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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 a three-day getaway to recharge the batteries. 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.

Melbourne and the Yarra Valley 

For a touch of luxury, Adina Apartment Hotel Pentridge Melbourne is a hotel destination unlike any other. Built in 1851 and completely reimagined from its Victorian origins, its location in Melbourne’s north makes it’s the perfect base for visiting the beautiful Yarra Valley, less than an hour’s drive away. 

As well as being famous for its wineries, the Yarra Valley is ideal for nature lovers, with waterfalls, rainforests, and mountain ranges to explore. There are mountain bike trails, plenty of fishing spots, and challenging rock climbs. If you’re feeling less active, there are also a plethora of wellness spas and massage therapists, well trained at easing the stresses of daily life. The region is 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 the brand new Adina Apartment Hotel Pentridge Melbourne – just 20 minutes from both the CBD and the airport - to be close to all the best this beautiful region has to offer.

Hobart is Always a Good Idea

Hobart is one of those magical places that feels like its own world. 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 legendary, from the bustling Salamanca Markets along the waterfront to the boutique producers on nearby Bruny Island. The wine is superb too, with many wonderful cellar doors within easy reach of the city. 

It’s highly likely you’ll overindulge, so you will be pleased to discover a seemingly 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 Vibe Hotel Hobart for a great location in the heart of the city, close to the historic waterfront.

Wine Time in 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 or check into the beautiful new Vibe Hotel Adelaide.

The Historic 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 on a leisurely stroll or view the city from the water aboard one of Sydney’s historic ferries. For an unforgettable experience, take in a performance at the Opera House or scale the bridge with BridgeClimb Sydney. If you need any more convincing, the area is also home to some great cultural venues, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art and Roslyn Packer Theatre in Walsh Bay.

Round out your stay at Rendezvous Hotel Sydney The Rocks, close to everything and boasting a charm and comfort all of its own.

Shop Until You Drop in Brisbane

Long weekend stays are sometimes best done simply, choosing a spot you don’t have to venture far from for a good time. James Street in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley is such a spot. This pre-eminent lifestyle precinct offers the latest in fashion, design, hidden bars, wine bars and laneway restaurants.

It’s just a few minutes’ drive to the CBD, art galleries, museums, and other cultural attractions, and within an hour you can find yourself in glorious country and seaside locations. 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.

The Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane is superbly located in the heart of Brisbane city – within easy reach of James Street, Southbank, the Queen Street Mall, and Howard Smith Wharves dining and entertainment precinct.