The best affordable romantic getaways near Melbourne

Beechworth has a picture-perfect atmosphere that’ll make an idyllic backdrop for your romance to unfold. If you’ve never been, it’s well worth the visit. With heaps of local goodies to explore including vineyards, stunning national parks, waterfalls and a predictably delectable country bakery, it’s the perfect place to unwind and refresh. The Stone Cottages offer access to all this from a rustic, extra-cosy and comfortable base camp. Choose from The Barn or The Cottage and enjoy gorgeous garden views, natural wood and stone finishes and a spa bath. Getting away from the big smoke never felt so homey.

Price: Starts from $280 per night

As weekend getaways go, Emerald is accessible – whether you’ve got your own wheels or you’re relying on public transport. And some of the landscapes found in the Dandenong Ranges could certainly compete for Victoria’s most romantic spots. There’s a reason the hills are famous for wedding venues! Spend a few days tucked away at Emerald Ridge B&B to uncover the magic of this area, including local markets, towns nestled in forested hills, walks and wineries. And we can’t fail to mention the Puffing Billy steam railway, of course. Choose from Emerald Ridge B&B’s The Cottage or The Guest Suite and soak up the romantic vibes in this leafy slice of paradise.

Price: Starts from $270 per night

Healesville boasts no end of delights to unearth on your dreamy trip out of the city. Top off your visit and lock in a comfortable night’s rest by staying at Valley Farm Vineyard Apartments, a 5 minute drive from Healesville town and its distilleries, wineries, boutiques and lookouts. Valley Farm has a choice of three private apartments overlooking the Yarra Ranges, a private vineyard, and a friendly herd of alpacas who are likely to approach your window for a tête-à-tête. While you’re in the area, check out our guide to the Yarra Valley to assemble your to-do list.

Price: Starts from $200 per night

Arnica Views is a stone’s throw from the summit of Mount Dandenong, with the lush vistas and leafy coverage you’d expect from such a locale. Hunker down in one of their converted barns, lofts or cottages for the weekend and experience an immersive level of relaxation that’ll have you forgetting the complexities of everyday life. It’s cosy to a tee, and you’ll be located conveniently closely to a handful of day spas and iconic walking tracks like 1000 Steps. There are bathrobes, free movies, cloud-like beds and heating – your mountaintop movie night awaits.

Price: Starts from $250 per night

Looking for romance on a budget doesn’t have to exclude B&Bs from the picture. At Sunny Side Up B&B in Rye – which you can feasibly access even without a car – you can enjoy the care and attention to detail of a B&B in proximity to the Peninsula’s hot springs, beaches and wineries. Take the planning out of your trip and settle into one of Sunny Side Up’s luxurious, curated rooms, with breakfast sorted for you and the main street of Rye a short walk away. And, most importantly: they offer Belgian waffles for breakfast.

Price: Starts from $275 per night

The gold mining town of Walhalla in Gippsland is famous for its ghosts. While this might not sound romantic on the surface, the town’s leafy surrounds, retro charm and natural beauty will have you convinced otherwise. With a population of only 35, you can soak up the atmosphere of Walhalla from the comfort of Windsor House B&B, with three suites and breakfast available. A true escape from the hustle and bustle, you can set out from Windsor House to explore alpine walking tracks, take a scenic train ride or, if you’re game, partake in a ghost tour.

Price: Starts from $180 per night