Victoria

Apollo Bay Hotel – Apollo Bay – Victoria

Published on by Anthony Abicair

Located in the heart of the seaside village of Apollo Bay, the boutique hotel is just a two-hour drive from Melbourne and on the doorstep of the Great Otway National Park. Just a two-minute stroll from the beach, the hotel is surrounded by coastal views and overlooks the foreshore reserve.

Warm and welcoming, Apollo Bay Hotel offers casual dining in a spectacular setting. Take a seat on the large dog-friendly deck dotted with festoon lighting overlooking the grassy reserve. It’s an idyllic spot to watch the sunset while taking advantage of the pub’s generous happy hour with a carefully prepared cocktail.

www.apollobayhotel.com.au

Cumberland Lorne Resort – Lorne – Victoria

Published on by Anthony Abicair

Craving a getaway that combines stunning natural reserves, seaside charm and boutique shopping? Look no further:  Cumberland Lorne Resort promises a luxury stay with everything to explore right at your doorstep. Located along the spectacular Great Ocean Road, Lorne is just a two-hour drive from Melbourne. This popular beach side getaway is known for its arts community, stunning waterfalls, natural reserves and safely patrolled beach. The Cumberland is located in the heart of Lorne’s town centre, just a stone’s throw away from the beach. Stylishly designed with all the creature comforts of home, it’s perfect for both a long or short term stay.

www.cumberland.com.au

Warribilla Wines – Rutherglen

Published on by Anthony Abicair

The Rutherglen district in Victoria is famous for producing award winning wines and there’s one family that have been producing quality wines for over 155 years. Warrabilla Wines is where you’ll find a winery and cellar door producing passionate bold wines for every palette.

Warrabilla is an iconic Australian wine brand synonymous with producing some of the country’s richest and most robust red wines. Make sure you visit their cellar door or hop on line to have the wines delivered directly to your door.

www.warrabillawines.com.au

Aireys Inlet Getaway – Aireys Inlet

Published on by Anthony Abicair

In the heart of Aireys Inlet and just 120 kilometres south-west of Melbourne lies Airey’s Inlet getaway. Set among two and a half acres of beautiful native gardens, the property is just a short stroll to the village and minutes from the patrolled beaches.

The Stylish Studios are perfect for couples looking for a nature-infused escape. The architecturally designed villas boast open-plan living, featuring a separate living and dining area, a luxurious ensuite and deck overlooking the treetops.

The Deluxe Spa Villa is ideal for a relaxing escape, featuring a gas log fire and expansive corner spa. Available with two bedrooms, the villas overlook the sparkling pool.

The two and three-bedroom villas are ideal for the whole family, with space for up to six guests. These hexagonal-shaped huts feature soaring ceilings, a large living room and fenced outdoor area to enjoy with your pets.

Try your hand at a game of tennis, netball or basketball on the Plexi-pave court, or watch the kids play a match from the comfort of the shaded picnic tables.

The outdoor dining area is perfect to enjoy a meal in the fresh air, with delectable dishes cooked on the shared barbecue in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The lagoon-style swimming pool is perfect for a refreshing dip, surrounded by green grass and sun loungers to relax with a good book. Invigorate yourself in the outdoor heated spa, enjoying the sounds of the sea just a stone’s throw away.

Get away from it all and relax at Airey’s Inlet Getaway on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, a quintessential Aussie family holiday spot surrounded by parks and beaches.

www.aireysinletgetaway.com.au

Sedona Estate – Yea Valley

Published on by Anthony Abicair

Nestled among the rolling hills of Victoria’s Great Divide lies Sedona Estate: a stunning property surrounded by verdant vineyards and winding roads in the Yea Valley, Sedona Estate is known for its award-winning wines and varietal purity.

The expansive property is home to a unique cellar door, just a 90-minute drive from Melbourne. Intimate and family-owned, learn about the delectable wines straight from the source. Take a seat on the alfresco settings, sitting under the shade of a bright white sun umbrella. During the cooler months, head inside and snuggle up by the roaring log fireplace inside the cellar door, which is cool, light and stylish.

Airy and bright, the cellar door is styled with unique examples of contemporary art from Australian artists, from pencil drawings to prints, to paintings. Dotted around the property are one-of-a-kind sculptures, exceptionally placed to accentuate the views. Satiate your hunger with one of the delectable tasting platters. With hand-crafted cheeses from the nearby Yarra Valley Dairy farm, along with smoked trout and duck breast, dukkah, relish and Cuvee chocolates, the platters are perfect for sharing.

