Experience a taste of Europe in Newcastle's winter dining domes

If you're battling the Aussie winter right now, there's a real chance as July approaches half of your friendship is starting to dip out and head overseas in desperate search for warmth and the European sun. But if you can't afford to sweat it out in Italy this year, a winter coastal retreat may be calling your name: and NSW coastal city Newcastle has the answers.

Under a three-hour journey from Sydney and within the magical Hunter region, the harbour city makes for an ideal getaway when you need a little break from the world. From beachside coffees and watching the brave morning surfers, to fine dining experiences, distilleries, and epic coastal treks, Newcastle has a little something for everyone. And if you're looking for a winter dining experience, you've come to the right place.

Step into a winter wonderland

Whether it's for date night, a family getaway, or a girls' trip, Newcastle's first five-star hotel Crystalbrook Kingsley offers a luxury experience like no other. While it's an ideal place to stay for a night or two, the hotel is currently hosting a winter dome dining experience that will transport you instantly to a European-themed winter wonderland.

Whether you're looking for an afternoon treat or a dinner dining experience, for two hours you'll be fed a menu of winter warmers, with a shared cocktail jug, and a mini iced dessert cocktail to finish, inside a cosy dome setup with a heater, blankets, and speaker. Outside, you'll find a communal fireplace and there's also a blast of 'snow' that will make you feel like you've stepped into the set of a holiday movie. Plus, given there's a fully stocked bar inside, if the cocktail jug isn't packing enough of a punch for you, you can order more drinks or cocktails of your choice at an extra cost.

A feast fit for a European King or Queen

The Winter Warmers menu will have you feeling like you never missed out on your own European experience, and don't worry, you'll be eating like an absolute king. The day menu will have you being served house-baked focaccia, served with prosciutto, marinated olives, baked brie, truffle honey and walnuts, with a scallop and fennel pies as an extra touch.

But leave some room for mains: the rigatoni alla vodka, tomato, and red pepper sauce will melt in your mouth, and you'll get your fill of vegetables with a whole roasted cauliflower served with hummus, chimichurri and puffed wild rice. Topping it all off is a braised lamb shoulder and truffle fries with parmesan.

If you're keen to have the full experience at night while watching the stars, the experience steps it up a notch with spiced apple mulled cocktails upon arrival. While the entree and main dishes are similar, you'll also get your choice of an espresso martini or Moscow mule, and there are a few added extras like Swiss cheese fondue and steamed fingerling potatoes to top off a meal you won't be forgetting anytime soon. Trust us, you won't be left unsatisfied!

Find out more at Crystalbrook's website, and check out Crystalbrook Kingsley on Instagram here. Yahoo Lifestyle was the guest of Crystalbrook and its product partners.

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