Couples Getaway NSW: The 7 Best Romantic Trips for Couples

I’ve always thought New South Wales is a bit underrated when it comes to how beautiful this part of Australia actually is. Everyone’s always going on about the Whitsundays, the Great Barrier Reef, Esperance, all those big-ticket, postcard places. But NSW? It quietly holds its own, at least in my book.

Oliver and I spent a good amount of time based in Sydney, and while we were there, we tried to explore as much of NSW as we could, romantic weekend trips, cozy cabins in the bush, rolling wine country, quiet beaches with barely anyone around. It ended up being one of the best parts of our time in Australia.

So in this little guide to the best couples getaway NSW options, my goal is to help you plan your next romantic escape, whether you’re into slow mornings with coffee and mountain views, beach walks at sunset, or long lunches in wine country. 

I’ve included places from all over the state (not just the Sydney day-trip bubble), and for each one, I’ll suggest a unique stay or boutique hotel, something I’d genuinely want to book myself.

Alright, let’s get into it. Here are my favorite spots for a romantic couples getaway in NSW.

Couples Getaway NSW – My Experience

From my own experience traveling around Australia and going on several weekend trips from Sydney, I’ve realized that where I stay is a huge part of the experience. I’m always on the lookout for unique Airbnbs, cozy little boutique hotels, or secluded bushland cottages. And honestly, Australia has no shortage of those kinds of stays, especially in NSW.

I’ll admit it now, I’m not a big camper. I know it’s practically a national pastime in Australia, but give me a cabin with a hot tub, a cheese board, a bottle of wine, and a bit of comfort any day. Especially if it’s a couples weekend away. I’m just not into roughing it on romantic trips, ok? Don’t be mad, that’s just who I am.

Out of all the places I visited, I really enjoyed the Hunter Valley, which is probably the most well-known wine region in NSW (though for the record, I still prefer Margaret River in WA). I also loved Mudgee, another wine region, but way more low-key and less touristy. And of course, the Blue Mountains are always a win, especially once you realise it’s not just about hiking from sunrise to sunset.

For couples trips, I personally like something a little more elevated. Not necessarily flashy or over-the-top expensive, but a place that feels special. So in this guide, I’ve picked accommodations that are a little more on the boutique or unique side but still totally worth the money, and perfect for a romantic weekend away.

1. Blue Mountains – Cozy Fireplaces, Bushwalks & Forest Views

The Blue Mountains is one of the classic places in NSW that just works for a couples weekend. It’s quiet, it’s scenic, and it feels like a proper escape without having to drive six hours to get there. You’ve got that soft mountain air, cozy little towns, and views for days, like, actual misty valleys and dramatic cliffs which are incredible.

It’s not just all hiking either (unless you’re into that, then yes, go wild). There are loads of cute cafes, slow mornings, fireplaces, and spots that serve an actually decent breakfast. You can do a scenic walk in the morning and then spend the afternoon reading in a bathrobe somewhere warm. That’s the vibe. Definitely one of my favourite places to go when I want to feel like I’ve gone somewhere but also don’t want to do much.

Chalets at Blackheat // One of the Most Romantic Weekend Getaways NSW

The best place to do all of that, in my opinion, is Chalets at Blackheath. It’s probably one of the best little escapes in the area. The chalets themselves are modern, minimal, and chic, but still super cozy. They’ve floor-to-ceiling windows, a fireplace, and amazing bathtubs and spas.

It’s tucked away in the forest, so you get a more secluded, peaceful vibe without being totally off the grid. Honestly, if I were staying here, I wouldn’t be running around trying to do too much. Maybe a walk in the morning, then straight back to the robe and a glass of wine on the porch.

It’s also close to Evans Lookout and a bunch of great bushwalks if you do feel like venturing out. And they even rent out bikes if you’re into that kind of thing. It’s a great mix of downtime and outdoorsy which I really like for a couples getaway in NSW.

Book Here: Chalets at Blackheath

2. Hunter Valley – Vineyards, Wine Tasting & Countryside Vibe

Hunter Valley is probably the most obvious choice for a romantic couples getaway in NSW and for good reason. It’s got rolling vineyards, cellar doors everywhere you turn, fancy long lunches.

It’s a couple’s classic. And I have to say, I really enjoyed it when I went there the first time.

What I loved most was just how chill everything felt. You can spend the day hopping between wineries, go for a long slow lunch at Audrey Wilkinson (seriously, the wine tasting there was one of my favourites and they do take-away cheeseboards, perfect for a picnic), or book a spa treatment if you’re in the mood for full relaxation mode. There’s also hot air balloon rides if you’re into that kind of thing. I didn’t do it personally, but it’s apparently very romantic at sunrise, if you’re a morning person. (I’m not.)

