Craving a child-free holiday? It's time to pack the bags for a grown-up getaway and to let someone else take care of you. With the transtasman and Cook Islands bubbles now open, you can make an even greater escape from the kids, or take a trip to some of the
Adults-only holidays in NZ, Australia and the Cook Islands
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Eichardt's Penthouse Spa Experience overlooking Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown. Photo / Supplied
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In the bathroom, couples can enjoy a soak in the two side-by-side freestanding baths, positioned perfectly to look out into the surrounding bush.
The cottage has a strong eco-focus and avoids single-use plastics so you can be sure it looks after you while looking after the environment.
Split Apple Retreat, Nelson Tasman
If the kids have worn you down and you're in need of a bit of a health overhaul, take yourself to the luxury wellness haven that is Split Apple Retreat. This exclusive retreat is snuggled in one of the most luscious areas of New Zealand, the Abel Tasman National Park.
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Meals are focused on health and wellbeing, there's a yoga pavilion and even an eight-seat theatre with reclining seats. No children under 12 are permitted.
The hardest decision you'll have to make is whether you want to go for a swim in the saltwater infinity pool or the turquoise ocean.
Eichardt's Private Hotel, Queenstown
Situated right on the Queenstown lakefront, Eichardt's Private hotel has several accommodation options including suites, apartments, The Residence and The Penthouse for an indulgent retreat.
This prime waterfront location gives guests expansive views over Lake Wakatipu or out to the magnificent mountain ranges that surround Queenstown. Head to the Vault Spa for a rejuvenating treatment catered specifically to your needs. For an added treat, order a glass of bubbles or petit fours while you indulge in your spa therapy.
Glencree Estate, Kaikōura
Glencree Estate is a 1600ha property in the wilderness between the Kaikōura Seaward Ranges and Kaikōura coastline. There are two luxury one-bedroom chalets nestled away in this isolated backcountry part of the South Island, with cliffs, waterfalls and native birds surrounding the estate.
There's plenty to do in the area, from enjoying winery tours to going whale watching, mountain biking to fishing and hunting.
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Australia
Bedarra Island Resort, Cairns
Arrive at Bedarra Island by helicopter or launch for a private island escape south of Cairns. This unique resort is set on 45ha of tropical rainforest, and has a maximum capacity of 20 guests.
This all-inclusive island is in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, meaning you can wake up to the views of the ocean and the surrounding lush rainforest.
Each villa has a split-level design with a private deck area; some also have plunge pools.
While the focus is on relaxation, guests can participate in activities such as sea kayaking, snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, tennis or rainforest walks - or simply spend your days relaxing in the hammock on your deck with a good book.
Beach Club Resort, Hamilton Island
Located on Catseye Beach, this beautiful adults-only oasis will give you all the beach vibes you need as you overlook the Coral Sea. It's a great option for couples who want a seaside holiday.
It's a child-free oasis although slightly bigger than some of the others listed here, with 57 beach house-style rooms available in the resort. The infinity-edge pool is heated in winter, making it an ideal spot year-round, in the warm sub-tropical climes of northern Queensland. There's complimentary access to sports gear such as catamarans, paddleboards and kayaks.
Pavilions and Lenswood, Adelaide Hills
Designed especially for couples, Pavilions at Lenswood offers two one-bedroom self-contained chalets, set in a small valley and surrounded by orchards and trees. The pavilions overlook beautifully manicured gardens, and each has an open wood fire, kitchen and freestanding bath. One of them also has a Japanese cedar hot tub.
Remoteness, luxury and tranquillity are the themes here, with the pavilions are 30-minute drive away from the Adelaide CBD. Food and wine hampers, and in-room massage services can be arranged, or choose to explore the vineyards, restaurants, galleries and many hiking trails in the area.
Drift House, Victoria
If you're keen to explore the Great Ocean Road then make Drift House at Port Fairy one of your home bases. It's luxury boutique accommodation but not in an opulent or extravagant manner. Think contemporary and urbane.
There are six private suites in the original double-storey Victorian bluestone house and neighbouring Edwardian home, reimagined with salvaged timber, local stone and beautiful fixtures.
Drift House is committed to responsible tourism and has a number of initiatives to save water and energy, and reduce waste.
Amaroo Retreat and Spa, Perth Hills
Revive the soul in Western Australia at this spa retreat, designed to rejuvenate guests. Amaroo Retreat is in the Perth Hills bushland, with neighbours including kangaroos, birds and other wildlife.
This sanctuary is about 40 minutes' drive from the Perth CBD and consists of eight luxury chalets, as well as an on-site day spa with a variety of treatments to indulge in during your stay.
Each room has a maximum occupancy of two guests and has its own private spa bath on the deck. There's also an on-site restaurant and bar. Amaroo is strictly adults-only and non-smoking.
Spicers Sangoma Retreat, Blue Mountains
Nestled into the magnificent Blue Mountains, Spicers Sangoma Retreat is ideal for a peaceful nature escape. An 80-minute drive from Sydney, rooms overlook the bushland for the ultimate healing experience.
There are six suites in total, each with their own private deck, and designed to provide everything you need so you don't have to leave your room. The only temptations to leave might be the solar-heated infinity pool, spa treatments at Spa Anise or organic restaurant Amara on site.
A number of experiences are available should you wish you explore more, including rock climbing adventures, canyoning and abseiling, hiking, painting and meditation.
Cook Islands
Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort
Indulge in the dreamy lagoons of the Cook Islands. This private island is a two-minute boat ride from the main island of Aitutaki. Wake up to the views of the endless turquoise waters thriving with tropical fish and coral.
This adults-only resort has the only overwater bungalows in the Cook Islands, where guests can enjoy uninterrupted views of the lagoon. There are also beachfront villas and bungalows, all beautifully decorated with Polynesian-themed accents and furnishings.
Once you've had enough of dabbling your toes in the beautiful water, indulged at the on-site spa and feasted at the restaurant, there's a range of other activities on offer such as island dancing, coconut husking and ukulele lessons, as well as the obligatory snorkelling and watersports on offer.
Sanctuary Rarotonga
Swim and snorkel all day, every day at this island paradise in Rarotonga. This boutique private resort for grown-ups is situated on the white sands of Aroa Beach, where the beachfront will practically be your own. Snorkel at the Aroa Lagoon Marine Sanctuary, the island's best snorkel spot.
Most of the suites have island-style decor with rattan furniture and beach views, but the honeymoon suite is tucked away from the water for a private couple's retreat.
Rejuvenate the mind and body with spa treatments such as a traditional Cook Islands massage or a tropical fresh fruit body wrap. Eat, swim, sleep, repeat.
