The best Yarra Valley winery accommodation for a romantic escape

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A romantic winery stay is the perfect way to enjoy one of Victoria’s most famous wine regions, the Yarra Valley.

As one of the world’s premier wine growing regions, the Yarra Valley is perfect for oenophiles and foodies. And where better to stay than at one of the wineries that boasts accommodation?

If you’re planning on visiting the lush region, you can wake up to views of the vineyards, and enjoy afternoons sipping vino. Here’s our pick of the best Yarra Valley winery accommodation for a stay laced with romance.

Re’em Yarra Valley

Best for: Modern luxury

Re’em Yarra Valley  is a luxury boutique hotel on Helen and Joey Estate, with just 16 rooms. Choose from a Garden Patio Suite, Re’em Balcony Suite or Alicorn Mountain View Suite and enjoy views across the vineyards, which stretch over 200 acres, a small lake, and the distant mountains from your verandah or patio. The contemporary design is inspired by the Yarra Valley itself, with a neutral colour palette and floor-to-ceiling windows, and a pond on the lower floor calms the common space with the soft sound of trickling water.

Re'em Hotel Yarra Valley
Relax on your private balcony with snacks and the estate’s wines. (Image: Hugh Davidson)

The Helen and Joey cellar door is the place to enjoy the property’s estate-grown and made wines, and offers a range of gourmet snacks (think oysters, lamb skewers and charcuterie boards) and picnic options. For a more intimate experience, you can retreat to the underground cellar to taste a premium wine selection, looking out over the oak barrels.

The Helen and Joey cellar door, Yarra Valley
Sample premium drops at the Helen and Joey cellar door.

The 110-seat Asian-inspired Re’em restaurant offers lunch and dinner, under the stewardship of head chef Abe Yang and culinary consultant Mark Ebbels.

a Stay and Graze Package meal with overnight accommodation at Re’em Yarra Valley
Indulge in the Stay and Graze Package. (Image: Hugh Davidson)

Address: 12–14 Spring Lane, Gruyere, VIC 3770

Shaws Road Bed and Breakfast

Best for: A chill country escape

Shaws Road B&B  lets you escape the city hustle with a comfortable rural stay. To reach the accommodation, you’ll drive along narrow roads through the forest, then pop out on top of a hill with views across rolling green valleys grazed by cattle.

the vineyard landscape at Shaws Road Bed and Breakfast, Yarra Valley
Spend a relaxing, romantic weekend in the Yarra Valley.

Though the brick accommodation block doesn’t look like much from the outside (it’s located within a farmhouse on a working winery), the two self-contained one-bedroom apartments (which can be booked together if you want to holiday with friends) are decorated with pops of colour and homely finishes, and are perfect for a couples’ weekend in the Yarra Valley.

the bedroom at Shaws Road Bed and Breakfast, Yarra Valley
Escape the city hustle with a comfortable rural stay at Shaws Road Bed and Breakfast.

The room includes a clawfoot bath, private balcony and library, plus a breakfast hamper and bottle of wine on arrival, so you can relax in the vintage leather chairs with a good book and a glass of wine. Warm yourself by the cosy fireplace in winter, or fire up the BBQ in summer. If you don’t fancy cooking for yourself, you can dine at the modern Shaws Road Winery restaurant – literally just across the driveway – on Saturdays and Sundays.

the bathtub at Shaws Road Bed and Breakfast, Yarra Valley
Soak in the tub with a vino in hand.

