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Five Swoon-Worthy Getaway Spots for Summer

Summer is finally here and what better way to spend the season than by escaping to a new destination and unwinding from 2022. Maybe heading to a beachside town and soaking up the sun is just what you need. Or keeping it low-key with a city staycation while dining at new bars and restaurants. What about heading out into the beautiful open country for some much needed peace and quiet? If there's one thing we're sure of, it's that there's no shortage of amazing holiday destinations in Australia. So, to make things a little easier, we’ve listed five swoon-worthy stays perfect for your next getaway.

Image Credit: Oxford House

1. Oxford House

As Paddington’s first lifestyle hotel, Oxford House, or OH!, is one of the latest additions to Sydney’s inner-city stays. The historic space was transformed to become an urban oasis, worlds away from the hustle and bustle. Oxford House features many incredible amenities, but our favourite has to be the guest-only pool, accompanied by a Palm Springs inspired pool bar, need we say more? The terrace invites you to lounge among the lush greenery and relax into the calming vibe of the space. But, if you’re lucky enough to book a stay in one of their uniquely styled rooms or suites, you’ll be greeted by an abundance of natural light, warm hues and textured décor.

“Whilst we took design notes from the sleek lines and muted colours of Palm Springs, it was important that Oxford House effortlessly threaded into the cultural fabric of Paddington, so art and design was key”.
- Tom de Plater, Principal Designer at Public Hospitality.

Image Credit: Oxford House

2. Motel Molly

If the coastal towns of the Mediterranean sound like your dream holiday destination but you can’t make it to Europe, then we have the next best thing. Motel Molly opened 1 December 2022 after a multi-million-dollar refurbishment. Inspired by the pastel colours of the Mediterranean coastal towns, with hints of Moroccan influences, Motel Molly’s boutique accommodation is sure to impress. The refurbishment extends from a creative collaboration between Sydney-based Knox Developments team and award winning interior designer and architecture practice, Richards Stanisich. The result? Soft, natural textures, creamy tones elevated with intricate details and patterns, custom furniture, handmade tiles by Jatana Interiors and artwork by local Australian artists.

Image Credit: @elisehassey | Motel Molly

3. Coombs Hill Barn

Located in the lush foothills of Victoria’s high country sits Coombs Hill Barn, an 160 year-old American barn imported from Indiana. The barn was brought over in pieces and carefully crafted back together to create a private, luxury holiday home, set on 100 acres of uninterrupted farming land. If the promise of tranquillity and history has you sold, just wait till you see the interior details. We’re swooning over the quadruple height vaulted ceilings, 12m stone fireplace, soft furnishings and natural finishes. All which blend together to create the perfect balance between cosy and luxe.

Image Credit: Coombs Hill Barn

4. The Villa General

The Villa General is located in the heart of Byron Bay, NSW, right next to the much-loved spot, The Byron Bay General Store. If the location isn't enough to persuade you, then maybe their recent renovations, designed by sort-after local designer Mel Gubbin from Avenuetwentytwo, will. Upon entering the villa you are immediately transported into a tropical oasis. The internal space flows seamlessly with an open-plan Spanish inspired kitchen that opens out into a bespoke dining room and spacious living area. The rooms are soaked in neutral tones and natural light, the perfect recipe for a midday nap after you’ve been relaxing in the heated magnesium pool. The absolute definition of swoon-worthy.

Image Credit: The Villa General

5. The Calile Hotel

If you’ve been searching for a swoon-worthy location spot in the past, there's no doubt you would have come across The Calile Hotel. As Australia’s first urban resort, The Calile Hotel takes a minimalist approach to a tropical inspired destination. Designed by Richards & Spend Architects, each room has been positioned to capture natural breeze and an abundance of natural light. The inspiration behind the design stemmed from hotels around the globe, including locations like Miami, Palm Springs, Rio De Janeiro and Mexico City. Details such as white bricks, marble accents and curved architectural elements combine with a fresh palette to achieve a calming, luxe feel.

Image Credit: The Calile Hotel