Luxury winter holiday destinations

A cosy decadence reigns supreme during the Off Season.

Tasmania has four distinct seasons, and winter here comes with an added serving of luxury holiday destinations. Think personal chefs, boutique hotels perched on water, exclusive lodges, private islands, five-star winter resorts and high-end cellar doors.

Attention to detail and a desire to create memorable experiences for guests to the island is driving a new kind of luxury tourism – discover sleek architecture, gourmet food and unforgettable landscapes. Better still, in the Off Season you’ll have it mostly to yourself.

Why choose Tasmania for your luxury winter holiday? 

Think of Tasmania as an island apart – a little different to the rest of Australia.

This island surrounded by islands is a green jewel in the Southern Ocean, a fertile land producing some of Australia’s finest seafood, wine, whisky, cheese, meat, fruit and vegetables. It is also a land of luxury winter hotels and boutique holiday experiences, and winter is the perfect time to rug up, escape the crowds and sample these. Immerse in Tasmania’s Off Season and discover what winter is really about.

Secluded stay

Perched atop a rocky outcrop near Weldborough in the north east, the Keep promises a luxury romantic retreat for couples seeking seclusion.

Absorb the 360-degree views stretching to the east coast. Sleep in, snuggle, stargaze and soak in the outdoor stone bath fit for two. No need to lift a finger: the Keep can create a bespoke food experience with a private chef. How about an exclusive helicopter transfer, private charter flight, or personal massage? This is a luxury winter vacation like no other.

City escape

Built around Hobart's 1840s St Mary’s hospital and a 1930s Art Deco office block, the Tasman also features a sleek contemporary Pavilion wing.

Expect lavishly appointed guest rooms, carefully restored features and locally sourced produce. At ground level, Peppina serves indulgent Italian cuisine while the Mary Mary cocktail bar will shake up an elegant creation. There’s only one destination here: luxury.

Luxury island getaway

On the rugged King Island coastline, kick back in a luxed-out tiny house at serene Red Rock Hut. 

This idyllic eco-friendly escape has uninterrupted views of the Southern Ocean. You can even ogle the coastal views while soaking in a wood-fired hot tub and sauna. Indulge in this island-off-an-island’s premium produce, relish world-class golf courses, surfing hot spots, sweeping beaches and breathe in some of the world’s freshest air. As the winter sun dips below the horizon, relax in the deck hammock or unwind by the firepit and take in a sky full of stars. Who knew small could be so sumptuous?

Deluxe dining

Go all out in Launceston, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, with a luxury dining experience at Grain of the Silos restaurant.

Roll up in winter for fancy feasting on fine Tasmanian fare and warming winter tipples sourced from the island's renowned producers. After indulging, retire to your deluxe room at Peppers Silo Hotel to rest well in readiness for immersing yourself in more of northern Tasmania's winter attractions.

Cellar door experience

Nestled where the vines meet the sea, overlooking the Freycinet Peninsula, is one of east-coast Tasmania’s celebrated vineyards.

The climate here is ideal for growing pinot noir, syrah, cool-climate whites and traditional sparkling varieties. Established in 1999, Devil’s Corner wine makers use traditional methods, gaining a well-deserved reputation for uncompromising quality. Swing by for wine tasting at the stand-out cellar door and soak in the views. Keep an eye out for live music and seasonal events onsite.

Walking in style

Reconnect with nature and escape the summer crowds with an Off Season hike along the soaring sea cliffs of Turrakana / Tasman Peninsula on Tasmanian Walking Company’s Three Capes Signature Walk.

Cruise to Denman’s Cove en route to luxurious Crescent Bay Lodge where you're welcomed with warm showers, a three-course feast and post-dinner pinot as the sun sets. Look out for sea eagles as you summit Arthurs Peak, then head south to Cape Pillar Lodge. Relax into a massage or soothe sore muscles in the outdoor plunge pool before a hearty dinner and warming wine. Hike through forest to the infamous Blade or spend a day lazing at the lodge. This four-day expedition combines rugged coastal scenery with knowledgeable guides and impeccable lodge accommodation.

Luxury cycling adventure

Embrace winter on wheels as you explore the renowned mountain bike trails of Derby on a multi-day, luxury mountain bike experience with Blue Derby Pods Ride. With everything included, all that’s left to do is enjoy the world-class riding, captivating scenery, fine Tasmanian cuisine and unique, architecturally-design accommodation.

By day, you’ll journey through a landscape of towering trees, giant granite boulders, hidden creeks and fern glades. As dusk descends, unwind by the campfire and refuel with a divine dinner and rewarding glass of premium wine, before a sound night’s sleep in your very own secluded luxury pod cocooned in the forest.