Boutique Victoria

Scratch beneath the surface and seek out unique architecture and independent cafés with a walk along the leafy lanes of Melbourne, a friendly, cosmopolitan city. Much-loved Melbourne has something for everyone, with a mish-mash of chic shopping plazas, stylish streetscapes, beautiful beaches and glittering skyscrapers coming together to create a colourful and vibrant city filled with gastronomic delights. Be sure to take the tram down to the funky suburb of St Kilda and the 100-year-old retro funfair at Luna Park.

Relax and refresh in your boutique spa hotel, a tranquil lakeside retreat located among the farms and cellar doors of Daylesford, well-known for its natural mineral springs, and surrounding lakes and waterfalls. The town’s numerous charms include farmers’ markets and its well-kept Victorian and Edwardian thoroughfares. Your intimate lakeside hotel has a sophisticated design and a personal touch – the perfect place to relax for a couple of days and soothe yourself in the state-of-the-art spa.

Take to the skies above the verdant Yarra Valley in a hot-air balloon and see the endless rows of vines spread out before you, a truly breathtaking experience. Upon touching down, tuck in to a delicious Champagne breakfast, served at a top-class winery – make sure to stay a while and sample some of the celebrated local wines. Stay at the sumptuously elegant homestead Chateau Yering, filled with period fittings and surrounded by historic gardens.

Laze on the golden beaches of the Mornington Peninsula, a relaxed and sunny spot. Gaze across the pristine seascapes of Mornington Peninsula National Park, admire the impressive topiary at the Enchanted Adventure Garden, and get lost in the perplexing hedge maze at Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens. Perhaps even try your hand at surfing and the various water sports on offer. You’ll be staying at the peaceful Lindenderry Estate Winery where you can dine in style on local produce in the fabulous restaurant, which has, unsurprisingly, an excellent wine list to boot.

Head down to the rugged shores of Phillip Island, where you’ll stay in a charming cottage garden guesthouse. Of course the main attraction comes at sunset with the delightful daily waddle of the little penguins, making their way back up to their nests after a hard day’s fishing. But there’s much more to this nature-friendly island, which is also home to a seal colony at the aptly named Seal Rocks, plus a variety of coastal birds. While you’re here, swing by the informative Koala Conservation Centre and the rocky outcrops of the Nobbies, two huge stacks of rock.