When holidaying in Australia, there is so much more to experience than just its big cities and famous tourist attractions. In fact, no trip down under is complete without leaving the busy city behind and heading out into the regions for a gourmet adventure. We’ve handpicked some of the standout gourmet destinations around the country where you can experience the world-class food and wine that Australia is renowned for – all while staying in the lap of luxury.
Lake House – Daylesford, Victoria
With legendary Alla Wolf-Tasker at the helm of Lake House’s award-winning restaurant, this is a holiday experience that is not to be missed. The restaurant makes almost everything onsite, from fluffy homemade bread to exquisite meats. Guests can expect contemporary continental cuisine from locally sourced and hand-picked produce that they can savour in a relaxed atmosphere, indoors or alfresco. Whatever season you choose to visit, Lake House is sure to delight. Enjoy butter poached pheasant with chestnuts and farrow in Autumn, the golden roasted free-range chicken with corn and yabbies in Summer, or in Winter, nealis pears, quinces and yellow crab apples feature in fabulous desserts.
The Louise – Barossa Valley, South Australia
Within the beautiful Barossa Valley you will find The Louise, an exquisite vineyard retreat with only 15 luxurious suites. Boasting magnificent views and a host of exceptional facilities, The Louise is certainly a perfect destination for couples. Set within The Louise is a dining destination that is renowned amongst local foodies – Appellation, an essential stop when in the Barossa Valley. Under the direction of Executive Chef Daniel Murphy, the restaurant only serves fresh produce sourced from its own garden and from local suppliers within the region. Savour mouthwatering cuisine and cocktails that change with the season. Bread is baked onsite and Appellation even carbonates their own rainwater! With an impressive wine selection that includes the quintessential Barossa wines, this is a true foodie heaven.
Spicers Hidden Vale – Greater Brisbane, Queensland
Embark on a culinary adventure that combines fresh country air, luxurious accommodation, fabulous dining, and a range of activities at Spicers Hidden Vale. All Spicers Retreats offer award-winning dining, and Homage Restaurant at Hidden Vale is no exception. Here, you can savour Executive Chef Ash Martin and Head Chef Simon Furley’s ever-changing ‘paddock to plate’ creations as well as a few old favourites too. Try the Homage Tasting menu or select from the a la carte delights that showcase the very best of the region. With an onsite garden, orchard, piglets, smokehouse, and beehives, many of the ingredients used come directly from the property. The stunning Spotted Gum bar and Spicers’ 3,000-bottle wine cellar just add another layer of indulgence to this experience.
Jackalope Hotel – Mornington Peninsula, Victoria
Redefining both luxury accommodation and gourmet dining on the Mornington Peninsula is Jackalope Hotel. This award-winning boutique hotel boasts not one, but two destination restaurants. Doot Doot Doot, the main restaurant, serves a heavenly degustation menu that boasts the country’s finest produce that you can enjoy under the light of Ten Thousand Light Bulbs. Private dining can be arranged, which means having a personal waiter, chef, and sommelier at your service. There’s also Rare Hare, the onsite winery, which provides immersive wine experiences and a casual atmosphere perfect for long lunches. Curated art installations and collaborations immerse you in a holiday adventure that’s both ideal and surreal.
Mount Lofty House – Adelaide Hill, South Australia
An iconic manor set in the picturesque Adelaide Hills Wine Region, Mount Lofty House promises an exceptional luxury escape. Here you can holiday amid tranquil surrounds and pamper yourself with signature spa treatments at The Stables Day Spa. Relish a 3- to 7-course degustation menu inspired by the season and the bounty of the region, prepared by 3 chef hat Jin Choi at Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant. Take in the gorgeous views of Piccadilly Valley as you enjoy a pairing of wine, sake, or a cocktail with your meal. Or, head to the Arthur Waterhouse Lounge to savour the creations of master mixologist Simone Petronici and take pleasure in a more casual dining experience.
Bells at Killcare Boutique Hotel – Central Coast, New South Wales
Find relaxation and indulgence at Bells at Killcare on the Central Coast of New South Wales. This beautiful coastal boutique hotel and spa offers 25 private cottages that are perfect for romantic getaways. But there’s more to enjoy at Bells. Its popular restaurant, The Wild Flower, is reason enough to drive just over an hour from Sydney’s CBD. It offers vibrant hospitality with a strong focus on Mediterranean flavours, simplicity, and sustainability. The dining experience is a celebration of the region, featuring seafood from the local waterways, produce from an onsite garden, and eggs from the free-range hens. Now helmed by Chef Dean Jones, expect more interest and a new era of dining experiences at Bells at Killcare.
