The winter sunshine was too good to resist, so we packed the car for a spontaneous hinterland escape. After a beach walk in New Brighton and a delicious lunch at The Salty Mangrove, we wound our way through rolling hills to the Bee Hive, a beautifully designed studio apartment with thoughtful touches and views across the tennis court, open fields, and neighbouring horses.

Our host was warm and welcoming, sharing stories about the property and making us feel right at home. That evening was spent watching the sun dip below the horizon, snuggled by the cosy firepit. As darkness fell and the stars appeared, a calm settled around us. We retreated back to the warmth of the studio to soak in the luxurious bath.

The next morning, we drove to the coast for a whale-watching tour. Seeing humpbacks on their annual migration swimming and breaching close to the boat was a truly magical experience. Afterwards, we explored the Three Sisters track in the Broken Head Nature Reserve, hiking through the rainforest to the sacred Aboriginal site before wandering down to the beach to brave a dip in the ocean.

Back at the property, we played a few rounds of tennis in the afternoon sun, such a fun way to make the most of the space. Bring your own rackets or borrow some from the hosts.

Later we settled back by the fire pit, roasting marshmallows and slowing down with the setting sun. We left feeling completely recharged, reminded that sometimes the best adventures are found close to home. A weekend surrounded by nature, from huge humpback whales to peaceful hinterland hills, truly makes you appreciate the beauty around you.