Living a large distance from family, I very rarely get the opportunity to travel with my husband and without my son. On the occaisions which we find ourselves child-free we like to enjoy a bit of a splurge and that is exactly what the Mercure Balgownie Estate in the Yarra Valley offers.

Situated in the heart of the Yarra Valley, we found ourselves overwhelemed by the activites on offer but to be honest, horse riding and swimming in the pool were way too active for my liking. I was there to relax in the day spa, read my book on the terrace and indulge in the tastings available on site from the cellar door.

Strangely enough, although this was supposed to be time away as a couple, my husband seemed more interested in checking out the nearby golf course. Hailing from Scotland, the home of golf, he reliably informed me that Yering Meadows was worthwhile playing a round on.

While we had both enjoyed our individual leisure pursuits, we did enjoy a delicious meal together in Rae’s Restaurant. The local produce used to prepare our meal were fresh and suptuious and would be worth the drive in itself.

As you would expect, a stay at the Balgownie Estate doesn’t come cheap, with one night in a standard queen room starting at $359. However, this is the rack rate and there is always a deal to be had, Currently, you can stay Sunday to Thursday in a one bedrrom suite, including breakfast and a spa voucher for $299 per night.

So go on, treat yourself.
http://www.balgownieestate.com.au/Accommodation/Accommodation-Yarra-Valley.html