Werribee Mansion

30 minutes west of Melbourne, Werribee Mansion is a living, breathing postcard of 19th century Australia. Wealthy sheep farmers built 'the mansion' and the Italianate-style architecture and its Victorian period interiors are as inspiring today as when it was completed in 1877.

Werribee Mansion is surrounded by 10 hectares of formal gardens, widely attributed to W.R Guilfoyle, Curator of the Melbourne Botanic Gardens. The gardens feature a parterre (a geometric garden design best viewed from the mansion balcony), pond and original grotto. The grounds are superbly maintained and there is no trouble finding a shaded spot to enjoy the peace and quiet.

Situated behind Werribee Mansion in a separate wing is the Mansion Hotel and Spa.  The luxurious hotel offers 5 star accommodation with day spa and restaurant for a luxurious getaway.

Within walking distance of Werribee Mansion is the Victoria State Rose Garden. Winner of the prestigious World Federation of Rose Societies Award for Garden Excellence, this internationally acclaimed garden is shaped as a giant Tudor Rose and displays 5000 roses to perfection.

Entry to Werribee Park is free from July 1 2010.