Kate Jones

Nothing hits quite so right as a mini holiday mid-week. Waking up somewhere new on Saturday morning is like hacking the corporate system, getting extra time off AND being able to say something smug on Monday morning about your very eventful weekend. Wins only. Down Under, there's a dizzying array of options for short weekend getaways that are super close to all our major cities. To help you out with your whole 'enriching my life' plan, we've pulled together eight weekend getaways from every state and territory in Australia that each offer up something different.  RECOMMENDED: The most epic Aussie roadtrips you should drive away on before you die. From wineries to cute country towns to World Heritage wilderness, there's something epic on this list for everyone. Plus – every inclusion on this list is driveable or quickly accessible from a major city, meaning you don't need to drive for half your weekend to get there and/or fork out major dollars for airfares. Begone, boring couch-ridden Saturdays, and fighting off the scaries while washing towels on Sundays. This is your life folks. Go on a bloody mini break.  Want more Aussie travel inspo? Hit up one of these 25 incredible places you can only find Down Under.

Rottnest Island is one of those incredibly rare places on Earth that looks even better IRL than it does in glossy travel magazines. Also known by its local Aboriginal name, Wadjemup, and ‘Rotto’ by locals, it’s an essential addition to any WA itinerary. Out-of-towners may know Rottnest for its friendly population of quokkas, but the island is also home to the most incredible azure blue waters you’ll come across, and nowadays, it has a selection of top-notch eateries and luxe accommodation, as well as camping grounds, cafés and low-key restaurants for the budget-conscious.  Whether you’re ready to splurge on a peaceful retreat or simply spend your days lounging at the beach and sipping on pints at the hotel, you can easily spend a day, weekend or entire summer on Rottnest Island. Want to keep adventuring? Here are the most beautiful islands in Australia.