These properties are nestled in some of the most breathtaking Australian wine regions, with thoughtful design details and gourmet experiences that make for luxurious getaways.
Lancemore Milawa, Vic
Australian boutique hotel brand Lancemore has reopened its Milawa property following a significant refurbishment. The concept for the 40-room hotel was overseen by award-winning interior designer Hana Hakim of The Stella Collective, who has integrated the Victorian High Country setting into the design. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide guests with remarkable mountain and vineyard views, while neutral tones and textiles feature prominently throughout. Lush palm trees in ceramic pots and ornate lighting fixtures help to create a contemporary, sophisticated aesthetic. Guests can dine at the onsite restaurant, Merlot, which is headed by executive chef Aaron Jose; and visit nearby producers known for their exceptional gourmet products, including the winery at Brown Brothers and Milawa Cheese Factory.
Room rates from AUD$469 per night.
The Louise, SA
Baillie Lodges has opened the doors to The Louise in the heart of the Barossa Valley following an extensive renovation. South Australia-based architect Max Pritchard worked on the concept for the updated design, which has sweeping curved walls that widen the main lodge space and showcase the surrounding rolling hills dotted with vines. Other design touches include American oak joinery which is a reference to the oak used in wine barrels of the region. Appellation restaurant has larger windows to make the most of the countryside setting, while Contour offers a more relaxed bistro-style dining experience for visitors, with intimate booths, a counter-seat bar, and a long list of wines and local beers. The Henschke Hill of Grace Experience sees guests of The Louise invited to tour the working winery and a private tasting at one of Australia’s most celebrated vineyards.
Room rates from AUD$1,600 per night.
Spicers Tower Lodge, NSW
The iconic Tower Lodge in the Pokolbin region of the Hunter Valley has reopened following a renovation project as the third Spicers Retreat in the area. Established in 1999 by prominent wine industry figure Len Evans AO OBE, the distinctive property was built in a Spanish mission style with earthy tones and textures that blend into the landscape. Original features include handmade terracotta floor tile, high ceilings, and open fireplaces. Ornate 19-century French coach-house doors welcome guests to the retreat’s central hub, an enclosed courtyard paved with limestone and featuring a centrepiece fountain pond. Fourteen guest accommodations are generously proportioned with a lounge, bedroom, and dressing room—some also have private courtyards and outdoor hot tubs. Sebastian Restaurant is the Basque-inspired dining destination serving a daily, changing five-course set menu, with dishes incorporating ingredients sourced locally. Nearby cellar doors include Brokenwood and Tyrrell’s Wines, with other nearby foodie attractions including the Hunter Wine Country Markets.
Room rates from AUD$1,359 per night.
Barrel View Luxury Cabins, Qld
Opening this month, Barrel View Luxury Cabins will provide a secluded stay at Ballandean in Queensland’s Granite Belt wine country, about three hours southwest of Brisbane. Set on 40 acres of natural bushland overlooking Girraween and Sundown National Parks, the three cabins are designed as large wine barrels, each with en suite bathrooms and kitchenettes. The Granite Belt is an emerging Australian wine region home to more than 40 cellar doors, producing a range of interesting wine varieties such as barbera, tempranillo, and saparavi.
Room rates from AUD$450 per night.