As a member of many girls' groups (not the musical kind), there is one thing that's nearly impossible to organise.
A weekend away on a date we can all agree on, in a place we can all agree on, that doesn't take an entire day to travel to.
Oh, and it has to be affordable and fit up to eight people in the one location.
But even when you can figure out a date and location that works, finding accommodation that's not just suitable for couples or families can be a headache.
So after some digging, I've found the best retreats, stays and escapes, only a short(ish) distance from Sydney that you and the girls will love.
You can thank me later.
Bannisters Pavilion, Mollymook.
A three-hour drive from Sydney, Bannisters is decked out with so many room options. It's perfect for groups over three and they offer different packages for whatever you and the girls are prioritising, whether that be a spa retreat or some wining and dining. They also constantly have different events on if you want more of a party vibe.
If you want something a tad closer to home, Bannisters also have a Port Macquarie location which is two-and-a-half hours from Sydney.
The Lodge at Shipley Glen, Blackheath.
As an outer-west girly, I'm bias when it comes to stays at the Blue Mountains. It's such a beautiful area with so many free activities you can do like walking trails, chasing waterfalls or just enjoying the views.
Many beautiful Airbnb options accommodate larger groups, like this Villa in Blackheath. I'm obsessed.
Glamping at The Cove, Jervis Bay.
If you want to try something a bit more unique with your girlfriends, glamping is the perfect option if you still want a luxe weekend away but also want to be somewhat connected to nature.
The tents at The Cove are close in proximity to each other so you will all still be together as a group and can choose to buddy up with someone for the nights or go in solo.
If glamping isn't your style The Cove has a large range of different luxury cabins you can choose from. You can also opt to stay at their Fun House which has seven bedrooms and sleeps 23 people (surely the girls will rally). It's a three-hour drive down south of Sydney.
Greyleigh, Kiama.
I meannnn. Would you look at this place?
For a bit more of a luxury escape, Greyleigh is just under a two-hour drive from Sydney. It's a beautiful farm stay that's perfect for large groups as it sleeps up to 12. They also offer a range of experiences such as spa days, helicopter tours, art workshops and whiskey tasting.
Motel Molly, Mollymook.
Another cute and dare I say, girly, recommendation in Mollymook.
Motel Molly is around a three-hour drive from Sydney and the rooms are beautifully designed in a very quirky and chic way. The motel has a private pool and is located around the corner from the beach so you and the girls can choose where to relax.
The Corner Cottage, Moss Vale.
This cozy Airbnb is a two-hour drive from Sydney and can sleep up to seven guests.
It's located close to some beautiful walking tracks and many little restaurants and cafes. It's perfect for board games and lounging around and the open-plan kitchen is the perfect space to have too many cooks.
Highly recommend if you and the girls just want to chill away from the bustle of the city.
The Boathouse, Daleys Point.
Less than two hours drive from Sydney, The Boathouse is perfect for smaller groups. It sleeps four people and has beautiful waterfront views. The property has a private jetty and the apartment has a pizza oven for some cozy dinner nights in.
If you liked this article, you might be interested in this:
'My first girls' trip was a disaster. Here's how we make it work when we all earn different wages.'
If you want more culture opinions by Emily Vernem, you can follow her on Instagram @emilyvernem.
Feature Image: Instagram/@greyleigh.kiama/@motelmolly_.
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