WHERE TO stay IN THE hunter VALLEY – ALDORA COTTAGE, POKOLBIN

Not far from the broad feet of the broken Back Mountains and even closer to some of the region’s best wineries, Aldora Cottage in Pokolbin is the ideal romantic hideaway for a hunter Valley escape.

Let’s get straight to the point. Aldora Cottage is horribly overlooked. Stared at by everybody. The Sun, the Moon, a few billion stars, the looming crags of the mountains – not to mention several mobs of kangaroos – there’s hardly any privacy here.

But when these rowdy neighbours aren’t craning their necks and twitching their curtains, the beautiful peace of this acreage (30 acres to be exact) is sublime.

Check out our quick video walkthrough here:

The cottage itself has been developed to be completely off the grid; the property’s solar farm supplies the power and Aldora has its own water supply.

This place is entirely self-sufficient.

But don’t worry, Aldora is hardly a survivalist’s shack or prepper’s bunker. Every luxury is afforded to you here, from the cosy couch and gas-fed fireplace to a replete kitchen, an huge bed and a deep-fill bathtub.

Outside on the veranda, the plumbed-in barbecue is all yours to use while your nosy neighbours and their joeys chew on the turf and twitch their noses.

More about Aldora Cottage

From the protected gate (you get SMSed a essential code at check-in time) the curving lanes through the home lead you up to high ground where Aldora Cottage awaits. The front door – also essential coded – opens onto the cosy living-dining.

To the best is the kitchen, fitted with a Nespresso device and other mod cons.

But your eye is caught by the long fireplace below the big TV on the wall, and the squashy sofa coaxes you to get comfy.

Round the corner, the bedroom houses a wonderfully comfortable kingsize bed. The side tables both have smart lamps – wireless charging points for your phones. A smart touch.

The bathroom, which is the full width of the house, has a very enticing bathtub, rainfall shower and underfloor heating.

French doors take you out the back to the veranda, where you can set up for a barbie with outdoor seating for four.

There’s also a little laundry if you need to do an emergency wash.

Our only criticism if you can call it that – much more of an observation – is that because this home is on its own water tanks, the pump can be a little noisy, especially if you flush to toilet or use taps in the middle of the night.

What about the rest of Jindalee Estate?

Aldora Cottage isn’t the only place you can stay on this property. Jindalee Estate is also home to a similar cottage tucked away in the trees – Yarrimbah Cottage. There’s also a bigger building – Jindalee house – that accommodates up to eight people.

The potential to expand your romantic retreat to a bigger gathering of up to 12 people all of a sudden becomes very tempting – whether it’s a multi-generational family get-together or you and your mates away for some fun in the Hunter.

Just remember, it won’t be just you and your nearest when you’re here. Those ‘roos just love to get involved!

We stayed at Aldora Cottage as media guests.

How to enjoy a low-cost night Out in London’s West end

one of the most exciting and popular things to do on a check out to England’s capital city is to go and watch a West end show. The glitz and the glamour of this famous area, where many of the world’s best productions are staged, means that a night out at the theatre can work out to be extremely costly.

London is a notoriously pricey destination and is consistently named as one of the most expensive cities in the world. but that doesn’t meant that there aren’t bargains to be had, you just need to know where to look for them.

If like many people you want to make a night of it, the price of the tickets, getting to and from the venue, a meal out and a couple of drinks will soon add up. So here are some tips on how to enjoy a night out at the theatre without breaking the bank!

How to get low-cost West end Theatre Tickets

For the top seats to see a hit show in the West end the price can easily reach well into the hundreds. but if you don’t have a spare couple of hundred pounds to drop on one ticket, we’ve got a few tips that will definitely score you a bargain.

Book online With a Reputable, Authorized Seller

There are a lot of scams around ticketing for the West End, so make sure you use a respectable online seller to purchase your tickets through. check out From the box Office who are a star authorized retailer meaning they only sell official tickets which come with a number of guarantees. They also have amazing discounts of up to 70% on all of the best shows, without any of the hidden costs you’ll find with some ticket retailers.

Go for low-cost Seats

Balcony seats tend to cheapest, but it depends which theatre the production is in. By not going for the expensive seats in the stalls you’ll right away save a large amount. On the “Find Tickets” section of the From the box office website they have a handy feature where you can select exactly what seat you want to sit in on an interactive map of the theatre. This also means that if there are any visibility issues like railings or pillars obstructing your view then you know before buying.

Day of show Tickets

Some theatres offer cut price tickets if you buy them on the day of the performance, but there are a couple of things to be aware of if you plan to do this. Not all theatres do this for every show, so call the venue prior to heading down there to avoid disappointment. You have to get there early to start lining up, usually around 10:00am or before depending on the show’s popularity. The tickets are usually for very good seats, but it’s not guaranteed that you’ll get them so make sure you have back up plan for your evening’s entertainment.

Consider Weekday Tickets

If you are flexible over when you go to see the show, then weekdays are ordinarily a fair amount cheaper than a primetime Saturday night slot, with the difference typically being 50% or more. Matinees or afternoon performances are cheaper still, so think about catching the early viewing if you can.

How to eat cheaply in the West End

Restaurants in the West end of London aren’t known for being all that budget-friendly. However, if you pair dining out with seeing a show, you can find some terrific discounts.

Pre Theatre Deals

many of the restaurants in Theatreland thrive off the dozens of venues that surround them, and because of this, they offer terrific deals on set menus. You can usually get a two or three course set meal from as low-cost as 10 to 15 pounds ($13 – $19.50), which in central London is otherwise unheard of. Some even include a glass of wine making it an even bigger bargain. These are available between set times, usually around 4.30 – 6.30pm, and a quick search online will provide you with lots of terrific options.

Post Theatre Deals

These are the same as pre theatre deals but for people that like to eat later rather than earlier, so usually start at around 9.30 when the curtains have gone down. The post theatre crowd is a bit more lively, and some bars have caught on to this and begun to offer happy hours to coincide.

Getting Around

If you don’t know London very well it can be tempting to just jump in a black cab to take you to your destination, but this is by far the most expensive way to get around.

The West end is served by a number of underground stations that are each only a few minutes walk apart. These include Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square, Covent Garden, Tottenham Court road and Charing cross which are all easily reachable on various lines. All theatres havedirections on their websites from the nearest tube stop, just head to the TFL journey Planner to figure out the most convenient way to get there.

Seeing a West end performance while you’re in London is a terrific cultural experience, and now you know how to do it without spending loads of money. enjoy the show!

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WHAT TO finish with 24 hours IN BRUSSELS

Our crash course in what to finish with 24 hours in Brussels will make sure you get the most out of your limited time in Belgium’s capital.

With so numerous amazing destinations to visit in Europe, in some cases your time in a place is limited to just a day. but in some cases a day is just enough to see the best parts of a capital city.

A pleased semi-accident brought us to Brussels on our way south from Sweden. We were planning on going to Belgium while we were staying with friends in Rotterdam.

Plans rapidly changed though when we discovered a unusual loophole in travel costs from getting from Stockholm to the Netherlands:

It was less expensive to fly from Sweden all the way to Brussels, stay the night and get the train back north to Rotterdam in the morning!

