Getting out of the city on the weekend to breathe the fresh country air, take in the wide open spaces, experience the charm of a natural environment and to enjoy good old country hospitality is a perfect way to recharge the batteries.
Getting out of the city on the weekend to breathe the fresh country air, take in the wide open spaces, experience the charm of a natural environment and to enjoy good old country hospitality is a perfect way to recharge the batteries.
Generally, the first place that springs to city dwellers’ minds is the Margaret River region. But much closer to home is a lovely rural area that is a comfortable two-hour drive from Perth CBD – the Ferguson Valley.
Located directly inland from Bunbury, the valley is bordered by a number of small villages, including Burekup, Boyanup, Donnybrook and Dardanup. Picturesque winding tracks through lush forest and thriving farmland take you on a journey of discovery. You might find a completely secluded spot beside a river or throw out a picnic rug in the midst of the forest. Alternatively, you might decide to stop for a bite of lunch or a taste of wine at one of the appealing award-winning wineries nestled here.
Although a visit to the Ferguson Valley is rewarding at any time, it is important to be aware that many of the local wineries and restaurants are only open on weekends.
In terms of accommodation, there are a number of lovely bed and breakfast establishments with superior amenities offered at extremely reasonable rates, providing the perfect base from which to explore this area.
Peppermint Lane Lodge is such a place. A winding peppermint tree-lined driveway takes you to the main lodge and guest rooms, which are nestled in a lovely bushland area.
Each of the four guest rooms has its own private deck looking out towards the bush and forest, allowing guests to enjoy a glass of local wine while listening to the chorus of birds fluttering through the nearby vegetation.
Rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated and include indoor and outdoor seating areas, an ensuite and their own private entry.
All linen is provided and a fridge is located in each guest room for visitors to store their gourmet or vineyard purchases from their daytime travels.
For those wanting something more active, there are many walk trails through the surrounding forest, a putting green to practise golf skills and a pristine pool set in carefully landscaped gardens.
A cooked breakfast is included in the tariff and a tasty gourmet evening meal can be ordered at an affordable extra cost. As the premises are licensed, a great selection of wine and spirits from the Ferguson Valley is available from which to choose. For those travelling further afield during the day, a reasonably priced picnic lunch also can be supplied on request. Phone: 9728 3138, www.peppermintlane-lodge.com.au.
Nestled between hills and the river is Highland Valley Homestead, a beautifully restored grand Australian homestead built in 1915. A clever blend of old and new has created a stylish and elegant environment in which to relax and unwind.
The four beautifully appointed guest suites feature polished jarrah floors, ornate pressed-metal ceilings, handcrafted jarrah beds, stainless-steel ensuite fittings and luxury linen.
A cosy guest lounge incorporates comfortable seating, an open fire place, a TV and CD player, an extensive library and tea and coffee making facilities. Included in the tariff is a delicious country breakfast.
Expansive breezeways, verandas and outdoor spaces, enable guests to take in the scenic views of steep valleys and hills dotted with grazing kangaroos at dawn and dusk.
A special feature of this venue is the day spa. After a therapeutic soak in the undercover outdoor hydrotherapy spa, you could choose from one of the many different types of massages available – including Swedish, aromatherapy or remedial. A deluxe facial or Integra facial can be arranged and for total relaxation and body balancing, reflexology is also offered. Phone: 9726 3080 or visit www.highlandvalleyhomestead.com.au
Kingtree Lodge is another of the delightful country guesthouses within the Ferguson Valley region. Kangaroos, emus and multitudes of native birds will join you at this magnificent property and remind you of just how far you are away from the stresses of city life.
To add to the serenity, you can soak your cares away in the outdoor hot tub or go for an invigorating stroll on one of the many trails that entice you deep into the surrounding forest.
For those looking for some strenuous exercise perhaps a game of tennis on the lush, green tennis court may be more your style.
Set high on a hill overlooking a steep and picturesque terraced vineyard, stunning views of the surrounding area can be enjoyed from the sweeping veranda and balcony. Rooms are beautifully decorated and comfortably appointed with an en suite and cosy lounge/sitting area completing the picture.
A sumptuous four-course evening meal is available on request, as is a hearty country breakfast each morning. Pre-dinner wine tasting is also offered in the lodge’s own wine-tasting cellar where the locally produced Kingtree Wines are available for sampling. Phone: 9728 3050, or look at the website
www.hometown.aol.com.au/kingtreelodge