The Land Down Under, the Kangaroo Land, A Wine Delight; endless names for this utopian delight in the eastern pacific continent, Australia, and the winner of my travel diaries. I remember the time I went to New Zealand for my honeymoon (oh, it was ages ago!). But that was when I promised myself that Australia was one to cover wholly, with soul and traversing delights at some point very soon.
Alas, it has been long, and I hope to tick this destination off my list this year (Coronavirus, please leave us!). Australia is a land of magnetism, design, culture, food and all things nature, adventure and cityscapes! The perfect combination of soul searching and soul devouring experiences. Of course we all want to begin our vacations in NSW: the land of the Opera House and Blue Mountains. But my heart wants Victoria sooner than later. Melbourne’s winding streets, mouth-watering eateries (bear in mind, I have heard of Chipotle faring second to Guzman’s mexican), and some excellent roadtrips waiting to be explored.
Take the 12 apostles for example, or the great ocean road; yes, a convertible Mustang and I will be on my way to take in the sun and wind and everything in between. I am a sucker for little lodges along the way; so I’m sure I’ll drop by Chris’ Beacon Point for a meal and a splendid stay. Something about opening your eyes to the ocean in the morning that gets my heart jumping!
But yes, apart from the usual, I’d also take a weekend away to Daylesford; the land of mineral springs and spas. For those that know me well, you know I harbour a weakness for luxurious pampering sometimes. And the best way to do it is laze in a pool of spring water, or be pampering in some of the best spa experiences. So apart from the pampering, the cozy cafes, winding streets, chill vibe and a community to discover, I also have my own unique reasons for ticking this one off. It starts with Poets and ends with Lodge. A unique boutique property tucked away in this town, waiting to be found by history and privacy seekers!
Take tradition, fuse it with contemporary, add walls of bookshelves and an excellent hospitality, and voila! You have a haven for the quiet, peace-craving, and exclusivity buffs. Simple, yet comforting, for groups, yet limited in rooms; the Poet’s Lodge is where I want to set my bags down. White ironed sheets, minimalistic rooms and like-minded folk to mingle with. The readers, thinkers, explorers yet escaping the usual humdrum of what is life. What sets it apart is how it was created. An old sodden down 1850s structure from historic ruins was taken up by a zesty couple to create a stay for discerning travelers. Think white sheets, wrought iron beds, pearly white bathtubs, outdoor dining, garden lofts and the perfect escape from a city buzz.
I know I’m going to tick this off my list very soon. But make sure not to miss this hidden, yet amazing town on your way around Australian bliss; wine, dine and everything fine!
Written By Mohit Gupta
Week 10, March 2021