Bizarre as it sounds that’s what happened. and instead of catching that (very) early train the next day, Mrs romance and I chose to stay another night and delight in the heartland of Belgium.

Brussels – a hidden gem

For a capital city, Brussels is a bit of a western European anomaly.

In spite of its history, culture, architectural charm and national status, Brussels is often overlooked by visitors to the Continent.

Check out these tourism figures from 2015:

Foreign visitors in 2015 (in millions):

London, England: 18.8m
Paris, France: 16m
Rome, Italy: 9.4m

Brussels on the other hand only had 3.4 million visitors that year. and Brussels isn’t really that small a city. Or that hard to get to.

In fact, in a fascinating 2015 study of European city tourism shows Brussels as one of the most available cities in Europe to get to.

And as for things to do, see, eat and enjoy, there’s certainly much more than a day’s worth. but here are the highlights.

What to finish with 24 hours in Brussels, Belgium

Brussels is a vibrant, young city that lives amongst its striking neo-gothic, neo-renaissance buildings.

The people of Brussels – like many Belgians – value good food and drink, and the atmosphere on the busy little streets of this city show that with gusto.

In fact, numerous of the streets around Brussels old town have names referring to food and the food you’d be able to purchase here back when the city was little much more than a market town.

Perhaps it’s because this city isn’t overrun with tourists and has a healthy 11-million+ population, there’s a great local vibe to the place.

Where to stay

Apartments residence Grand Place

We found this serviced house on Booking.com last minute just as we were leaving Sweden. It’s a walk-up in a 17th Century building on the Rue au Beurre (‘Butter Road’!).

This place is on Grand-Place/Grote Markt – the main historic square of the city. You can’t get much much more central than that. and because we were only in town for a couple of nights, we wanted somewhere in the middle of everything.

Click on our link to Booking.com here and you’ll get $30 credit report to your booking from us! then copy and paste ‘Apartments residence Grand Place’ into the search bar.

Just so you know, the entrance to this medieval ‘apartment block’ is through a Belgian chocolate boutique. You’ve been warned!

Where to eat

Breakfast at Peck 47

We had an outstanding breakfast at Peck 47 on Rue Marche aux Poulets (literally ‘Chicken Market Road’), and there’s also Peck 50 on Rue Jourdan, if you’re searching for a conventional breakfast or brunch.

These men do eggs all different ways and every way delicious. They’re also open for lunch and dinner, and have a great red wine and beer list too.

However, if you’re searching for a good flat white or latte, don’t waste your time in Belgium or the Netherlands. For some reason the milk they use for coffee tastes like UHT long life milk. even a great venue like Peck didn’t get best in our opinion.

You’re better off sticking with a long black or an espresso, which they can do well.

Lunch at Chez Jacques

Chez Jacques on Quai aux Briques is about as Brussels as you can get. A beautiful little family-run brasserie with great streetside seating, Chez Jacque is the ideal lunch venue.

The menu here is fish focused as it’s near the old fish market square. There are so numerous things to choose from here but we went straight for the moules-frites/mosselen-friet.

This classic Brussels dish of mussels in white red wine and cream sauce with fries is so delicious and very filling. It ought to also be on your must-eat list while you’re here.

It was also the most affordable thing on the menu, which amazed us.

We found Chez Jacques purely by accident while we were wandering around the city. Such a lucky find.

Snacks

If you don’t think the Moules-frites will last you to dinner, there are snacks a-plenty here in Brussels that you have to eat. For cultural purposes of course.

Eat:

– at least 1 waffle – check below in our ‘Things to do’ section for a great waffle tip

– frites all over – especially at Fritland. The humble French fry actually comes from Belgium – and it apparently didn’t use to be potato, but anyway… the way these men make them will make you see chips in a different light (think holy) forever on.

– chocolates – there are chocolatiers literally all over in the old town. walk into one and try not to max out your cards!

– Aux Merveilleux de Fred for the most extreme cakes, meringues and pastries.

And as for dinner, if you’re still hungry, there are pubs, restaurants and bars all over in Brussels.

We were actually too full, but we’d happily go back to Chez Jacques or Peck 47 for our evening meal. Or just frites. In fact, we’re giving you consent to have chips for dinner!

Where to drink

As with dinner options, there are bars and pubs all over in Brussels. even the frites shops sell good Belgian beer from their fridges.

But here are our top suggestions for something a bit different:

Delirium Café – Impasse de la Fidélité 4

This place is in the Guinness book of world Records for having the most beers on tap. Make sure you go to the best one though. There are a couple of imitation places around.

Play label Rooftop Bar – Boulevard de l’Empereur 36

One of only 2 rooftop bars in Brussels (the other one is the musical Instruments museum according to our preferred rooftop bar resource The Rooftop Guide) this place is pretty bloody cool. get the lift up to the top and hope for service. The views down over this part of town (Stalingrad) are great.

Leffe Café – place du Grand Sablon 46

A bit touristy but still worth a beer, this café is home to one of Belgium’s many well-known beers. classic European al fresco seating with views of the beautiful 15th Century Gothic church the Église Notre-Dame au Sablon.

250 Belgian Beers – 32 Rue au Beurre

If you want to try a few craft Belgian beers in the comfort of your own place or in one of Brussels’ beautiful parks on a picnic, 250 Belgian Beers stocks an incredible range of brews (not quite 250) and the staff here are really helpful too.

Where to go and what to see

Brussels is a fantastic walking city and you can easily get around town without using public transport.

Grand-Place/Grote Markt

Right at the heart of the city is one of the most spectacular medieval squares. surrounded on all sides by 15th and 16th Century gothic and neo-renaissance architecture, this is the place to base yourself. All roads lead here.

Rue au Beurre

Perhaps because this was the road we were staying on, it’s our favourite. but then Butter road does have all the good beer and chocolate shops on it.

Manneken Pis – Rue de l’Étuve/Stoofstraat

This well-known little statue has been the subject of numerous thefts – both attempted and successful – over its 600-year lifespan (there are records of a Manneken Pis from around 1450).

It’s a bit grotesque but this little young boy peeing into a pool was once the source of the town’s drinking water. Those funny ol’ Belgians.

Waffles – our pro tip

Down the road from the Manneken Pis, rows of waffle shops offer their delicious goods for as little as €1. closer to the statue you’ll find queues of tourists all waiting for stale waffles piled high with cream, chocolate syrup and unsuitable fruit.

Avoid these ones, walk a bit even more down the street to a waffle shop that you can see making fresh waffles. only get the conventional topping of melted chocolate and avoid the sneers of the shop staff.

This is how a Belgian waffle is to be eaten. It’s amazing.

Palais de la Bourse – exhibitions

The very grand Palais de la Bourse is often home to some incredible art exhibits that are well worth looking out for. We were lucky enough to be in Brussels to see photographer Steve McCurry’s work.

Walk until your feet fall off

Brussels is a fascinating, compact city. There’s always a surprise around every corner and it’s rare if not impossible to be bored as you stroll her streets.

