1. Cabins in front of vines at Marnong Estate.
    Photograph: Mauro Risch
  2. The lounge area of a cabin at Marnong Estate.
    Photograph: Mauro Risch
  3. The bedroom at a cabin in Marnong Estate.
    Photograph: Mauro Risch
  4. An aerial view of Marnong Estate in Mickleham.
    Photograph: Supplied/Marnong Estate

Review

Marnong Estate

5 out of 5 stars
Top-notch wine, breathtaking views and camels – yes, really – Marnong Estate really does have it all
  • Hotels | Boutique hotels
  • Melbourne
  • Recommended
Lauren Dinse
Advertising

Time Out says

Long overshadowed by Victoria’s hallowed grape territories of the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Heathcote, Sunbury may not be the first winemaking region you consider for a wine adventure – despite being one of the state’s oldest, dating back to the 1860s. But that’s only one reason why Marnong Estate, a winery out in nearby Mickleham, ignited my curiosity.

I’d also been gleefully told tales of camels, goats and alpacas swanning around the perimeter, of breathtaking panoramic views at sunset and romantic hilltop picnics, and a patch of smartly appointed luxury cabins well worth a stay. Add in the news that culinary talent Greg Feck had joined the winery’s Italian fine diner La Vètta as executive chef, and I was sold.  

It takes just under an hour for my partner and I to drive from our home in Melbourne’s inner north to Marnong Estate, and we’re astonished to see the car park completely full when we arrive. Even in the crisp cold of a Melbourne winter, the estate is swimming with families and locals enjoying a day out – and it’s clear they’re having a grand old time. And as it turns out, so do we!

Love for this winery is perennial, such is its Jack-of-all-trade destination appeal. Aside from La Vètta, there’s a cellar door and wine tasting room, accommodation, the vineyard itself, expansive event spaces, two Italian-inspired eateries and a boutique brimming with all kinds of gourmet goodies. There’s even a market held each Sunday on the grounds where you can buy a bite to eat and take something precious and handmade home with you.

Why stay at Marnong Estate?

For wine lovers, waking up to sweeping vineyard views and a tasting sesh has all the hallmarks of a dream weekend away. What we’re unprepared for, however, is the sophistication of the accommodation itself. Perched against the picturesque backdrop of the Macedon Ranges, the architecturally designed lodgings are cosy, well-equipped and decidedly modern. If these were on sale as bougie portable tiny homes, I’d certainly be tempted to drive away with one.

Another major drawcard is, of course, its wine collection. Though its vines were only planted in 2016, the award-winning director of wine Alex Beckett is fast making his mark and producing exceptional cool climate styles.

On the Sunday morning tasting, we’re so enamoured with several drops that we need no encouragement from our hostess to buy and take home several bottles (I’d check my cabinet to see what they were but we’ve emptied them already!). 

The entire estate is perfectly suitable for a quiet lovers’ getaway, and since it’s also family friendly, you could even bring along the little ones and not feel out of place. Plus, you’ve got a hatted restaurant, plenty of cute animals, fresh air and a cellar door at your doorstep. What’s not to love? 

What are the rooms like at Marnong Estate?

When you hear ‘cabin’, you might think ‘rustic’ in the style of a cottage or camping ground lodge. But Marnong Estate’s rooms are nothing of the sort. 

Take the stylish Lilly Pilly suite, for example, which playfully borrows its design cues from the estate’s heritage. A characterful chandelier and the ensuite’s free-standing double basin bathtub with its own bath caddy are charming touches, while the spacious lounge with its own TV (Netflix included), dining table and self-contained kitchenette provide the perfect ingredients for a relaxing movie night in. 

We stay in the one-bedroom apartment, which feels so much larger and luxurious than we’d expected. Ultra-plush king-sized bed? Check. A spacious balcony to indulge in a tipple and take in those stunning mountain vistas? Check. And a mini bar that hits the mark? A better way to describe it would be hitting it out of the park. 

This is probably one of the best (and most affordable) mini bar selections I’ve encountered. Most of the snacks hover between the $5 to $10 mark, and I’m spoilt for choice with wine, Mount Zero olives, nuts, crackers, artisan-made popcorn, cookies and an exceptionally good Westminster cheddar cheese which I, of course, promptly demolish.

We crack open a bottle and watch Twilight at my request (sorry, fiancé), then head out on the balcony to gaze at the moon. How’s the serenity?

What are the best places to eat/drink nearby?

