8 of the best places to stay in the Clare Valley

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From a luxe historic farmstead to a pet-friendly caravan park, we’ve rounded up the best Clare Valley accommodation to suit every taste and budget.

As one of Australia’s oldest wine regions, the Clare Valley in South Australia is home to some of the most beautiful and historic accommodation options in the state. Think charming B&Bs, luxurious old homesteads and restored 19th-century schoolhouses, as well as pet-friendly caravan parks, gorgeous garden cottages and tiny homes immersed in nature. To help find your perfect pairing, we’ve pulled together a list of the best Clare Valley accommodation on offer.

1. Country Haven Tiny Home

Best for: A secluded, romantic getaway

If you want your Clare Valley accommodation to be surrounded by nature, this tiny home  in Kybunga delivers in spades. After a day spent exploring the wineries, walks and wonders of the area, Country Haven Tiny Home is a beautiful place to unwind.

the property exterior of Country Haven Tiny Home
Escape to charming Country Haven Tiny Home in Kybunga.

Located just 20 minutes from Clare, you’ll enjoy the sounds and sights of the Australian bush, plus amenities including an outdoor bath, fire pit and all the luxe comforts you’d expect from a flashy hotel.

a close-up shot of pillows at Country Haven Tiny Home
Unwind in beautiful surrounds.

Address: 670 Eldredge Rd, Kybunga

2. Anlaby Station

Best for: A luxe, heritage experience

Experience true country luxury at Anlaby Station , a working property breeding stud sheep and producing some of the finest merino wool in Australia.

the property exterior of Anlaby Station
Anlaby Station is steeped in historic charm. (Image: Cameron Bloom)

This heritage estate – established in 1839 – offers a wide variety of Clare Valley accommodation options, including the Manor House, the Head Gardeners Cottage and the Coachman’s Cottage, as well as concierge services to help you plan your ideal holiday.

the Anlaby Station property under the shade of tree
Experience true country luxury. (Image: Cameron Bloom)

Address: 829 Anlaby Road, Hamilton

3. Clare Valley Million Estate

Best for: Families and large groups

If you’re headed to the Clare Valley with a family or large group, put Million Estate on your list, stat. This outstanding property sleeps 10 guests, and includes a private pool, tennis court, and fully-equipped kitchen.

the dining area painted in light red at Clare Valley Million Estate
One of the estate’s main draws is its vintage interior.

Plus, it’s less than 10 minutes from town, making it a great base for you to enjoy one of South Australia’s most spectacular wine regions.

a tropical-themed interior at Clare Valley Million Estate
Inside, you’ll find huge windows and rustic furniture.

Address: 117 Boconnoc Park Road, Armagh

4. Stanley Grammar Country House

Best for: Old-school hospitality

Stanley Grammar Country House  is definitely one of our top picks when it comes to Clare Valley accommodation. With an extraordinary history dating back to 1863, this former school has been lovingly refurbished into a cosy and elegant country manor, offering old-school hospitality from hosts Denise and Frank. Plus, its location in Watervale puts it smack-bang in the centre of the Reisling Trail, and a short walk from the fabulous Watervale Hotel.

the lounge room at Stanley Grammar Country House
Relax with a book in the lounge room.

Address: 7 Commercial Road, Watervale

5. Clare Valley Caravan Park

Best for: Cheap and cheerful digs

If you’re after something a little more low-key, the Clare Valley Caravan Park  is an excellent choice for Clare Valley cabins, camping and pet-friendly accommodation.

This privately owned park has recently enjoyed some lovely upgrades, offering friendly and cost-effective accommodation options from which to enjoy the stunning area. Amenities include showers, a coin-operated laundry, a camp kitchen and a communal fire pit – plus you’ll find some of the Clare Valley’s best wineries within walking distance.

the bedroom with chairs, table and modern amenities at Clare Valley Caravan Park
Book a stay at Clare Valley Caravan Park.

Address: 8 Wakefield Road, Leasingham

6.  The Heritage Garden

Best for: Garden lovers

If you’re a lover of gardens, you can’t miss this gorgeous B&B in the Clare Valley, hosted by the extraordinarily passionate Walter and Kay Duncan. The lovingly restored cottage is over 140 years old and includes charming touches such as quilts handmade by Kay herself, country breakfast provisions and, of course, Walter’s extensive rose gardens to explore. The Duncans have poured their heart and soul into their beautiful garden and cottage for guests to enjoy.

guests arriving at The Heritage Garden, Clare Valley
This gorgeous B&B is perfect for garden lovers. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Address: 12 McCord Lane, Sevenhill

7. Reilly’s Heritage B&B Cottages

Best for: Location, location, location!

The historic town of Mintaro is one of our favourite places in South Australia, making Reilly’s Heritage B&B Cottages  a great pick for your Clare Valley trip.

The town is known for the fabulous Mintaro Maze, as well as Martindale Hall, a meticulously restored Georgian mansion that featured in the 1975 film Picnic at Hanging Rock and nowadays gives serious Bridgerton energy. Plus, you’ll have Reilly’s cellar door and restaurant just steps away from your cottage, so you can leave the car in the drive and focus on sampling the local wines.

the front facade of Reilly’s Heritage B&B Cottages
Spend the weekend with living your best Bridgerton life.

Address: Cnr Hill St & Leasingham Rd, Mintaro, Clare Valley SA 5415

8. Casa Barbera

Best for: Modern luxury

While the Clare Valley is known for its historic homesteads, sometimes we just want a dose of slick modern luxury on holiday. Enter Casa Barbera . One of Clare’s most outstanding contemporary properties, this architect-designed home is a peaceful place to put your feet up with a crisp glass of riesling in hand.

the interior of Casa Barbera in Clare Valley
Casa Barbera is one of Clare’s most outstanding contemporary properties.

Address: 39 King St, Mintaro

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The ultimate spring and summer guide to Melbourne

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

couple inside their room at the westin melbourne
View the city from above in your suite.

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge
Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne
There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river
Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria
See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery , Arc One Gallery , Outre Gallery , Caves Gallery , Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary , allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne
Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground
Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre
Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.