With International Women’s Day right around the corner on March 8th, what better way to celebrate women power than an epic all-girls getaway? 2019 figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show that more than a third of small business owners in Australia are women — it’s an excellent time for the international community to support women-owned businesses in Australia, with New South Wales the ideal getaway — with a plethora of activities, food and wine options, and more that will ensure a holiday you won’t soon forget.
Visit These Amazing Women-Owned Businesses
Lovers of natural products would love to make a quick stop at Indigiearth, an award winning range of modern Australia native products founded by Sharon Winsor, a Ngemba Weilwan woman from Western NSW. It offers over two hundred products including native foods, candles, diffusers and an all-natural skincare range. Another to add to the list is Juddarnje, a natural skincare range created by Linda, Christa and Megan Slockee who incorporate natural oils, clays, botanicals and essential oils made from Australian ingredients. We also recommend making time to visit wineries run by respectable women winemakers, such as Rowlee Wines in Orange helmed by Director Nicole Samodol, and Pepper Tree Wines in Hunter Valley helmed by Head Winemaker Gwyn Olsen.
Indulge in Retail Therapy at Byron Bay
Apart from luxurious beaches, cafés and bars, Byron Bay is known for its slew of boutique brands. Whether it’s a statement boho-chic piece from Spell & The Gypsy Collective, sustainable swimwear from Salt Gypsy, or even rustic homeware from Hope + May, the range of local labels here have got it covered.
Wind Down at This Wellness Retreat in Wolgan Valley
Rediscover the meaning of wellness at the Emirates One&Only Resort in Wolgan Valley. Deepen your yoga practice or opt for a rejuvenating spa treatment. Either way, this luxury destination promises a relaxing getaway and stunning views of the iconic Blue Mountains.
Swim with Fur Seals at Montague Island
Get up close and personal with marine wildlife just off Montague Island. Snorkel, dive or swim with friendly fur seals and spot humpback whales, dolphins and penguins along the way. The island also offers other activities like kayaking, walking tours and a host of waterside dining options.
Plan the Ultimate Bar Crawl in Sydney
Live it up in Sydney with some of the best bars in town. Enjoy rare bottles of wine at Monopole or classic cocktails with a twist at the famed Opera Bar at the Sydney Opera House, not forgetting Sydney’s slew of top-notch luxury rooftop bars like Barangaroo House, helmed by celebrity chef Matt Moran. Other bars deserving of an honourable mention also include Untied Barangaroo, Gin Lane andHyde Hacienda, and The Winery.
Taste Handcrafted Spirits at Premium Distilleries
Make a day of exploring the beautiful beaches of Central Coast and while you’re there, stop by one of the region’s finest artisan distilleries. Located halfway between Sydney and Newcastle in Erina, the independently owned Distillery Botanica, also known as The Fragrant Garden, spans three acres and is home to the award winning Bar Botanica. Taste lovingly handcrafted spirits as you tour the garden grounds or kick back on a picnic mat and enjoy a hearty brunch in this garden café. Short on time for a trip to Erina? Get your fill of premium distilleries in the heart of Sydney. Visit Archie Rose for a distillery tour or a cocktail masterclass. Known for its premium gins and whiskeys, end the tour at the Archie Rose bar with a selection of uniquely curated cocktails.
Go Glamping in Style
Wine, stargazing and Australian wildlife, anyone? Sierra Escape offers the ultimate luxury glamping experience which includes everything from wood fireplaces, king beds and even an outdoor bathtub on your own private deck. Enjoy breath-taking views of the valley at Mudgee, located a few hours’ drive from Sydney.
Get Up Close & Personal With Australia’s Wildlife
Soak in the natural beauty of Australia’s bushland when you stay at Wildlife Retreat at Taronga, Taronga Zoo’s newest luxury eco-resort. Participate in exclusive experiences with Australia’s wildlife including koalas, echidnas and wallabies, appreciate stunning views of Sydney Harbour and tuck into a delectable course dinner at Me-Gal Restaurant, which serves up some of the country’s finest, sustainably sourced local produce.
Discover Berry on a Bespoke Tour Curated for Women Only
Girls just want to have fun and this is exactly what Luxe South Coast offers. This boutique tour company specialises in curating tours just for ladies – indulge in fancy high tea and bubbles in a vineyard with your favourite girls, or go for a VIP food, wine and shopping experience. Whatever you desire, they have got you covered.
Cruise With Dolphins at Port Stephens
Discover Port Stephens wildlife in comfort and style aboard one of Imagine Cruises’ many cruise itineraries. Hop on Imagine’s 54ft sailing catamaran and enjoy a day of snorkelling with dolphins or dolphin watching as you tour the beautiful coast of Port Stephens.
Taste the Finest Wines in Australia at Hunter Valley
The Hunter Valley is home to some of the finest wineries in New South Wales, with some dating back as far as the 1800s. Wine and dine at the picturesque winery Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard and the distinguished, family-owned Tyrrell’s Wines before making your way to The Hunter Valley Cheese Factory for a delightful cheese tasting menu.
There is so much more to see at New South Wales. Destination NSW has also put together a #LoveNSW movement to help drive tourism back to the state, and rejuvenate regional communities and businesses that require some TLC after the bushfires.