Cosy mid-winter getaways: Tim the Yowie Man picks his top five

Moonbah Hut, near Jindabyne, NSW: Hand-crafted from local granite and hardwood these two log cabins are nestled on a rare slice of freehold wedged up against the rugged realms of Kosciuszko National Park. With antique snow shoes and rusting rabbit traps hanging off the rough sawn iron bark walls, the décor of these fully self-contained cabins exudes that rustic pioneer aura.

Winter warmers: You are provided with a never-ending supply of firewood, so turn down the thermostat on the in-slab heating and throw another log on the crackling open fire. There are also a couple of custom-made sunken firepits for toasting marshmallows while enjoying the clear astral nights. Who know, if you are lucky, you may even spot the Southern Lights (aurora australis).

Expect: To be lulled to sleep by the calming waters of the Moonbah Creek which babbles by, laden with snow melt. Oh, and the morning light show when sun lights up frozen ice crystals dangling off the gnarly snow gums will dazzle you.

Local secret: Located only ten kilometres, the way the crow flies, from Thredbo and near the end of a long valley which channels cool, moist air, Moonbah Hut receives much more snow than other areas of a similar altitude meaning you may just wake up to a winter wonderland. Magic!

Tim's Tip: Although the man-made lake freezes over on some winter nights, leave the ice skating to the flock of kamikaze ducks – it's not thick enough to walk on.

Don't miss: If you can tear yourself away from your mountain hideaway, the snow resorts are only a short drive away. Alternatively, head to Wild Brumby Distillery (corner of Wollondibby Rd and the Alpine Way, Jindabyne) and stock up on their scrumptious schnapps (they now also distil gin!). Ideal for your next night snuggled up in front of the fire.

Take me there: Located 15-minutes' drive south of Jindabyne, the one room (plus ensuite) Lake Hut sleeps up to four (although best suited for a couple), while the larger River Hut can accommodate five. From $245 per night. Ph: (02) 64578311 or web: www.moonbahhut.com

Echoes Boutique Hotel, Blue Mountains: Enjoy jaw-dropping views of the World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains National Park just by rolling over in bed and looking out your window.

Winter warmth: There's an appealing flamed gas fire in the Cocktail Bar which is just downstairs from your suite.

Expect: Views, views and more views. You can enjoy some of the best panoramas just by opening your curtains. Meanwhile the more adventurous can explore some of the 160kms of walking trails, over 500 waterfalls and 250 species of Australian wildlife right outside your door in the national park.

Local secret: Request the corner suite – you'll have views in two directions.

Tim's Tip: Don't forget to rug up– it is often colder in the Blue Mountains than Canberra. Oh, be sure to book a cliff-side table at Echoes Restaurant where the food really is as good as the vista.

Don't miss: Pamper yourself in the Day Spa which features couple's rooms with private bath and sauna. Divine!

Take me there: About 3-hours' drive from Canberra, Echoes Boutique Hotel, Katoomba is located only 800 metres from the famous Three Sisters. Priced from $299 per night per double. Ph: 02 47821966 or web: www.echoeshotel.com.au/

Springview Retreat, Kangaroo Valley: Architect-designed, self-contained split-level cottage set amongst rolling green pastures, grazed by content cows.

Winter warmth: By day soak up the sun which streams through the knock-out big picture window, and by night, watch the shadows of flames from your open fire dance on the cathedral ceiling.

Expect: Tranquillity, fluffy towels, luxury furnishings, and rustic elegance. What more could you ask for?

Local secret: Just five minutes' drive from the cottage is the quaint Old Barrengarry Store which claims to have "the best pies in the world". Now, there's only one way to see if you agree with their lofty claim, isn't there. Go on, don't be guilty, winter is pie eating season after all.

Tim's Tip: Keep the blinds open while you relax in your zen bath tub. You have the entire six hectare farm completely to yourself. If you walk around in your birthday suit, only the cows will notice.

Don't miss: The spectacular sunrise light show which transforms the long veins of natural sandstone on the surrounding escarpment amphitheatre into rich golds and bright oranges.

Take me there: Kangaroo Valley is located just more than two-hours' drive north of Canberra. From $290 per night (min 2 nights). Ph: 0412 695 412 or web: www.springviewretreat.com

Cocora Cottage, Eden: A spacious B&B located right in the heart of this historic fishing port is proof that not all the best winter escapes are in the mountains or highlands.

Winter warmth: Just because you are on the coast, doesn't mean it doesn't get cold. With higher humidity, sea air can feel colder than mountain air so after a day exploring the treasures of the Sapphire Coast, retire to the lounge complete with open fire and its not–so-secret stash of complimentary port and chocolates. Enough to warm the cockles of anyone's heart.

Expect: Polished kauri timber floorboards, high ceilings, a pillow menu and a breakfast to die for. If the sun is shining, wander out onto the deck and indulge in a glass of wine while looking out for whales frolicking in Twofold Bay. Now that'd be something to brag about.

Local secret: Originally built as the town's police station, the internal wall which formed part of the old "Watch House" was crafted from sandstone that arrived in Eden as ballast in the old steamers. Look out for the depression in the stone outside the kitchen – it is apparently the result of a century of knife and sword sharpening by the local constabulary. Really!

Tim's Tip: Be prepared to stay a night longer than you planned, as you won't want to leave.

Don't miss: A visit to the Eden Smokehouse (20 Weecoon St). Feast on artisan gourmet foods including the local specialty, wood-smoked sardines.

Take me there: 2 Cocora Street, Eden (about a three hour drive from Canberra). From $160 per night per double. Ph: 02 64961241 or web: www.coastalstays.com/cocora/

Hotel Kurrajong, Canberra: Too busy to get away for the weekend? Stay at this landmark hotel, recently refurbished to its original grandeur and spend the travel time you'll save snoozing in style instead.

Winter warmth: Wile away the evening in front of the homely open fire, and enjoy breakfast next morning in the sun-drenched enclosed north-facing conservatory-style veranda.

Expect: Modern elegance, courtyards and gardens redolent of early-era Canberra.

Local secret: First-opened in 1926 as "Hostel No 2", the Kurrajong soon became the unofficial Australian Labor Party headquarters. One of its more famous resident was Ben Chifley (Prime Minister 1945 -1949) lived here throughout his parliamentary career, including his term as Prime Minister from 1945-1949. He also died here and his ghost is said to haunt (it's ok, it's supposedly friendly) Room 181 where he suffered a fatal heart attack on 13 June 1951.

Tim's Tip: Time your stay with a Christmas in July feast. Be jolly and merry with no need to worry about getting a cab home.

Don't miss: To celebrate all the beautiful truffles winter delivers, the hotel's restaurant, Chifley's Bar & Grill, is offering an evening to experience premium wines paired with a contemporary Truffle menu. Saturday August 5, 2017 from 7pm $130 per person with matched wines.

Take me there: 8 National Circuit, Barton. From $112 per night. Ph: 02 62344444 or web: www.hotelkurrajong.com.au