Sedona Estate’s location presents a unique advantage. With vineyards located on high altitude vineyard in the Yea Valley, the cool-climate wines are regionally distinctive and award-winning.

www.sedonaestate.com.au

Koendidda Country House – Indigo Valley

Published on by Anthony Abicair

Surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens and picturesque fields lies Koendidda Country House, an exquisite Georgian Estate in north-eastern Victoria.

Three and a half hours drive from Melbourne, down a pretty country lane lies the manor house. The two-story mansion was built with hand-made brick over a century ago, the cast-iron balconies draped with fragrant flowers. Listen to the burbling of the fountain and wake to the sights of parrots and native births bathing in the water, or sit in the shade of the magnolia tree, enjoying  the serenity of the expansive property.

Rooms are decorated in period-style, immaculately preserving the house’s rich history. Enjoy the Humphrey Pooley suite, boasting a super-king bed, adjoining private sitting room, expansive shared balcony and ensuite, or pamper yourself in the Lady Franklin Room, which boasts a full Victorian bath and separate shower. Each room features fluffy bathrobes, tea and coffee making facilities, and electric blankets to keep you toasty. Included in your stay is a full cooked breakfast, served in the impeccable dining room.

Koendidda Country House is a treat for the senses: Enjoy a regal three-course seasonal dinner in the Formal Dining Room, fresh and delectable meals served on a mahogany table. High tea, serving freshly made scones, tea brewed to perfection and other delicious treats is served in the lounge room next to a roaring fireplace.

A sunset pizza and wine menu is available to enjoy on your balcony, complete with a bottle of wine of your choice. Barbecue packages are also available for you to cook succulent steaks and sausages to perfection on the outdoor barbecues. Otherwise, explore the excluded nooks and crannies of the property with a prepacked sweet or savory picnic rug and umbrella. Discover luxury, charm and splendor at the Koendidda country house in Victoria’s gold rush province.

www.koendiddacountryhouse.com.au

Melbourne Knox Central Apartment Hotel – Wantirna

Published on by Anthony Abicair

Shopping, sightseeing, and exploring the many sights Melbourne has to offer. Melbourne Knox Central Apartment Hotel is located opposite Knox Westfield shopping centre, close to universities and medical facilities, and just a short drive to the verdant Dandenong Ranges. If designer brands are your passion, stroll across from your apartment to one of Australia’s largest retail, dining and entertainment precincts. Enjoy world-class cinema and a vast array of international cuisine.

The modern apartments comfortably sleep two. Recently upgraded with brand new beds and furnishings, the accommodation boasts sleek aesthetics and utmost comfortability. Guests enjoy complimentary wifi and free undercover parking. Feel right at home in the fully-equipped kitchen, boasting a fridge, oven, microwave and gas-top stove, full laundry, separate bathroom and living area. Take in the views from the private balcony, or kick back on the leather lounges with a blockbuster movie on Foxtel.

There’s everything you need to stay in shape on site, with a state of the art gym featuring both cardio and weight machines. Exercise your whole body by swimming laps in the glistening indoor pool, or sweat out some toxins at the Scandanavian-inspired sauna. The outdoor terrace is the perfect place to unwind with a glass of wine after a long day of sightseeing, with plenty of space to entertain colleagues, friends or family.

www.melbourneknoxcentral.com.au

Georges Boutique BNB & Culinary Retreat – Arthurs Seat

Published on by Anthony Abicair

Resting on top of Arthur’s Seat, a granite mountain offering jaw-dropping views of the Peninsula, sparkling sea and with a birds-eye view of Port Phillip Bay, you’ll find George’s, a boutique bed and breakfast with unsurpassed summit views. George’s is located next to the Eagle Chairlift station, offering panoramic cable car trips up and down the mountain. The property, an impressive, artifactually designed structure lies on a rolling green hill with state-of-the-art accommodation.

Suite one boasts a super-sized king bed, expansive living areas to take in the views, along with a private balcony, the perfect place to indulge in a glass of local wine. The premium suite is a favourite among couples, featuring north facing views, gas fireplace, his and her shower and huge deck perfect for basking in the afternoon sun. Suite three boasts rural, rustic and bay views to the east and north, with a leather lounge and modern ensuite. A traditional bed-and-breakfast room is also available on the ground level.  Each suite is the epitome of comfort, style and luxury, decorated with original contemporary artwork by Gerald Doherty.

