The top winery stays across Australia

Australian TravellerBy Australian Traveller
hero media
Australia’s wine regions offer guaranteed relaxing breaks thanks to scenic drives, gorgeous rural vistas, endless rows of romantically gnarled grapevines, and increasingly exceptional on-site restaurants. Alissa Jenkins finds the most delightful accommodation nestled among the vines, so you can stay where you play.

1. Chateau Yering

Although this estate no longer encompasses a vineyard – it was subdivided from the winery (now named Yering Station) 15 years ago – this luxurious five-star property remains an icon of the Yarra Valley. Founded in 1838 by the Ryrie brothers, it was here the brothers planted vine cuttings that grew Victoria’s first vintage. Chateau Yering Historic House Hotel has been part of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux association since 2001.

Accommodation

A heritage-listed Victorian mansion, Chateau Yering comprises 32 suites, each decorated with individual colour schemes and antique furnishings. All have a marble ensuite and private balcony. There’s 24-hour room service and guests have access to the Chateau’s pool, tennis court and cocktail bar. Suites may have a king-size, antique half-tester or four-poster bed, claw-foot or spa bath with separate shower and a gas or open log fireplace.

How much

From $825 per couple for dinner, bed and breakfast. Winter rate from $495 per couple, available until September 30.

Contact

42 Melba Hwy, Yering, Yarra Valley, Vic. // (03) 9237 3333

2. Spicers Vineyards Estate

Situated on 25 acres of rolling Hunter Valley landscape, five-star Spicers Vineyards Estate looks across its own private vineyard towards the imposing Brokenback Range. Later this year the estate will open Spa Anise, which will have single and double treatment rooms and a range of unique treatment options. In the meantime, guests will just have to make do with an optional in-suite massage.

Accommodation

Nestled between rows of vines and natural bushland, the eight spacious suites here are kitted out with all sorts of goodies to ensure guests can unwind and rejuvenate – such as local bubbles, fluffy robes and slippers and L’Occitane bathroom products. But so much relaxing and wine sampling can really give you an appetite, so the estate’s Restaurant Botanica comes in handy.

How much

From $340 per suite per night midweek, or from $445 per suite per night over the weekend.

Contact

555 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin, NSW. // (02) 6574 7229

Spices Vineyard Estate

3. Lindenderry at Red Hill

An hour’s drive from Melbourne in the heart of the picturesque Mornington Peninsula is this European-inspired retreat, with 30 acres of gardens, lawns and its own vineyard. The cellar door has an extensive range of wines, including those produced at Lindenderry and at sister vineyards in the King Valley and Macedon Ranges.

Accommodation

Part of the privately owned Lancemore hotel group, Lindenderry has 40 individually decorated rooms, all with views of the stunning surrounding landscape. Each room features a flat-screen TV, wi-fi, a king or queen bed and other little luxuries such as daily newspaper delivery. Premium rooms also have a spa bath and open fireplace. Throughout the property, you’ll find an eclectic collection of artworks and antiques. On-site facilities include a Wellness Centre, featuring a hot spa and pool.

How much

From $280 per night per couple, packages available.

Contact

142 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill, Vic. // (03) 5989 2933

Lindenderry Vineyard Highres

4. Port Phillip Estate

The natural world meets modern design at the family-owned Port Phillip Estate , also located at Red Hill on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula. Emerging dramatically from the native landscape and vineyard, this modernist structure houses the cellar door, winery and accommodation. The estate incorporates environmental initiatives such as architectural features that shield interior spaces from the afternoon sun, avoiding fluctuations in temperature that would otherwise need heating and cooling.

Accommodation

Six exclusive luxury apartments opened on the estate last year and all feature king-size beds with leather headboards, spacious ensuites, plush Missoni bathrobes, glamorous furnishings and outdoor terraces with stunning views across the vines to the bay. With a discreet guest-only entry and car parking, privacy is paramount.

How much

From $500 per night.

Contact

263 Red Hill Road, Red Hill South, Vic. // (03) 5989 4444

Mona Pavillions

5. Mona Pavilions

First planted in 1958, Moorilla Estate vineyard has seen a lot of changes, with the property now home to the Museum of Old and New Art, The Source Restaurant, Moo Brew brewery and eight free-standing luxury MONA pavilions. The contemporary villas sit on a private peninsula 15 minutes from Hobart, with views across the Derwent River.

