27 April: Short Breaks

Nieder Weisel
When Nieder Weisel was first built in the 1800s it was known as the most prestigious house in one of Ballarats most Fashionable Streets. Now you can stay in this beautiful National Trust property. Nieder Weisel offers two styles of accommodation one is the B&B experience where youll even find a set of Victorian bed clothes in the wardrobe. Theres also the self-contained accommodation which include apartments and a separate gardeners cottage. Children are also welcome in this sumptuous setting with a tree house especially built for them. They also offer high tea and an optional history tour which you can enjoy whether you are staying there or not.

Nieder Weisel
109 Webster St
Ballarat
Ph 03 5331 8829
www.ballarat.com/nierderweisel

Piper St - Kyneton and Tuki Retreat
Kynetons Piper Street is an absolute treasure trove if youre looking for something out of the ordinary. This street is dotted with shop after shop of local art, antiques and home wares. Theres also a great buzz about the food with everything from designer cup cakes to wood fired pizzas. It seems local chefs have certainly raised Kynetons foodie profile. If youre looking for a place to stay then about an hours drive from Kyenton is Tuki Retreat. Located in Smeaton, these stone cottages are certainly worth a visit. Not only is there a wonderful view but inside there is a gorgeous lounge area with a cosy open fire, a master bedroom with queen size bed and a very private ensuite. Overnight accommodation at Tuki starts from $130 per night per couple.

Tuki Retreat
60 Stoney Rises Rd, Smeaton
Ph 03 5345 6233
www.tuki.com.au

For information on Kyneton visit:
www.kyneton.org.au

Gertrude St- Fitzroy
Fitzroys Gertrude Street is a beautiful strip, rich with history and has a great bohemian feel. Its a groovy mix of pubs, fashion boutiques, book stores, art galleries and just all round funky stuff. There are plenty of cool cafés, like Birdman Eating, which offer interesting brekkie options. The street is packed with unique shops such as Industria, which is full of an eclectic array of industrial, commercial and medical objects. You cant visit a hip street like this without doing a little bit of shopping and vintage clothes shop Moustache seems like the perfect place to pick up a bargain.

Industria
202 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy
Ph 03 9417 1117

Moustache
124 Gertrude Street
Fitzroy
Ph 03 9417 7637

Birdman Eating
238 Gertrude St
Fitzroy
Ph 03 9416 4747

Mt Rael Retreat
Mt Rael takes position high above the Yarra Valley in one of the most popular wine growing regions in the country. This spectacular location treats its guests to uninterrupted 180 degree views of the area including Yarra Ranges National Park. The restaurant has a new menu which received acclaim in the current Age Good Food Guide 2008. There are 5 rooms to choose from, all with their own names and themes. The Tsar and Tane Suites as well as the Shecky and Louie suites are full of character and offer views of the valley from their private balconies. If youre looking to spoil yourself for a night or two then the Sharman Premier Suite is the one want you want, with private spa - luxury is definitely high on the agenda.

Mt Rael Retreat
140 Healesville Yarra Glen Road. Healesville
Ph: 5962 1977
www.mtrael.com.au

Euroa Butter Factory
Built in 1901 the Euroa Butter Factory had a reputation for making some of the worlds best butter. In 1951 the production of butter came to a grinding halt and until the1980s the building lay in ruins until successive owners began the restoration program. Many of the original features can still be seen including a one time milk receiving room which is now a fashionable bar and cosy breakfast nook. Upstairs is the sitting and dining room as well as five guest rooms which have all been renovated to provide exceptional comfort. Each room is impeccably styled with a mix of antiques and modern furnishings, some have a private ensuites and one room features a sensational bathroom complete with French doors and balcony.

Euroa Butter Factory
79 Boundary Rd North, Euroa
Ph 03 5795 1408
www.euroabutterfactory.com.au

What's On

Puffing Billy Steam Railway Great Train Race
Now in its 27th year, cheer on the runners next Sunday as they try to beat Puffing Billy in the annual Great Train Race in the Dandenongs.
Where: Dandenong Ranges
When: 4 Ma
More: Ph 03 9757 0775 or visit www.puffingbilly.com.au

Grampians Grape Escape
The Grampians Grape Escape is an exciting weekend getaway and a great opportunity for wine lovers and foodies to sample the flavours of this delicious region.
Where: Grampians
When : 3-4 May
More: Ph 1800 065 599 or visit www.grampiansgrapeescape.com.au

Warrnambool May Racing Carnival
And over 35,000 spectators will be buzzing with horse racing action and trackside fashion from this Tuesday for one week at this years Warrnambool May Racing Carnival.
Where: Warrnambool
When: 29 April 29 1 May
More: Ph 03 5562 2211 or visit www.warnamboolracing.com.au