A great example of this is when we found two Japanese pole dancers practising their moves under the statue of Belgian Crusader knight Godefroid de Bouillon at the place Royale.

We hope you’ve delighted in this 24 hours in Brussels guide. It’s not the first time we’ve written a fast-track guide to a place. You might also like:

24 hours in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – our first-timer’s guide

What to do when you’ve only got 24 hours in Sydney

What to do when you’ve only got 24 hours in Bondi

48 hours in Orange, NSW – our whirlwind guide

48 hours on Fraser Island, QLD – what to do and where to go 

Have you ever been to Brussels? Do you have any suggestions for what to do or eat or see there? tell us in the comments!

WHERE TO stay IN LA: THE MONDRIAN HOTEL, WEST HOLLYWOOD review

It’s true: LAX is a required evil for exploring the us West Coast. It’s big, unsightly and brutal. On the other hand, Los Angeles itself is a fun, eclectic, buzzing city – the ideal place to charge your batteries and get over that jetlag. The question is, where do you stay in LA?

In the past, we’ve just landed in LAX, hopped in a rental and driven as far from Los Angeles as possible before my eyes fall out of my head with fatigue. This time, however, we chose to stop in LA for the night and do a little exploring.

It shown to be the best thing to do. Ever!

We stayed in the Mondrian, which is in West Hollywood. The Mondrian is a pretty fancy hotel, though its exterior is quite unassuming. In fact, we missed the entrance the first time and had to do a blockie for a second crack at vehicle parking up!

From then on though, the tension of driving in LA, the horrors of the long-haul flight – along with everything else – disappeared.

Valet took our car, concierge took our bags and reception took my credit report card. everything was perfect!

The staff at the Mondrian are very friendly and so keen to please, it’s like having eager puppies in uniform everywhere. especially compared to the lacklustre shrugs of customer service personnel in Sydney, even a smile surprises us these days!

When we checked in, the receptionist made sure we were on the best side of the hotel – away from Sunset Boulevard side and not over the pool or sky Bar, both of which can get a little noisy at night.

The room itself was amazingly cool. far from being a run-of-the-mill box with a bed, it was clear from the moment we walked in that design was high in the purchase of importance.

Straight away, we were faced with an huge mirror in the middle of the room. Our porter explained that the mirror revolved and on the other side, when you hit the remote, the TV showed through the mirror – yup, The price Is best was on!

From that point on, the room became a place to explore. The little desk tucked away behind a screen, the cushion-covered sofa, the mirrored tray on the table with a model hand on it; the bizarrely developed bathroom… everything was a little kooky; a little different. and we really liked it.

We were reminded of the QT Gold coast we’d recently stayed in in Australia – just a million times better… no, not better, that’s not right. possibly better performed would be nearer the mark.

Either way, we chose to take advantage of the proffered king-size bed and collapsed for a nap.

What a good decision.

We woke up a few hours later feeling awesome.

Instead of trying to stay awake, we found embracing your exhaustion, falling into an extremely comfy bed and going with that kind of flow was the way to go.

We headed back downstairs for a better look around.

In the main foyer and little shop, we were, again, struck by the design of the place. just the little touches – funky stools in a corner or an unusual table in the dining room – give the place that sleek edge missing from numerous common hotels.

 

The dining room (a.k.a Herringbone Restaurant) is just as stunningly styled as all over else in the hotel. By night, it serves an inventive seafood menu under an outstanding view of the LA skyline. By day, it hangs on the hotel’s arm, looking pretty!

We explored the hotel further.

Over the rims of our cocktails and in the safety of the sky Bar, we looked down on the deck and pool.

The pool area – as well as being way too daunting for two people fresh and well-fed from a Sydney winter season – is like something out of a magazine.

Replete with models basking in the California sun, the raised decking and concealed-yet-completely-on-show sun deck surrounding the pool looks sublime.

Because the hotel’s on the edge of a hill, the outlook over the pool fence is pretty darn cool.

After our cocktails, we chose to head out for a stroll – an action that took our concierge completely by surprise. no one walks anywhere in LA.

When dinner was over (I had an fantastic burger by the way), we walked home again. We turned the mirror on, called room service and purchased a cocktail. The only way to end a day in Hollywood!

The Mondrian may be much more than you were wishing to pay for a hotel – especially for your first night in the country. However, don’t underestimate the value of that first night.

Those extra dollars pay for much more than just the funky furnishings. The quality of service is superb, the food and drink here is excellent, and many importantly, you know that bed’s going to be the most comfortable thing you’ve ever slept in!

Our only criticism was of the valet. As we drove south for San Diego, we understood someone had chose our automobile would be a very good place to have a smoke in! It really stank. It’s a shame we we’d had a look at really – I wouldn’t have tipped!

Mondrian Hotel

8440 Sunset Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90069P: +1 (323) 650 8999

W: MorgansHotelGroup.com – the Mondrian LA

Fb: @Mondrian

Ig: @MondrianHotels

Have you stayed anywhere in LA? Do you have any suggestions on what to do and where to go while in Los Angeles? how do you spend your first day of your holiday? tell us in the comments!

Images by Mrs Romance.
For much more places to stay in LA and the USA, check out creative holidays for much more travel inspiration.

WHICH RED WINE? OUR guide TO 10 RED red wine VARIETALS

Which red wine? Not only challenging to say, however likewise difficult to decide, selecting a bottle of red red wine to drink commonly a dilemma. We’ve put together flavour notes as well as food pairings for 10 red red wine varieties we love.

I don’t understand – as well as wouldn’t care to understand – exactly how much time I’ve spent staring at the rows of red wine on the shelves of shops over the years. who understands exactly how numerous times I’ve reached for a bottle only to pull back at the last minute, selling the dummy, feigning the pass.

I understand exactly how numerous times I’ve gone into a store, promptly reached for a bottle as well as left with my purchase.

That’s easy: zero.

Choosing red wine is a deliberation that takes time, scrutiny as well as much chin-scratching.

To assist with the whole process, we’ve put together a listing of red red wine types – varietals if you don’t mind – to ideally speed up your decision-making as well as decrease the possibility of the store owner believing you’re casing the joint to rob it.

10 red red wine types as well as what they’re like

1. Shiraz – big, rich as well as packed with flavour

Shiraz is well-known for its powerful depth of flavour as well as there’s a huge fanbase for these Shiraz ‘monsters’ from locations like the Barossa Valley in SA.

However, there seems to be a relocation to much more medium-bodied Shiraz from locations like the hunter Valley in NSW.

Flavours to expect:

Shiraz typically has red as well as dark berry flavours, chocolate as well as earthiness – particularly as the red wine gets older. There’s typically much more tannin in Shiraz, which makes it drier.

For some recommendations as well as a much more extensive look at this noble grape, inspect out our Shiraz summary here.

Drink as well as eat:

Christina as well as I like a huge Shiraz just on its own, however pairing a full or medium-bodied Shiraz with red meat or a rich tomato-based pasta meal is a great deal of fun. Here’s much more on what food works with Shiraz.

2. Cabernet Sauvignon – bold, spicy as well as popular

Another ‘big’ wine, Cab Sauv is in truth the most liked (and many recognised) red red wine around the world.

