australian PLACES...great weekends away in Victoria
accommodation review
KOENDIDDA
COUNTRY HOUSE B&B at BARNAWARTHA, near Chiltern
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When I first visited Koendidda many years ago it was a fantastic combination of classy accommodation in a gracious heritage mansion, and had marvellous hosts. Set in a scenic swathe of countryside with no passing traffic, it made for a tranquil, relaxing time.
I'm pleased to report that today, things are very much the same. Now hosted by the very capable Sharon Cook, who took the reins early in 2008, Koendidda is once again scoring top points with guests. Sharon is a talented chef, with years of experience running the vaunted Bank Restaurant in Beechworth - so not only is breakfast a treat, but if you stay in for dinner you'll be well pleased.
This lovely 1855 Georgian-style house is set in hectares of park-like gardens, far from the nearest town, yet central to some of the state’s best wineries and most intact Gold Rush heritage.
The four bedrooms (all upstairs) are a generous size, although for that extra romantic splurge many will find the suite, with its own lounge, is worth paying a bit more. Guest rooms are very comfortable, with the best linen and antique style furnishings, and beds are either queen or king size. All have ensuite facilities with shower, and one has a bath.
The upstairs hallway opens to a broad verandah which has coffee tables and chairs, perfect for an afternoon cuppa.
Downstairs is a guest lounge, dining room and a smaller sitting room with couches, chairs and antique furnishings, entirely befitting the heritage house. Books and magazines are there for guests to browse.
Sharon sources much of her produce from the best in the region, and has accepted the challenge to create the same gourmet fare that deliciously marked her abilities in Beechworth. Dinners are served in the formal dining room at one large table, although a second dining room can be used for more private dinners.
Breakfast might be berry pancakes, or fresh free-range eggs (from Sharon's hens) with all the trimmings, but a long stroll of the gardens or country lanes is recommended to work up an appetite before taking on dinner. Koendidda's gardens are an absolute delight, in spite of the drought. It is landscaped with a demi-forest of deciduous European and native Australian trees which host dozens of bird species.
MENTION AUSTRALIAN PLACES WHEN BOOKING AND RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY BOTTLE OF REGIONAL PORT WINE
WHERE:: Pooley’s Road, Barnawartha. Five minutes from the Hume Freeway - look for Barnawartha turnoff past Chiltern, turn right on the freeway overpass. 270km or a little over three hours from Melbourne.
HOW MUCH: Rates from $235 per room for bed and full breakfast. Dinner is $70 per person, a fine selection of regional wine is available.
CONTACT: (03) 5728 2223
Last reviewed April 2008