Dream date destinations

Jenolan Caves
A romantic visit to the Jenolan Caves is not a case of stalagmite but stalag-must. While the Jenolan Caves village is charming and quaint, the caves themselves are nothing short of spellbinding. With over 350 caves in the region you could take a different date almost every day of the year - but for the more monogamously inclined, a simple weekender once a year with the one you love will suffice. Day tickets are a bargain from as little as $25 per adult and offer you a meander through the enchanting Chifley, Lucas or Imperial caves, the Temple of Baal or even the mojo-moving Pool of Cerebus.

Cockatoo Island
If your date happens to share your penchant for Prisoner (Cell Block H) reruns, then discovering the history of this former slammer followed by an adventurous sleepover could be just your bag. Ferry your way across the Harbour to this decaying post-industrial island with a pre-packed dinner in tow (stash your grog, as it's banned) and set about a hand-holding wander through the historic grounds. Once your self-imposed history lesson is over, create your own conjugal visit by spooning under the stars in a BYO double sleeping bag, or step up a class and hire a tent. Happy camping.

Wentworth Falls
If stone-hopping across flowing river beds and pashing behind a waterfall is your idea of dating bliss, then the breathtaking Wentworth Falls is for you. Meander off along the famous Charles Darwin walk and spend the next few hours discovering interconnecting waterfalls and freshwater streams. When the light begins to fade, set your nookie navigator to the nearby Falls Mountain Retreat. An ultra-romantic studio, loft or one-bedroom serviced apartment equipped with an open-fireplace, spa bath and all the mod cons awaits you from just $240 a night.

Mollymook
How would a 210-degree view of the Pacific Ocean hit you? Mollymook's Bannisters Lodge is a luxury boutique hotel with suites that have spa baths, gigantic beds, plasma screens and a kick-ass stereo systems. Soak in some autumn sun on the poolside deck or borrow a couple of bikes and freewheel down to the beach for a fresh, blustery walk along the sand. Dine in-house at Bannisters Restaurant & Lounge or check out Cupitt's Winery in nearby Milton for a romantic Italian-inspired dinner.

A city sleepover with bite
If the combination of a top-class hotel suite and fine dining restaurant can't earn you a roll in the sheets, nothing can. Bilson's is nestled within the Radisson Plaza Hotel and its $165 degustation comes highly recommended. Those preferring à la carte can enjoy a tantalising entrée of Kangaroo Island marron followed by truffled stuffed pig's trotter. With a diverse wine selection of French and Australian classics, your palate will appreciate the cultural fusion. Dessert comes in the form of an extravagant overnighter at the Radisson Plaza Hotel Sydney. Our tip for a romantic escape is the studio spa suite - just $380 a night.

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