Weekends away from Sydney with the family are wonderful, but so are weekends away without the kids. I cannot tell a lie, I love child-free escapes.
I have to admit that I have only had this pleasure rarely, but an upcoming trip to the Blue Mountains got me thinking about all the beautiful places one can go to leave behind domestic life. Also how joyful and refreshing these short expeditions can be.
The main list below has lots of hotels, some are pretty expensive. But let’s start with ideas that cost less.
Stay with friends or family
Consider getting in touch with mates or family members and kindly ask if you could use a spare room during your weekend getaway.
Make it clear that the purpose of your visit is to have some grown-up time to unwind and rejuvenate, and assure them that you’ll be more than happy to lend a hand with household chores or family activities during a future visit.
Be open and honest with them, acknowledging that you are indeed treating their home as a temporary hotel for the weekend.
Once you have their blessing, feel free to head out and indulge in activities and experiences that truly cater to your interests and desires, making the most of your child-free escape.
Embark on a Camping Adventure
Although camping might not be an activity you’ve frequently engaged in, countless fantastic locations are waiting to be explored with your trusty tent in tow.
By immersing yourself in nature and disconnecting from the daily grind, you can create lasting memories while enjoying the great outdoors and each other’s company.
So, why not seize the opportunity for a unique experience and set out on a camping expedition tailored to your preferences and desires?
Check out some of these posts, which offer a wealth of ideas on potential camping destinations perfect for a weekend getaway.
Best Camping Spots In and Around Sydney
Camping Guide to NSW: best books
Holiday Park Cabins
While holiday parks may be bustling with families, they can still offer a delightful and cost-effective weekend retreat in the form of charming cabins.
Nestled among scenic surroundings, these accommodations provide the opportunity to experience the beauty of nature while enjoying the comforts of a cosy cabin.
We’ve curated a list of some fantastic holiday park cabin options for you to consider. We ensure that you can find the perfect spot to unwind and relax during your child-free weekend away.
Ocean Beach Holiday Park at Umina
So, don’t hesitate to explore these idyllic locales and revel in the serenity they provide, all while staying within your budget.
Hotels For Parents’ Escapes
Head west over the Blue Mountains to the beautiful Central West town of Orange and stay at this delightful hotel which combines history with modern luxury. Visit the local restaurants and wineries, and check out the cool shops of Orange then come back to comfort and interesting artworks, plus a gourmet breakfast which is included.
Opening up again in September 2020, this charming retro chic B+B offers comfort and luxury to its guests, plus the expert advice of hosts Steve and Kate, my friends of 25+ years.
There are so many beautiful beaches, walks and views around Jervis Bay. It's a wonderful place to escape to if you love nature. You can explore the bay by boat, and try snorkelling and diving trips. Check out the whale watching trips and dolphin trips too.
Stay at the Fairmont when in the Blue Mountains and head straight to the spa after a vigorous mountain walk.
The review here is family-centred but it lists all the facilities and shows you some of the views from this wonderful resort hotel. Make your life easy but heading here to relax.
Within Sydney itself, so just a short drive away, is the very serene and beautiful Billabong Retreat. Come here for yoga and meditation retreats where you will have plenty of free time to read, laze in a bath, swim and chat. The food is amazing. I stayed here by myself but it would make a really restorative escape with my husband or with friends.
Just north of Sydney is this pretty island which is a bit of a hidden secret. The ferry journey is short, there's just one cafe on the island and you need to take food. But as a place to do little and recharge, it is sublime.
Wolgan Valley is an incredibly beautiful and luxurious (and expensive) 6 star resort in the Blue Mountains. It really is a wonderful spot, ideal for special birthdays and anniversaries. The good news is that once you get there, almost everything is included.
My husband and I rarely got away when our kids were small, but one time we could have them looked after for two nights so we went to Wolgan Valley. It costs what a week in Fiji or Queensland would have, but we came back super refreshed.
If you do not mind a long drive then how about a stay at Lake Crackenback in the Snowy Mountains. Ski in winter, mountain bike and walk in summer and visit the local distillery any time of year.
This would be too far for me to go for a weekend, but would be great for a few days away.
Expanding Your Horizons: Tips for a Relaxing Weekend Away Without the Kids
Let’s look at some tips to help make your child-free weekend the ultimate rejuvenating experience. By following these tips, you can create a memorable and rejuvenating experience that will benefit not only you but also your entire family.
1. Plan Ahead and Get Organised
To ensure a stress-free weekend, plan your trip well in advance. Make bookings early, create a rough itinerary, and ensure you have a reliable babysitter or family member taking care of the kids.
Also, we suggest you communicate your plans with your children and let them know you’ll be back soon to reduce separation anxiety.
2. Choose Your Destination Wisely
Select a destination that caters to adult relaxation and enjoyment. Consider wine country, a spa retreat, or a luxury resort with adult-only areas. The key is to choose a location that provides an atmosphere where you can unwind and forget about daily responsibilities.
3. Disconnect to Reconnect
While it’s essential to be available in case of emergencies, don’t let your phone become a distraction. Set boundaries for checking in with the kids and make it a point to unplug from social media.
Use this time to reconnect with your partner and enjoy each other’s company without digital interruptions.
4. Indulge in Your Hobbies
Take advantage of your free time to engage in activities you love but rarely have time for. Whether it’s bushwalking, painting, or reading a book by the pool, doing what you enjoy will rejuvenate your soul and help you feel more fulfilled.
5. Prioritise Self-Care
Use this weekend away to pamper yourself. Schedule a massage, visit a sauna, or practice yoga to recharge your body and mind. By taking care of yourself, you’ll return home feeling refreshed and better equipped to take care of your family.
6. Savour the Moments
Make the most of your child-free weekend by being present and enjoying each moment. Savour meals without interruptions, take leisurely walks and enjoy long conversations with your partner. These simple pleasures will create lasting memories and strengthen your relationship.
7. Bring Home a Souvenir
Choose a meaningful souvenir to remember your weekend away. It could be a piece of artwork, a bottle of wine, or a special photograph. This memento will serve as a reminder of your time together and the importance of prioritising your relationship.
I hope that you find something here that will work for you.
Every parent and carer deserves a regular break… easy to say but hard to do. I find that just planning a trip is uplifting and it’s great to have something to look forward to. So we can all plan our weekends away for later on this year or even next year and enjoy the anticipation as much as the escape itself.
Have you had a wonderful parents’ escape somewhere?
Can you share any gems in the comments?
Happy planning!