Accommodation

Four of the MONA pavilions are named after influential Australian architects such as Esmond (Dorney) and Walter (Burley Griffin); the remaining four are named after major Australian artists including Arthur (Boyd) and Brett (Whiteley). Bold and elegant in design, the pavilions feature a 24-hour concierge, spa baths, king-size beds with 400-thread-count linen, wine cellars, underfloor-heated bathrooms, iPod docks and a wide variety of music online, as well as original artworks from the MONA collection. Guests also have access to a heated infinity lap pool, sauna and gym.

How much

From $390 per night.

Contact

655 Main Road, Berriedale, Tas. // (03) 6277 9900

The Louise

6. The Louise

Central to the Barossa Valley and an hour from Adelaide, The Louise vineyard retreat is at the pinnacle of luxury wine stays in Australia. Together with the vineyard’s award-winning Appellation restaurant, The Louise is a member of several noteworthy groups such as Relais & Chateaux and Luxury Lodges of Australia, reflecting its strong reputation in the industry both locally and overseas.

Accommodation

Featuring 15 luxurious suites, The Louise promises guests complete privacy and stunning views of surrounding vineyards from each suite’s gated courtyard and rear terrace. Also expect a king bed fitted with luxury linen, precise lighting control, widescreen television, ensuite bathroom with spa tub, rain shower for two, heated towel rails and dual vanity basins, as well as complimentary high-speed broadband and wireless internet.

How much

From $429 per couple per weeknight; $479 per night on weekends.

Contact

Corner Seppeltsfield and Stonewell Roads, Marananga, Barossa Valley, SA. // (08) 8562 2722

Jacobs Creek Retreat At Moorooroo Park

7. Jacobs Creek Retreat at Moorooroo Park

Moorooroo Park Gardens sits on the banks of Jacobs Creek in the Barossa Valley. French-inspired rose gardens, olive groves, orchards and shiraz vineyards make the Park a scenic and tranquil base from which to explore surrounding wineries.

Accommodation

A stone homestead dating back to the 1840s has been transformed into seven luxury suites. Surrounded by gardens, all suites are uniquely designed with beautiful European finishes and offer a king bed with luxurious linen, shower and spa, flat-screen television and minibar.

How much

From $340 per couple per night, breakfast included.

Contact

Nitschke Road off Krondorf Road, Tanunda, Barossa Valley, SA //. (08) 8563 1123

Longview Vineyard

8. Longview Vineyard

Just outside the historic township of Macclesfield in the Adelaide Hills lies this 200-acre estate comprising a vineyard, Heritage-listed homestead and freestanding private apartments. The family-run winery is now in its tenth year and grows both white and red varietals, producing a range of wines such as cabernet sauvignon, shiraz, nebbiolo, sauvignon blanc, riesling and chardonnay.

Accommodation

The main rooms are in a restored homestead dating back to the property’s original dairy days, which can be booked as one large or two private apartments. Featuring king and queen bedrooms, two newly renovated spa bathrooms, full kitchen and second kitchenette, modern entertainment system, private balconies and a large sunroom, this air-conditioned home sleeps up to 10 guests. Alternatively, guests can stay in Longview’s Yakka or Riesling apartments, overlooking the property’s Iron Knob riesling vineyard. Each has a king-size bed, flat-screen TV, self-contained kitchenette, ensuite bathroom, ducted air conditioning and wood-fire heating, as well as a private balcony.

How much

From $180 per couple per night.

Contact

Pound Road, Macclesfield, Adelaide Hills, SA. // (08) 8388 9694

Cape Lodge

9. Cape Lodge

In the heart of Western Australia’s Margaret River wine country is this intimate estate, surrounded by forest, lake and scenic coastline. In addition to housing one of Australia’s finest boutique vineyard stays , the estate also includes multi-award-winning Cape Lodge Restaurant and Gourmet Retreat and Cooking School.

