they realise how precious weekends are for recuperating and getting away from their deadlines and pressures of work.

These women have now become our very own trip advisors as they discover some of Australia’s best weekend escapes that feel worlds away. In true Femme Files fashion we want share our client’s favourite weekend retreats that are no longer than 3 hours drive from Australia’s major capital cities, with the exception of WA’s Injidup Spa Retreat that is just under 4 hours. However we are told  it is well worth the extra travel time.  

Read on to see our top picks around the country…

The Golden Door, Elysia – NSW

The Golden Door is a place where you can reach new peaks, feel inspired to make lasting health choices and unveil a new more balanced you. This retreat is where tired souls can be restored, new goals set and a wealth of knowledge gained to unveil a healthier, happier and motivated self.

Located in the beautiful NSW Hunter Valley, just a 90 minute drive from Sydney, The Golden Door Elysia offers magnificent views of vineyards and the Brokenback mountain range and the opportunity to breathe fresh country air each day. 

Featuring just 74 stylish villas with one, two or three bedrooms, this exceptional property is the only purpose built Destination Spa in Australia. A absolute favourite amongst Sydney siders.

Thompsons Road
Pokolbin NSW 2320
T: 02 4993 8500
F: 2 4993 8599
E: info@elysia.com.au
W: www.thegoldendoor.com.au

Injidup Spa Retreat – WA

Western Australia’s best-kept secret, Injidup Spa Retreat, in the heart of the Margaret River Wine District, is an intimate coastal retreat that promises tranquility, fabulous ocean views and indulgent spa treatments in one of the world’s most naturally beautiful settings.

The two-bedroom villas all have their own plunge pool and decked terrace. Inside, the décor is French-influenced with crisp tones offset with an eclectic mix of furnishings and objets d’art. As cocooned as you are in your own private paradise, it is worth visiting the spa for the most dream-inducing massage.

The pace here is unhurried, the beach uncrowded and the surrounding Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park offers cape-to-cape walking trails. In winter, watch the spectacular migration of humpback and blue whales, or simply request a private chef for in-villa dining.

Cape Clairault Road
Injidup
WA 6282
(08) 9750 1300
reservations@injidupsparetreat.com.au
www.injidupsparetreat.com.au

 Ruffles Lodge, Willow Vale – QLD

Perched high on a ridge in the magnificent Gold Coast hinterland at Willow Vale you will find the newest addition to the Peppers retreat collection, Peppers Ruffles Lodge & Spa. This architecturally stunning retreat offers year-round ambience and is ideal for a relaxing weekend away, romantic escape or complete getaway. Catering exclusively for adults (over fourteen years), you can be assured of a truly intimate experience.

Located just 30 minutes from the Gold Coast, Peppers Ruffles Lodge & Spa offers the height of style and comfort with eight beautifully appointed villas and one exclusive executive suite, all echoing the natural environment through the use of natural timbers and warm interiors.

423 Ruffles Road
Willow Vale
QLD 4209
T: 07 5546 7411
F: 07 5546 7358
E: ruffleslodge@peppers.com.au 
W: www.peppers.com.au/ruffles-lodge/

The Louise, Barossa Valley – SA

Positioned atop a gentle hill with sweeping vistas across thousands of acres of verdant vineyards, The Louise is co-located with internationally acclaimed restaurant Appellation. All rooms offer absolute luxury, inspired design, extensive private space and individual terraces overlooking the adjacent vineyards. The restaurant’s signature 10-course Wine Flight Tasting Menu and nightly à la carte menu combine fresh seasonal cuisine with informed service and a world-class wine list to deliver an extraordinary casually elegant dining experience.

In less than five years, The Louise has twice been named the top luxury accommodation in Australia and Appellation is ranked as the top regional restaurant in South Australia and is accorded multiple credits as having one of the most appealing wine lists in the country. The Louise features

Just 1 hour from Adelaide, there is no better place to stay in the Barossa than The Louise. Its 15 luxuriously appointed guest suites, each offering guests complete privacy and stunning views over the surrounding vineyards.

The Louise
Corner Seppeltsfield Road and Stonewell Road
Marananga, Barossa Valley
SA 5355
T: 08 8562 2722
E: stay@thelouise.com.au
W: www.thelouise.com.au 

Lake House, Daylesford – VIC

Nestled among gum trees on the edge of Lake Daylesford, Lake House sets the boutique hotel benchmark. Named the best Australian boutique hotel in Luxury Travel’s Gold List and the best spa and health resort in Australian Gourmet Traveller, the Lake House very much reflects the passion of owner Alla Wolf-Tasker and her artist husband, Allan, whose evocative paintings adorn its walls.

Thirty-three spacious, light-filled, contemporary rooms and suites have balconies or terraces overlooking the lake. The Salus Spa features cedar-lined tubs in wooden-shuttered bath houses perched high among stringybark trees. There’s also a swimming pool and tennis court if exercise is on your agenda.

Located just 90 minutes from Melbourne CBD, this tranquil setting is ideal for a weekend escape where you can unwind and leave your stresses behind.

4 King Street
Daylesford
T: (03) 5348 3329
E: info@lakehouse.com.au

W: www.lakehouse.com.au