The Carrington – Blue Mountains

Possibly one of the most picturesque hotels on Katoomba Street, The Carrington is a popular mountain retreat in the heart of Katoomba. It first opened in 1882 as The Great Western, and today it still holds much of its historic beauty while still catering to all modern needs (as it was restored in 1998).

The Carrington Hotel - Courtesy visitnsw.com

It is perfect located for a romantic weekend away, only two hours drive from the centre of Sydney. It is also surrounded by beautiful cafes and restaurants, perfect for a late, lazy breakfast or a romantic dinner.

There is also plenty to do in the Blue Mountains, with sightseeing topping the list. There are many amazing, natural landforms, such as the Three Sisters at Echo Point. Guided bushwalks abound, or you can try at the steepest train in the world at the Scenic Railway.

If, however, you prefer to stay close to the hotel I would absolutely recommend the Yindi Day Spa. Admittedly, before I departed on my journey to Yindi, I was skeptical and maybe even a little anxious, but let me assure you, it is amazing! They have an extensive range of couples packages for you and your loved one. I can honestly think of no better way to relax, and spend a quiet weekend.

Couple Room at Yindi Day Spa

Visit The Carrington website (www.thecarrington.com.au) for more details. Prices start from $119 per night, well worth it if you ask me! Couples Packages at Yindi Day Spa (www.yindi.com.au) start from $160, but I would recommend getting something like the “Couples Chocolate Fantasy”. Also don’t forget to look at the “Romantic Interlude” package, which includes and extensive spa treatment for two and  overnight accommodation in a Premier View Room!

Movies Under The Stars

Summer in Sydney these past few years has brought with it the birth of “openair” cinemas. It is a place to go when the sunsets, to see everything from a new-release box office hit, to a contemporary cult film. However, these past few years many of the cinemas (especially Bondi’s OpenAir Cinema) is opening up to dining, DJ sets, live entertainment, and even new movie premieres.

St George Openair Cinema at Mrs. Macquarie's Chair

For me, this is a no-brainer when it comes to romantic activities in Sydney. Head somewhere nice for dinner, then amble on over to the cinema, maybe with some nice dessert to snack on. Any movie would be fine to watch, as the atmosphere could be soft and lighthearted, or both yourself and your partner could get lost in some deep, meandering thriller.

There are cinemas in Bondi (Bondi Openair), Centennial Park in Paddignton (Nissan Moonlight Cinema), and Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair in the city (St George Openair).

Visit the websites for pricing, movies showing at the moment, location and general ticketing information. And remember, be sure to get in early as tickets sell out extremely quickly, especially to the more popular movies.