Lose yourself in luxury and indulgence

In the city, surrender to the opulence of Crown Towers, where luxurious rooms offer panoramic views and the shopping, dining and entertainment options of the Southgate Arts and Leisure precinct are just a few steps away.

Country delights
Less than 90 minutes from Melbourne is Ballarat’s Lydiard Street, recognised as one of the finest streetscapes in Australia. It is a perfect (and perfectly-restored) example of the sort of extravagant architecture that emerges in gold rush times. Craig’s Royal Hotel is one of the street’s most impressive establishments and looking better than ever after a three-year renovation project.

Another regional gem is The Lake House at Daylesford, one of Australia’s finest boutique accommodation houses overlooking the serene Lake Daylesford. Their award winning restaurant prides itself on sourcing its supplies regionally. The Lake House also offers the magnificent Salus Day Spa if you wish to pamper yourself further.

In another special area of Melbourne & Surrounds, high above the Yarra Valley, Mt Rael Retreat in Healesville delivers endless views over the lowlands to the mountains beyond.

Continue on to Phillip Island, where Glen Isla House sits on a homestead dating back to 1870. Guests can choose from the exclusive privacy of the Anderson Suite Cottage, part of the original homestead building or luxuriate in one of the modern architecturally designed suites.

Fruit of the vine
Rated among Australia’s top wineries, Montalto Vineyard and Olive Grove on the Mornington Peninsula showcases an exceptional restaurant. This picturesque hill top environment encompasses kitchen gardens which provide much of the restaurant’s fare.

Continue your journey to find Pettavel Winery and Restaurant on the outskirts of Geelong. Featuring fine wine and one of regional Victoria’s most highly regarded restaurants, the complex opened in 2001 with the release of its 2000 vintage.

Travel on to Mitchelton Winery in the Nagambie and Strathbogie Ranges region. Established in 1973 on an old grazing estate, it has majestic views over the lush vineyards. An imposing 55-metre tower dominates the vineyard, which also features a maze of brick tunnels in which the wines are cellared.