Bergamo

Peaceful surroundings, stylish decor and glorious garden views all help to make this rural retreat hard to resist.

Awake to the sounds of the abundant birdlife - take a walk in the nearby bush - pamper yourself with an in-house massage followed by a spa - play a game of bocce or feed the ducks - enjoy a candlelit dinner by the fire Everything is provided for your comfort.

Two self-contained apartments, craftsman-built from mud brick and timber. The Studio - a romantic loft-style getaway for two with treetop views and stargazing through the skylights. The Spa Suite - a luxurious two bedroom apartment with spa and wood fire, set in a beautiful garden.

Both apartments have hand crafted timber kitchens, polished floors and leadlight windows. A television, video cassette recorder and compact disc player are also available in each apartment.

Breakfast provisions are supplied and a tempting basket of homemade, home-grown and seasonal treats comes with the weekend package. Mid week packages are also available.

Set on five acres at Porcupine Ridge, Bergamo is a little over an hour from Melbourne and under 10 minutes from Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, the Spa Centre of Australia.

Visit the Spa Resort, stroll around the lakes, browse in the bookshops and galleries, and dine at some of the best country restaurants in the district. Your hosts - Sue and Dieter.