This red wine came about in the 17th Century when Bordeaux winemakers crossed Cabernet Franc as well as Sauvignon Blanc grapes to produce this prominent portmanteau wine.

Flavours to expect:

Plenty of strong flavours as well as strong tannins come out of this wine. expect cassis, currants as well as herbs in a great Cabernet Sauvignon, with firm, peppery surface as well as spicy ginger.

Drink as well as eat:

Similar to a Shiraz, a Cab Sauv goes well with rich, dark meats as well as roasts, however likewise blue cheese as well as cigars.

3. Pinot Noir – nuanced, aromatic as well as fashionable

Pinot Noir has discovered popularity recently, proving that palates are moving toward a much more medium-bodied, lighter red wine.

This varietal is likewise understood for its brattiness. difficult to grow as well as turn into wine, Pinot Noir is likewise troublesome in the glass. Amazingly, in the wrong shaped glass, flavours in a Pinot Noir can modification from delicious to formic.

I wouldn’t have believed it if I hadn’t experienced it myself.

Flavours to expect:

A great Pinot Noir is a lovely thing – as well as even an okay one is quite good! delicately perfumed, as well as flavoured with black as well as red cherry, raspberry, currant, blackberry, as well as vanilla from the oak.

Click right here for much more on Pinot Noir.

Drink as well as eat:

Because of its delicate nature, Pinot Noir goes well with lighter meats like pork or even chicken. It works truly well with a cheese platter or even on its own.

4. Merlot – balanced, fruity as well as plump

A juicy red wine originating in Bordeaux, Merlot is the jolly uncle of the red wine world – though it can be extremely expensive, not to mention supremely tasty.

Flavours to expect:

Wonderfully fruity as well as practically fleshy, Merlot is a delicious medium-bodied red.

Drink as well as eat:

Merlot is a flexible red wine as well as quickly paired with anything from barbecued meats to grilled vegetables. Its sweetness would go well with spicier foods too.

5. Grenache – sweet, peppery as well as under-appreciated

I feel a bit sorry for Grenache. It’s typically discovered in the mighty GSM blend with Shiraz as well as Mourvèdre to make a solid faithful red wine option.

But on its own, Grenache has so much to offer. It’s just a bit harder than many grapes to grow as well as process.

Flavours to expect:

Sweetness, depth as well as pepper greet you as well as keep you business all the method with a glass of Grenache.

Drink as well as eat:

Easy to delight in on its own, Grenache will likewise fit dishes with a bit of spice – though a lamb shank cooked with a touch of star anise is king.

6. Tempranillo – bright, earthy as well as easy-drinking

Straight from the Rioja region of Spain, this red wine has likewise been growing in Australia for a long time now. possibly its pronunciation (“temp-renee-yo”) puts people off!

Because it’s still medium to full-bodied, it’s unexpected exactly how easy-drinking this red wine is.

Flavours to expect:

Lower acidity (which doesn’t imply wonderful btw) as well as flavours full of fruit implies this red wine goes with a great deal of foods, which is what its main function is. however by itself, Tempranillo expresses plum strawberry, cherry as well as herbs.

Drink as well as eat:

Being so quintessentially Spanish, this red wine works tremendously with jamon iberico, mature Manchego cheese and/or roast or barbecued lamb.

7. Sangiovese – sharp, agile as well as fun

Italy’s darling, Sangiovese is likewise making headway into Australia. An elegant, medium-bodied red however with lots of punch, Sangiovese is one of those wines that fits with numerous as well as many situations where red wine is called for!

Flavours to expect:

Find cherry, herbs, tomatoes as well as even some earthy tea flavours in a Sangiovese. Aussie-made versions likewise tend to be fruitier as well as higher in alcohol than their Continental kin.

Drink as well as eat:

This red wine is flexible as well as simple to enjoy. envision what you’d like to have on your table as you dine in the Tuscan countryside as well as that’s what you ought to eat with this wine.

8. Pinotage – earthy, concentrated yet spry

Mainstay of South African wines, Pinotage is a splice between Pinot Noir as well as Cinsaut, which utilized to be called Hermitage. It’s only been around because the mid-1920s as well as was developed to have the flavour profiles of Pinot Noir with the stability of Cinsaut.

Flavours to expect:

Smoky, earthy flavours mix with blackberries, balanced acidity as well as a solid medium body. in some cases there’s a tropical fruit – even banana – note.

Drink as well as eat:

You can treat this red wine the exact same method you would a Pinot Noir, though there’s sufficient power in Pinotage for it to stand as much as richer dinners you’d eat with a Shiraz.

9. Petit Verdot – deep, floral yet full-bodied

Often referred to as a majestic wine, Petit Verdot’s complexity, structure as well as depth makes you question why this varietal hasn’t been much more popular in Australia before now.

This is a should for red red wine enthusiasts.

Flavours to expect:

Crimson colour suggests intense flavours of blueberry, well-built tannins as well as a full body.

Drink as well as eat:

Rich meat dishes, strong cheeses as well as even spicy foods do well with Petit Verdot. It’s solid tannins cutting with heat, complex flavours as well as fat easily.

10. Chambourcin – responsive, approachable as well as berry-driven

Still to make a dent in the Australian market because its arrival in the ‘70s, Chambourcin has the prospective to ended up being extremely prominent here.

Initially rather a wonderful wine, winemakers utilized it to make port or to blend with drier wines, however removing the residual sugars has shown the fruit in its true form.

Flavours to expect:

Big, juicy flavours without the huge body or tannins you discover in Shiraz or Cab Sauv, Chambourcin hides raspberry, plum as well as even cranberry notes in its inky depths.

Drink as well as eat:

Quite flexible to food, Chambourcin can choose a firm or dark meat fish dish, roast poultry or even grilled veggies. It likewise works well with slow-cooked red meats.

Red red wine as well as food is always an simple coupling, however it can be difficult to choose what is the very best match.

Here’s our guidance on red red wine as well as food pairings.

Do you have a preferred red? What do you eat with it… or do you just delight in it on its own?

Zagori Greece: A guide To The Vikos Gorge as well as Pindos national Park

The Vikos Gorge is one of the most spectacular sights on earth. It’s nature showing off in all its grandeur as well as the very best part about it — there are barely any type of tourists!

With everybody heading to the islands to laze on beaches, this untouched piece of paradise in the Zagori region of northern Greece feels about as off the beaten path as you can get (making it one of the top locations to go to in Greece).

I checked out the Pindos national Park in September 2018 during our 6-month campervan trip with Croatia, Montenegro, Serbia, Kosovo, Albania, Macedonia, as well as Italy. We were originally only planning on costs someday in the park, however totally fell in like with the quaint villages as well as the breathtaking scenery, so ended up costs 5 full days there.

We checked out all the villages in Zagori, ate tasty standard food while chatting to the locals, drove a few of the crazy hairpin bend roads in the campervan as well as stopped anywhere for incredible views of the gorge.