Accommodation

Featuring 22 suites and a five-bedroom private residence, each suite comes with views of the lush surrounding landscape, king or twin beds, LCD television and DVD player, ensuite bathroom and complimentary wi-fi, while guests are welcome to use the on-site all-weather tennis court and swimming pool. Superior rooms also have a spa bath, spacious lounge area and optional private cooking classes.

How much

Standard rooms from $445 per night, while The Residence, which holds up to 10 guests, costs from $2400 per night

Contact

3341 Caves Road, Yallingup, WA. // (08) 9755 6311

Australian Traveller
See all articles
Picnic Island from above
Australia

The hottest openings of 2026: hotels, bathhouses and experiences

Every anticipated opening to help plan a year of back-to-back adventures.

Read more
interiors at liberty suite Capella Sydney
Australia

Two Aussie hotels make World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 list

The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 is hot off the press – and Australia has scored big, with two local stays making the cut.

Read more
the pool at Peppers Gladstone
Australia

Central Queensland’s first five-star hotel is a coastal gateway

Peppers Gladstone proves its worth its salt, blending five-star comfort with access to the Great Barrier Reef.

Read more
The converted bakery and off-grid cabin crowned in best Airbnb stays
Australia

This off-grid Blue Mountains cabin was just crowned Airbnb’s best nature escape

Airbnb just unveiled the winners of its 2025 Australian Host Awards, and the lineup will have you booking your next getaway.

Read more
hero media

Goat yoga to gastronomy: The ultimate guide to Wimmera Mallee, Vic

    Gemma KaczerepaBy Gemma Kaczerepa
    Continue
    A world away from the hustle, bustle and chaos of the big smoke – yet with a distinct sense of familiarity – Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region is an incomparable place.

    Victoria’s Grampians are a visual feast, a seemingly endless vista of craggy cliffs, rolling valleys and untamed bushland. But they’re also much more than a scenic mountain landscape. Diverse and storied, each region within the range has its own rhythm. The Wimmera Mallee – a pocket in the state’s north-west, stretching from Horsham to near Mildura – is one of the most captivating. 

    Once known as Victoria’s agricultural heartland, the Wimmera Mallee has evolved in recent years into a dynamic, slightly offbeat hub. It buzzes with a creative hum and welcoming energy, and harbours an eclectic mix of long-time locals and tree-changers. Once you encounter its unmistakable charm, feel its warm country hospitality and taste its nationally celebrated vanilla slice, you may find yourself lingering longer than planned. 

    Eager to explore? These must-visit spots let you experience the inimitable spirit of this special part of the world. 

    Wimmera Mallee’s quirky attractions

    The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria
    Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

    If you’re after something a little more unconventional, the Wimmera Mallee delivers in droves. 

    The Dimboola Imaginarium – located in a historic bank building in its namesake town – is a gift shop and boutique accommodation in one. Shop for unique and whimsical keepsakes, stay overnight in an elegant themed room, and lose yourself in one of the Imaginarium’s interactive experiences.  

    Also in Dimboola, just a short drive from the Imaginarium, is a menagerie of utter delight. Tiny Goats and Co. is home to a herd of miniature goats, with the farm offering group visits and special events like goat yoga and cuddle sessions. 

    Arcade aficionados should visit the Australian Pinball Museum in nearby Nhill. Here, you’ll find the biggest selection of playable pinball machines in the country, featuring modern models and classics dating all the way back to 1931.  

    Arts and culture in Wimmera Mallee

    Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed
    Step into history at the Stick Shed. (Image: Visit Vic)

    As a thoroughly creative community, it’s no wonder the Wimmera Mallee has a host of venues focused on its rich arts and culture scene. 

    Wander Trickbots Metal Art & Sculpture Garden in Nullawil, a winding trail filled with unique and quirky creations fashioned from metal odds, ends and scrap. A walk through the garden is inspiring enough, but consider buying a piece to take home and treasure. 

    The town of Nhill also has a significant Karen-Burmese refugee community, who make up 10 per cent of the local population. Discover the artistry of this vibrant culture at Paw Po , where you can purchase traditional hand-woven and textile products. Choose from a selection of beautifully crafted homewares, fashion and dolls. 

    Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed , the only WWII emergency grain store still standing today. This National Heritage-listed structure takes you on a journey through the region’s agricultural past and is a dramatic sight with its towering and eerily striking timber poles. 