Cape Lodge – Margaret River, Western Australia
Experience the renowned wine region of the Margaret River at Cape Lodge, a private country house hotel set within a secluded vineyard. It is here that you’ll find the gustatory delights of the Cape’s in-house restaurant that has long been described as one of Western Australia’s finest gourmet establishments. This superb lakeside restaurant offers French-influenced country fare that showcases the region’s selection of superb produce. Enjoy their mouthwatering Baldivis Rabbit Terrine for your entree, then try the Fish of the Day which changes regularly. Undecided? Try the kitchen’s recommendations under their Trust the Chef menu. Whatever you choose, a meal here is sure to leave a lasting impression.
If you haven’t been to any of these gourmet destinations in Australia, it’s definitely time to plan your trip. Let us know if you have any other recommendations for culinary adventures in regional Australia.
Mat Lewis is Co-Founder & CEO of View Retreats. View Retreats is a boutique travel agency featuring handpicked, luxury accommodation across Australia & New Zealand.If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
Mat Lewis is a co-founder of View Retreats and has been in the travel and hospitality industry for over two decades. He established View Retreats in 2013 in Australia as a specialist platform for luxury hotels, resorts and one-of-a-kind havens of relaxation where unforgettable travel memories are made. The online travel company now features over 5,000 properties in more than 120 countries worldwide. Mat is a self-confessed travel junkie who has lived in Asia, the UK and Europe, and currently resides in the beautiful Barossa Valley wine region in South Australia. He loves fine wines and local culinary creations that tell the story of the land. His epicurean tastes don’t get in the way of enjoying life’s simpler pleasures though, and he enjoys gardening, bush-walking, and exciting street food flavours too!
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17 Comments
Whenever I see pictures or TV programs about travel in Australia and there are people drinking wine, it always looks like one of the most beautiful places to experience such things. Australia has so many wonders. A gourmet meal in a place like that sounds like a dream come true.
We have so many wine regions in Australia (more than 50!!) and they all have stunning views… we love going around the wineries and taste what they have on offer. A lot of these lodges are located near wineries so you can combine wine tasting and extraordinary food. Definitely a highlight of any visit Down Under
Looking ahead, not in a good way, to another week of “Ready, Steady, Cook” and microwaved meals – as we rush in late from long days at work – this is a picture of another world. Always good to have a dream of what life can occasionally be.
Yes, these meals are a bit different than Ready Steady Cook ;) whenever you do plan to make your dream come true, come check out our playground :)
I will retire later this year and as I’ve never been to Australia I’ve been promising myself a treat. My wife has visited Down Under long ago and she is working really hard to persuade me that we should go. A couple of days staying at one or maybe even two of these gourmet destinations will make it a really special trip. With a bit of luck the pension lump sum should help us to do it in style.
You must be so excited you’ll be retiring soon! My advice would be to listen to your wife as I think she’s right, you need a trip Down Under :) And, the Australian dollar is down at the moment so you’ll get more for your buck. Whenever you decide to come, let us know. We’d be happy to help you plan.
Spicers Vale sounds fantastic but how do you choose from a wine cellar with over 3,000 bottles?
If you stay extra long, you can try and taste them all… ;) Or you let the experts match it with your meal. And the food is sensational.
I love the floral interior of the Lake House. The actual hotel is supposed to be really nice, with a fancy spa that has some kind of treetop huts with luxury baths. The Spicers Hidden Vale sounds good too, a more rustic effect with the garden. Being in Australia, I’d want to be outside as much as possible I think, make the most of the gorgeous outdoors and the lovely weather during the warmer months.
I’ve never been but I’ve got relatives over there. They were telling me about somewhere they went recently that’s supposed to be quite highly rated, Vue de Monde? They loved it, though I think they found it a bit pricey. It’s up 50 odd storeys (55 I think, but I wouldn’t swear to it) so if you want city views that sounds like a good one. I’ll send them these recommendations, see if there are a few others they can tick off their list.
Great picks Jen! Lake House is set on Lake Daylesford, just an hour and a half away from Melbourne. It’s just gorgeous and the restaurant has won many many awards. Spicers Hidden Vale is just outside of Brisbane and set in typical Australian scenery – just gorgeous. The food is extraordinary and the Spicers team are wonderful. Definitely a highlight of any trip to Australia. Vue de Monde is on top of the Rialto Tower in Melbourne CBD. A different experience than these country getaways but still one of Australia’s highly acclaimed restaurants.
I was staying in Australia for the past 9 years. I never got an opportunity to explore the place well as I was busy with studies. Now, I regret my decision.
Hi Geoff, thank you. Australia is slowly starting to open up again but it depends on each state or territory what the exact date is. For now, the 1st of June seems to be the main date for most of the states. I hope this helps. If you do have any further questions, let me know.