Address: 225 Shaws Road, Arthurs Creek, VIC 3099

SOUMAH of Yarra Valley 

Best for: Italophiles

SOUMAH  is an Italian-inspired property that specialises in the wines and food of Northern Italy – which is obvious when you enter and are hit with the smokey scent of the colourful mosaic wood-fired oven. Accommodation is offered in detached country-style rooms with pale blue, white and sandstone exteriors. Giant windows flood the spaces with natural light and afford views across the Hexham vineyards and rolling green hills (are you spotting an ‘epic views’ theme in this region?).

scenic vineyard views from the restaurant at SOUMAH of Yarra Valley
Soak up epic vineyard views at SOUMAH. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Choose from the three ‘studio villete’, which have basic kitchen facilities, a freestanding tub and a deck overlooking the vines, or upgrade to the ‘grande-villetta’, which has a more substantial kitchen, plus a lounge and dining area that can be used as a second room if needed. Bringing a crowd? You can also book the four-bedroom, three-bathroom ‘Villa Sophia’, with all the comforts of a fully equipped home.

al fresco dining among the vines at SOUMAH of Yarra Valley
Dine next to the vineyards. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Receive an antipasto board and bottle of wine on arrival to help you kick into relaxation mode, then join a wine tasting at the cellar door. Dinner and lunch are served at Ai Fiori Trattoria, where the menu includes wood-fired pizza, made with housemade sourdough, and other Italian dishes. In spring and summer you can partake in Italy’s ‘merenda’ tradition, which involves an afternoon snack, in this case, a spread of sweet and savoury bites, paired with prosecco.

Address: 18 Hexham Rd, Gruyere, VIC 3770

Carl’s Hut at Solitude

Best for: Feeling immersed in nature

The one-bedroom Carl’s Hut sits on Solitude Estate and is snuggled into a 1940s log cabin, surrounded by thick forest and rows of chardonnay vines.

The space once had dirt floors and dilapidated walls but is now beautifully decorated luxury accommodation, with high ceilings crossed by exposed timber beams, a stone fireplace and a modern kitchenette.

the living area at Carl’s Hut at Solitude, Yarra Valley
Stay in a rustic, humble abode. (Image: Nick Skinner)

In the late afternoon, you can often see kangaroos grazing on the property, by night the sky glitters with a million stars, and come morning you may find yourself enveloped in a rolling fog.

the exterior of Carl’s Hut at Solitude, Yarra Valley
The 1940s log cabin is surrounded by lush forest. (Image: Nick Skinner)

There’s aircon for the summer and heated polished concrete floors for the winter. Stay in and cook a simple meal (with a glass of wine, of course – a range of Solitude Estate’s own wines are available to purchase), or dine at restaurants nearby.

the whitewashed bedroom at Carl’s Hut at Solitude, Yarra Valley
Sleep in comfort at Carl’s Hut. (Image: Nick Skinner)

Address: 435 Beenak Road, Yellingbo, VIC 3139

Yarrawalla Vineyard Cottage

Best for: A group of friends or family

Yarrawalla Vineyard Cottage  is a fully furnished cottage with timber floors and a spacious kitchen and dining space. The three bedrooms (with one room with a semi-detached sunroom) sleep up to five people, and a large verandah catches the afternoon sun – the perfect spot to unwind with a glass of vino. You can take a bath in the outdoor tub, looking out to the vines and herb and flower gardens.

The surrounding family-owned vineyard specialises in cool climate chardonnay and pinot noir, and the working farm is home to 300 Black Angus cattle. You may spot Yarrawalla beef on the menu at local Yarra Valley restaurants, and, on that note, the cottage is conveniently within walking distance of a number of Yarra Valley wineries and restaurants.

Address: 13/15 Maddens Lane, Gruyere, VIC 3770

Farmhouse at Meletos

Best for: A Tuscan-inspired escape

Though Meletos  doesn’t own its surrounding vineyard or have a cellar door as such, the property is tucked right in amongst the vineyards and apple orchards of its neighbours, so the Farmhouse has all the feels of a winery stay.

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

The whole precinct, which includes an excellent restaurant, brewery and adjoining Ernie’s Bar (where you can do tastings of local wines), makes you feel as though you’ve been transported to Tuscany.

the living area with a fireplace at Farmhouse at Meletos
Get cosy by the fireplace.

