As Western Australia's oldest wine-making region, the Swan Valley is rich with enough wine and food experiences to make any gourmand never want to leave - and why should you have to?
The Swan Valley makes for a great escape from the city; just a 30 minute drive from Perth and you’ll find yourself surrounded by unspoilt bushland and the undulating hills of the valley, which turn vibrantly green in the winter months, reminiscent of the English countryside. Home to over 40 wineries, plus a host of local breweries and artisanal producers, you can create your very own Escape to the Country by whisking yourself away to the Swan Valley for a weekend.
If you want to add a touch of indulgence to your getaway, look no further than The Vines Resort, the Swan Valley's only true resort-style accommodation and one of the most luxurious options in the region. With a laid-back country club vibe and expansive grounds that encompass a 36-hole championship golf course, state-of-the-art mini golf course and an on-site vineyard, it’s the ultimate base for a stay in the region.
The resort offers just over 100 rooms and all have their own balcony or open courtyard overlooking the rolling golf course, vineyard and gardens, or out toward the Darling Ranges. Evenings are best spent on the balcony with a glass of local Swan Valley wine in hand (Upper Reach, Faber Vineyard and Ugly Duckling are just a handful of wineries that are within short driving distance) as you take in the peaceful surroundings of the valley.
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Although you will be well-positioned to enjoy the region's many dining establishments, such as The Mallard Duck and Rustique, The Vines boasts its very own award-winning restaurant, Muscat's, which offers an a la carte menu on Friday and Saturday evenings and lunch on Sundays. With seasonal specialties including venison, locally caught scampi and poached rabbit, you can warm up with a hearty feast before heading to Muscat's lounge bar for a cheeky night cap.
Perfect for a couples getaway, The Vines have put together a little winter getaway package that'll make you forget all about your Euro-vacation plans. Enjoy an overnight stay in one of their luxurious Resort King rooms and enjoy a full breakfast buffet the next morning at Muscat's Restaurant. You will also have full access to the state-of-the-art mini golf course and all of the resort's facilities including the tennis courts, squash court and gym. Avid golfers can enjoy a round of golf on the championship golf course, so you can practice your swing before cuddling up in front of the TV to enjoy complimentary movies on demand.
Although it may not be the time of year to take a dip in their outdoor pool, they do have a heated outdoor spa that you can get nice and steamy in.
And, if you were in need of any further relaxation, you can pop into the resort’s award-winning Keishi Spa. Their de-stress body ritual is recommended for couples and begins with an intensive salt and coffee body rub. You'll wash away your stresses under their dual Vichy Shower before enjoying a full body massage, delivered using the finest aromatherapy products by experienced masseuses. Once you are well and truly in zen mode, you'll be treated to a glass of sparkling and an antipasto platter on the spa terrace. That doesn't sound too bad, does it?
Booking in for their winter getaway package will cost you $249 per night from Sundays through Thursday, and $279 Friday and Saturday nights. You can check for availability and book your escape here.
Discover all the top wineries, craft breweries, eateries, tours and attractions nearby here.
Explore more accommodation in the Swan Valley