Looking for a regional getaway alternative to the Mornington Peninsula or Yarra Valley? Let us introduce the township of Milawa, an almost three-hour drive up the Hume Highway from Melbourne. Set among the mountains, valleys and rivers of the High Country, it’s home to a delicious smorgasbord of local businesses, including cellar doors, cafés, a top-notch bakery, a specialist mustard store and even a cheese factory.
And the jewel in its crown? Lancemore Milawa – a two-storey, 40-room boutique accommodation that recently underwent a multi-million dollar transformation. Access is via a quiet country road flanked by rows of vines (that belong to none other than the famed Brown Brothers winery, which is just a short walk from the hotel), and upon entering the property you’ll discover a bright and sophisticated space with an abundance of natural light thanks to the many floor-to-ceiling windows.
The Stellar Collective is the stylish mastermind behind the interior details, and the award-winning design studio has created a Mediterranean-inspired oasis complete with neutral tones, bespoke timber joinery, polished concrete flooring and custom artwork. There are also multiple common areas to discover, all of which feature cosy couches, fireplaces and an impressive selection of coffee table books.
Venture through to the outdoor back plaza which overlooks even more vines, and you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve somehow been transported to a Tuscan villa. There’s a pond, a fountain, hammocks, white umbrellas, outdoor furniture, and festoon lights hanging over the patio. Oh, and a pool with sun lounges – insert Aperol Spritz here, thanks.
The rooms themselves are modern, spacious and elegantly furnished – there’s a gorgeous bouclé daybed in each that is not only deserving of a standalone post on the ‘gram but also provides the perfect spot for a cheeky arvo nap. While all are equipped with a balcony or terrace, our pick of the bunch is the Superior Balcony Sunrise room, which offers stunning views across the back vineyard and out towards Mount Buffalo. And be sure to suss out the mini bar, as it’s chock-full of local wines, beers and snacks.
Speaking of food, the on-site Restaurant Merlot is a must-visit. Named in honour of the grapes planted on the property, it’s headed up by executive chef Aaron Jose, who has more than 20 years of culinary experience and hails from the local area. The ethos here is a simple yet tasty one: showcasing the very best of seasonal produce, via a paddock-to-plate dining approach. The menu is ever-changing, but if the Milawa honey-glazed duck breast with ratatouille, baba ghanoush and rice crisps happens to be available, do yourself a favour and order it. We promise you won’t be disappointed.
Sommelier Jacquie Lewis is also on hand to walk you through the surprisingly expansive wine list, which champions mostly local drops. Restaurant Merlot is open seven days a week, for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Hot tip: if you can spare the sleep in, the brekkie burger is well worth getting up early for.
Sold on the idea of a weekend away at this heavenly retreat among the vines? We thought so. To make a booking at Lancemore Milawa, head to the website.
Leah Glynn stayed as a guest of Lancemore Milawa in 2022.