Four girls trip ideas you need to take in 2023
As we come out of the silly season and into the New Year, you may feel as though your social battery is in need of a recharge. Don’t get us wrong, Christmas truly is the most wonderful time of the year but the endless lunches and forced conversations with twice removed relatives who demand to know why you don’t have a partner yet doesn’t exactly scream “relax and recharge”.
As soon as 2023 hits, you may feel like withdrawing and lying on a beach with no one around - or perhaps your idea of recharging is bingeing the latest show on Netflix. However, it isn’t always our default choices that end up being the best for us. Soon the ‘Sunday Scaries’ will re-emerge as we return to the grind and we will suddenly wish we did more to make the most of our time off.
Let’s be real, after all of the chaos that is the Christmas season, one of the best ways to recharge and relax in the new year is to spend some quality time with your closest and dearest girlfriends - whether it be for just a day or an entire weekend.
Here are 4 ideas for day trips and weekend getaways to do with the girls that are sure to fill your cup this January.
Take in the magic of Palm Beach
Image: NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service
Just an hour from Sydney’s CBD, a day trip to Palm Beach is truly indulgent. Escape the Inner Sydney heat and enjoy the summer breeze by the water. A day is truly enough to come home refreshed and content.
Start the day off with the Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk where you can take in all that Palm Beach has to offer. The 30 minute walk is then topped off at the top near the lighthouse, where you’ll be rewarded with exquisite views of the coast. If you’re lucky you might be able to spot a whale!
Afterwards, enjoy a well deserved lunch at Barrenjoey House, a local icon that brings many to the area. The sophisticated yet relaxed dining experience offers the very best of seafood and offers the very best of modern Australian cuisine. Sip on a refreshing cocktail while taking in the view.
No girls trip is complete without shopping so be sure to visit the boutique stores along the main street of Avalon. With an array of brands both local and well known, there is sure to be something that takes your fancy.
Finish the day off with margaritas and Mexican food at Alma in Avalon, the perfect combination to unwind after a long day. You’ll leave feeling as though you’ve been away for a lot longer and your cup will be overflowing.
Book yourselves a weekend of Serenity, Soaks & Sips
Image: Girls Getaways website
Holding out for a weekend away with the girls, but the bank’s not looking too full after the holiday season? We got you. Nestled in the countryside, the charming Camden Valley Inn has partnered with Girls Getaways to offer you an affordable yet luxe 2 night getaway with all the works. Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine on arrival and relax by the pool after the hour drive out of Sydney, or if you’re feeling thirsty, head straight to the bar or pavilion for a late lunch or dinner. The venue offers popular pub favourites such as chicken schnitzels, chicken parmigianas and their famous Guinness Pies, but if you’re craving something lighter, they also offer share plates like tasting boards, burrata, arancini balls, bruschetta and more.
The next day, you and the girls will be treated to a 2-hour soak session at The Bathhouse, where you’ll have access to their sauna, stream room, heated magnesium plunge pool & hydrotherapy spas, complimentary cocktails in hand.
Then it’s time to let your hair down. Once you’re feeling fabulous after a tranquil morning at The Bathhouse, head to the local Razorback Ridge winery for a wine tasting of 4 delicious varieties. Once you’re back at the Camden Valley Inn, take in the amazing views of the Razorback Mountains in the lounge, wine still in hand of course.
After a restful sleep, finish off the weekend with a High Tea in the beautifully styled Tea House in Camden Town before heading home. It will be the perfect balance of fun and relaxation, perfect for you and a group of your closest friends.
Request a booking here: https://www.girlsgetaways.com.
A long lunch is ALWAYS a good idea
Image: Sydney Seaplanes website
If you and your friends are self-described culinary fiends, this experience will be perfect for you.
Less than an hour's drive out of Sydney (or a 20 minute seaplane flight), set on the Hawkesbury River is the Cottage Point Inn. The restaurant is renowned for offering exceptional modern Australian cuisine and if you’re looking to escape for just a few hours this is definitely the place. Make the experience even more special by arriving by sea plane where you can take in the views of the national park from above. Indulge in a 5-course degustation lunch of the finest seafood, that looks too good to eat.
Even if you’re back at work, it is the perfect Sunday experience to keep that holiday feeling alive. Whilst on the pricier side, it is definitely an exceptional experience for relaxation and reconnection with close friends over a delicious meal in a magical setting.
Book a 5 course degustation lunch and return seaplane flights here: https://www.seaplanes.com.au/
Sydney will do just fine
Image: Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel website
Sometimes all you need is a staycation with friends. Skip the travel and get straight into it. There are a plethora of amazing places to stay in and around Sydney - perhaps you’d like to treat yourselves to a weekend at the iconic Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel.
Situated on Sydney Harbour, the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel really is a summer dream. The sea-side rooms have been furnished by Sydney interior designer Sibella Court with eclectic and nautical charm. Spend your day by the beach or exploring local coastal walks. Although you might feel as though you don’t want to leave, you won’t have to travel far to indulge in some culture. Take a ferry across to the city and visit the Museum of Contemporary Art or do some shopping in the city.
Before long you’ll be ready to return in time for sunset where you can enjoy drinks at the hotel's beach club. No need to go anywhere as you can then enjoy a delicious meal at the restaurant or make girls night complete by applying face masks and ordering room service. Whatever takes your fancy.
Following a restful sleep, lap up the morning rays with a mimosa or coffee overlooking the water before heading off.
And if you’re not feeling a beachside vibe, there are plenty of other options in the heart of Sydney - art-deco QT Hotel, Parisian luxury at The Langham or the recently opened Crown in Barangaroo.
Book a room at the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel here: https://watsonsbayhotel.com.