Thick vines creep up the walls of the 23-room Farmhouse, which feels warm and homely from the moment you enter, with a plastered fireplace that stretches to the double-height ceiling and brown, studded leather couches in the reception. North-facing rooms overlook the vines – so book one of those on the second floor for the best views.

lush greenery surrounding Farmhouse at Meletos
Be surrounded by greenery at the Meletos Farmhouse.

Address: 12 St Huberts Road, Coldstream VIC 3770

Discover the top things to do in the Yarra Valley.

Emily McAuliffe
Emily McAuliffe is a Melbourne-based freelance travel writer. She is on the board of the Australian Society of Travel Writers and her writing and photography has featured in many titles in Australia and abroad. She loves nothing more than touching down in a new destination or approaching a familiar place with fresh eyes.
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Your guide to a gourmand getaway along the Murray River

Feast your way through Sun Country on the Murray – a beautiful and bountiful region in northern Victoria with gourmet delights galore.

Nestled on the lands of the Yorta Yorta People along the mighty Murray River, Sun Country is a truly extraordinary place. The northern Victorian enclave is a tapestry of meandering waterways, ancient forests, sandy beaches, enchanting country towns and an easy way of life.

Beyond its landscapes and bucolic charm, Sun Country on the Murray is a culinary paradise: think farm-fresh produce, family-run wineries and no shortage of places to feast.

If you’re a serious foodie or simply epicurious, here’s your ultimate guide to a gourmand Murray River getaway.

The Murray Farm Gate Trail

The self-guided Murray Gate Farm Trail lets you sample the area’s best produce while immersing yourself in the lush Goulburn and Murray Valleys. The trail has something to suit every palate and pace, but there are a few notable highlights.

1. Rich Glen

Rich Glen Provedore and Rich Glen Skin & Beauty
Stock up at Rich Glen. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Rich Glen is renowned for its award-winning olive oils. Everything is grown and created on the family farm in Yarrawonga, the results of which you can visit at Rich Glen Provedore – a treasure trove of gourmet foods, including that signature olive oil. Or explore Rich Glen Skin & Beauty, which stocks lush handmade skincare and wellness products.

2. How Now Dairy

A charming micro-farm producing ethical dairy, How Now Dairy , lets its baby calves remain with their mothers and its cows roam on rolling pesticide-free pastures. Try a selection of cheeses that do good and taste good, including a fantastic punchy blue, and velvety milk with a thick, creamy top.

3. Cactus Country

Cactus Country in the murray
Stop into Cactus Country. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Cactus Country is a 12-acre stretch of desert-like garden containing cacti of all shapes, sizes and colours. Naturally, it makes the most of its bounty at the on-site bar and restaurant, with a cactus-infused dessert menu alongside a vibrant line-up of Mexican snacks and mains.

4. The Olde Creamery

The Olde Creamery is a local icon, a former hobby farm that has flourished into a thriving purveyor of flowers and foods. The elderflower cordial and bramble gin and tonic jam are must-tries, and make for tasty mementoes of your trip.

Wineries, breweries and distilleries

The region’s sunny climate and rich soils make it a prime place for viticulture. If wine isn’t your thing, you’ll also find boutique breweries and distilleries producing top-notch beers and spirits.

1. Squires Winery

a couple sitting at the bar at squire's winery, sun country on the murray
Pop in for a tasting. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With its idyllic positioning on the Ovens River, Squires Winery is a lovely setting for a long, leisurely lunch or tasting. Enjoy a riverside sip of prosecco, rosé or cab sauv, complemented by seasonal bites and a backdrop of towering gum trees.

2. Cape Horn Vineyard

Cape Horn is one of the region’s most established vineyards. Its sparkling durif/shiraz is a crowd favourite and well worth trying on your foodie tour, especially if it’s served with one of the winery’s delicious wood-fired pizzas.

