Wine
Top 7 Vineyard Stays in Australia
A day trip is a great way to experience Australia’s premier wine regions, although it’s rarely enough time to see and do everything worthwhile. Thankfully, our regions are also home to an abundance of luxury and boutique accommodation, perfect for wine lovers looking to extend their stay.
Whether you’re in dire need of a relaxing weekend away from the kids or just looking for somewhere classy to crash after a long day of wine tasting, we’ve considered options from coast-to-coast and selected our top 7 vineyard stays in Australia.
Empire Retreat & Spa – Margaret River
What once served as the homestead for the founders of Empire Estate winery has been reimagined as a shared living space and gateway that expands to a series of boutique suites and villas possessing unobscured views of Margaret River’s fields and woodlands.
Empire Retreat’s design draws from the tranquil coastal lifestyle with Balinese-inspired interiors decked out in handcrafted décor and luxe furnishings that make every space the height of contemporary living.
Downtime can be spent with a bottle of Empire wine or bubbles straight from the private vineyard, or arrange a gourmet picnic hamper to graze on at nearby Yallingup Beach. Of course, the on-site spa is ideal for both physical and spiritual renewal via a series of relaxing therapies and specialised rituals.
1958 Caves Road, Yallingup, WA
https://www.empireretreat.com/
Jackalope Hotel – Mornington Peninsula
Why settle into a suite when a ‘lair’ is a viable option? Located on the Mornington Peninsula just an hour outside of Melbourne, Jackalope Hotel is a private vineyard that promises an experience to remember. With its monolithic, jet-black exterior, the hotel stands in sharp contrast to the rolling green hills and lush vines.
Inside, the luxury rooms and suites affectionately known as ‘lairs,’ feature floor-to-ceiling windows, and private terraces connect guests to the rural surrounds, while king-sized beds, opulent amenities and designer details create a reverie of refinement at every turn.
Jackalope is home to two diverse restaurants with unique takes on farm-to-fork. Hatted restaurant, Doot Doot Doot delivers upscale dining and a tantalising menu; while cellar door restaurant, Rare Hare, serves up a casual food and wine affair.
There’s also an on-site spa and infinity pool, making a strong case for visiting Jackalope during the warmer months.
166 Balnarring Road, Merricks North, VIC
https://www.jackalopehotels.com/
Longview Vineyard – Adelaide Hills
This family-owned estate is home to deluxe 4.5-star accommodation surrounded by one of the Adelaide Hills’ most awarded vineyards. It’s a great way to spend a weekend relaxing and recouping or celebrating with a bottle or two.
Longview features 12 stunning King Suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies. The original Homestead has been tastefully renovated and can sleep 10-12 guests. As a popular destination for weddings, the Longview Homestead would be the perfect accommodation for a bridal party.
There’s a great range of activities to enjoy while staying at Longview. From visiting the Cellar Door and indulging in fresh, local fare, to experiencing a wine tasting and soaking up the stunning surrounds. Longview is a great way to spend a day or two in the Adelaide Hills.
Pound Rd, Macclesfield, SA
https://www.longviewvineyard.com.au/
Crittenden Estate – Mornington Peninsula
Escape to the Mornington Peninsula while staying in a lakeside villa at Crittenden Estate. Each of the three villas is constructed over the vineyard lake for a sense of absolute waterfront among the vines.
In winter, guests are encouraged to cosy up by the fire with a bottle of Pinot Noir and listen to the rain hitting the tin roof. During the warmer weather, guests can step out onto a north facing deck, fire up the barbeque and enjoy a bottle of our Rosé.
Crittenden’s cool-climate wines are on display at the cellar door, while the award-winning Stillwater restaurant showcases the best regional produce in a relaxed setting.
Crittenden Estate is conveniently located a stone’s throw away from all Mornington Peninsula has to offer including many more restaurants and cellar doors, magnificent beaches, golf courses, the Peninsula Hot Springs and adventure parks.
25 Harrisons Road, Dromana, VIC
https://www.lakesidevillas.com.au/
Mona – Derwent Valley
When heading south to take in Tasmania’s booming wine scene, be sure to experience the wonders and extravagance of Mona. The Mona Pavilions are actually ultra-modern holiday houses, residing on the River Derwent. Each of the eight pavilions presents unique architecture and are perfect for anyone who appreciates design as much as privacy.
More than accommodation, Mona is a playground for the culturally aware. Guests can take a Moorilla Winery tour and sample the goods at the cellar door. Fans of beer can also indulge in a Moo Brew brewery tour.
The entertainment continues at the Mona museum, which showcases a diverse range of voices and approaches to art and culture. Several exhibits are adults-only, so leave the kids at home.
For wining and dining, guests can sample the delectable drops thirteen metres underground in the grand surrounds of the Void Bar. Alternatively, several glasses can be paired with gourmet dishes and ‘riper’ views within Mona’s rooftop restaurant The Source.
655 Main Rd, Berriedale, TAS
https://mona.net.au/
The Louise – Barossa Valley
Ideally situated in the heart of Barossan wine country, The Louise is a luxury culinary retreat, boasting 15 private suites complemented by breathtaking vineyard views.
Relax in the sauna, soak in a private spa tub, or raise a glass and toast the sunset in the infinity lap pool overlooking some of the region’s world-famous Shiraz vines.
The Louise is also home to regional restaurant Appellation which embraces fresh, local produce through its delectable mid-sized plates. Extend a stay by taking in all the wine and produce-related goodness that puts the Barossa Valley on the map.
Seppeltsfield Road, Stonewell Rd, Marananga, SA
https://thelouise.com.au/
The Vineyard Retreat – McLaren Vale
McLaren Vale’s The Vineyard Retreat is a peaceful venue and home to a series of distinct guesthouses each commanding views of South Australia’s idyllic food and wine region.
Guests are enticed to kick-off their shoes, read a book, listen to the birdlife, gaze over the valley below and take possession of their own piece of wine country…for a few days at least.
Guesthouses are equipped with leather couches, wood-burning fireplaces, private decks, locally-sourced breakfast provisions and complimentary mini-bars. To cap it off there’s a jacuzzi.
The Vineyard Retreat’s concierge service helps guests choose the best blend of tours and experiences the region has to offer - perfect for travellers who crave adventure.
165 Whitings Road Blewitt Springs, SA
https://www.thevineyardmv.com.au/