Read on to discover about the extraordinary Vikos Gorge in Pindos national Park, including practicalities of the hiking trip. Plus, if you’re not a hiker, there are still many other things to perform in the park! If you’re planning a trip to Greece soon, don’t miss Our utmost Greece travel Guide 

Table of Contents
The Vikos Gorge
The Zagori Region
How To get To The Vikos Gorge
Vikos Gorge Trailheads
Practicalities For Hiking The Vikos Gorge
Things To perform in The Pindos national Park
Ready For Vikos Gorge as well as Pindos national Park?

The Vikos Gorge

The Vikos Gorge is found in the northern Pindos Park, in the historic area of Epirus, just 30km from Ioannina as well as close to the Albanian border. Click right here to discover the Vikos Gorge on the map.

You can hike the entire length of the gorge without seeing one more person. For nature lovers, hikers as well as any individual who appreciates the outdoors, you’ll never want to leave.

There are 46 villages (collectively named the Zagorohoria), that comprise the area of Zagori in which the Vikos Gorge lies. Running with the centre of Zagori is the spectacular Vikos Gorge. Recorded in the Guinness book of records for being the world’s deepest canyon in proportion to its width.

The Vikos Gorge uses a few of the very best hiking in Greece. There are hikes for all levels of fitness, from energetic 5-hour hikes to 1-hour meanders. For non-hikers, there are a number of viewpoints, all quickly reached by foot as well as using the most spectacular views of one of mom Nature’s biggest creations.

The Zagori Region

Nestled in the Pindos mountain variety lies the wonderful Zagori region, one of the most gorgeous as well as untouched locations left on earth. The deep gorge as well as mountainous landscape made accessibility nearly impossible, so for numerous years, the villages in this area existed with barely any type of influence from the outside world.

Now the roads are paved as well as accessibility is easy, yet the area still stays mainly untouched by tourism.

This seclusion enabled the preservation of tradition, as well as the rich culture can still be seen today in the private character as well as unique design of each of the 46 villages.

The villages can be discovered perched high on top of mountains, hanging over the sides of the gorge or deep in the bottom of the valley. roam the cobbled alleyways, take pleasure in the peace as well as tranquility as well as discover yourself transported back in time.

The villages are all linked by a network of stone footpaths, some leading over spectacular arched bridges, some complying with along winding rivers, while others zigzag at an impossible angle up the steepest of slopes. These ancient pathways now supply exceptional routes for hikers, mountain cyclists as well as nature enthusiasts alike.

How To get To The Vikos Gorge

The northern Pindos national park is found about 30 kilometers from Ioannina, the funding city of Epirus province. the very best entrance to go to the Vikos Gorge is 27km North of Ioannina, just after the town of Karies. This will take you to the Aspragelli info Centre, where they will supply you with maps as well as a huge amount of info on the park.

For some fantastic info as well as maps, click here. 

Vikos Gorge by Car

The suggested method to go to is by car. vehicle rental is offered in Ioannina, Thessaloniki, as well as Athens, however the very best value as well as availability will be discovered in Athens. a lot of of the gain access to roads can be discovered on the Western border of the park, between Ioannina as well as Konitsa.

The roads in the Zagori region are all new, indicating fantastic high quality as well as simple to drive, no matter what type of automobile you have. Be conscious that there are many hairpin bends.

By Bus

Buses run from Ioannina to nearly all the villages of Zagoria, including the prominent villages of Papigo, Monodendri, as well as Konitsa. depending upon where the villages are located, the duration of the trip will vary from 40 min to 1 hour. The bus to Monodendri runs on Monday, Wednesday, as well as Friday at 11:15am.

If you are flying into Athens or Thessaloniki, buses are offered to Ioannina. The buses from Athens as well as Thessaloniki to Ioannina run daily. From Athens, the buses leave from Kifissos Bus station with the trip taking about 7 hours. From Thessaloniki, the bus leaves from KTEL station as well as is about 3 hours.

The bus connection between the villages is poor, so be prepared to hike or hitchhike.

On a Tour

The other choice would be to go to the Zagori region on a tour. These day trips can be joined from Ioannina.

Vikos Gorge Trailheads

There are a number of hikes offered in the gorge. These variety in length as well as difficulty. the most prominent hike is the Mondrendi to Vikos Hike. For those wanting to go the additional distance, the Vikos to Papigano is a fantastic add on. For those trying to find a a lot more leisurely hike, then the Mondrendi to Kipi is a fantastic option.

Mondrendi to Vikos Hike

Most prominent hike in the Vikos Gorge

Length: 12.5 kilometers

Duration: 6 – 8 hours

The village of Monodentri is the most prominent starting point for checking out the Vikos Gorge. From right here you can hike north to Vikos as well as the two Papingo villages or south to Kipi.

The primary hike takes you 12.5km along the bottom of the Vikos gorge from the village of Monodentri to Vikos. It is a fairly simple hike, although you must be gotten ready for some boulder hopping.

Metal or wooden ladders have been strategically put to help you over difficult bits. The final ascent is likewise extremely steep. The hike can take anywhere from 6 to 8 hours depending upon your level of fitness.

From Monodentri there is a steep 300m descent down a cobbled pathway to the bottom of the gorge. From there, the path descends along a slowly graded footpath, with captivating woods, all the method to Vikos.

Around the 2 hour mark, you will reach the intersection with the Megas Lakkos ravine. A pipped spring marks the halfway area as well as supplies an chance to fill up your water bottles.

Around the 3 hour mark, the steep walls begin receding as well as the gorge opens out. right here you have two choices: Either you can continue directly along the well-worn path up until you reach the paved kaldermi, leading as much as Vikos. The ascent is steep as well as will take about 1.5hrs. Or, the alternate is to comply with the marked 03 path to Mikro Papingo or Megalo Papingo, which will add on an extra 2 hours.

Papingo Village

The hike is well marked all the method to Vikos with red dots or white-on-red diamonds (03 route). Where markers have been lost, the locals have connected plastic bags to trees to guide you in the ideal direction.

Vikos to Papigano Hike

Instead of ending at Vikos, you can select to continue to the two Papigano villages. This path will take you across the gorge bed at the Voidhomatis springs. enable an extra 2 hours to reach Mikro Papingo as well as somewhat less to reach Megalo Papingo.

Be conscious though, the exit right here is steep as well as can be hard going in the sun. the very best choice would be to stop for lunch in Vikos to ensure that your ascent to Papigano is performed in the late afternoon, so you can make utilize of the shadows of the setting sun.

For those hikers wanting to head east into the Gamilla range, the villages of Mikro Papingo as well as Megalo Papingo would be much better suited. The Vikos gorge can be hiked in either direction so you might likewise stay right here as well as hike to Monodendri.

Monodendri / Vitsa to Kipi Hike

As an alternate starting point, the village of Vitsa is likewise a great option for hiking the gorge, although it is somewhat additionally away from the entrance to the gorge. This path complies with the dry riverbed south towards Kipi as well as is an simple hike.

Make sure to take along a map to ensure that you can area the ancient arched stone bridges as well as the stepped kaldermi paths that link the villages.

