Hunter Valley – tick. Yarra Valley – been there, done that. Naturally, the next Valley on the list is the Barossa Valley. And naturally, the only option for accommodation is country-style luxury.
After treating ourselves to two days of shopping and culture-soaking in Adelaide, Mr LML and I are well and truly ready to put our feet up for some top notch indulgence. Word on the street is that Barossa Pavilions has an amazing spa so my expectations are high. And if it’s good enough for Kate Ritchie, then it must be pretty spesh.
An hour out of Adelaide, Barossa Valley is a stunning combination of vineyards and rolling green hills. The pace of SA folk is a little slower than in Sydney, so we can’t wait to slow it down a little and I must say, I prefer being greeted by the Barossa countryside than Sydney skyscrapers!
| Hot tip: We follow Google Maps but it’s probably easier to navigate using road signs as the Barossa is very clearly mapped out for the many wine-lovers who visit the region. |
Upon reaching Barossa Valley, Mr LML and I decide that we are way too excited to do anything other than check in to our digs. Come on relaxation!
The drive from the front gate to our pavilion is accompanied by a chorus of ‘oooh’s and ‘ahhh’s and suitably so: the pavilions are situated on the hillside with a backdrop of beautiful countryside. An adults-only retreat, the pavilions offer not only a tranquil escape from busy city life, but also make for the perfect romantic getaway. And with 180 degree panoramic views of the Barossa Ranges, the view is preeetty incredible.
The inside of our pavilion is equally amazing. The kitchen table is made up with a red rose, white table cloth and a letter of welcome. And the spa is seriously lush!
A big drawcard (the biggest, in my opinion) of Barossa Pavilions is its seclusion, and that’s really what they try to achieve with the overabundance of breakfast provisions – if you don’t want to leave, you won’t have to. The hamper is filled with fresh farm eggs, fruit, pancake mix, fresh sourdough, two types of muesli…and that’s before I even open the fridge. Mr LML both agree that we could live here permanently.
It doesn’t take long for us to jump in the spa and crack open the bubbly!
I could get used to this…
My top tips for daytime activities:
1. Drink some great wine
Admittedly this is a given for any wine region, but if you like your reds, then the Barossa is the place for you. Be sure to visit:
This vineyard brings together a collection of small wineries that don’t have cellar doors. Combining a beautiful view, with a great selection of wines and a wealth of knowledge, Artisans wins first place in my mind.
• Hentley FarmHentley Farm is located in a beautiful old sandstone property and is surrounded by lush green hills. I had it on recommendation to visit Hentley Farm for dinner but as they only do dinner service on Saturday evenings, I sadly missed out. A reason to return!
• Jacobs CreekOur tour guide advises that many people hold preconceptions of Jacobs Creek as being ‘supermarket wine’ (cue guilt!), and so all who visit are blown away at the incredible property and selection of great wine. I certainly am.
2. Eat some local produce
Wine regions are famous for their paddock-to-plate mentality, which suits me just fine. We eat at 1918 Bistro and Grill in Tanunda, and I highly recommend it. Be sure to order the Baileys & scorched almond icecream ‘sundae’, with white chocolate brownie crumb and caramel fudge sauce.
Beef Braised Beef Cheek pie, celeriac puree, sautéed kale, heirloom carrots, toasted almonds
3. Make good use of the spa
This one speaks for itself! Many hours are spent here.
There’s no doubt about it – Barossa Pavilions tops my hotel list and I would book another trip in a flash.
Who could say no to a sunset like this?
Book your own escape to Barossa Pavilions here.
Shauna and Mr LML stayed as guests of Barossa Pavilions.