Imagine rolling over in bed on a gorgeous morning in Yarra Glen and gazing out the window at endless rows of green vineyards. This is what waking up at Balgownie Estate in the Yarra Valley is like.
The picturesque estate, situated a stone’s throw from Healesville, recently had a swanky facelift with a comprehensive $7 million refurbishment. The makeover came after the restaurant and cellar door were engulfed in a devastating fire in 2020, with the estate using the opportunity to refresh the on-site accommodation, too. The result is a stunning transformation, with 32 new suites and a brand new restaurant, all designed by renowned Melbourne architect firm Bayley Ward.
Stepping inside the reception, guests are greeted by a sleek interior and welcoming atmosphere. From there, you can enjoy a tasting of the estate’s finest wines, including those also made at their Bendigo location. Bendigo is warmer than the Yarra Valley, so as well as cool-climate favourites like chardonnay and pinot noir, Balgownie also offers full-bodied varietals like shiraz and cabernet sauvignon.
The new restaurant, 1309, offers contemporary dining that showcases seasonal local produce. It's accompanied by beautiful countryside views and, of course, award-winning wines. Choose from a two- or three-course set menu for lunch and dinner, or dine from the grazing menu for lighter bites.
On the summer menu, curated by esteemed executive chef Aidan Gallagher, you'll find dishes like cashew herb-filled zucchini flowers; cured ginger and lemongrass ocean trout; Gippsland pork fillet; and Southern Ranges porterhouse. Not to mention the mouth-watering desserts, including a Cuvee dark chocolate cremeux with CherryHill Orchard cherries. If you stay the night, the next morning you’ll wake to a bountiful breakfast buffet. The restaurant overlooks the vines and rolling hills, with a spacious outdoor deck that is perfect for enjoying golden hour.
To balance out the indulgence, you can ensure your health is looked after at the on-site Endota Spa. You don't have to stay at the winery to make a booking, but it certainly makes for an even more relaxing stay for guests. Treatments available include soothing facials, massages, manicures, warm stone treatments and much more.
Inside the newly refurbished accommodation, you’ll find eucalyptus and terracotta-toned interiors, king-size beds and balconies with sweeping views. There are suite options for all budgets, with 70 rooms in total that cater to differing needs, including wheelchair accessibility. The estate is available to book for conferences, events, wellness retreats and weddings.
While staying at Balgownie Estate, it would be remiss to not explore the rest of what the Yarra Valley region has to offer. Visit some of the other wineries, stop by the cute country town of Healesville and if you tire of wine tastings, check out the award-winning Four Pillars Distillery. With so much to see situated in these peaceful surroundings, it’s the perfect locale for a truly idyllic getaway.
Time Out Melbourne was invited as a guest of Balgownie Estate.