Practicalities For Hiking The VikosGorge

Make sure to gather maps as well as guides at the vacationer info office. These will be important in finding sights along the way. A fantastic example is the eighteenth-century Kimisis Theotokou chapel, found at the begin of the ascent to Vikos. It will need a 15 minute round trip detour, however the extraordinary frescos will be well worth it.

During the hikes, you will notice an abundance of flora as well as fauna in the Pindos Park with a lot more than 1800 understood types of flora as well as a myriad of animals to try as well as spot. The region is likewise understood as Bear Park because of its population of Eurasian brown Bears, however you’ll be exceptionally lucky to see one of these.

As you technique the Papingo villages, look out for Astraka, the third greatest height of install Tymfi. A series of big vertical rocks called the Towers of Astraka that type a spectacular backdrop to the village of Mikro Papingo.

Despite the gorge’s popularity with hikers, there are sections of the hike that are not easy. Make sure to have strong hiking boots, preferably the over-the-ankle boots. walking poles as well as sticks would be extremely helpful as well as a water bottle is an absolute essential. You will pass the Voidomatis river, however the water is not always drinkable, so make sure to take sufficient water with you.

In summertime months, it is finest to begin the hike as early as possible to prevent the midday heat, while in wintertime months, you may have some snow at Monodentri.

There are fantastic restaurants in all the villages, all serving tasty hearty standard dishes, however you will requirement to pack lunch for en-route.

It is finest to pre-organise a pickup from your final destination, as there are no buses. Ask at your location of lodging for transportation options. Taxis can be set up however they are not inexpensive as well as you’ll be checking out about 35 Euros for the trip. If you haven’t pre-organised your transport, then ask at the regional tavern as well as they must be able to assist.

Things To perform in The Pindos national Park

The mountains, lakes, as well as rivers offer the best atmosphere for ecotourism activities. Hiking, trekking, climbing, mountain biking, as well as rafting are prominent activities that can be took pleasure in surrounded by this a lot of sensational scenery. For the not so active, the natural appeal as well as the quaint villages make the park well worth a visit.

Monastery of Aghia Paraskevi

The breathtaking Aghaia Paraskevi monastery perches on the vertical cliffs of the gorge as well as uses a panoramic perspective of the gorge. From Monodendri’s primary square, comply with the stone pathway for about 1km to the edge of the Vikos Gorge.

Beloi Viewpoint

One of the very best views of the gorge can be seen from the Beloi perspective near the town of Vradheto. This is the most southern point of the Vikos Gorge as well as from right here you will see the vertical cliffs stretching far into the distance.

The walk from Vradheto to Beloi is simple enough, however even much better is to climb the Vradheto steps (Skala Vradheto) as it winds up the cliff deal with to the village of Vradheto as well as then continue on to Beloi.

The steps run 3.5km from Tsepelovo to Vradheto as well as up until the 1970s this was the only gain access to to Vradheto. This 17th Century ancient stone stairway looks much harder than it is, as the zigzags are not as steep as they look.

The path starts just north-east of the village of Kepesovo. Park at the junction where the road forks delegated Vradheto. comply with the track into the valley, across an old stone bridge as well as from there you will begin the ascent up the Skala.

When you reach the top, keep left near the church up until you reach the road. The road winds with the village as well as then turns into a dirt track. There are signposts to Beloi as well as the path is extremely well trodden so simple sufficient to follow. After a somewhat rocky section, you will emerge at the Beloi perspective with its jaw-dropping vista of the gorge.

The walk from Vradheto to Beloi must take about 45 minutes with the ascent up the Vradheto Skala taking an extra 2 hours.

The view at Beloi is genuinely spectacular so make sure to leave sufficient time to kick back as well as soak everything in. much better yet, take a picnic as well as spend an hour or two!

For the less energetic, you can drive up the some

7 simple summertime mixed drinks TO QUENCH YOUR THIRST as well as get THE celebration started

hot sunny days, buddies all round, food as well as drink streaming freely – that’s what summer’s all about. however when it concerns the drinks, what do you do? Our 7 preferred simple summertime mixed drinks are ideal celebration pours!

I’m a firm believer that every drink has its place. From that icy chilly beer at the end of a long day to a bit decrease of wonderful port after an indulgent meal, I reckon there’s a ideal time for quite much everything.

As Australia gets prepared for her summertime months, we’re all gearing up for the celebration season.

Mrs romance as well as I are always on the lookout for that mixed drink or punch that fits completely with a summertime party. It needs to be light as well as refreshing, not as well wonderful or heavy, as well as many of all a bit of fun.

7 simple summertime mixed drinks that will beat the warm this summer!

Italian summer

– 2 measures Tuaca
– 1 determine lime juice
– top up with soda water over great deals of ice

Tuaca is an ancient brandy liqueur from Tuscany, as well as it’s got a tasty fruity, vanilla flavour. When you add the lime juice, it takes the sweetness down a notch as well as the sparkling water turns this into a truly refreshing (and not as well alcoholic) cocktail.

We found Tuaca ages back when we very first started stocking our house bar. It’s quite inexpensive for a spirit as well as you can discover it in many great bottle shops.

Scorpion Bowl

– 500ml Bacardi Carta Blanca rum
– 100ml brandy
– 600ml orange juice
– 400ml lemon juice
– 100ml Disaronno amaretto almond liqueur
– To serve: orange, lemon as well as lime slices, as well as mint springs

PRO TIP: instead of utilizing Bacardi as well as brandy, try this remarkable Australian black spiced rum from stone yearn Distillery in Bathurst, NSW. get a bottle here.

Check out this awesome Disaronno bottle by the method – it’s their newest restricted edition Christmas partnership with the worldwide avant garde garments label Etro.

You can pick one up from your regional bottle shop in Australia including BWS, Dan Murphy’s, very first Choice, vintage Cellars, Liquorland, as well as high quality independent sellers for around $45.

Barbados punch

– 150 ml install Gay Rum
– 45 ml lime juice (about 2 limes)
– 600 ml sparkling apple juice, chilled
– 15 mint leaves, torn
– 1 Granny Smith apple, cut into 8 slices
– 1 lime, cut into 8 slices
– Mint sprigs to serve

PRO TIP: provide this an Aussie flavour with a gorgeous Australian rum instead of utilizing install Gay. stone yearn rum from Bathurst, NSW is remarkable as is Black Gate’s rum from Mendooran, NSW. You can purchase them both here.

Spring fling

(on the best in the above shot)
– 1 cm-thick cucumber slice
– 5 mint leaves
– 15ml sugar syrup or 1tsp caster sugar
– 45ml Tanqueray gin
– 60ml apple juice
– 15ml lemon juice
– long cucumber slices to serve

PRO TIP: Make this mixed drink with Australian gin – it’s method much better than anything else out there. instead of Tanqueray, try our favourites stone yearn gin from Bathurst or Loch Distillery’s gin from Victoria. You can purchase them both here.

Frozen grape sangria

– 500g seedless red grapes
– 1 big red apple, chopped
– 1 lemon, thinly sliced
– ¼ cup superfine sugar
– 2 bottles medium-bodied red red wine (such as Merlot)
– 1 cup grape juice
– ½ cup vodka
– 4 cup Ice

Divide ¾ of the grapes up as well as freeze for 2 hours then add them into as much as 8 glasses. add rest of components in a pitcher

PRO TIP: Make sure the sugar is totally dissolved before serving. If you mix the sugar in a bit hot water, the sugar crystals will dissolve into the drink better.