Dropping into some of these foodie ports of call would definitely lift any travels in Australia. I’ve made a note of them!
Obviously I enjoy the gourmet food when I’m travelling. The thing is that it’s so inspirational too. I know that I’m never going to replicate what’s on offer in these great restaurants but I get ideas that brighten up the daily meals when I get home.
The Louise – Barossa Valley, South Australia
Within the beautiful Barossa Valley you will find The Louise, an exquisite vineyard retreat with only 15 luxurious suites. Boasting magnificent views and a host of exceptional facilities, The Louise is certainly a perfect destination for couples. Set within The Louise is a dining destination that is renowned amongst local foodies – Appellation, an essential stop when in the Barossa Valley. Under the direction of Executive Chef Daniel Murphy, the restaurant only serves fresh produce sourced from its own garden and from local suppliers within the region. Savour mouthwatering cuisine and cocktails that change with the season. Bread is baked onsite and Appellation even carbonates their own rainwater! With an impressive wine selection that includes the quintessential Barossa wines, this is a true foodie heaven.
The Louise – Barossa Valley, South Australia
Within the beautiful Barossa Valley you will find The Louise, an exquisite vineyard retreat with only 15 luxurious suites. Boasting magnificent views and a host of exceptional facilities, The Louise is certainly a perfect destination for couples. Set within The Louise is a dining destination that is renowned amongst local foodies – Appellation, an essential stop when in the Barossa Valley. Under the direction of Executive Chef Daniel Murphy, the restaurant only serves fresh produce sourced from its own garden and from local suppliers within the region. Savour mouthwatering cuisine and cocktails that change with the season. Bread is baked onsite and Appellation even carbonates their own rainwater! With an impressive wine selection that includes the quintessential Barossa wines, this is a true foodie heaven.
Spicers Hidden Vale – Greater Brisbane, Queensland
Embark on a culinary adventure that combines fresh country air, luxurious accommodation, fabulous dining, and a range of activities at Spicers Hidden Vale. All Spicers Retreats offer award-winning dining, and Homage Restaurant at Hidden Vale is no exception. Here, you can savour Executive Chef Ash Martin and Head Chef Simon Furley’s ever-changing ‘paddock to plate’ creations as well as a few old favourites too. Try the Homage Tasting menu or select from the a la carte delights that showcase the very best of the region. With an onsite garden, orchard, piglets, smokehouse, and beehives, many of the ingredients used come directly from the property. The stunning Spotted Gum bar and Spicers’ 3,000-bottle wine cellar just add another layer of indulgence to this experience.
Jackalope Hotel – Mornington Peninsula, Victoria
Redefining both luxury accommodation and gourmet dining on the Mornington Peninsula is Jackalope Hotel. This award-winning boutique hotel boasts not one, but two destination restaurants. Doot Doot Doot, the main restaurant, serves a heavenly degustation menu that boasts the country’s finest produce that you can enjoy under the light of Ten Thousand Light Bulbs. Private dining can be arranged, which means having a personal waiter, chef, and sommelier at your service. There’s also Rare Hare, the onsite winery, which provides immersive wine experiences and a casual atmosphere perfect for long lunches. Curated art installations and collaborations immerse you in a holiday adventure that’s both ideal and surreal.
Mount Lofty House – Adelaide Hill, South Australia
An iconic manor set in the picturesque Adelaide Hills Wine Region, Mount Lofty House promises an exceptional luxury escape. Here you can holiday amid tranquil surrounds and pamper yourself with signature spa treatments at The Stables Day Spa. Relish a 3- to 7-course degustation menu inspired by the season and the bounty of the region, prepared by 3 chef hat Jin Choi at Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant. Take in the gorgeous views of Piccadilly Valley as you enjoy a pairing of wine, sake, or a cocktail with your meal. Or, head to the Arthur Waterhouse Lounge to savour the creations of master mixologist Simone Petronici and take pleasure in a more casual dining experience.
Bells at Killcare Boutique Hotel – Central Coast, New South Wales
Find relaxation and indulgence at Bells at Killcare on the Central Coast of New South Wales. This beautiful coastal boutique hotel and spa offers 25 private cottages that are perfect for romantic getaways. But there’s more to enjoy at Bells. Its popular restaurant, The Wild Flower, is reason enough to drive just over an hour from Sydney’s CBD. It offers vibrant hospitality with a strong focus on Mediterranean flavours, simplicity, and sustainability. The dining experience is a celebration of the region, featuring seafood from the local waterways, produce from an onsite garden, and eggs from the free-range hens. Now helmed by Chef Dean Jones, expect more interest and a new era of dining experiences at Bells at Killcare.
