The best places to stay in regional Victoria with an international flavour
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14.09.2021

The best places to stay in regional Victoria with an international flavour

Words by Benjamin Lamb

Who needs Europe? We’ve got Victoria.

With international travel still a pipe dream for many, we thought we’d take a journey throughout the state and check out some of our coolest accommodation spots that remind us of our favourite countries and their amazing landmarks.

Campbell Point House – Bellarine Peninsula

An absolutely stunning estate on the Bellarine Peninsula in Leopold, Victoria is one of our top spots to head to for a taste of French-inspired culture

The location has a number of accommodation options for you to choose from, for all different price points. There’s a ‘Cottage Suite,’ ‘Stable Suite’ and the coolest of them all, ‘The Mansion Suite.’ Located on the top level of the ornate spot, The Mansion suite is the best of old school Aussie class with the most pristine French stylings, it truly needs to be seen to be believed, you’ll never want to check out.

They also have a pretty cool restaurant on site too, serving the best gourmet food and dedicating themselves to giving their loyal customers the best service. Their degustation menu is full of some of the tastiest and most well-prepared food in the state. Truly making it feel like you are in a European country.

Book in a room, and check out the wonder that is Campbell Point House here

Treetop Stay – Sassafras

If it’s a jungle expedition you’re after, look no further than the Treetop Stay in Sassafras. 

It’s like our own little Amazon rainforest, but you can stay amongst it all. This spot is perfect for all types of holidaymakers, it’s pet friendly, it’s got complimentary wi-fi, and there’s even all your bathing products included too – soaps, shampoos, and lots more.  And to top it all off, you also get a decadent complimentary breakfast hamper included for a morning! 

The view from this accommodation is outstanding, you overlook the stunning rainforests, who knows what sort of things you can spot. You can even enjoy a beer or glass of wine on the balcony for an up close view of the never ending landscape, as seen below, it’s the perfect spot to take some unforgettable photos, too. 

Note: Sassafras is in lockdown, keep an eye here for when they reopen.

Check out some more info about Treetop Stay here

Italian Hill – Daylesford

As the name suggests, check out this spot for a bit of an Italian flare. 

The secluded location also has a bit of a Spanish feel, with mud brick and rustic interiors, it’s like you’ve just stepped into a beautiful little village. The interior’s got a bunch of cool and quirky things that’ll definitely make you feel like you’re not in Victoria anymore. The kitchen’s ideal to whip up some homemade pizzas or try making some homemade pasta.

The beauty doesn’t end inside though, step out for a breathtaking view of the luscious garden, and see the vines scaling up the house. It’s only a short drive from the super popular cafe, bar, and art gallery ‘The Convent Gallery’ too, a spot you’ll never want to leave. Check out The Convent Gallery here

Book it in and check out some more info about the Italian Hill here

 

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Tanglewood – Geelong

Check out the awesome converted barn called ‘Tanglewood’ if you’re after a bit of an old-school English holiday. It’s Air BnB that’s definitely worth checking out.

The refurbished barn has some pretty cool tricks  – decked out with a rustic chess set, a skylight, and lots more, Tanglewood is the kind of house that could’ve easily been a part of Grand Designs. The house is full of some of the coolest knick-knacks and homemade furniture, making the stay that little bit more special.

Check out some more information about Tanglewood here.

Check out more travel inspiration via our website.

Mount Ophir Estate’s ‘The Tower’ – Rutherglen

Located in one of Victoria’s most popular wine regions – Rutherglen, ‘The Tower’ is yet another expansive estate that needs to be seen to be believed. 

Set on a massive 20 hectares of farmland in the heart of Rutherglen, Mount Ophir Estate is also one of the regions most popular winemaking spots, making it feel like you’re immersed in the Bordeaux region of France. 

There’s a bunch of different spots to check out in the estate – you can stay at the Winemakers cottage or at the gatehouse. You are also able to try Mount Ophir Estate’s popular flight of wines; most notably their Shiraz, its found fans from all across the world.

This is a great spot to relax, and get away from it all for a couple of nights. 

Check out some more info, and book in a stay at Mount Ophir’s The Tower here

 

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Dairy Flat Farm – Daylesford 

If you’re looking for that feeling of a French villa in Provence, look no further than Dairy Flat Farm lodge.

Ran by the team behind Daylesford’s Lake House, this stay is equally luxurious, with a 300-tree orchard, vegetable, herb and flower gardens, an olive grove with 250 trees, a five-acre vineyard and beehives, all of which operate on organic and regenerative principles. Dairy Flat Lodge is an ideal destination for guests who are keen to embrace life in the countryside, but who still want hotel-style comforts and a good cocktail mixed at the end of the day. This is a luxurious experience for up to 12 guests serviced by a private concierge. The European style Lodge includes six King Suites which provide sumptuous spaces for private relaxation and indulgence.

Much like Provence, the Daylesford-Macedon Ranges region has farmers’ markets, antiquing, wineries, walks, inviting villages to stroll and browse and great places to eat.

Check it out here.