Downstairs, discover the spectacular lounge area to meet and mingle with fellow guests. Take a seat by a wine barrel on the deck, and enjoy a barista prepared coffee, hot breakfast or drink from their expansive wine menu. George’s also hosts culinary retreats, perfect for those looking to expand on their skills in the kitchen. Learn how to make delectable cheese, traditional Greek fare and plenty more during your course.

Sweeping views, luxury living and fine wine and dining experiences, a stay at Georges in the Mornington Peninsula is a treat for the senses.

www.georgesonarthur.com.au

Glenlowren – Dixons Creek

Published on by Anthony Abicair

Famous for stunning valley views, farm-fresh produce and world-renowned vineyards, The Yarra Valley in Victoria is a delight for nature and wine lovers alike. Nestled in the heart of the valley lies Glenlowren, a spectacular country retreat which effortlessly combines comfort and luxury for a relaxing getaway.

The property rests on a family-owned, 100-acre farm, surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and rolling green hills. Just an hours’ drive from Melbourne, the property is just a short drive away from some of the state’s best wineries. It’s all about tranquility and serenity at Glenlowren. Wake to the sounds of native bird calls, the rustle of trees and the sight of mist-cloaked valleys. Take a wander around the expansive property and be greeted by friendly farm animals, who provide the fresh milk and eggs for your breakfast.

Glenlowren Garden Cottage is perfect for an overnight stopover. This newly renovated and fully self-contained one-bedroom property is framed by deciduous trees in its own private courtyard. Glenlowren Cottage boasts an expansive deck overlooking the lake and a log fireplace, making it the ideal place to enjoy a glass of wine with your loved one.

Funky, eclectic and modern, Glenlowren Nissen Hut is a luxuriously reimagined mid-century steel structure, boasting floor to ceiling windows so you can enjoy the view from wherever you are. With two ensuite bedrooms, a luxurious open plan living room, private gardens and glorious rural surroundings, it’s as striking as it is serene.

Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast hamper every night of your stay, featuring fresh cream milk and everything you need for a full English breakfast, cooked in privacy at your leisure.

www.glenlowren.com.au

Big 4 Beacon Resort – Queenscliff

Published on by Anthony Abicair

Surrounded by glistening ocean and long stretches of bright white beaches, Queenscliff is the perfect seaside escape in Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula. Just across the road from the pristine waterfront, you’ll Beacon Resort – one of the renown Big 4 Holiday Parks. Family-owned, family-friendly and multi-award-winning, it’s the perfect school holiday destination just 90 minutes drive from Melbourne.

Sleek, modern and comfortable, villas offer a stylish getaway. Premium two-bedroom villas sleep five guests, boasting a gas log fireplace surrounded by a plush six-seater lounge, with sliding glass doors opening wide to the sheltered balcony. Three-bedroom villas boast even more space, with enough room for eight guests. Featuring a large living area, expansive TV, dining room table for family dinners, and a workstation with a media hub, villas are central, luxurious and private.

There’s plenty of activities for kids to enjoy, from go-karting around the property to leaping on the shaded jumping pillow. There’s a full and free daily activity program at the Coutakidz Club to keep them busy along with an indoor games room with table tennis and a ball bit. The indoor pool and spa make swimming an option no matter the weather, with a giant outdoor chess set available to challenge your skills.

Activities aren’t just for the kids, either – free yoga and pilates classes are held every day of the week, while the onsite spa is the perfect place to treat yourself with an indulgent mud treatment. Work up a sweat at the gym, or simply relax with a barista-made coffee at the onsite cafe. The outdoor BBQ is perfect to make new friends and show off your cooking skills, while the outdoor open fireplace provides ambiance in the evenings.

Surrounded by national marine parks with non-stop games, classes and activities, Big 4 Beacon Resort in Queenscliff offers something for everyone to enjoy.

www.beaconresort.com.au

Great Ocean Road Gin – Aireys Inlet

Published on by Anthony Abicair

Beautiful stretches of pristine beaches, rugged cliff faces, and iconic red-topped lighthouses: a trip down Victoria’s Great Ocean Road is on the top of everyone’s travel plans. And along the way, a stop at the idyllic seaside towns of Eagle Point and Airey’s Inlet, featuring quaint cafes and boutique stores, is an absolute must.

Nestled along this jaw-dropping trip is Great Ocean Road Gin.  With a tasting room, gin garden, and ambient ocean views it’s the perfect place to whet your whistle.

Take a seat outside on one of the stylish chairs in the sun-drenched garden courtyard. The beautiful patio is flanked by potted plants and swaying trees, with splashes of bright colours perfect for a summer’s day.

