When you're looking for a weekend getaway and a little bit of luxury, $189 doesn't get you far. But instead of a vacation, what about a staycation? It's kind of the same thing, but without the airport waits or traffic delays.
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Pop-up food stall event The Forage is on again on Saturday July 1 in the carpark outside Little National Hotel, so the two have teamed up for a staycation package over the event's weekend.
The $189 package includes overnight accommodation for two at Little National on either Friday June 30 or Saturday July 1, a complimentary drink per person in the Little National lounge, a $15 voucher to use at The Forage, early check in (midday) and late check out (also midday), free parking, free on demand movies and wifi.
It also includes a 25% discount at Hale, Doma Group's luxurious new gym and spa inside the Brassey Hotel, and the voucher has a 12 month validity so you don't need to squeeze it into your staycation if you're too busy eating and relaxing.
We went for a little preview to check out the goods, and see if it's worth parting with 189 big ones.
At The Forage this time around, they have their biggest foodie lineup since the event launched in 2014.
There will be food from Kusina, Enigma Fine Chocolates, Mr Papa, Cannoli Brothers, Lazy Su, Pialligo Estate, Three Mills Bakery, Mr Papa, Bombolini, East Street Canberra, Pod Food, Hungry Cow Cookies and lots more.
There's also fire pits to keep warm while sipping mulled wine from the Skeehan Brothers, or there will be a special The Forage collaborative brew with BentSpoke. If wine is more your thing, there's quite a few local vineyards who will be there. Our tip? Do not leave until you've tried Mount Majura Vineyard's truffled brie.
They also have live music and activities to keep the kids entertained.
When your pants need loosening and need a lie down, if you book in for the staycation, you're only a quick lift trip away from your bed. And this isn't just any bed - the Doma Group's signature super king beds, which are 20 centimetres longer and wider than a normal bed. It sits next to a floor-to-ceiling window, with automatic blinds for when it's time to nod off, and there's a TV mounted to the wall.
The rooms are small - only 17 square metres - but are filled with luxury finishes and touches like fluffy bathrobes, a rain shower, T2 tea and a Nespresso coffee machine, Foxtel and free movies. There's also a spacious lounge and library area for guests, with comfy chairs, a fireplace, refreshments and impressive views.
Despite being able to see the Telstra Tower or Parliament House or DFAT straight out the window, within the confines of the hotel, it actually feels like you're worlds away, enjoying an indulgent escape.
Verdict: I do appreciate quick access to a nap after eating myself into a food coma, so knowing my bed isn't too far away would be an ideal way to experience The Forage. And for a holiday, it's a bit of a bargain. I would almost pay that much just to sleep in that bed again.
Details: The Forage is on Saturday July 1 from 2-7pm at The Little National Hotel in Barton. Entry is free. The Forage x The Little National staycation package is available on June 30 or July 1. It is $189 with bookings available at littlenationalhotel.com.au.
