We’re on the cusp of long weekend glory. Easter and Anzac Day are just around the corner, the Queen’s Birthday is only a couple of months away and for lucky Queensland locals, Labour Day beefs up the long weekend quota by making an appearance on the first weekend in May. So what to do with all these extended patches of work-free glory? While you could relax at home and enjoy life’s simple pleasures, we respectfully suggest getting out of town on a three-day getaway. You’ll leave your stresses behind, enjoy a refreshing change of scenery and, if you stay in a hotel, someone else will make your bed.

Marysville

Sometimes the thing you want most towards the middle of the year is a few days out of the city where you can relax and unwind. Ideally, this out-of-the-city location is also convenient and easily reachable via car. Melbournians, meet Marysville, an easy 2-hour drive north-east of the CBD. Situated in the beautiful Yarra Valley it’s an ideal spot for nature lovers, surrounded by waterfalls, rainforests and mountain ranges. There’s more than 30km of mountain bike trail to explore, plenty of fishing spots, challenging rock climbs and even skiing in winter. If you’re feeling less active, there are also a plethora of wellness spas and massage therapists in the area, well trained at easing the stresses of daily life. The region is also well-known for its delicious produce, which can be enjoyed fresh from the farm at the local markets or in beautifully prepared dishes at local restaurants.

Stay at Vibe Hotel Marysville to be close to all the best this beautiful region has to offer.

Hobart

Hobart is one of those magical places that feels like its own world, despite being easily (and often cheaply) accessible. The city’s arts scene is arguably Australia’s best with MONA setting the tone and a near-constant flow of festivals bringing art to the streets on a regular basis. The food is also legendary, from the bustling Salamanca Markets along the waterfront to the boutique producers on nearby Bruny Island. It’s highly likely you’ll overindulge while you’re here so will be pleased to discover a near endless offering of beautiful outdoor hikes. Make the trek up Mount Wellington, enjoy the sculpture trail at Battery Point or head to beautiful O’Grady’s Falls.

Stay at Travelodge Hobart to secure a wallet-friendly room in the heart of the city.

Adelaide  

This southern city is the gateway to Australia’s best wine, surrounded by world-famous regions in all directions. The Adelaide Hills and Clare Valley boast a range of incredible whites while the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale specialise in big, hearty reds. Take a day trip to whichever region tickles your fancy and spend another day discovering the produce of the other regions in one of the city’s many excellent wine bars. If you’re a foodie in any way, shape or form, make sure you fit in a visit to the famous Central Market where you can enjoy everything from gooey cheeses to fantastically fresh seafood.

Stay at Adina Adelaide Treasury to add an extra touch of character to your trip.

The Rocks, Sydney

Sydney’s most historic district is perfect for long weekends, its cobblestoned streets hiding more bars and restaurants than you can poke a stick at. You’re also just a few minutes away from the city’s most famous landmarks – the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. Explore both with a leisurely land-locked stroll or from the water aboard one of Sydney’s historic ferries. If you need any more convincing, the area is also home to the city’s best cultural venues, from the Museum of Contemporary Arts to Roslyn Packer Theatre in Walsh Bay.

Round out your stay with a room in Rendezvous Hotel The Rocks; close to everything and boasting a charm and comfort all of its own.

Brisbane

While it may be smaller than east coast go-tos Melbourne and Sydney, Brisbane has come a long, long way in recent years and now boasts world-class shopping, drinking and dining. Long weekend stays are sometimes best done simply, choosing a spot you don’t have to venture far from for a good time. Caxton Street is such a spot, well-loved by Brisbane locals for its cosy cafes, award-winning restaurants and nightlife, which comes in the form of everything from piano bars to live sport at Suncorp Stadium. As an added bonus, the weather in Brisbane is ideal at this time of year, usually full of clear sunny days that still shower you with a nice touch of warmth.

Stay at Gambaro Hotel for style and luxury right in the heart of Caxton Street.