Cape Lodge – Margaret River, Western Australia
Experience the renowned wine region of the Margaret River at Cape Lodge, a private country house hotel set within a secluded vineyard. It is here that you’ll find the gustatory delights of the Cape’s in-house restaurant that has long been described as one of Western Australia’s finest gourmet establishments. This superb lakeside restaurant offers French-influenced country fare that showcases the region’s selection of superb produce. Enjoy their mouthwatering Baldivis Rabbit Terrine for your entree, then try the Fish of the Day which changes regularly. Undecided? Try the kitchen’s recommendations under their Trust the Chef menu. Whatever you choose, a meal here is sure to leave a lasting impression.
If you haven’t been to any of these gourmet destinations in Australia, it’s definitely time to plan your trip. Let us know if you have any other recommendations for culinary adventures in regional Australia.
Mat Lewis is Co-Founder & CEO of View Retreats. View Retreats is a boutique travel agency featuring handpicked, luxury accommodation across Australia & New Zealand.
If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
Whenever I see pictures or TV programs about travel in Australia and there are people drinking wine, it always looks like one of the most beautiful places to experience such things. Australia has so many wonders. A gourmet meal in a place like that sounds like a dream come true.
We have so many wine regions in Australia (more than 50!!) and they all have stunning views… we love going around the wineries and taste what they have on offer. A lot of these lodges are located near wineries so you can combine wine tasting and extraordinary food. Definitely a highlight of any visit Down Under
Looking ahead, not in a good way, to another week of “Ready, Steady, Cook” and microwaved meals – as we rush in late from long days at work – this is a picture of another world. Always good to have a dream of what life can occasionally be.
Yes, these meals are a bit different than Ready Steady Cook ;) whenever you do plan to make your dream come true, come check out our playground :)
I will retire later this year and as I’ve never been to Australia I’ve been promising myself a treat. My wife has visited Down Under long ago and she is working really hard to persuade me that we should go. A couple of days staying at one or maybe even two of these gourmet destinations will make it a really special trip. With a bit of luck the pension lump sum should help us to do it in style.
You must be so excited you’ll be retiring soon! My advice would be to listen to your wife as I think she’s right, you need a trip Down Under :) And, the Australian dollar is down at the moment so you’ll get more for your buck. Whenever you decide to come, let us know. We’d be happy to help you plan.
Spicers Vale sounds fantastic but how do you choose from a wine cellar with over 3,000 bottles?
If you stay extra long, you can try and taste them all… ;) Or you let the experts match it with your meal. And the food is sensational.
I love the floral interior of the Lake House. The actual hotel is supposed to be really nice, with a fancy spa that has some kind of treetop huts with luxury baths. The Spicers Hidden Vale sounds good too, a more rustic effect with the garden. Being in Australia, I’d want to be outside as much as possible I think, make the most of the gorgeous outdoors and the lovely weather during the warmer months.
I’ve never been but I’ve got relatives over there. They were telling me about somewhere they went recently that’s supposed to be quite highly rated, Vue de Monde? They loved it, though I think they found it a bit pricey. It’s up 50 odd storeys (55 I think, but I wouldn’t swear to it) so if you want city views that sounds like a good one. I’ll send them these recommendations, see if there are a few others they can tick off their list.
Great picks Jen! Lake House is set on Lake Daylesford, just an hour and a half away from Melbourne. It’s just gorgeous and the restaurant has won many many awards. Spicers Hidden Vale is just outside of Brisbane and set in typical Australian scenery – just gorgeous. The food is extraordinary and the Spicers team are wonderful. Definitely a highlight of any trip to Australia. Vue de Monde is on top of the Rialto Tower in Melbourne CBD. A different experience than these country getaways but still one of Australia’s highly acclaimed restaurants.
I was staying in Australia for the past 9 years. I never got an opportunity to explore the place well as I was busy with studies. Now, I regret my decision.
Thank you for sharing this awesome article.
There is always a reason to come back and go out and explore the beautiful regions of Australia, Aleena :)
Great article and resource! Is there any news on when these places will be re-opening to visitors?
Hi Geoff, thank you. Australia is slowly starting to open up again but it depends on each state or territory what the exact date is. For now, the 1st of June seems to be the main date for most of the states. I hope this helps. If you do have any further questions, let me know.
Dropping into some of these foodie ports of call would definitely lift any travels in Australia. I’ve made a note of them!
Obviously I enjoy the gourmet food when I’m travelling. The thing is that it’s so inspirational too. I know that I’m never going to replicate what’s on offer in these great restaurants but I get ideas that brighten up the daily meals when I get home.
Hi Judy, it’s very inspirational – I get lots of ideas from dining out too which inspires my cooking at home.