Victoria has some of Australia’s most unique wine regions and wine lovers can not only taste the best wine but stay in luxury right among the vines. With winery stays in the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Macedon Ranges, staying overnight surrounded by rolling hills and lush vineyards is a real treat. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a weekend escape, Victoria’s vineyard hotels offer the perfect blend of luxury, fine dining and world class wine. This guide will take you through the best winery stays in the region and the top hotels and experiences in Victoria’s wine country.
Victoria’s Wine Country
Victoria’s wine regions are some of the best in Australia, with the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula famous for pinot noir and chardonnay and other varieties. Each region is different, from coastal views to rolling hills and native gardens. Visitors can relax in modern luxury winery hotels, set in the bush with private balconies overlooking acres of vineyards. With so many different wine regions there’s something for every wine lover, from small boutique hotels to bigger luxury hotels.
Why Stay at a Winery?
Staying at a winery means more than being close to the wine; it’s an experience where you can dine at an onsite restaurant, have a spa bath and take in the beauty of the gardens and vineyards. Imagine waking up to coastal views at Port Phillip Estate or relaxing in a rain shower at Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate. Winery stays are a 5 minute walk to the cellar door or 15 minute drive to nearby towns like Yarra Glen and have world class wine at your doorstep. It’s the perfect combination of relaxation and indulgence making these places perfect for romantic getaways or quiet weekend escapes.
Top Wineries with Accommodation in Victoria
Balgownie Estate, Yarra Valley
Balgownie Estate is one of the most well known winery stays in the Yarra Valley and offers luxury among the vines. Famous for its views and modern luxury, it’s perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape. Each room has air conditioning, private balconies and some have spa baths. The onsite restaurant serves Australian cuisine with their award winning wine. The estate is a 5 minute drive from Yering Station and Yering Meadows Golf Club so you can explore the surrounding Melba Highway attractions.
Jackalope Hotel, Mornington Peninsula
Looking for something different? The Jackalope Hotel in Mornington Peninsula is luxury hotels and art. Located at Willow Creek Vineyard, this boutique hotel is modern architecture meets rustic vineyard. Sip a glass of wine while you shower in your rain shower in your suite. The on site restaurant Doot Doot Doot has a menu matched to the vineyard wines. 15 minutes from Arthurs Seat Road, with coastal views and access to Alowyn Gardens.
Chateau Yering, Yarra Valley
Chateau Yering in the Yarra Valley is an elegant hotel style property that has history and luxury. Rolling hills and acres of vineyards to look out over, antique furnishings and modern amenities like air conditioning and spa treatments. Yering Station is just 10 minutes away so you can easily explore the best of the Yarra Valley wine country in style.
Lancemore Macedon Ranges
In the Macedon Ranges, Lancemore is a peaceful retreat surrounded by green hills of this famous wine region. The property has gardens, an on site restaurant and day spa, so one of the best featured hotels in the area. 15 minutes from Cleveland Winery and the surrounding countryside, where you can have private wine tastings and vineyard walks.
De Bortoli Wines, Yarra Valley
A Yarra Valley institution, De Bortoli Wines offers a comfortable and charming stay at their Cleveland Estate. The winery is famous for its sustainable practices and award winning vineyard experiences and you can stay in a wine themed guesthouse. 5 minutes from Dixons Creek, the estate has gourmet meals at the on site restaurant and private wine pairings.
Cleveland Winery, Macedon Ranges
Cleveland Winery in the Macedon Ranges offers a rustic yet refined experience with private vineyards and native gardens to wander. The luxury apartments have air conditioning and spa baths so you’ll be comfortable. The winery is known for its great hotel service and 15 minutes from nearby attractions.
Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate, Mornington Peninsula
On the Mornington Peninsula, Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate has private terraces overlooking the lake. The fully self contained villas are modern luxury at its best, with rain showers and acres of vineyards to wander. The estate has an intimate wine-tasting experience at the Crittenden Wine Centre, 4 minutes from Hounds Run and Mantons Creek Estate & Lodge.
Activities to Enjoy During Your Winery Stay
Wine Tasting and Tours
No visit to Victoria’s wineries would be complete without wine tasting. Many wineries like Seville Hill Winery and Wild Cattle Creek Estate offer tours where you can learn about the winemaking process while tasting a glass of wine from their award winning vineyards.
Vineyard Walks
Take a gentle walk through the vineyards at Valley Farm Vineyard Cottages or walk the private vineyards at Joey Estate. You’ll get to see the type of wines grown and how the vines grow in different wine regions.
Fine Dining
Many of these winery stays, Balgownie Estate and Cassis Red Hill included, have onsite restaurants that serve Australian cuisine. Paired with their best wine, meals are made from local ingredients and truly regional.
Relaxation and Spa
Several wineries, Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill and Lancemore Mansion Hotel Werribee Park, have spa services for guests who want to chill out. Have a massage or a soak in the bath, all while looking out over the vineyards and native gardens.
Winery Stays for Couples
For couples looking for romance, Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill and Jackalope Hotel have private terraces, spa baths and romantic dining. These boutique hotels are perfect for a weekend getaway, where you can drink wine under the stars in one of Victoria’s most beautiful wine regions.
Best Time to Visit
When to visit Victoria’s wineries depends on your preference. Autumn is the changing of the leaves and harvest season, spring is the native gardens in bloom. Summer is for exploring the green hills and outdoor vineyard activities, winter is for a cozy vineyard hotel stay with a glass of wine by the fire.
Conclusion
From the Yarra Valley to the Mornington Peninsula, staying at a winery in Victoria is a special experience that’s all about luxury, relaxation and Australian wine. With a choice of select accommodation options like Balgownie Estate and Crittenden Estate you can escape to the rolling hills and vineyards. Whether it’s a romantic weekend or a wine tasting adventure, Victoria’s luxury hotels have something for everyone.
FAQ
Which winery to stay at in the Yarra Valley?
Balgownie Estate and Chateau Yering are the top two, with luxury accommodation and access to the best wineries.
Romantic winery stays in Victoria?
Jackalope Hotel and Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate for modern luxury and intimacy.
Can I book tours and activities at these wineries?
Yes, wineries like Willow Creek Vineyard and Cleveland Winery offer wine tasting tours and activities such as vineyard walks and fine dining.
How much does it cost per night?
Prices vary by season and location, from budget to luxury like Jackalope Hotel.
When is the best time to visit wineries in Victoria?
Autumn and spring for the views, summer for the weather and winter for a hideaway.