Lovers of Italian food needn’t travel too far, since Marnong Estate runs a tantalising trio on-site: La Vetta, Cucina 3064 and Caffè Vista. Though it is the most exxy out of the three, we highly rate La Vètta – a relaxed fine diner that overlooks the gorgeous expanse of green surrounding Marnong Estate. 

Here, we enjoyed the tastiest, most flavour-packed mushroom risotto we’d ever tasted (and I’ve tried a lot of risotto!) as part of a decadent long Italian lunch paired with the estate’s wine. 

Cucina 3064 is a cosier dining experience for pizza and pastas, while Caffè Vista crafts fresh Italian street food perfect for taking away and enjoying as a picnic on the hillside.

After a bit more spice? Sanjha Chula, a popular food truck, is an unexpected gem in nearby Kalkallo for authentic Punjabi eats. Be sure to end on a sweet note with some jalebi!

What is the service like at Marnong Estate?

Easy, breezy and non-invasive; we felt cared for, yet free to roam and be as independent as we pleased. While the handy telecom system in the room allowed for a super easy check-out (we simply had to leave our room pass on the table and head to the car), we began our stay face-to-face with the friendly staff in the small foyer.

For such a large operation, it’d be forgivable if wires were crossed between restaurant, winery and accommodation staff, but this wasn’t the case. From our check-in and restaurant booking to our wine tasting the following morning, everything flowed as smoothly as a silky pinot noir – no questions asked! 

What are the facilities like at Marnong Estate?

Adaptable to the nature of your stay, whatever that might look like.

On a family trip? The surrounding vineyards, farmland and local attractions offer plenty of scope for an idyllic nature experience.

While the luxury apartments are so utterly welcoming – complete with amenities like air conditioning, heating, flat-screen TVs, coffee and tea makers – that you might be tempted to stay inside, we recommend going for a roam. There’s a bar perfect for happy hour oysters and cocktails, retail and dining options, and even a fitness centre if you don’t want to miss your workout.

Those on business can make use of the numerous meeting rooms, conference facilities and a banquet area for corporate events. And if you’re planning a wedding, a christening, a birthday or any other sort of special occasion, the estate has you covered with several event spaces. Check out the Woolshed for rustic vibes and vaulted ceilings, the Green Grove if you’re after vineyard views or the Clarke Room if you’re planning an elegant dinner.

Free parking, WiFi and daily housekeeping are also available.

What to do in Mickleham

Hello, you’re at a winery! Aside from our obvious advice, which is to taste Marnong Estate’s full range, you’ve got a delightful cellar door and boutique for a bit of retail therapy. After a long lunch at one of the estate’s diners, we recommend chilling out on the hilltop to enjoy the lively atmosphere and watch the animals.

If you’re eager to get out and about (perhaps on the second day), you’re only a 20-minute drive from Sunbury, a town brimming with historical sites, natural attractions and wineries. Perhaps you’d like to explore Rupertswood Mansion, a beautiful historic estate, or book a fun wildlife day out at the Dingo Discovery Sanctuary.

There’s also the spectacular 18-hole golf course Growling Frog and the award-winning tourist attraction Living Legends. Set in picturesque parklands with more than 1,000 kangaroos, this homestead is where you can meet and mingle with retired champion racehorses, go bike riding or have a picnic in the wonderfully preserved parklands. 

If you feel like a leisurely drive (and a little more vino), Mt Monument Winery is only about a half-hour’s drive away. Once the private retreat of architect Nonda Katsalidis (MONA, Eureka Tower), this spot boasts one of Victoria’s most incredible modern sculpture parks. Prepare yourself for an unexpected haven where art, fine food and wine converge to delight and surprise, all set against the backdrop of Hanging Rock.

***

If you’ve done the Yarra Valley and are looking for a winery experience a little closer to home, Marnong Estate is an idyllic playground for staycation seekers, wine enthusiasts and families alike. Me? I’m keen to head back for a pizza and pinot in the sun.

The key details

Address: 2335 Mickleham Road, Mickleham, 3064

Price per night: The Studio is available from $329 per night

Closest transport link: If you’re coming from interstate, Melbourne Airport is about a 20-minute drive from Marnong Estate (note that public transport is quite limited in this region so your best bet is to take a taxi, Uber or drive your own vehicle). There’s also an option to take a bespoke charter helicopter flight from Melbourne – go here for more info.

Book now: click here

Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Details

Address
2335 Mickleham Rd
Mickleham
Melbourne
3064
Advertising
You may also like
You may also like