For us travel is one of the most romantic things you can do with your partner. It’s also a terrific test of your relationship. We’ve found having that time away together has really helped us get to know one another better.
We were very excited to be asked to judge the romance category of Stayz annual awards. Here’s what we decided.
When Stayz approached us to be the judges of their most romantic venue, it seemed like the perfect fit. We love using Stayz. When we’re planning our trips round Australia, they have an outstanding resource of homes and guesthouses around the country.
As much as we love staying in hotels, there’s something really special about going for weekends away where you can pretend you live somewhere else.
What’s your definition of romance?
For us romance is a mix of quiet luxury and privacy. We don’t go for anything too over the top; we want to feel relaxed and we also like to have our own space. having said that, we don’t like to be bouncing around in a home that’s too big for a couple.
Of course location is a big factor too. We’re softies for a amazing view or staying somewhere that’s on the beach or in the mountains.
Finally we like to see how the place is decorated and designed. muted colours and comfy yet elegant furniture is always going to win us over. unique buildings also catch our eye.
Even though we’ve got a good idea of what makes a romantic place to stay, we had some real trouble working out who the winners should be for the romance category of this year’s Stayz awards.
We want to congratulate all the finalists who are running some outstanding properties.
And the winner is…
The one place that ticked all our boxes and really stood out for us is Thalia Haven in Tasmania for its uniqueness, its privacy, for the fact that it’s completely off the grid and you can really get away and just enjoy time together.
And just look at that bath!
Thalia is also beautifully located on the east coast of Tazzie far enough from anyone yet close enough to Hobart to be isolated but not creepy!
As well as the Thalia Haven taking the national prize, there were state winners too. check them out here:
NSW: Glasshouse Rainforest Retreat, Woolgoolga.
QLD: Dell Stone, Currumbin.
SA: Castle Keep, Stirling.
VIC: The Estate, Trentham.
WA: Ionise, Yallingup.
How do you define romance? What’s the most romantic place you’ve stayed? Do you think we picked the most romantic of the lot? tell us in the comments!
Images by photographer Ray Joyce.