Best Luxury Accommodation In The Yarra Valley

Victoria’s picturesque Yarra Valley isn’t just home to rows upon rows of cool-climate grapes – it has plenty of elegant accommodation options, too.

Wine regions like the gorgeous Yarra Valley are inherently indulgent. There’s something about sipping quality wine straight from the source and dining on local produce at a sprawling vineyard that feels both relaxing and regal. It’s therefore easy to justify splurging on where you sleep to round out the experience. Planning a visit to the region? Here’s a round-up of the Yarra Valley’s best luxury accommodation.

The Farmhouse at Meletos

Best for: Channelling a European holiday

The Tuscan-style Farmhouse is a two-storey boutique hotel with views of sweeping vineyards and an apple orchard. The 23 luxury rooms are decorated simply and each has slightly different furnishings and touches, along with shuttered windows and vintage timber floors, so there’s not a whiff of a cookie-cutter hotel. The high-ceilinged lobby feels homely the moment you step in, with a fireplace encircled by leather couches, a high-strung chandelier and a spiral staircase.

the bedroom at Farmhouse at Meletos with scenic views from the window — Wake up to scenic vineyard views.

The Tuscan Suite is the star of the show, with exceptional views out to the distant Great Dividing Range, a bathroom that’s almost as big as the bedroom, and an ornate black chandelier hanging beside the bed.

the living area with fireplace and leather couches at Farmhouse at Meletos — The cosy lobby features rustic touches.

If you’re travelling with a group, you can book the self-contained five-bedroom villa on the north side of the property. The villa has a generous living area and an enclosed courtyard, so there’s plenty of space to kick back with friends or family with a few bottles of local vino.

The Meletos restaurant offers a refined menu with views of the gardens, and adjoins the elegant Ernie’s bar.

Address: 12 St Huberts Road, Coldstream

Chateau Yering Yarra Valley

Best for: Feeling like royalty

Despite its unassuming plain white exterior and underwhelming entrance, Chateau Yering , located in a Victorian mansion on a 250-acre estate, feels palatial the moment you step inside. Parts of the hotel look a little tired, but it’s undeniably steeped in history, given the historic homestead was built in 1854 on the site of Victoria’s first vineyard. The 32 suites—each with their own colour scheme and personality—channel the opulence of Versailles, with fine furnishings like heavy floral curtains, padded bedheads and antique furniture. Depending on what room you choose, you could enjoy soaking in a claw-foot bath or oversized spa in your marble ensuite.

The hotel’s lounge, Chinese room and library have maintained their original fittings to provide a glimpse into life in the 1800s, and Eleonore’s Restaurant includes elements of the original dining room. In the restaurant, you can dine on a two or three-course menu plus canapés, sitting on chairs embroidered with gold thread and under ornate ceiling roses, or opt for a meal in the casual Streetwater Cafe.

a look inside Chateau Yering Yarra Valley — Stay in a luxe suite at Chateau Yering. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Address: 42 Melba Highway, Yering

Kangaroo Ridge Retreat

Best for: Getting away from it all

If you love a room with a view, book a luxury cabin at the adults-only Kangaroo Ridge and wake up face-to-face with the Yarra’s misty mountains.

a scenic Yarra Valley landscape as seen from Kangaroo Ridge Retreat — Take in the view of the Yarra’s misty mountains. (Image: Gunvor E Jakobsen)

Enjoy a soak in your private spa bath, then wrap yourself in a plush robe, select a vinyl record to spin, and sit by the fire or on your balcony with a glass of wine from your personal bar.

the luxury cabin exterior at Kangaroo Ridge Retreat, Yarra Valley — Enjoy a sweet escape to the Kangaroo Ridge Retreat. (Image: Gunvor E Jakobsen)

A range of gourmet snacks are complimentary in the larder, and you can hire a private chef for an intimate dining experience, or pre-arrange an in-room dining pack.

the living room at Kangaroo Ridge Retreat, Yarra Valley — Stay in a luxury cabin with a view at Kangaroo Ridge Retreat. (Image: Gunvor E Jakobsen)

Want to arrive like the VIP that you are? Book a helicopter transfer from Melbourne.

the bed at Kangaroo Ridge Retreat, Yarra Valley — Get cosy at the luxe Kangaroo Ridge Retreat. (Image: Gunvor E Jakobsen)

Address: 38 Turners Lane, Healesville

Yarra Valley Lodge

Best for: Families and golf lovers

Yarra Valley Lodge offers hotel-style accommodation on the grounds of a golf and country club. The lodge has 102 rooms that have either a private balcony or access to a garden terrace. Visit the Heritage Retreat & Day Spa for a massage or facial, or to work off a few wines at the spacious gym. The lodge also has a tennis court, a 20-metre heated swimming pool and a children’s pool.

the dining at Yarra Valley Lodge — Each room has either a private balcony or access to a garden terrace.

