Sometimes there is nothing better than a long weekend away. Two days is too short and a full week requires a little too much commitment and is sometimes more expensive than you want. Incoming the sneaky three-day vacay… we have listed some of our fav options not too far away and in locations you might not have expected.

The Barn Cottage, Cambewarra – From $310 per night

The Barn Cottage is one of three accommodations located within the Rose & Barn Mountain View Cottages. The two-bedroom cottage features large barn doors which open to the outside, a wood-burning fireplace and a spiral staircase to the loft bedroom above. It sleeps four (hello double dates) and has a fire pit and outdoor dining area for cosy nights in. Located about 15 mins from Kangaroo Valley and Berry, you can explore the cute country towns, buy lots of delicious local produce and head on home to your secluded farm stay. Plus, we give it bonus points for being close enough you can also duck past the beach on the way home.

Little Palm Springs, Culburra Beach – From $300 per night

Giving retro desert vibes, a beach on your doorstep and welcoming all pooches, sign us up for this Little Palm Springs beach house. Sure, they had us at cactus garden, but the cool surfer vibes and laid-back flow of the property is perfect for a weekend getaway with friends or the little ones. It is also just a quick drive to Jervis Bay for dinner at the Husky Pub or a swim at the world-famous Hyams Beach. The perfect getaway spot before the crazy summer period.

Camplify, Anywhere – From $40 per day

This is a new one that we have just stumbled upon and are already obsessed. Camplify offers campervan, motorhome and caravan hire. We don’t think we are alone when we started to consider the van life and caravan projects during Covid and this site allows you to try out those dreams without the price tag of your own home on wheels. You can hire an array of vans and campers to suit your trip, style and driving capabilities. Perfect to test out the great open road short term and explore anywhere the world takes you. There are over 200 options to collect from Canberra alone.

Tilba Lakehouse, Tilba – From $235 per night

With a range of tiny houses, glamping tents and more, Tilba Lake House will have you feeling content and at home. Just on the outskirts of Tilba, wake up feeling relaxed with views of the rolling hills including Mt Dromedary and the ocean in the distance. Eat directly from the surrounding farms, stay connected to nature surrounded by unspoilt beauty and be inspired to live more sustainably. Even if campfires aren’t your thing, we promise you marshmallows and that unrivalled starry night sky will have you converted. Tilba Winery is also a must-try if you are up for an even more extensive dining experience. We recommend the Quarter Deck, which has just launched a new menu inspired by local produce.

For more travel inspo, head to our travel page.