Romantic Weekend Getaways in Victoria’s Vineyards
Between the rugged hinterland border it shares with NSW right down to the spectacular Great Ocean Road, Victoria is home to some of Australia’s most romantic destinations. There are hundreds of beautiful boutique hotels, cosy B&Bs and ritzy resorts to choose from. But when planning a romantic weekend escape, nothing quite compares to the rolling fields and charming historical guesthouses of the wine regions. We’ve put together three luxury weekend ideas to spoil your other half.
Gisborne Peak Winery, Gisborne South
Why visit: Just one hour north of Melbourne by car, this picturesque property’s sprawling veranda makes it the perfect setting for budding romance. Fresh espresso coffee, baked brie and wood-fired pizza are on offer at the Gisborne Peak Winery Cellar Door along with the estate’s signature wines. Order their ruby red pinot noir or golden sparkling by the glass or bottle to accompany your tasting plate.
Where to stay: The four eco cottages nestled in the foothills of the Macedon Ranges are fuelled by wind turbines and solar panels. Each of the contemporary residences has a private balcony with a barbecue and fresh breakfast produce waiting for you in the contained kitchen area. Pop open a bottle of sparkling wine and watch the sun set over the vineyard and lake.
Getting around: What better way to tour Victoria’s scenic countryside than in your very own luxury car from Unique Car Rentals? Turn heads by pulling up in a Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, Aston Martin or Mercedes. Pick up your superb set of wheels from Unique Car Rentals in Melbourne and you’ll wish it took longer than 45-minutes to drive from the Victorian capital to Gisborne. Don’t trust yourself behind the wheel of one of these glamourous automobiles? Their sports car chauffeur service allows you to dedicate all your attention to your date.
Activities: Sample the other delicious treats the region has to offer by partaking in a chocolate tour. Stock up at your first port of call, North Melbourne’s Mörk Chocolate Brew House, on small-batch chocolate brews.
Keen to find out more about your favourite sweet treat? Book in for a Chocoholic Tour that leads you through Melbourne’s historic laneways and arcades. You’ll discover only the most prestige chocolatiers and learn their chocolatey secrets before finishing the day with a delicious afternoon tea.
Book with Expedia on Melbourne accommodation and save!
Lindenderry, Red Hill
Why visit: The Mornington Peninsula has to be one of the most romantic destinations in Victoria, making it the perfect setting for Lindenderry’s fields of lush vines. Time your tasting at the cellar door around lunch time, so you can nibble on a plate of charcuterie over a friendly game of bocce.
Where to stay: The boutique country-chic estate at Lindenderry Red Hill, offers 40 luxurious, spacious rooms equipped with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and a lounge area. Some of the rooms have direct access to the lush gardens or contain a spa bath and open fireplace for the true romantics. Book into a pampering session at their spa and you’ll be able to access the indoor pool, spa and sauna for the rest of the day.
What to eat: The Linden Tree Restaurant at Lindenderry has a philosophy of ‘sustainable and fresh’, resulting in delicious meals made from locally sourced products wherever possible. The large glass windows of the immaculate dining room look out onto the landscaped gardens and vineyards. Treat your loved one (and yourself) to a five-course degustation menu with accompanying local wines.
Getting around: The folks at Triple R Luxury Car Hire go out of their way to ensure you a perfect itinerary in your choice of impressive luxury car. Roll up for an indulgent weekend in a Rolls Royce, fit for royalty. They organise unique personalised tours throughout the Mornington Peninsula region, accommodating each client’s specific requirements.
Activities: When you’re not quaffing wines and eating fancy food, work up an appetite with a visit to the nearby beach. Coordinate with your chauffeur to take the coastal road by the scenic sands of Portsea, Sorrento and Rye. After all, nothing says ‘love’ like long walks on the beach.
Lindenwarrah, Milawa
Why visit: For those who really want to get away from it all, this romantic enclave just south of the NSW border is an idyllic lesson in getting away from it all. The legendary Brown Brothers company, now with six well-renowned vineyards to its name, was founded in Milawa. Visit their cellar door for a delicious sampling of experimental vintages you can’t taste anywhere else.
Where to stay: Lindenwarrah at Milawa has all the right elements for an amorous escape. Situated at the foothills of the Alpine National Park, the mountains are your backdrop at this European-styled hotel in the vineyards. To complete the sweet vignette, cycle through town and fill your baskets with the local’s best produce to savour in your individually designed suite. Upgrade your weekend with a spa suite, complete with a fireplace to snuggle up to with a delectable bottle of red.
What to eat: If you like your meals served on white linen with views of rolling vineyards, then you’ll love the dining room at Restaurant Merlot, part of the Lindenwarrah Estate. Enjoy a daily breakfast consisting of locally sourced honey, baked goods and cheeses amongst other delicious delights. Once the sun has set it’s time to indulge with the seasonal menu brimming with cardamom-glazed duck breast and twice-cooked pork belly – yum!
More Articles With Australia
Discover our travel trends for the year ahead Expedia Travellers are ready to enjoy the hustle and bustle of cities and experience urban vibes. Crowded pubs, open-air markets and dazzling lights await holiday makers, ready to be at the heart of culture and action. Wotif The energy and investment being fueled into Australia’s major cities… Continue reading The No-Normal: Unexpected travel trends in 2023
At a time where Aussies are usually heading to Europe or warmer places abroad, the question bids: Where do or can we go now? To help Aussies fulfill their overseas dreams without having to leave the country, Expedia has uncovered the top domestic swaps for international favourites. Offering the same, if not better experiences, here… Continue reading Domestic getaways that feel like a world away
As Australia goes through different phases of recovery, and as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to leave traces of uncertainty, Aussies are starting to scratch that travel itch, from dreaming, to planning, to actually packing their bags and sneaking in a quick (and safe) getaway. Expedia data reveals the appetite for travel continues to rise, with… Continue reading How You Can Help Australia Get Back On Its Feet
Find out how to spend a weekend in Gold Coast to make the most of your fun coastal retreat.
Find tips and advice for visiting the Great Barrier Reef for the first time, such as when to go and what to bring.