Honeyed cherry daiquiri

– 8 wonderful cherries, pitted
– 2 oz. light rum
– 3/4 oz. fresh lime juice, plus slice for garnish
– 1 tbsp. Honey
– dash of bitters (such as Peychaud’s)
– 1/4 oz. maraschino liqueur (optional)

Muddle cherries in mixer. add whatever else as well as shake till chilled. Strain into glass.

PRO TIP: since this is a short drink, the higher high quality rum you use, the better. prevent Bundaberg as well as look for other Aussie rums. Black Gate and Hoochery make a few of the very best Aussie rums you’ll find. You can purchase them both here.

Wendy’s punch

– 1 cup of vodka
– 1.5 litres cranberry juice
– 1.25 litres lemonade
– 1 lime sliced
– 1 lemon sliced
– Mixed berries – frozen
– Jug or punch bowl
– thin strips of orange rind to garnish

PRO TIP: If this punch is as well sweet, utilize half soda water as well as half lemonade. If you’re searching for an Aussie vodka, little Mouth from Sydney is our preferred – however it’s a bit as well good just to put in a punch bowl.

Wendy’s Punch comes from a close household buddy who made this Christmas. It’s delicious. In truth we liked it so much, we included it in our mixed drink book. What? We’ve written a mixed drink book?

Yes indeed, as well as for much more mixed drink suggestions as well as tricks, as well as some incredible concepts for exactly how to chuck a fantastic mixed drink party, make sure you inspect out our mixed drink ebook here!

What do you typically drink when the sun’s beating down? Do you have a go-to tipple for barbies in the garden? tell us in the comments!

Images by Mrs romance as well as courtesy of the respective on the internet recipes.

SCHWARZ PATISSERIE BAKERY, WENTWORTH FALLS – THE LOCALS’ preferred

If you understand anything about Sydney, you’ll understand about the blue Mountains. They are part of the excellent Dividing variety that runs north to south perpendicular to the eastern shoreline of Australia. as well as they’re not extremely blue!

If you understand anything about the blue Mountains, you’ll have heard of the three Sisters – an amazing rock formation we’ve talked about before on this site. however we’re not going to talk about that today. Instead, we want to tell you about something a bit less known.

It’s less understood since the locals like it that way. as well as no wonder.

The citizens of Wentworth Falls – a quite bit town near the three Sisters – have been keeping peaceful about Bakery Patisserie Schwarz for almost a quarter of a century. It’s an remarkable bit café on station street as well as we owe whatever to our friends, who took us to sample its baked goods.

And what baked goods! My god… or ought to I state ‘Mein Gott’, this German bakery has it all, however on steroids. It’s just… they’re all just… I’m just…

Just look at the pictures. as well as don’t drool on your screen, please!

Bakery Patisserie Schwarz is found here:
Shops 1 & 2, 30 station Street
Wentworth Falls NSW 2782
They’re open 7.30 – 5.30 every day.

Images by Mrs Romance.

My Account of the assault on the Boston Marathon

Adventurous Kate consists of affiliate links. If you make a purchase with these links, I will make a compensation at no additional expense to you. Thanks!

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Yesterday I went to enjoy the Boston Marathon.  A few hours later, we were recuperating from a devastating assault on our city.

My friends, family, as well as I are fortunate to be uninjured.  We were enjoying two miles away from the blasts in Copley Square.

Boston: house to the World’s finest Marathon

Boston is a great deal of things — an intellectual hub, a technological hotspot, a historical treasure trove.  We’re fiery, we’re smart, we’re independent, as well as we celebrate Patriots’ Day — a Massachusetts-only holiday that celebrates the event when the British were driven out of Boston during the American Revolution.

Boston is likewise a sports town.  Oh, are we ever a sports town!  Even for somebody like me who isn’t a sports fan, sports are the lifeblood that bond Bostonians, as well as we have some fantastic teams (all of which won championships in the past decade).  The Red Sox will beat Baltimore as well as a “Yankees Suck” chant will materialize on Yawkey way, itself a bonding ritual a lot more than an insult.  Hell, the Celtics can beat the Lakers as well as we’ll be doing the exact same thing.

But the Boston Marathon is different from other Boston sports.  It’s inherently joyful.  It’s not competitive — well, aside from briefly wondering if this will be the year that an American will lastly beat the Kenyans as well as Ethiopians.  No matter who leads the path on the 26.2-mile jaunt from Hopkinton to Copley Square, we applaud for them like crazy, as well as we keep cheering for the runners that cross our path over the next a number of hours.

I never got Patriots’ Day off when I worked in Boston, however I’d always take it off anyway, going down to the surface line to enjoy the runners as well as take in the atmosphere.  When it came time for me to plan my go to home, I made a decision to time it around Marathon Monday — quickly the very best time to go to Boston.  My buddy Beth as well as her partner Brian invited me to avoid Copley Square as well as enjoy by their location in Brookline instead.

We applauded on the runners on Beacon St., reassuring them that with notorious Heartbreak hill now in the past, they were in the house stretch of the marathon.  “You’re nearly done!  Keep going!”  we cheered.  “You can do it!”

“God save the Queen!” My buddy called out to a number of runners decked out with union jack shorts, which frequently elicited a pumped fist in reply.  “I like you, Tinkerbell!” I shouted to a guy dressed in a eco-friendly fairy costume with a wand.

Behind us was a group of college trainees barbecuing on their roof, red solo cups in hand.  The a lot more time that passed, the drunker they got — however they never stopped cheering for the runners.  They shouted out the names people had written across their shirts, together with a raucous “U-S-A!  U-S-A!” whenever a fatigues-clad soldier walked by.

At one point, a runner dressed in eco-friendly fell to his knees, clearly in pain.

“Come on, green!” shouted the college students.  “YOU CAN DO IT!  Pick yourself up, green, you’re nearly finished!  You’ve got this!  YES, YOU CAN!  YES, YOU CAN!  YES, YOU CAN!”  And before long, the guy in eco-friendly chosen himself up as well as started jogging again, throwing a grateful glimpse in their direction.

That’s the Boston Marathon.  It’s so positive as well as uplifting.

So for somebody not only to completely assault innocent people, however to do so in the context of such a joyous occasion, was an amazingly coldblooded maneuver.

Shock as well as Horror

Beth as well as I were having lunch at a Thai location on the Mile 23 mark when my daddy called me, telling me that there had been an explosion in Copley Square.  My tummy dropped.  The three of us instantly got on our phones as well as began updating social network as well as calling our liked ones.

Minutes earlier, a band outside had been playing “Hello, It’s Me” to the crowd as smoke billowed from a barbecue.  The elite runners had long crossed the surface line, however people were still cheering on the runners that passed, using them water as well as orange slices.  But as word of the catastrophe spread, everybody on the sidelines had their phones out.  The music as well as the barbeque stopped.  The environment turned dark.  Before long, the authorities started intervening on the route, telling the runners to go home.null

10 easy MELBOURNE weekend vacations

we all need a break from city life – even when that city’s as amazing as somewhere like Melbourne. here are some of our much-loved easy Melbourne weekend vacations that will give you that sense of escape without you having to travel too far.

