This time of the year, it can get pretty wet and windy in most parts of Australia, but we figure all this dreariness should just be another excuse for a party! Instead of bemoaning the chill, why not embrace it by getting cosy with loved ones and by indulging in some good food, good wine and good times?
Our friends over at Google Australia have gotten the right idea and their Winter Warmers Week is a great chance to finally celebrate all the wonderful activities and events an Aussie winter has to offer – for instance, we get to copy the Northern Hemisphere’s cold yuletide fun and experience Christmas all over again!
So to get into the spirit of #WinterWarmers week, we’ve listed our top five picks for Christmas in July escapes:
Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge
Situated within one of Australia’s most famed national parks, we can’t think of a more pristine spot to cuddle up next to a roaring fireplace with a mug of hot cocoa. In addition to serving up hearty Christmas-themed dishes, the lodge also gets its guests into the holiday spirit with carols and special wine and cheese tasting sessions. And if you’re really lucky, there might just be some snow or frost on the ground to greet you in the morning.
Stamford Plaza Adelaide
On Saturdays through to July 27th, the Stamford Plaza Adelaide is recreating the happiest time of the year with glamorous Christmas galas. Held in the hotel’s elegant ballroom, the evening entertainment includes a four course meal, beverages and a live show band so attendees can dance the night away. These events emit so much festivity you’ll swear you’re experiencing December all over again.
QT Falls Creek
For those looking to experience a true winter wonderland (and a little romance), there’s no better place to go than this sleek, newly-rebranded Victorian alpine retreat. Boasting great mountain views, the suites here offer a modern take on chalet living –best of all, there are private outdoor hot tubs on each balcony that are ideal for snuggle time!
Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains’ annual Yulefest celebration is always worth a visit thanks to its abundance of Christmas parties across the region. This year, we especially love the merry package on offer from the award-winning Fairmont Resort which features an expansive holiday buffet, decorations, live music, a trimmed tree, bon bons and even a visit from Santa himself!
Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group
We would suggest grabbing some loose-fitting pants as the mid-winter Christmas menu at this award-winning New Zealand property is just too good to resist. With Christmas pudding, roasted turkey, mince pies, eggnog and mulled wine on offer, it’ll certainly be an indulgent affair to remember. For those looking to get especially jolly, the hotel’s Eight Restaurant is even mixing up a special “Three Wise Men” aperitif with Kahlua, Baileys and Cointreau.