Inside is where the magic happens, with gin tasting, bottle sales, gin cocktails and of course, G&T’s served at the beach-style bar. Indulge in a tasting of award-winning navy-strength, raspberry or guvvos gin, named after the nearby popular surf beach.

www.greatoceanroadgin.com.au

 

Oval Motel – Bendigo

Published on by Anthony Abicair

Oval Motel lies in the heart of Bendigo. Just a five-minute stroll from the city centre where you’ll find fine dining, cute cafes and shopping, the property is located opposite the aquatic swimming centre and a short walk from the Bendigo Art Gallery and Sacred Heart Cathedral.

Featuring self-contained units with an eclectic feel, rooms have been recently renovated and fitted with state-of-the-art amenities. Units are available in an array of configurations, ranging from queen beds to king,  three singles and a double, with enough room for anywhere between one and five guests. Larger rooms feature a four-person dining table, making them ideal for families.

The accommodation boasts crisp, white linen, warm beds with electric blankets and bright splashes of colour. Fitted with a microwave, toaster, tea and coffee making facilities along with unlimited, fast and reliable wifi, Oval Motel features all the creature comforts of home.

Unwind on the couch and enjoy a movie on the flat-screen TV, or kick back on the outdoor decking area with a cool drink from your minibar. The property is fully licensed, with beer, wine and champagne available from reception.

Wake up to breakfast in bed, with delicious meals served directly to your toom. Both a hot and continental breakfast is available upon request, serving all the classic favourites.

www.ovalmotel.com.au

Scotchmans Hill – Drysdale

Published on by Anthony Abicair

Nestled on the Bellarine Peninsula and overlooking Port Phillip Bay lies one of Victoria’s leading local wineries. Scotchman Hill winery and cellar door has been producing and serving award-winning wines for over thirty years amongst a blissful coastal backdrop.

Surrounded by verdant vineyards is the estate’s cottage-style cellar door, an atmospheric refurbished french provincial farmhouse open seven days of the week. Take a seat inside on the rustic furnishings, armchairs or barstools and taste the full range of the estate-grown, cool maritime climate wines.

www.scotchmanshill.com.au

Captains Cove Resort – Paynesville

Published on by Anthony Abicair

Set on the serene canals in Paynesville lies Captains Cove, luxury accommodation on the Gippsland Lakes, just three and a half hours drive from Melbourne.

The sprawling property houses just 24 self-contained apartments, each as stylish and spacious as the last. Waterfront apartments are nestled right on the shorefront, with a master bedroom upstairs offering tranquil views.

Cove Deluxe apartments are newly-built two-bedroom villas set back from the water. With a contemporary design, spa bath and bright balcony, they’re perfect for groups and families wanting peace and quiet.

Work up a sweat on the full-size tennis court, great for staying fit during your time away. Bookings are available to make sure you get a spot.

Enjoy the warm weather out on the water with a tour in one of the resort’s many kayaks. Stand up paddleboards are also available for the adventurous to see the lake from a different pespective. If you’re dying to take a dip, the indoor heated pool can be enjoyed all year round.

Take a stroll along the jetty to take in the sights, or bring a fishing rod to try your luck. Enjoy freshly caught seafood from the sundrenched waterfront decks, or from the privacy of your own terrace, fitted with an electric barbecue.

Raymond Island is just a short ferry ride away, with plenty of cuddly koalas and native wildlife to see. Why not explore the island and Paynesville by bike, taking one of the well-used trails to get acquainted with nature.

www.captainscoveresort.com.au

Healesville House – Healesville

Published on by Anthony Abicair

Under an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Healesville is a oasis right in the centre of the Yarra Valley food and wine district. With award-winning wineries, boutique stores, art galleries and alfresco cafes, it’s a favourite among foodies, wine and art lovers alike. Healesville Sanctuary is not far away, home to cuddly koalas, fuzzy kangaroos and the elusive platypus.

Within walking distance from in the bustling centre are the two properties of Healesville House. In the east end lies Magnolia house, a beautifully restored 100-year-old luxury accommodation which sits under the shade of a fresh green magnolia tree.

Bright and airy, the property was renovated in 2007 to accentuate its historic beauty. The expansive verandah is the perfect place to enjoy a delectable platter of local cheese, paired with a wine from one of the nearby cellar doors.

The two bedrooms boast queen size beds, walk-in wardrobes and ensuites, while the state-of-the-art kitchen is fully equipped with everything you need to whip up a hearty meal. During the cooler months, snuggle up by the gas log fire, or take a soak in the deep bathtub. The enclosed courtyard offers privacy and serenity, ideal for enjoying your french breakfast hamper, included in the total romance package.