3. Byramine Homestead & Brewery

Byramine Homestead brewery
Enjoy a tipple at this historic homestead.

A top pick among beer, cider and history enthusiasts, Byramine serves a rotation of brews made on-site in the historic homestead. Wander through the venue and learn about its colonial past before sitting down to a freshly made Ploughman’s and cold local ale.

4. Monichino Wines

Monichino is a slice of la dolce vita in northern Victoria, producing classic Italian varietals like pinot grigio and aromatica. Drop by for a tasting at the cellar door (open weekends or by appointment) and explore everything from crisp whites to robust fortified wines, or pack a picnic and savour your glass in the picturesque gardens.

5. Corowa Distilling Co

Corowa Distilling Co
Sit down to a hearty lunch. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Corowa Distilling Co crafts an incredible variety of single-malt and blended whiskies, and is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. Stop in for a tasting flight in the whisky room, or a hearty breakfast or lunch paired with a wee dram.

Farm-to-table dining

If you’ve got the time to linger over a gourmet spread, Sun Country on the Murray has an abundance of outstanding restaurants and cafes.

1. O’Reilly’s Food and Wine

O’Reilly’s feels much like stepping into a good friend’s home, albeit with a refined twist. The menu changes weekly and rotates through a selection of comforting yet elevated dishes – think lamb cottage pie, French-style moussaka, a perennially popular open steak sandwich and cakes that change flavours weekly.

2. Stock and Barrel

a couple eating at Stock and Barrel victoria
Soak in views of Lake Mulwala. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Tucked inside The Sebel Yarrawonga hotel, overlooking sparkling Lake Mulwala, Stock and Barrel does pub classics with a Sun Country spin. Order a perfectly seared steak and triple-cooked potatoes alongside a freshly poured pint, or try a regional highlight: local produce features abundantly across Stock and Barrel’s dishes.

3. The Bend

With spacious decks and panoramic views of the Murray, The Bend is ideal for a sun-soaked long lunch. Order a round of moreish share plates (like baja fish tacos and a warm-from-the-oven brioche loaf stuffed with cream cheese and herbs) or a signature cocktail and indulgent main – we can’t go past the slow-braised wagyu brisket.

4. Blacksmith Provedore

Black Smith Provedore
Taste Blacksmith Provedore’s delicious pizzas. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

If you’re after a slick yet relaxed dining destination, head to Blacksmith Provedore . Perched right next to Lake Mulwala, the venue is airy and elegant, with a minimalist-chic design. The pizzas are seriously good too, made with 72-hour fermented dough and toppings sourced from Italy’s finest producers.

5. Broken Willow

As soon as you enter Broken Willow ’s front doors, you’re greeted with genuine hospitality and a classic bistro menu that has something for everyone: succulent grilled meats, parmas and schnitzels, juicy burgers, and international dishes ranging from weekly curry and stir-fry specials to zippy banh mi.

While you’re there

Thompson Beach in sun country on the murray
Discover plenty to do between meals. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Got a few hours to spare? Make the most of your trip by exploring the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of your riverside surroundings.

Barmah National Park is a sanctuary of walks through majestic river red gums and serene wetlands. Here, a seat on board a Kingfisher River Cruise offers a different Murray experience, letting you see the vast river from the perspective of the Yorta Yorta peoples.

If you’re a watersport enthusiast, Lake Mulwala in Yarrawonga is a favourite for canoeing, cruising, fishing, kayaking and water skiing. While the silo murals at Katamatite, St James, Tungamah and more recently Waaia are essential stops in Victoria’s famed Silo Art Trail .

In Cobram Barooga, make sure to visit Thompson’s Beach, the largest inland beach in the southern hemisphere. Nearby, the Bullanginya Dreaming project is an award-winning 1.8km immersive art experience that immerses you in light and sound to tell a rich story of country, culture and connection.

Start planning a tasty getaway to Sun Country on The Murray at suncountryonthemurray.com.au.