Hunter Resort, Hunter Valley

Hotel. Unwind in serenity surrounded by an endless green landscape of mountains and vineyards in Hunter Valley. Hunter Resort is in the heart of beautiful Hunter Valley wine region on 70 acres of land. Family owned by the Helé’s, this resort is the most flourishing in the area because of the hardwork and dedication that has been put into making it the best, not to mention the three generations of innkeepers in the family. Hunter Resort has only 35 rooms, ensuring your stay at this Australian inn will be quiet, relaxing, and personal.

Wine. Hunter Resort boasts a glass wine cellar at the front of their restaurant proving their large selection of labels. Guests may enjoy bottles from around the world, and even some local, private, and hard to find selections. A better place than Hunter Resort will not be found in the valley since it is the largest in the area; the winery offers the top tastings with unique creations of locally grown and hand-made wines and guests can even see how wine is made. With vintages that date back to the 1940’s, it is obvious to see why they Hunter Resort has been awarded Restaurant & Caterers Hunter Region Wine List of the Year Winner in 2000-2001, 2001-2002 & 2005-2006.

Dining. Chef Phillip Collis has created a variety of delectable dishes to suite your palate that exemplifies the tradition of Australian cuisine. Of course, San Martino Restaurant only uses the freshest local produce in each recipe guaranteeing the finest zest possible. Cooking classes are offered to those who would like to take a taste of the fine cuisine home with them.

Chateau Yering, Yarra Valley

Hotel. One of Australia’s finest country hotels, Chateau Yering, lies in the Yarra Valley (an hour drive from Melbourne) surrounded by more than 70 local vineyards and filled with enchantment and beauty. Since reopening in 1997, the Milner family has turned this once flourishing vineyard into a paradise of cuisine, décor, and beautiful countryside. At one point this Victorian home acted as one of the most respected vineyards in Australia. However, when the land was sold off piece-by-piece the vines were neglected and only the structures remained. Fortunately, the house’s cellar, built in 1840, still functions and remains a prized possession of Chateau Yering.

Wine. As wine tourism has flourished so has the Yarra Valley. Because it is only an hour away from Melbourne, it is easier than ever for visitors to explore this wine region best known for fits “cool climate” wines and especially its sparkling wines. Chateau Yering’s cellar dates back to 1840, automatically making it one of the historic cellars of Australia and making it home to the best vintages of Yarra Valley’s labels.

Dining. Executive Chef Mathew Macartney heads the hotels two restaurants, Eleonore’s Restaurant and Sweetwater Café, serving dishes that are skillfully prepared and exquisitely delicious. For a casual meal head to Sweetwater Café where breakfast is served daily, however for a more daring foodie, go to the elegant dining room of Eleonore’s. Surely Mathew Macartney’s French influence that has won him countless awards will leave any guest wanting more.

The Richardson Hotel, Perth City

Hotel. The Richardson Hotel, designed by famous London Architect Sir Terry Farrell, is set apart from the norm. The new boutique hotel is innovative and considers it´s entire structure in the plans for its context and functions in design. The structure of The Richardson Hotel has an unusual sense of formality and grandness while maintaining a conservative feel. Gorgeous views of Perth City, Kings Park, and neighboring areas are available from the 74 guestrooms and suites that are equipped with beautiful decor themselves. Each room embraces contemporary decor filled with rich texture and design, modern lines and plush furniture which blends the colors together nicely.

Wine. Located in The Richardson Hotel is the fancy Wine Annex. Similar to a wine cellar, the annex is located in the back of the the Opus Restaurant where a small room is situated. This area is perfect for a wine tasting or small private event, as the stone walls and wooden shelves set a lovely sense of elegance.

Dining. Not only does Opus Restaurant offer great creations in each of its seasonal menus, but the atmosphere found here is irreplaceable. The restaurant achieves a ¨modern old-fashioned elegance¨ enhanced by the attentive and sophistaced service provided by the staff. Chef Todd Cheavins puts his own personal twist on French cuisine by infusing tastes of Oriental and Australian flavors.