Fig Tree House is just a short stroll from Four Pillars Gin distillery, with a charming front yard and beautifully styled interiors. With a large breakfast bar, plush lounges and a spare room ideal for extra guests or to play games in, there’s ample space to kick back and relax.

Enjoy your morning coffee in the enclosed wrap-around verandah, the perfect way to start your day. The master bedroom also boasts its own private courtyard, shaded under the lemon tree laden with fruit.

www.healesvillehouse.com.au

 

 

Lightkeepers Inn Motel – Aireys Inlet

Published on by Anthony Abicair

The seaside town of Aireys Inlet just an hour and a half from Melbourne. Famous for the historic Split Point Lighthouse, family-owned restaurants, buzzing bars and boutique stores, everything is within walking distance in this gorgeous little town.  Nestled in the centre and just a four-minute walk from the Bass Strait coastline lies the Lightkeepers Inn Motel.

Cozy rooms feature every amenity necessary to get you relaxed and refreshed during your stopover. With a refrigerator, hairdryer, ironing and tea and coffee making facilities there’s everything you need to feel at home.

Queen, deluxe, twin and family rooms are available in varying sizes, along with a deluxe spa room for those aching for a soak, along with disability access for family members with limited mobility.

Unwind from the drive by the lagoon-style pool, perfect for a dip during the long summer days. Solar-heated to keep it the perfect temperature, the kids will enjoy splashing about too. A cool wine or beer goes down well in the warm sun of the deck chairs watching the little ones play.

Enjoy some sea-to-plate dining cooked exactly how you like it on the outdoor barbecue, perfect for sharing with your travel companions. Breakfast in bed isn’t just for special occasions – enjoy a hearty meal delivered directly to your door.

www.lightkeepersinn.com.au

Pietro Gallo Estate – Warrandyte South

Published on by Anthony Abicair

Set amongst the rolling hills and bushlands of Warrandyte, a trip to Pietro Gallo Estate will transport you to the Italian Countryside. Home to a charming Mediterranean restaurant, exquisite winery, distillery and cellar door serving award-winning grappa and liqueurs, the property is just a 45-minute drive from Melbourne.

The family-run estate was established 20 years ago by a husband and wife team, set across  20 acres of sprawling farmland.  Using knowledge and techniques passed down through generations, the pair have combined traditional Italian spirit-making techniques with a modern approach, creating unrivalled wines and liqueurs.

www.pietrogalloestate.com.au

The Captain of Aireys- Aireys Inlet

Published on by Anthony Abicair

After an hour and a half driving from Melbourne, both driver and passenger alike are bound to have rumbling tummies. When it’s time to make a stop-off and fill yourself with hearty food topped with fresh, local ingredients, The Captain of Aireys is a family favorite.

Located directly off the Great Ocean Road, the restaurant is surrounded by fresh sea air, sounds of the ocean and close to the beachfront and coastal reserve.

Rustic and homely inside, The Captain of Aireys serves up mouth-watering woodfire pizzas. Featuring an open kitchen, diners can watch the pizza come to life, prepared and cooked to perfection right in front of your eyes in the wood-burning pizza oven.

With all the Italian classics on offer, from delicious garlic pizza to the decadent prawn and chorizo, pizzas are best enjoyed with a glass of ice-cold beer or perfectly paired vino, either from the international menu or from a nearby coastal winery.

www.thecaptainofaireys.com.au

Oceans Inlet – Aireys Inlet

Published on by Anthony Abicair

In the town of town of Aireys Inlet on the Great Ocean Road lies Ocean Inlet, boutique and award-winning accommodation within walking distance from the beach.

Travelers looking for an indulgent escape will love The Shorehouse, a luxurious apartment perfect for couples. The full-length sliding windows can be opened to sleep with the sound of the surf and view of the stars. With a private entrance, deep spa bath, sensual candles and a gas log fireplace, it’s ideal for those looking to rekindle romance.

For those who love champagne on a beer budget, the Campers Cabin and Gazebo pavilions offer a quirky beach side hideaway for two. With alfresco fittings, a love swing outdoor sofa, cooking facilities and a double bedroom, the property boasts stunning coastal views for an enchanting getaway.

Breakfast provisions can be provided upon request, with everything you need to make a balanced and hearty meal, cooked just the way you like it, in the privacy of your self-contained accommodation.

www.oceaninlet.com