Now that Easter has passed and Australia is embracing cooler temperatures, it’s tempting to hunker down indoors. But why not make the most of the quieter season or plan ahead for a winter escape? Savour the warmer weather at a private estate situated on a tranquil Gold Coast beach, or indulge in a city escape at the W Hotel’s ultra-luxurious new penthouse. Below are five must-dos this month, handpicked by the editors at T: The New York Times Style Magazine Australia.
Rolling Seas, Bilinga Beach QLD
If a European summer isn’t on the cards this year, consider a retreat to Rolling Seas, a Mediterranean-inspired private estate located right on the shores of Bilinga beach, to the north of Coolangatta. Set across two freestanding villas – The Residence and The Cottage – the property is ideal for families or large groups, accommodating up to 12 guests.
Boutique renovation and interiors company Three Birds is behind the styling, each space decked out with textural furniture and accessories that pay homage to the Gold Coast’s laidback lifestyle. Rolling Seas boasts an infinity pool, a ping-pong table, and a sunken outdoor dining area that opens directly onto the sandy beach. Fully self-contained with a well-equipped kitchen, it’s easy to settle in and not go anywhere at all. Yet, if you decide to explore, the region’s top attractions – ancient rainforests, pristine coastlines, and vibrant surf towns – are just moments away. rollingseas.com.au
Palm Bungalows, Hamilton Island QLD
An island escape is one of the easiest ways to disconnect from the mundane of the everyday. And this month only, Hamilton Island is offering up to 15 per cent off some of its most sought-after accommodations including the Palm Bungalows. Nestled in lush tropical gardens, each retreat provides a peaceful oasis, far removed from the rest of the island.
Here, guests can make the most of the outdoor activities on offer with access to catamarans, windsurfers, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and snorkelling gear. After a long day in the sun, unwind on your private deck’s hammock or enjoy a movie in the comfort of air-conditioned interiors. hamiltonisland.com.au.
W Hotel’s Extreme Wow Suite, Sydney NSW
Auckland to Sydney Cruise, Oceania
New Zealand is renowned for its natural beauty, pristine mountains and crystal clear seas. Onboard Oceania’s luxury vessel The Regatta, guests can expect to experience the landscapes from a new vantage point. Departing from Auckland in December 2024, the 14-day voyage offers a unique exploration of the country’s diverse cities and towns, including Rotorua (Tauranga), Christchurch (Lyttelton), Bluff, and more, before continuing across the Tasman Sea to Tasmania, Melbourne, and concluding in Sydney.
Onboard, guests are treated to an array of luxurious amenities, including a spa, a gleaming pool and pool deck (perfect to retreat to after a long day), live music and performances, and multiple dining experiences. As a limited-time offer, Oceania is currently offering guests a complimentary one-night pre-cruise stay with fares starting at $8,500 per guest. oceaniacruises.com.
Calile Hotel’s Culture Program, Brisbane QLD
The iconic cabana-lined pool, award-winning design and July’s new onsite flagship store are just some of the reasons to visit Fortitude Valley’s Calile Hotel. But beyond the physical, the Brisbane oasis is dedicated to providing its guests with enriching cultural experiences, too. The Calile Cultural program is an ongoing onsite series that explores art, design, literature, performance and music.
Past highlights include conversations with authors Anna Funder and Trent Dalton, playwright Suzie Miller, and a long lunch with landscape designer Paul Bangay. This month, guests can look forward to an intimate performance by the Australasian Dance Collective (ADC) followed by an in-depth discussion with prominent members from the group including the artistic director and CEO. Additionally, the hotel hosts an in-house book club, curated in collaboration with Riverbend Books. This month’s novel, “So Late in the Day” by Irish author Claire Keegan, delves into the undercurrent of misogyny that can be hiding in the day-to-day relationship between a man and a woman. thecalilehotel.com.
