Earn a free night's accommodation at these five hotels

If the last time you went to the Goldie was for a raucous holiday, you need to ditch that memory and make some new ones. In the past few years the Gold Coast has come into its own, revealing itself as a destination not just for party people and surfers but also food lovers, environmental enthusiasts and everyone in between. With this in mind Voco has kept sustainability at the forefront: there are beehives on the rooftop making honey for use in the hotel's restaurants, and the Smartdown bedding used in house is made from 100 per cent recycled materials. Dining-wise you can order up just-shucked oysters or slow-cooked boneless short rib at Clifford's Grill and Lounge, while Social House will take you from your morning macchiato right through to wine time. Add in the sandy shores of Surfers Paradise Beach just moments away and its ultra-central location, and you’ve got a long weekend on the Gold Coast set and sorted. 

Situated smack bang in the middle of NSW wine country, Voco Kirkton Park is the perfect gateway for seeing some of the Hunter’s most beautiful vineyards and country towns. The picturesque hotel has recently been upgraded, upping the luxury factor while still maintaining the classic charm of the region. While you’ll want to explore the Hunter Valley, the gorgeous amenities of Voco will certainly make you want to linger a little longer, be it diving in the elegant pool, heading out on a kitchen garden tour, shaking things up in a cocktail masterclass, or meeting the chefs that will prepare your meals. Pet-loving guests will also love the select pooch-friendly rooms, making getting away for a long weekend that much easier.

Home to the Hunter Valley’s widest range of accommodation – from deluxe villas to resort suites – this Crowne Plaza is all about providing maximum comfort on your getaway. Dining experiences here include the Resalt Restaurant, which overlooks the 18-hole golf course. If you want to do something really different book ahead for the nearby Hunter Valley Zoo’s ‘Into the Lion’s Den’ dining adventure on November 2, where you’ll head behind the gates after dark for an exclusive dinner. Of course there are also many beautiful vineyards to visit and the Crowne Plaza can organise the best ways to see them – from private helicopter tours to the funky yellow Lovedale bus, or if you like beer, why not head out on the Hunter Ale Trail? An extra night in the Hunter Valley is never going to go astray.

Head across the pond and explore Auckland, using the excellent Crowne Plaza Auckland as your homebase for a long weekend adventure. Located in the CBD, this hotel is all about slick service and absolute comfort. In house they have the Aria Restaurant and Bar, which uses global influences to showcase local produce, like Kapiti cheese and New Zealand lamb. Shoppers will want to check out the Britomart’s laneways, while foodies will want to check out Auckland’s ever-evolving dining scene featuring excellent restaurants and great rooftop bars. Finally, plan a day trip to hike a dormant volcano, see the rugged coastline, chase waterfalls or head to a nearby beach – the concierge will always be on hand to help you plan your ultimate day out.

With panoramic views that take in the beautiful Surfers Paradise coastline, it’s hard to argue with a quick getaway to the Gold Coast’s most popular strip. Located moments from the sandy shores of the beach, right between Cavill Avenue and Broadbeach’s vibrant shopping and dining scene, the Crowne Plaza is an excellent option for families, couples or friends. The G-link tram is right at the hotel’s doorstep, meaning you can whip around the coast with ease. It’s also home to the Four Winds 360 Revolving Restaurant, which means you can take in the sweeping views of the beach before rotating right back around to see stunning views back to the hinterland. With the short flight time, perennially great weather and vibrant social scene, the Crowne Plaza Gold Coast is a destination when you’ll put that extra night's stay to good use.