By Rama Gaind.
Jamala Wildlife Lodge in Canberra.
Be it sentimental, fanciful or adventurous, celebrating Valentine’s Day has to be a treat. Nothing says romance like an unbelievable getaway. You don’t need to venture far, a staycation can also do the trick.
There are possibilities for romantic getaways in Canberra with indulgent options, but being in the thick of Canberra’s wine region opens up other opportunities. Perhaps, viewing stunning panoramic views of the city and of Sydney Harbour, 134 metres above sea level, is more to your liking.
Here are some alternatives that will give you the perfect excuse to pamper yourselves, spend time alone and have a break from the ordinary.
The Jamala Wildlife Lodge is a great place to make memories. Located within the National Zoo and Aquarium, this luxurious, wildlife-themed hotel is seven kilometres from Parliament House and eight from the National Gallery of Australia.
Wake up to the sights and sounds of Africa without having to leave the state. During the day you can stroll through the immaculate gardens or the park and waterfront on your doorstep.
This unique stay offers themed rooms with four poster beds that’ll truly transport you across the ocean. Plush, safari-themed accommodations feature mod-cons, with suites in treehouses offering balconies that overlook the zoo’s giraffe quarters, while bungalows and lodge rooms have terraces, plus glass walls that provide views into animal enclosures.
Memorable picnic follows a Sydney BridgeClimb.
There’s an outdoor pool and a chic, African-themed restaurant and bar with a terrace and wildlife views. It’s inspiring to meet so many people at the lodge who are so passionate about animal conservation.
Prepare to feel like royalty when you’re dropped off at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra with its heritage-inspired setting. Located on the waterfront, inside it’s all wooden trimmings and a style reminiscent of the roaring ‘20s. This hotel interweaves the hidden mystique of the 1920s with modern Art Deco designs. The traditional furniture styles, as well as garden and park views, are all enhanced with sleek technology.
Head on down to the wine region for a perfect getaway and stay at Abode Murrumbateman that’s centrally located among the wineries. You can spend your days walking from winery to winery, but with Abode’s complimentary bikes, it’s much more romantic to cycle between them. Visit the neighbouring highly-acclaimed, world-class wineries and producers, and the Abode is only a few minutes’ walk to local farmers markets, bakeries, cafes and parks.
Opened in 1927 as the Hotel Ainslie, the Mercure Canberra is steeped in history. Listed on the Register of the National Estate, the hotel plays a significant role in the development of the city itself as well as Canberra’s community identity.
Comfortable surrounds are evident at the Mercure which has seen various renovations over the years. Watching the spectacular sunset views over Mount Ainslie are a must from the hotel’s rooftop.
Hyatt Hotel Canberra.
In fact, take up an invitation to join a Summer Latin Fiesta on Saturday, 19 February 2022. Check out the Latin fiesta show and stay packages. The Mercure’s Courtyard Gardens will come alive as the fiesta features live bands, ‘Los Chavos’ and ‘Show Ministers’ as well as Canberra Samba band ‘Raio De Sol’ and ‘DJ De De Da Cruz’.
Centrally located in Braddon, the Mercure Canberra is the perfect base to not only experience the history of the property but to be surrounded by the best of what the city has to offer.
There is so much to do in the nation’s capital. Book a room near Lake Burley Griffin and you’ll be within a short walk or drive to all the city’s highlights. Tour the CBD, the city’s museums or hike up Mount Ainslie.
Venture west of the city. Molonglo is for those who want to leave the big smoke for nature. You can visit the National Zoo and Aquarium, the National Arboretum of Canberra and the Molonglo River Corridor Nature Reserve.
Canberra’s wine country is less than an hour out of the city. Head north to Murrumbateman and Yass for patchwork vineyards, award-winning wines and picnic grounds that you’ll have practically all to yourself.
Bridge adventure
Discover all the ways you can explore the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge with the help of special offers and luxury packages from BridgeClimb Sydney.
In the midst of wineries at the Adobe Murrumbateman.
Since 1998, BridgeClimb has established itself as an integral part of the Sydney tourism industry and a key attraction within Australia. It equips you to scale to the summit of the globally-recognised Harbour Bridge. You can avail yourself of four different climbs: BridgeClimb Summit, BridgeClimb Insider, BridgeClimb Ultimate and the Burrawa Indigenous climb experience.
However, the BridgeClimb Unlocked is one package that will take romance to new heights with a luxury picnic experience.
Described as Sydney’s premium romance experience, it all starts the moment you step into BridgeClimb and begin your journey to the bridge summit. You will soak in unmissable views of Sydney Harbour and create unforgettable memories.
After your climb, you’ll make your way to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, Observatory Hill or Kirribilli to enjoy a beautifully prepared luxury picnic, gazing back at the iconic Bridge you just conquered together. Create your own climb story as you climb, graze & gaze!
As well, Accor has partnered with BridgeClimb Sydney to create the ultimate Sydney escape packages. Whether you want a fun-filled escape with your special someone or with the family, you will enjoy an overnight stay at Harbour Rocks Hotel MGallery by Sofitel or The Sebel Quay West Suites Sydney.
Let the affiliations work in your favour!
DETAILS BOX
Jamala Wildlife Lodge
(02) 6287 8444
Canberra Hyatt Hotel
(02) 2701234
Abode Murrumbateman
(02) 6108 4763
Mercure Canberra
(02) 6243 0000
BridgeClimb Sydney
1300 90 80 57
