australian PLACES...great weekends away in Victoria
accommodation review
MERTON MANOR
WARRNAMBOOL
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Any time is a good time to head down the Great Ocean Road – over winter and spring the roads are quieter, the (eight) Twelve Apostles stand resolute in calm seas or storm, and southern right whales make an appearance at Warrnambool.
On the inland edge of Warrnambool, Merton Manor is a beautifully restored Italianate villa that has operated as a bed and breakfast property for several years now. There are six luxurious mews-style guest rooms (exterior, see bottom left) adjoining the main residence, each with separate entrance. This arrangement works well because it gives guests quiet privacy in their own suite and yet they’re welcome in the manor to use the guest lounge (pictured, second left), billiard room with full-size table, and music room complete with grand piano. Off street carparking.
Guest suites have their own lounge with stereo and TV, separate bedroom (picture 3) with queen bed, ensuite with shower and spa, plus all those little extras like tea and coffee making, complimentary port and chocolates, homemade biscuits, and quality soaps in the bathroom. They’re immaculately maintained, air-conditioned and heated.
Merton Manor scores well in the morning, too. Adhering to an essential bed and breakfast tradition, guests are served an excellent cooked breakfast in the manor’s grand dining room, and it’s sure to provide ample energy for a day’s exploring. Your hosts are long-term locals Pamela and Ivan, who can point the way the Warrnambool’s myriad attractions such as Logan’s Beach for whale watching, fascinating Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, Thunder Point coastal reserve, penguins, art gallery, cafés and restaurants. The nearby colonial villages of Port Fairy and Koroit are worth visiting too.
My last visit in May 2007 confirms Merton Manor has maintained high standards. The gardens are beautiful, especially if you're a rose lover, and there are places here to relax with a cup of tea in country-fresh air. Merton is a very comfortable base for touring this fascinating town and historic, scenic region.
WHERE: 62 Ardlie Street, Warrnambool, 265km west of Melbourne via Princes Hwy. It’s a three hour drive direct, but seven hours with sightseeing via Great Ocean Road.
HOW MUCH: $160 per couple, bed and full breakfast. Mention Australian Places when booking and receive a complimentary bottle of regional wine in your room on arrival.
CONTACT: phone (03)5562 0720
copyright PETER ROBINSON 2007 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED