Slow Down And Check In: The Best Stays For Laidback Getaways

There comes a point when a slower kind of escape begins to call your name. Sure, we’ll always have a soft spot for the bright lights of a new city, but in 2026, we’re dialling things down and leaning into a more chilled way of holidaying.

A new year means a new vacay vibe—no hectic itineraries that require a massage gun on your tender calves afterwards, no crowd dodging, just a getaway to reset and recharge. 

Next year, Aussies are set to trade city jaunts for small-town strolls, embracing a slower pace, less chaos and everything you need just a hop, a step and a country bakery pie from your front door (extra T-sauce, obviously).

You’re only a Wotif away from discovering your new favourite slow-down town. And Wotif even takes the stress away from getting there—with apartments, holiday rentals, hotels, car hire and activities all primed for booking in one easy spot. 

With flexible booking options, including a selection of fully refundable hotels, Mates’ Rates on over 100,000 hotels, as well as book-now-pay-later options at select stays, you can plan with both confidence and great value. 

We’ve teamed up with Wotif to share our favourite slow-down town stays, guaranteeing a glorious getaway at a much gentler pace. 

Nagambie, Victoria 

Nagambie is the kind of town where the loudest thing you’ll hear is a paddle hitting the lake or a cork popping at a local winery. Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, life here is all about laid-back days on the water, vineyard views and country charm on tap. No traffic, no rush, just pure zen energy.

Discovery Parks Nagambie Lakes

Located right on the water’s edge, Discovery Parks Nagambie Lakes is made for laid-back fun. With 40 individually styled cabins, complete with kitchens, balconies and spacious living areas, your crew can roam freely. 

Dive into the outdoor pool, hit the tennis court, enjoy a sunset barbecue or explore the lake just a five-minute stroll away. Add cafe eats, a games room and free parking, and you’ve got the chill tempo you’ve been craving.

Nagambie Waterfront Motel

If calm lake vibes are calling your name, Nagambie Waterfront Motel serves balcony coffee with front-row water views. Wake to glassy reflections, a gentle breeze and nothing on the agenda but watching the ripples roll on by. 

With free WiFi, modern amenities, an outdoor pool, two on-site restaurants and bars, plus an easy stroll into town, it’s the ideal place to take a moment, soak up the scenery and let the lake set the pace.

Luxury Lake Nagambie Retreat By Twin Palms Holiday Rentals

A chic, Regency-inspired base just a short stroll from Lake Nagambie, this four-bedroom, two-bathroom holiday home brings playful glamour to your slow-down stay. Brew coffee in the fully equipped kitchen, kick back by the fire pit and spread out across generous living spaces.

You’ll also have access to estate facilities which include an outdoor pool, gym and tennis, so relaxing comes easy. Plus, it’s close to town and wineries, should you feel like venturing out from your comfy base. 

Trinity Beach, Queensland

Trinity Beach feels like nature’s own version of slow-mo. Just 30 minutes from Cairns, this postcard-worthy suburb operates on its own rhythm. With a patrolled, stinger-netted beach for year-round swimming, a shady esplanade to explore, and restaurants just steps from the sand, it’s a truly special spot where your days will be punctuated with not much else other than sipping cocktails, swimming, and just pottering about.  

Blue Lagoon Resort

Nestled in the lush fringe of Cairns’ tropical coastline, Blue Lagoon Resort delivers relaxed beach bliss with all the perks of a luxury stay. Swap city buzz for shady palms, a private stretch of sand and breezy balconies, with two pools and two on-site restaurants at your fingertips. 

Inside, you’ll find stylish rooms and modern amenities, and you’re only steps from cafes and all of Far North Queensland’s natural wonders waiting to be explored.

Sea Point On Trinity

Set literally steps from the sand, Sea Point on Trinity Beach is a boutique aparthotel framed by tropical gardens and Balinese-style courtyards. Choose from one- to four-bedroom apartments with full kitchens, breezy balconies and beautifully appointed comforts.

Relax in the resort-style pool and spa, fire up the barbecue in the pavilion, or stroll to nearby cafes and restaurants. 

