The glorious Victorian wineries of the Yarra Valley are in full swing again after recent devastating bushfires in the region.

Visitors are being welcomed back and most wineries have their doors open for business.

Dating from the mid 1850’s, we recently visited the very elegant Chateau Yering a heritage listed Victorian mansion set upon 250 acres bordering the Yarra River.

Sitting gracefully amongst magnificent century old gardens, Yering is a five star boutique hotel and a member of the prestigious international Relais & Chateau Association.

 Visitors from all over the world come for fine dining, superb antique interiors and exquisite service.

Guests are accommodated in 32 individually decorated suites filled with period furnishings, luxurious fabrics and rare object d’art not to mention extraordinary views over the river and countryside.  Most suites have their own sitting room, fire place and large marble bathroom.

The nice part about the hotel is that it never appears stiff and formal, rooms are warm and ambient.  In winter open fires are everywhere.

Fine dining and wine are a major part of the Chateau Yering experience and Executive Chef Mathew Macartney oversees an extraordinary menu in the signature Elenore’s Restaurant.

Mathew is an aficionado of all the wonderful local produce on offer in the Yarra Valley and uses whatever is freshest in his innovative seasonal menus.

It is autumn now and diners are looking to sample richer delights such as Yarra Valley Quail, Rabbit, Venison and Suckling Pig. 

Then of course there is always room for a magnificent desert from head pastry chef Adam Tippins.

Being in the heart of a major wine district, Chateau Yering also has an incomparable wine list and expert staff to guide you in the perfect choice.

Visitors wanting to explore the Yarra Valley will find Chateau Yering a handy base for heading off on self drive tours or the hotel staff can arrange for personal tours of all the local wineries for you.

If it is relaxation, elegance and fine food you are looking for you could not fault Chateau Yering for a week or a weekend getaway.

For more information on special offers and packages go to www.chateauyering.com.au