Fodor's Expert Review Chateau Yering

Once an 1850s homestead, whose grounds later became the Yarra Valley's first vineyard, this luxury hotel features opulent suites that have antique furniture and deep claw-foot or spa bathtubs. On the weekends, non-guests can take high tea in the beautiful Drawing Room (from A$79, reservations essential), or drop in for coffee and cake in its Sweetwater café, and the hotel also hosts the upscale Eleonore's Restaurant ($$$). The splendid Yering Suite, up its own private staircase in the original building, has a magnificent and original antique half-tester bed, but uninterrupted valley views are best from the six Yarra Suites, which all feature wraparound balconies. If you enjoy lofty sightseeing, add a balloon ride over the Yarra Valley to one of the packages, which can include golf, massages, and private tastings.