THE ART OF GETTING AWAY
We’ve all heard the phrase “Disconnect to Reconnect”. Well, it’s one of our favourites because it’s true; these days more than ever we’re slaves to our devices. If we were determining the quality of our relationships based on length of time alone, then our relationships with our screens would win hands-down. Ouch, right?
But it’s not all doom and gloom! Slow Living is a movement that is gaining momentum these days because we quite literally need to slow ourselves down, step away from our screens and let our minds and bodies have enough space to breathe.
For us, a change in scenery always does the trick. Whether you’re local to Melbourne or even just here for a visit, here are our most-loved weekend getaways to visit during Winter.
Images via The Wensley.
SURF COAST
From Torquay to Anglesea, explore the surf coast and its hinterlands for a rural, country retreat.
STAY The Wensley in Wensleydale
Grab a handful of your friends and head to this secluded oasis with a gorgeous open kitchen, cosy nooks, a natural stone tub and no TV in sight.
DO With a house like The Wensley, there’s no reason to leave! But if you must, we recommend breathing in the salty beach air at Point Roadknight, scoring vintage finds at Aireys Inlet Market and getting a yin or meditation practice in at Yoke Yoga.
EAT Stop by Surfcoast Wholefoods to stock up on all the nourishing foods to cook up a beautiful dinner for your friends by the open-fire.
Images via Casa Warrandyte.
WARRANDYTE
STAY Casa Warrandyte
Down a gravel road deep within Warrandyte State Park, find space and stillness in this architectural home surrounded by wildlife and the Yarra River. The perfect retreat to read a book, listen to the sounds of nature and lay by the fireplace.
DO Go for a bush walk, dip your toes in the Yarra, or have a cosy picnic at Pound Bend Reserve.
EAT Head one town over and check out Eltham. While you’re there, stop by Zen Den for lunch and a cuppa chai.
Image via Broadsheet.
DAYLESFORD
STAY Hepburn Springs Escape Villas
DO When you can’t bathe yourself in the sunshine, bathe yourself in some hot springs instead! Hepburn Bathhouse has the most replenishing mineral spas within regional Victoria. For a little treasure hunting, go antiquing at The Amazing Mill Markets or for something more active, get out into nature and check out Trentham Falls.
EAT Drop into Larder Daylesford for seasonal, local produce incorporated across their entire menu.
We can taste the zen already, can’t you? Where do you go to retreat and recharge? Wherever you’re getting away to, near or far, don’t forget the tea.