Huskisson, New South Wales 

Perched on the shores of Jervis Bay, Huskisson is a serene coastal village just two and a half hours' drive from Sydney and Canberra. With its beautiful beaches, relaxed atmosphere and cafe-lined streets, it’s the perfect place to do little more than wander, swim and simply be.

Husky Getaway

You had us at heated plunge pool, to be honest. Step into understated luxury at Husky Getaway, a beautifully designed two-bedroom villa just minutes from Huskisson’s town centre. Lounge on the patio or cook up a feast in the full kitchen, then wander down to Jervis Bay or Whitesands Park for a salty dip.

Huskisson Bayside Resort

Located in the heart of Huskisson and just a short stroll from pristine Jervis Bay shores, Huskisson Bayside Resort offers fuss-free coastal comfort. With relaxing garden surrounds, an outdoor pool, BBQ facilities and an on-site restaurant, it’s a comfortable HQ for lazy beach days. 

Rooms offer modern perks including WiFi, air conditioning and kitchenettes, making them excellent for couples, families or solo travellers wanting to unwind close to everything without breaking the bank.

Mollymook, New South Wales

Mollymook is one of those coastal destinations that makes you exhale the moment you rock up. With its beautiful beaches, epic natural wonders (a visit to the Bogey Hole rock pool is a must) and laid-back, barefoot energy, it’s hard to believe it’s only three hours from Sydney.

Motel Molly

Motel Molly serves up boutique glamour with a side of laid-back luxury. Rooms and suites come with Moroccan-inspired styling, sunken baths, Smeg appliances and balconies overlooking the gardens or the sea. 

Spend the day by the pool, or jump on one of the complimentary bikes and ride to the beach, cafe or bowling club with the wind in your hair and not a care in the world. 

Mollymook Motel

Mollymook Motel is a revived 1960s gem that will quickly have your heart. Lovingly restored by local owners, it remains true to its retro roots while offering all the modern comforts across its 11 super chic rooms. 

Think ocean-view balconies, refurbished rooms with kitchenettes and mid-century flair—all just a short stroll from the beach, cafes and the golf club. It’s far enough from the hustle to let the waves set the pace, yet close to everything you need for a dreamy seaside stay.

Casa Blanco

Wake to fresh ocean air at Casa Blanco beach house, your sleepy coastal haven in Ulladulla. Just minutes from Mollymook Beach and tucked into a peaceful seaside pocket that can sleep six, it’s ideal for couples, families or small groups. 

Inside, the bright, airy styling sets the tone for relaxed mornings and lazy arvos. Outside, a north-facing deck, barbecue and fire pit make entertaining effortless. And the cherry on top? It’s pet-friendly, so your four-legged mate can come along for the fun too. 

Robe, South Australia 

Situated along the rugged Limestone Coast, Robe is a seaside town where cliffs, heritage cottages and topaz-blue waters guarantee a perfectly paced holiday. Overlooking Guichen Bay, it’s as much about long beach drives and historic trails as it is about fresh seafood, good wine and slow, salt-kissed days. How’s the serenity! 

The Summer House

Escape to The Summer House in Robe, a laidback coastal hideaway just one street back from Long Beach. This self-contained, adorable A-frame-style three-bedroom home is all about effortless beach vibes, with a fully fenced backyard so your pup can join the adventure (outdoors only). 

Inside, you’ll enjoy airy open-plan living, a full kitchen, laundry and all the best creature comforts. Fire up the barbie, stroll to the beach in minutes and hunker down into full holiday mode, South Australia-style.

Apartment San Danci

Eighty steps… that’s all that separates you from the sand at this sweet two-bedroom hideaway in the coastal charmer of Robe. Sleeping four, Apartment San Danci brings the beach to your doorstep with open-plan living, a Netflix-ready TV and all the essentials for a cruisy seaside stay. 

The best bit? You’re mere moments from all the local cafes, boutiques and those dreamy white shores. With AC, WiFi, a barbecue, full kitchen and parking, it makes for a blissfully low-key spot.

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Images: Supplied.