Japanese Mountain Retreat – Montrose

If a trip to Asia is more in your alley, make the pilgrimage up to Montrose and visit the relaxing ‘Japanese Mountain Retreat’, nestled amongst the lush scenery of the Dandenong Ranges. With spas, saunas and ornate Japanese gardens, you wouldn’t be mistaken if you thought you were in a Tokyo hotel.

For a comforting and romantic experience, head to the Japanese Mountain Retreat.

Note: Japanese Mountain Retreat is in lockdown

Kryal Castle – Ballarat

Kryal Castle, located in Ballarat, is Australia’s only medieval resort. Whether it’s a journey through the chambers of the Dragons Labyrinth to discover the legend of Kryal; experiencing the drama of a medieval joust as knights and their warhorses battle it out on the main arena; or getting lost in a maze and learning the ancient art of archery, this venue has been successful in capturing the glory and mystery of times past.

Here, you’ll not only feel like you’re in another country but also another era with their amazing medieval castle suites.

Offering Queen Suites, King/Twin and Family Suites, they also have newly-built Commander’s Quarters, which can accommodate large groups of up to 52 people with shared facilities. The suites contain split system air-conditioning, a bar fridge, a toaster, a kettle, a microwave, a hairdryer and free Wi-Fi.

Check it out here.

 

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Marges Cottage – Gippsland

This has to be hands down the best bathtub view in Victoria!

Snuggle up in the blissfully quiet hills of southwest Gippsland as you indulge in the peacefulness around you. Spend your time on the deck, watching the sheep, alpacas and horses or settle into a much needed warm bath in the claw foot tub, with a view second to none! With a fireplace and a fully equipped kitchen to keep you warm and happy, you could spend days living off the grid at Marges Cottage.

Feel like you’re living in a Jane Austen novel, with a stunning pastoral view and rolling green hills around, providing the ultimate tranquil hideaway.

Find this magical getaway here!

 

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Japanese Zen Retreat – Gippsland

Switch off from your fast-paced life to a complete state of Zen at this unique retreat located in the idyllic Gippsland.

Influenced by the styles of the Kyoto Palace the Zen Retreat is built upon a tranquil pond with only the sound of frogs and Kookaburras to disturb you! Surrounded by a ‘Bush Style’ interpretation of a Japanese Garden the retreat is the perfect relaxing getaway. Watch the sun go down perched on the veranda overlooking the pond and drinking a glass of local wine or get snuggly on the couch watching delicate patterns of sunlight on the water reflect and dance across your walls. With two large bedrooms fitted with queen beds, a large living area and a complimentary Country Basket Breakfast Hamper the retreat is prepared for your arrival.

The exciting location also allows you to explore the acres of natural bushland at the foothills of Mount Baw Baw or some of Victoria’s most beautiful rainforests.

This private and secluded Japanese Zen Retreat will not disappoint you!

Check it out here!

 

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The Pole House – Fairhaven

Widely known as the most photographed house on the Great Ocean Road, and probably Australia, The Pole House is a must if you’re looking for that feeling of soaking up the sun on the Whitsundays.

Suspended 40 meters above Fairhaven Beach, this is truly one of Australia’s most iconic homes. Recently renovated, The Pole House now adds a luxurious modern setting to a holiday experience like no other. Whilst carefully planned and crafted, The Pole House is not about accommodation, nor is it about facilities or amenities, of which it has many, The Pole House is about the experience.

Picture yourself waking to the sound of crashing waves, opening your eyes to find yourself suspended above the most spectacular coastline in the country. The Pole House is adventure, so take yourself to the edge and indulge in one of the most unique, iconic and awe-inspiring destinations.

It’s pretty pricey, but I mean, look at the view?!

Check out all the details here.

Grayling’s Gift – Lexton

Hello Europe, is that you?

Steeped in history and charm, this 19th-century church has been lovingly transformed into a short-term accommodation space that boasts the wonders of yesteryear and the comforts of today.

Over 140 years old, Grayling’s Gift was built on land donated to the community by William Grayling – a descendent of one of the Pyrenees Shire’s first pioneering families. Using mostly salvaged materials, the humble red-brick building has been renovated and redesigned to ensure a luxurious getaway for all those who visit.

To book, click here.

Prosecco Road – King Valley

Having a similar vibe to Northern Italy’s picturesque hills and vineyards, Prosecco Road in the King Valley possesses anything and everything that winery fans would expect from wineries.

For accommodation, we’d stay at Casa Luna for a Prosecco-primed gourmet getaway.

When you visit the vineyards, you’ll be treated to a variety of great wines, and meet some of the winemakers that create these amazing beverages. Prosecco Road not only beholds a trail of wine, but also special foods that pair so well with wine (i.e. cheese), thus creating food-pairing opportunities with everyone else in your tourism group (or your own group, if traveling with friends and or family). From food-pairing classes to tasting counters, the possibilities are endless when it comes to food and wine. Check out some of Good Food’s recommendations here.

To get the best views of picturesque King Valley, from the vineyards and patchwork of fields, the views expand to the Ovens River, spectacular Mt Buffalo and the High Country beyond, we’d truly recommend ballooning with the likes of Goldrush Ballooning.

 

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