The best part is you don’t need a super packed itinerary here. The whole point is to slow down, sip wine, and enjoy the countryside. I recommend you book in at a nice country side hotel and hit the wineries for lunch, that’s my perfect couples weekend.

The Lane Retreat 

I absolutely loved staying at The Lane Retreat. It’s basically a collection of self-contained studios, like little houses set in the countryside, surrounded by vineyards. It honestly felt like we had our own private slice of wine country.

The views are stunning, those wide-open vineyards stretch out in every direction, and the sunsets from the porch were incredible. The studio itself was super modern, with a big king-size bed, sleek finishes, and a cozy private deck where we spent most evenings.

They also offer a few thoughtful extras, like wine delivered straight to your door and little meat-and-cheese platters so you can do your own DIY dinner with a view. It’s one of those places that just gets all the little details right, perfect for a romantic couples weekend.

Book Here: The Lane Retreat

3. Byron Bay Hinterland – Bushland Retreat Meets Beach Town

When people think of Byron Bay, it’s usually all surf, hippies, and beach town vibes. But what if I told you the Byron Bay hinterland is actually way more peaceful and kind of perfect for a weekend away?

The hinterland is full of lush bushland and forest, with some amazing little spas and boutique retreats located between the trees. It’s the kind of place where you wake up to birds and wallabies instead of traffic and brunch queues. Super peaceful, super private.

What I really like about it though is that you’re not that far from Byron itself. So if you’ve got a car (which I’d definitely recommend), you can still pop into town, grab a coffee, hang out on the beach, or check out a restaurant and then retreat back to your cabin in the woods when you’re over it.

This is a great option if you’re after something a little more relaxed but still want the flexibility to do stuff. You could even do one night in Byron and then two nights out in the hinterland if you want the best of both.

Azabu Retreat & Spa // One of the Best Cheap Romantic Getaways NSW

Azabu Retreat is honestly such a little gem for a romantic getaway NSW and it’s great value for money too, which is rare for this area.

It’s located in the Byron Bay hinterland, surrounded by thick forest, and has a really boutique, peaceful vibe. There are only a handful of rooms, and each one has its own private deck that looks straight out into the trees. Having your morning coffee out there feels like a proper escape.

They also offer spa treatments like facials and massages, so if you’re in the mood to fully relax, you’re sorted. Plus, there’s a pool on the property, which is ideal when it’s 30 degrees out and you’re not up for the beach crowd.

Book Here: Azabu Retreat & Spa

4. Mudgee – Wine, Picnics & Way Less Crowded Than Hunter

If you’re looking for a wine region that’s not the Hunter Valley, Mudgee might be your best bet. It’s quieter, more relaxed, and way less crowded, which I love. The vibe here is more small-town, with boutique and family-run wineries that feel a bit more personal and that also means less crowded and touristy.

One of my favourite places in Mudgee is Lowe Family Wine Co. The property is stunning, with wide-open views of the vineyard and rolling hills. They’ve got a casual little café where you can grab some snacks like cheese, meats, bread and have a picnic right in the vineyard. The wine tastings are affordable, and they even have an eco-farm on-site. I recommend visiting for lunch, a picnic and a wine tasting but you should totally plan in a few extra hours just to explore the whole place.

Evamor Valley // One of the Best Romantic Weekend Getaways in NSW

Evamor Valley is my top pick for Mudgee, especially if you’re after that classic romantic weekend away.

They offer glamping tents, but trust me, they have nothing to do with camping. These are luxury tents with stunning interiors, outdoor baths, and private porches that sit right by the lake.

Every tent has its own hot tub too. It’s honestly exactly what I want from a couples’ getaway. I haven’t stayed here yet, but it’s top of my list for next time.

Book Here: Evamor Valley

5. Jervis Bay – A Romantic Getaway NSW by the Beach

This is probably my first real beach option on this list, maybe I just prefer the wine regions a bit more, but if you’re after something coastal, Jervis Bay is a pretty good option. If you’re from NSW, you’ve definitely heard of it. It’s known for its insanely white sand and crystal-clear water, and honestly, I think it’s one of the best beaches in the state.

The only thing with Jervis Bay is that it can get very busy, especially on weekends. So if you can make it work, try to go midweek. Otherwise, expect some crowds and a lot of beach chairs. To keep it feeling a bit more like a couples getaway (and less like you’ve crashed someone’s family holiday), I’d recommend staying a little further inland instead of right by the beach.