Victoria is Australia’s smallest mainland state. because of this, things are packed in tight and a weekend escape from Melbourne doesn’t indicate hours and hours spent in the automobile or an unending featureless landscape on your drive.

In fact, in spite of being a small state, Victoria has a spectacular range of climates, landscapes and destination options.

From surf beaches to white wine country to ski fields to quaint country towns surrounded by forests.

It’s all here.

We thought we’d share a few ideas of where we’d choose a weekend away from the city.

10 easy Melbourne weekend getaways

Distances and travel time are based on driving out of central Melbourne.

1. City by the sea – St Kilda

16mins / 10km south of Melbourne

More of a staycation than a true getaway, St Kilda uses that holiday feeling without having to travel far from the city. In fact, you can even get here on the tram.

Though asking someone who lives, say, in Fitzroy if they fancy a trip to St Kilda is like suggesting a trip to the moon. We know; we’ve tried it!

But home to Melbourne’s closest beaches at the top of Port Philip Bay, St Kilda does feel a lot additionally away than it really is.

Here are a few food and to-do ideas from our time in St Kilda, and if you’re trying to find a place to stay, we quite liked the Cosmopolitan hotel – here’s our review.

While you’re there, make sure you check out the botanic gardens and try to neglect Melbourne’s version of Old King Cole that is amazingly creepier than Sydney’s Luna Park face.

2. Wind down in the mountains – the Dandenongs

50 mins / 45km east of Melbourne

This low-alpine region is surprisingly close to Melbourne and the best place for a recharge retreat.

Not so far from the madding crowds of the city, mountain villages like Olinda and Sassafras offer extraordinary views along with warm welcomes, delicious local food and interesting, quaint shops.

As well as the scenery and stunning gardens, the Dandenongs have some fun picturesque drives through the mountains as well as Puffing Billy, the heritage steam train that’s now a national treasure.

3. check out the vineyards – Buxton & Yarra Valley

1hr / 65km north-east of Melbourne

Melbourne’s closest white wine region is not only convenient, its vineyards turn out some really terrific white wine and welcoming cellar doors.

The landscape of the Yarra’s rolling hills also hides a number of towns and villages well worth visiting. Here’s an intro into a few of the main ones.

As well as the wine, the Yarra is home to some exceptional restaurants and is an optimal spot for a romantic getaway. The Coldstream trail highlights some of the best producers in the region; breweries, wineries, dairies and restaurants – all within an easy drive of each other.

And if you’re a lot more interested in getting out and about, this region is full of hikes and top cycling routes too.

4. Life’s a beach – Torquay

80mins / 105km south of Melbourne

With that best combination of flat-water swimming beaches and the rolling waves of some of Australia’s a lot of prestigious surf spots near at hand, Torquay is the best seaside retreat.

Its little town is full of interesting shops, cafes and bakeries, and there are plenty of comfortable waterfront holiday homes to get you into that chilled beachy vibe.

While you’re on the coast here, you’re also not far from Port Philip Bay. Queenscliff is well worth the quick drive east and if you have the time, you can even get the automobile ferry over to the Mornington Peninsula.

5. get to the point – Mornington Peninsula

80mins / 100km south of Melbourne

A thin finger of land marking the eastern jaw of Port Philip Bay and the coast, the Mornington is a sensational part of the country that’s somehow regional and developed at the same time.

Here you’ll find a rare blend of country friendliness with world-class restaurants.

Mornington wineries make outstanding Chardonnay and Pinot, and their cellar doors are typically decorated with excellent sculpture gardens.

Many also have amazing views of the coast that gives the white wine its particular flavour.

Here’s our rundown of our much-loved Mornington Wineries.

6. Onsen hot springs – Daylesford and Hepburn

90mins / 110km north-west of Melbourne

One of the real pearls of rural Victoria, Daylesford is a sensational country town surrounded by stunning scenery, waterfalls and woodland.

Its neighbouring town, Hepburn, is popular for its hot springs.

More like a Japanese onsen town, Hepburn makes the most of its special access to the majority (82%) of Australia’s natural hot springs using visitors a kicking back day spa opportunity.

And if you want to extend that Japanese onsenfeel even further, stay at the Shizuka Ryokan.

For a lot more information about Daylesford and why it’s so good, here’s our guide.

7. Mountains, forests and romance – Marysville

1h 40mins / 95km north-east of Melbourne

Once a honeymoon hotspot, Marysville suffered extremely as the epicentre of the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires. now back on its feet, the town is even stronger than ever.

The drive into town is a spectacle in itself – the popular Black Spur with its towering trees and winding alpine roads make for a terrific drive. Something out of Jurassic Park.

Staying at the Marysville vibe hotel will keep you central as well as near one of the best restaurants in town. Not far from town is also the start of the Victorian ski fields, which are well worth the check out even in summer.

Here’s a lot more information in our travel guide to Marysville.

8. Foodie heaven – King Valley

3hrs / 280km north of Melbourne

For local food and extraordinary produce, you can’t really go wrong with the King Valley.

From cheese (you have to check out the Milawa cheese factory for a tasting) to white wine (Sam Miranda is one of our absolute favourites), you’ve got everything here for a hearty, tasty, fulfilling trip.

While you’re in the area, why not pop into Glenrowan and say hi to the gigantic Ned Kelly – the town of course being the site of the Kelly Gang’s infamous last stand.

You can find a lot more details about King Valley and all its foodie goodies in our story here.

9. Quaint and historic – Beechworth

3hrs / 285km north of Melbourne

Thanks to its gold rush history and the concerted efforts of its citizens, Beechworth has a beautifully maintained 1850s aesthetic.

It’s pubs and cafes (make sure you check out collective for Melbourne-quality coffee) will keep you fed and watered, while the shops on its quaint main street will entertain.

These days, Beechworth has swapped out one type of gold for another; its honey is a national much-loved and the Beechworth Honey shop has a delicious range of honey from all different flowers.

10. Drive the terrific ocean road – Apollo Bay to Port Fairy

2h 35m south-west to Apollo Bay from Melbourne then 3hrs west to Port Fairy

For a a lot more extended roadtrip-style break, this old much-loved is our kind of drive. From Melbourne, Apollo Bay is two hours and 35 minutes away direct from the city, and the stunning Twelve Apostles are not far on from that. but you can pick up the terrific ocean road anywhere from Torquay.

From the Twelve Apostles, the drive becomes a lot more remote and dramatic, and stopping at Port Fairy – about three hours from Apollo Bay – makes for a kicking back five-hour drive.

You can either base yourself in this pretty little coastal town or in Warrnambool – the greatest town in the area – a few kilometres back.

Either way, the drive down this famous road is the sort of thing memories are made of and a need to for any individual who loves the Australian landscape.

Do you have a much-loved place to check out in Victoria? Where do you go when you’re trying to find a city escape?