A bath with a view

Did the Covid lockdowns inspire a renewed appreciation of the humble bath? We think so. And we’re pleased to see the elevated treatment of bathing spaces by several of our accommodation providers. So if you’re after a bath with a stunning view, we’d like to float these suggestions.

These spaces range from compact to expansive but all of them are superb platforms to honour the bathtub. Strangely, you’ll find more time here: to sink and to soak.

And you won’t need that good book to relax into the bubbles. Simply gaze into the perfectly framed view, watch the sunset or count the stars directly above. You’ll always remember this moment of peace.

The Moorings Lakehouse, Coomba Park

This extraordinary property is easily the jewel in the Wallis Lake crown: nestled on its own serene peninsula with 200 metres of lake frontage. There are three different accommodation options and two of these offer that splendid outdoor bath of your dreams: Lakefront Villa and Lakeview Barn.

Luxurious touches are found throughout this stunning lakefront property. You can harvest salads from the organic vegetable garden and orchards or just sit back under the bubbles and admire the soothing views across Wallis Lake from your bath. You want more? Then enjoy the barrel sauna with sundeck... there are views from there too.

Laurina Estate B&B, Darawank

This little B&B gem delivers the deluxe touches that would make much larger retreats envious. In a private wing of the main home your suite has a separate entry, living space, bathroom, verandah, outdoor area and beautiful gardens, luxurious bed linen, fluffy towels and robes plus boutique toiletries are supplied. There’s even a full menu for a superb home-cooked meal with wines. The décor is stylish but soothing and you can book the whole space for yourself (or add one lucky extra couple if you’re travelling together).

And the owners’ excitement about the new outdoor bathhouse is justified, this is a temple to the bath... simply channel your inner Grecian goddess. If you’re after a perfectly relaxed moment framed by country beauty, then this is it.

The Ridge, Gloucester

Snuggled at the base of Gloucester’s Buccan Buccans, this contemporary pavilion home offers every luxury with commanding views. The Ridge was the first deluxe property to win us over with a bath set up just for the outlook from the master bathroom. It’s been a firm favourite for years with visitors looking for that really special country experience without stepping outdoors.

The Ridge Eco Cabin

The owners knew they were onto a good thing, so their latest addition located further up the gentle slope is a smaller version of that big concept. The Ridge Eco Cabin is a delightful package of compact beauty and offers discerning couples privacy and comfort with touches of rustic luxury. And of course that signature bath with the unbeatable views across the Gloucester valley is what gets visitors hooked.

Waterways Farm Tiny Retreat, Hannam Vale

A tiny house big on quality, this is perfect for couples, friends or even solo. Warm and cosy in winter with an outdoor wood-burning firepit and indoor heating. Perfect in summer with air conditioning and cool breezes from the massive dam and tall trees.

An absolutely stunning outdoor bath on the deck is a truly special place in any weather and at any time of the day.

Soulitude Farmstay, Hannam Vale

This is a fun and funky farmhouse with sweeping 360-degree views of green country beauty. It feels just like the Byron hinterland with tranquility, rainforests, waterfalls and beaches nearby. Fill up the claw foot bath, add yourself and some bubbles then admire the country views as the afternoon sun streams in. Here it's easy to imagine you're a Hemsworth for a lot less money.

Dam It Getaway, Gloucester

Does a spa bath with a glorious view count? Of course it does, especially with views that can’t be ignored. There’s no need to add bubbles as the spa jets do the job of ensuring your relaxation as the sky turns shades of sunset orange and pink. If you’re not relaxed here, then you aren't really trying.

Clarendon Forest Retreat, Possum Brush

This is the perfect bush retreat with 40 hectares of private valley surrounded by nature and wildlife. Each luxury guest house has a fireplace and spa so the relaxing comes easily, and the views are extraordinary. Go for a mountain bike ride or walk forest trails, play tennis then soak in the spa as the sun sets.

Mansfield Cottage, Gloucester

This delightful country cottage alongside the Barrington River has long been a favourite with families. It now boasts an outdoor bathhouse with views across the riverbanks to Copeland Tops on the horizon. The bathhouse has a claw foot bath and there are two back-to-back showers that make back-scrubbing your partner a breeze! Even the toilet has a view through its barn-style doors. Your kids may laugh when you tell them that all country dunnies once had a view like this, but you’ll quietly appreciate the official return of the ‘loo with a view’.