    Nature escapes around Wimmera Mallee

    pink Lake Tyrrel, Wimmera Mallee, Victoria Australia
    Take in the pink hues of Lake Tyrrell. (Image: Visit Vic)

    Much like the majestic beauty of the wider Grampians, the Wimmera Mallee is a mélange of serene and spellbinding nature escapes. 

    Victoria’s pink lakes are famed nationwide, and two of them are found right here. See the flamingo-pink hues of Loch Iel, particularly vivid after a heavy downpour, or the vast and ancient Lake Tyrrell , which turns pink during wet and warm conditions. 

    The Snowdrift dunes in Wyperfeld National Park are ideal for adventurers. Set amid the area’s semi-arid landscape, the dunes are expansive mounds of sand deposited around 40,000 years ago. Hike or sandboard them and make sure to visit at sunset, when the sand glows golden. 

    And while some travellers chase the highest peaks, you can see the most modest in the Wimmera Mallee. Standing a mere 43 metres above the surrounding terrain, Mount Wycheproof is considered the smallest registered mountain in the world. Courtesy of its relatively gentle inclines, it’s a lovely spot for a walk and a picnic. 

    Culinary adventures in Wimmera Mallee

    border inn in the Wimmera Mallee
    Meet the locals at Border Inn.

    As a region rich in agricultural bounty, it’s little surprise the Wimmera Mallee has such a robust and vibrant food scene. The community is fiercely proud of its local produce, showcasing the flavours and heritage of the area. 

    The Border Inn in the village of Apsley is a quaint country pub and meeting spot for the local community, featuring a classic country menu and warm hospitality. 

    The Horsham Golf Club is a popular spot for golf buffs with an adjoining bistro and bar. Try a modern twist on hearty favourites while taking in views of the green.  For a taste of the area’s vintages, head to Norton Estate Wines – a boutique wine producer and cellar door open weekends.  

    A Wimmera Mallee jaunt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famed Sharp’s Bakery in Birchip. Here, you’ll find a velvety vanilla slice that’s been crowned as Australia’s best seven times. 

    Wimmera Mallee accommodation

    Fulham Homestead in wimmera mallee
    Escape to Fulham Homestead.

    If you’re enjoying an extended trip, you’ll need somewhere to rest. After a day tackling Wyperfeld’s epic dunes, visit Pine Plains Lodge , also in the national park. Built from reclaimed timber planks and logs, and anchored by rugged stone fireplaces, the lodge is a rustic and cosy hideaway. 

    For a refined yet relaxing escape, head to Fulham Homestead – a gorgeously restored guesthouse on an idyllic working farm, complete with farm animals and scenic vistas. Built in the 1840s, it has all the elegance and charm of its heritage, plus contemporary comforts like a modern kitchen, wi-fi and air-conditioning. 

    The Hermitage Hotel is Victoria’s oldest inland pub and an equally delightful blend of old and new. The restored rooms are perfectly appointed and adorned with period furnishings and high-quality linens. The pub itself is a favoured food and wine spot among locals and travellers alike. 

    If camping is more your style, the Lake Lascelles Cabins and Camping (formerly Mallee Bush Retreat) is a sprawling oasis with powered and unpowered sites and snug cabins. The setting is stunning too, the pristine Lake Lascelles sitting right in its centre. 

    Annual events

    Wimmera Mallee Nhill Aviation Museum
    Time your visit to Nhill Aviation Museum for the annual air show.

    You may not need an excuse to revisit the Wimmera Mallee, but these annual and bi-annual events will almost certainly have you returning again and again. 

    Each year, the Lake Chalegrark Country Music Marathon takes over the town for a spectacular line-up of musicians from around Australia. The event is easygoing, family-friendly, and set in scenic surrounds on the shores of Lake Charlegrark. 

    Every two years, the region holds colourful events like the Wimmera Steampunk Festival , a raucous celebration of 19th-century steampunk culture with a different theme each time; the Nhill Air Show , which features jaw-dropping aerial stunts, aircraft displays, music, activities and more; and the Nati Frinj , a festival of art, culture and performance showcasing the many talents of the Natimuk community. 

    From the quirky to the tasty, start planning at visitwimmeramallee.com.au