Grab a pre-dinner drink in the Lodge Bar (which also offers all-day dining), then head to the pop-up restaurant for a three-course share menu on Friday and Saturday nights.

a fine dining setup at Yarra Valley Lodge — Head to the pop-up restaurant for a three-course share menu.

Address: 2 Heritage Ave, Chirnside Park

Carl’s Hut at Solitude

Best for: A couple’s retreat

Carl’s Hut is secluded luxury at its best, tucked in amongst vineyards and a forest on Solitude Estate. The cosy, rustic cabin, which dates back to the 1940s, has been beautifully restored with great attention to detail—think exposed timber beams, fine linen, a crackling fire, heated polished concrete floors and quality kitchen appliances—to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.

the bedroom at Carl’s Hut at Solitude — Get comfy in this rustic and quaint cabin. (Image: Nick Skinner)

Prep yourself a charcuterie platter of local produce, crack a bottle of Yarra red (available to purchase) and sit on the balcony to hear nothing but birds and the quiet rustle of grazing wallabies. Come nightfall, it’s the perfect place to stare at the stars.

the kitchen at Carl’s Hut at Solitude — Carl’s Hut has been beautifully restored with modern amenities. (Image: Nick Skinner)

Address: 435 Beenak Road, Yellingbo

Re’em Yarra Valley

Best for: Modern luxury

Located on the 200-acre Helen and Joey Estate, Re’em is a luxe boutique hotel in the Yarra Valley. The accommodation has the comforts of a hotel with a 24-hour reception, room service, and onsite restaurant and bar.

a scenic vineyard landscape at Re’em Yarra Valley — Re’em offers 16 thoughtfully appointed rooms. (Image: Hugh Davidson)

The 16 modern rooms are generously sized and have a private patio or balcony, depending on which type of suite you choose. Floor-to-ceiling windows afford exceptional views across the vineyard and lake.

a bathtub with views of the surrounding vineyard at Re’em Yarra Valley — Soak in a tub facing the vines at Re’em Yarra Valley. (Image: Hugh Davidson)

You can taste estate-grown wines at the cellar door (where you can also order snacks and picnic packs), then easily access other wineries in the surrounding Yarra Valley region. Come lunch or dinner time, you can eat out, or stay in, dining on an Asian-inspired menu at the classy Re’em restaurant.

the living room at Re’em Yarra Valley — Each suite has a private patio or balcony. (Image: Hugh Davidson)

Address: 12–14 Spring Lane, Gruyere

Discover the best restaurants in the Yarra Valley.

In recent years, Ballarat has emerged as one of Victoria’s most dynamic and daring cities. And, this spring, two unexpected creative showcases will take over the town.

No matter the season, it’s always a good time to visit Ballarat – but spring might be the most ideal. The weather is warmer, the skies are clearer, the flowers across its botanical landscapes are in bloom. And events in Ballarat transform the city into a playground of creativity.

This year, Ballarat will welcome both new and returning artistic events, best paired with a jaunt through the city’s eclectic array of things to eat, drink and explore. Here’s how to spend a spring weekend in this cool cultural hub.

The events

Two of the most exciting events hitting Ballarat this spring are the 2025 Ballarat International Foto Biennale and the inaugural edition of Sunnyside, a captivating and immersive art extravaganza.

Ballarat International Foto Biennale

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply curious, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a must. The event permeates the entire city, with works by over 360 local and international photographers adorning over 100 buildings, businesses, streets and public spaces.

This year marks the 11th chapter and will centre on ‘Lifeforce’ – a theme that’s all about humanity and connection. Among the many talents on show, the headline artist is Campbell Addy, a British-Ghanaian creative who explores roots and identity. Be sure to visit before it ends in 2025 on 19 October.

Sunnyside

Sunnyside is making its debut this year, introducing a brand-new celebration of colour, creativity and community to Ballarat. The 17-day celebration, from 6 to 23 November, will feature immersive installations and experiences, talks, a vibrant opening night gala, and workshops covering everything from crochet to neon block printing.

Internationally acclaimed London-based artist Morag Myerscough will lead the celebration and convert Ballarat’s historic Mining Exchange – a gold rush era trading hall – and the city’s streets into a multi-sensory art spectacle.

