East Gippsland is, objectively, one of the most loveable locations in Victoria. However, towns across the region were hit hard in the ongoing summer bushfires. Places not directly affected by fire are also suffering due to loss of tourism in their peak season.
One way you can help the region recover is by showing your love and spending with local businesses. So in the spirit of love, East Gippsland is inviting Victorians to visit this Valentine’s Day, with a stack of local businesses offering specials to entice you east.
Plus with Valentine’s Day falling on a Friday this year, it’s a good excuse as any to make a weekend of it. Below is a list of East Gippsland businesses offering Valentine's specials.
Lakes Entrance Helicopters
Take your Valentine to new heights – Lakes Entrance Helicopters will take you on a chopper tour of the area’s titular lake system before landing in a surprise location for a picnic provided by Albert and Co. It's $375 for a 1.45 hour flight.
Nicholson River Winery
This local winery is offering two glasses of nine-year-old sparkling wine with a cheese or antipasto platter for $45.
Bellevue on the Lakes
Bellevue is teaming up with popular Lakes Entrance café Albert and Co to offer a special Valentine’s Day package. Included is one night in the boathouse suite; Champagne on arrival; dinner for two at Albert and Co featuring a menu inspired by local produce; and breakfast in the morning for $425.
Iluka Day Spa
Treat your lover (or yourself) to a spa voucher at Iluka Day Spa and you’ll get 50 per cent added value. So if you buy a $100 voucher it can be used for treatments up to $150.
Sardine
This Paynesville eatery and bar is serving a special Valentine’s Day dinner featuring eight to nine shared dishes for $85 per person. (That's much cheaper then what you’ll find in Melbourne!)
Northern Ground
Take supper at Bairnsdale restaurant Northern Ground on Valentine’s Day and you’ll get a free glass of sparking wine or sparkling shiraz.
Captains Cove
Waterfront resort Captains Cover will give you a $50 voucher to dine at Sardine or Pier 70 if you book three or more nights accommodation.
Contact the individual businesses for the full Ts and Cs.
Before you head off for a Victorian adventure, always check the air quality rating, check for closures on the Parks Victoria website, and check fire danger ratings and fire bans for all regions you are travelling to and through. Extreme weather conditions and catastrophic bushfires have led to the closures of many national parks in recent months.