Paperbark Camp

Paperbark Camp is another one of those glamping setups, but again, this is not camping. This is next-level luxury in the bush. Honestly, you wouldn’t even know you’re in a tent unless someone told you. It’s more like a beautiful little cabin tucked between eucalyptus trees, with kangaroos hopping by in the morning and birds singing outside your window.

The real highlight here is  the outdoor bath they have. Taking a bath while surrounded by nature, hearing the wind in the trees and the occasional kookaburra, it’s kind of unbeatable.

Book Here: Paperbark Camp

6. Lord Howe Island – Luxury & Seclusion

Lord Howe Island feels like paradise but without the airport chaos or crowds you normally expect from a “dream” holiday. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage-listed hidden gem, and yes, that’s no exaggeration,  it truly hits that “away from everything” vibe less than two hours from Sydney. 

There’s a hard cap on visitors (400 at a time), so it never feels like you’re jostling for space on the beach. It’s more like morning snorkels at ND’s Beach, afternoon walks up Mount Gower or Gunners’ Trail, and evenings spent under a million stars. Honestly, it’s a ridiculously good spot for a romantic escape.

Arajilla Retreat // One of The Best Romantic Getaways in NSW

If you asked me where to stay, Arajilla Retreat would be my answer. It’s small (just a dozen luxury suites), set in a leafy palm grove, and tucked behind Old Settlement Beach so you’re steps from sand without losing the privacy.

Each suite and holiday home is beautifully designed with its own deck (some have rainforest views), comfy beds, and contemporary bathrooms. You’ve also got service that actually feels warm (they’ll even pick you up from the tiny airport), top‑notch meals, and evening cocktails near the bar, all delivered with genuine friendliness.

Book Here: Arajilla Retreat

7. Snowy Mountains – A Cozy Winter Getaway in NSW

If you’re into a proper winter getaway, and I mean snow, mountains, fireplaces, and hot chocolate kind of vibe, then the Snowy Mountains are perfect for you. It’s the only place in NSW where you’ll actually get snow in winter, and it’s such a nice switch-up from the usual wine and beach trips.

It’s super peaceful out here, especially if you go midweek or outside the absolute peak of ski season. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or honestly just want to sit inside somewhere cozy with a glass of red and watch it snow outside, the Snowies are a solid pick for a romantic trip. 

The whole region gives that alpine-lodge-in-the-woods kind of feel. Definitely one of the more underrated couple’s getaways if you ask me.

Kooloora Lodge

Kooloora Lodge is where I’d stay if I was doing the Snowy Mountains with a partner. It’s in Perisher, so you’re literally right on the slopes,  ski in, ski out, no messing around with shuttles or driving. The place is super modern but still has that cozy mountain lodge feel, and the rooms are simple but really comfortable. Not over the top, but exactly what you want after a day in the cold.

They’ve got a fireplace in the lounge, a bar, and a little restaurant on-site too, so if you don’t feel like heading out after a long day skiing, you don’t have to. Everything’s taken care of.

Book Here: Kooloora Lodge

FAQs About Couples Getaway NSW

What are the best affordable romantic getaways NSW?

If you’re after something that feels special but won’t break the bank, I’d look at Mudgee for sure. You get boutique wineries, countryside charm, and some great accommodation that’s way more affordable than the Hunter.

Are there good weekend getaway deals for couples?

Yeah, definitely and especially if you can go midweek or outside of school holidays. Places like the Blue Mountains or Jervis Bay often have deals if you book directly.

What is the best couples retreat NSW?

That really depends on what kind of vibe you want. For luxury and seclusion, Arajilla Retreat on Lord Howe Island is pretty hard to beat. For something cozy and romantic in the mountains, Chalets at Blackheath is a personal favorite.

What are the best romantic getaways Sydney?

If you want to stay in Sydney, maybe look at a boutique hotel in the city or a cute beachside Airbnb in Palm Beach or Coogee. But honestly, I’d recommend heading just outside of Sydney, the Blue Mountains or the South Coast give you way more space, nature, and actual getaway vibes.

Final Thoughts on Romantic Couples Getaway NSW

I honestly think NSW has so many great spots for a romantic getaway, you just have to know where to look. And it doesn’t have to be super expensive either. If you plan ahead, book during the week or outside the busy holiday periods, you can find some pretty luxurious and romantic places that are actually affordable. You just have to be willing to drive a little.

That’s what we’ve done plenty of times, take the Friday off, leave early in the morning (or even Thursday night), drive five or six hours if needed, and just make a weekend out of it. It’s always worth it.

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