While you’re there

Don’t miss out on everything else Ballarat has to offer. Here’s where to eat, drink, see and stay in the city.

Where to eat

Vibrant Latin American dishes at Pancho, adding flavour to Events in Ballarat. — Savour bold Latin American dishes at Pancho. (Image: Einwick)

For daytime dining, you’re spoiled for choice. Johnny Alloo does contemporary cafe fare in a warm and inviting space, while Hydrant Food Hall is a popular pick for breakfast and lunch classics. Eclectic Tastes makes seasonal dishes that incorporate plenty of local produce, giving you a great opportunity to taste the region’s flavours.

At night, head to Roy Hammond for delicious cocktails and contemporary Asian-inspired eats or Pancho for vibrant (and very good) Latin American food in fun surrounds. At Hop Temple, you’ll find an incredible selection of craft beers (more than 200, to be exact) and punchy pub fare, or you can head slightly out of town for tasty bistro classics at the historic and character-filled Buninyong Hotel .

In the mood for something fancy? Visit one of Ballarat’s many hatted restaurants, like Babae (produce-driven fine dining inspired by regional Victoria), Mr Jones (modern Asian by a chef with a Michelin pedigree) and Underbar (an ultra-exclusive spot doing ultra-refined tasting menus).

Where to drink

Food and wine tastings at Blue Pyrenees Estate, a refined experience beyond Events in Ballarat. — Relax over wine at Blue Pyrenees Estate. (Image: Visit Victoria)

No matter your poison, you’ll find a venue to suit in Ballarat. Aunty Jacks is a local institution, serving a generous line-up of beers made in the on-site brewery. Renard is perfect for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap, with a menu that spans creative signature cocktails, locally produced wines and Australian spirits.

Try some of Ballarat’s finest creations at one of its many boutique distilleries, including Grainery Lane and Itinerant Spirits. The former specialises in gin and vodka, while the latter offers gin, vodka and craft whiskey. Buy a bottle from either as a memento of your trip.

You can also venture a little further afield to one of the area’s renowned wineries and cellar doors. There are 25 scattered around the Pyrenees (Ballarat’s very own surrounding wine region), including Dalwhinnie, Summerfield and Blue Pyrenees Estate. Eastern Peake – a family-owned winery led by Young Gun of Wine 2025, Owen Latta – is also a must-visit.

What to see

A koala eating eucalyptus leaves at Ballarat Wildlife Park. — Meet a koala at Ballarat Wildlife Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’ve got time to spare after the thrill of the spring festivities, there’s lots to see and do. More art can be found in the city’s streets and laneways, with local street artists transforming the walls with impressive murals and installations.

Ballarat is equally renowned for its heritage architecture, much of which flourished during the gold rush. Notable buildings include Ballarat Town Hall, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Craig’s Royal Hotel, all located centrally and within walking distance of one another.

Travelling with kids? Head to Sovereign Hill for a living-history adventure or Ballarat Wildlife Park to meet koalas, reptiles and free-roaming kangaroos.

Where to stay

An elegant suite at Hotel Vera, offering boutique comfort. — Enjoy all-out luxury at Hotel Vera. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’re venturing to the city by train and want to stay somewhere central, Quest Ballarat Station is an excellent pick. The modern serviced apartments are situated just 250m from the station and a short stroll from downtown Ballarat, making coming, going and exploring the city incredibly easy. There’s also an on-site gym, barbecue area and accessible rooms available.

For a touch of French luxe in regional Victoria, The Provincial Hotel is a standout choice, with gorgeously appointed rooms and suites in a restored heritage-listed building. The hotel is also conveniently located on Lydiard Street, which is lined with grand historic architecture.

If you’re after something truly luxe, book a few nights at Hotel Vera. The exclusive collection of only seven suites presents all-out opulence: think lush linens, designer furniture, works by notable artists and gilded touches. It also happens to house fine-dining favourite Babae, making it an optimal stay if you’re keen to try the restaurant.

Getting there

aerial of hop lane in ballarat — Turn your Ballarat visit into a memorable weekend. (Image: Einwick)

One of the best things about Ballarat is its proximity to Melbourne. It’s only 90 minutes away by car – an easy journey down the Western Freeway – or can be easily reached by rail. The train from Southern Cross to Ballarat Station takes less than 90 minutes and drops you right in the centre of town.

Start planning your stay at visitballarat.com.au.

The best luxury accommodation in the Yarra Valley