Try staying a night at one of Victoria’s more unusual accommodation
LOOKING for something different on your next holiday or weekend away? Spice up your getaway by staying at one of these unusual Victorian establishments.
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BIT bored of the standard hotel room? You can spice up a holiday or weekend away with a night or two in some of Victoria’s most unusual accommodation.
Mira Mira B & B
Bloomfield Rd, Crossover (west Gippsland)
Three self-contained fantasy retreats scattered through 22 acres of bushland give guests at Mira Mira B & B the chance to live in art.
There’s The Cave, which channels the underground warmth of mother Earth, the Japanese Zen Retreat set on a tranquil pond, or the enchanted and bright Tanglewood with its treetop balcony. Each retreat captures the light, views and beauty of the natural environment it is set in.
Kryal Castle
121 Forbes Rd, Leigh Creek.
If a day of medieval life isn’t enough, spend the night at one of the medieval-themed Castle Suites at Kryal Castle. Sleep like a king or queen in one of the 17 beautifully appointed suites and you’ll have the castle almost to yourself after the crowds leave and the front drawbridge is locked.
An added bonus is the magnificent views from the castle, perched on the side of Mt Warrenheip just outside Ballarat, overlooking Ballarat and the surrounding area.
Cape Otway Light Station
Via Great Ocean Rd, Cape Otway
Australia’s most important lighthouse boasts awesome views and amazing history — and the historic head lightkeeper’s house is a wonderful and isolated place to relax.
With a stunning location on the edge of mainland Australia the house has views of the Cape Otway Lighthouse and Southern Ocean.
A stay in the Head Lightkeeper’s House also gives an insight in to the domestic life of the station’s first lightkeepers.
Once the gates close to the public the grounds and views are yours to enjoy on your own.
Art Series Hotels
South Yarra, Prahran, Parkville, Bendigo
Art lovers, and those who enjoy a slightly different hotel experience, will find comfort at the Art Series Hotels which take their design inspiration from famous Australian artists.
The Cullen, Olsen, and Blackman, clustered around St Kilda Rd, South Yarra, Prahran, The Larwill studio in Parkville and The Schaller studio in Bendigo have original artworks and prints on the walls and halls.
They also offer an arty experience with dedicated art channels, art libraries, art tours and art utensils supplied.
Pole House
60 Banool Rd, Fairhaven
The Pole House is one of the most photographed sites on the Great Ocean Rd.
Looming 40m above the GOR at Fairhaven you’re suspended over a spectacular beach, surrounded by nature and the sound of the crashing waves.
A glass walkway links the Pole House to land and the plush luxury interior complements the stunning views beyond the floor to ceiling windows.
St Jeromes — The Hotel
Level 3, 271 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne
Usually camping is done in the bush or by the sea but now you can camp with the city skyline outside your tent with a stay at St Jeromes — The Hotel.
St Jeromes is a series of luxury tents pitched on the rooftop of Melbourne Central. There’s no dodgy air mattress to disrupt your sleep — the tents feature pillow top beds, air conditioning, complimentary stocked eskies with local craft beer and water, and even a tablet so you can watch movies.
Werribee Zoo Slumber Safari
K Rd, Werribee
Wake to the sounds of roaring lions and watch the animals on the African savanna awaken on a Slumber Safari at Werribee Zoo.
Sleep the night in one of eight tented lodges with all the creature comforts after an evening of close-up animal encounters, sunset drinks and dips, a sumptuous dinner and night time activities including a night walk, toasting marshmallows around the campfire, and a delicious supper.
You could be forgiven for thinking you’re in Africa on safari, not 30 minutes from Melbourne.