Ever wish you had friends with a stylish beach house overlooking the ocean, just moments to wineries and restaurants? Well now you do...
Arriving at Starhaven Retreat on the Victoria's Bellarine Peninsula, you're warmly welcomed by hosts Ian and Rob and into a haven that's like no other bed & breakfast you're likely to experience.
Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, but feeling a million miles away; Starhaven Retreat looms large in the residential street opposite Half Moon Bay. Grand is the right word for it and it's not surprising to learn the house was featured on Season One of Grand Designs Australia. The impressive architectural elements and design make the most of the seaside location.
There are 5 rooms at Starhaven Retreat including the indulgent Haven Suite, which boasts a private spa with infinity bath, two person steam shower, private lounge with fireplace and balcony, ideal for a romantic getaway or special occasion. All rooms are incredibly private, with your own secure coded entry and the retreat is adults only, so you won't be disturbed by little ones.
I'm booked into a Star Suite a spacious room with king bed, free wifi, 3D LED flatscreen TV, on demand movies via Apple TV, sitting area and private balcony. The modern, private en-suite is also stocked with L'Occitane amenities and there are fluffy bathrobes to relax in during your stay. The room also features a walk-in-wardrobe, mini-bar fridge, tea & coffee making facilities and complimentary bottled water. The beds are exceptionally good quality; it was like sleeping on a cloud. I may never leave...
Breakfast is the main event, a chance to connect with fellow travellers and chat with your hosts over a scrumptious meal. There's a continental breakfast buffet, displaying a selection of fruits, cereals to choose from and hot breakfast cooked to order. With all the special touches, it's clear to see Ian and Rob's extensive hospitality experience shine through.
Lazily lift access takes you between the three floors of Starhaven Retreat and this B&B offers the lot! On the lower level you'll find a jet stream swim spa and sauna, bar lounge adjacent to a "Gold Class" style 15-seat cinema with starlit ceiling and a wide range of movies to choose from. I opt for a glass of local wine and settle in for a chat with my amiable hosts as they share local tips and recommendations about the region.
The Bellarine Peninsula boasts a spectacular coastline and some award-winning wineries making it the perfect destination for a mini-break. Just 10 minutes drive from Starhaven Retreat you'll find Jack Rabbit Vineyard, Terindah Estate and Bellarine Estate. Jack Rabbit Vineyard is a must visit destination on the Bellarine with unrivalled views across the bay to Geelong. In addition to cellar door wine tasting, there is a café, restaurant and gourmet gift store.
A further 20 minutes and you'll arrive at Geelong, a city with soul and character. My favourite discovery was Little Malop St, a cool laneway filled with boutiques, cafes and hipster hangouts. Not to be missed is a visit to Geelong Cellar Door, a small wine bar specialising in local wines and charcuterie boards to die for! Set in a beautifully restored corner building it feels like New York meets Paris with soaring high ceilings, bentwood chairs, leather Chesterfield couches to sink into and a wall of wine. Friendly and knowledgeable staff can guide you through the vast selection and takeaway sales are available too.
Continue your exploration by picking up a copy of the Bellarine Taste Trail, a guide to over 40 unique food and wine destinations including farmgate producers, provedores, boutique wineries, beer and ciders and award-winning cafes and restaurants.
Back at Starhaven, the retreat has plenty of quiet sitting areas to curl up with a good book as well as a billiard table if you're feeling more competitive. A stay at Starhaven Retreat is full of charm and style with plenty on offer in the region to discover and explore. We're definitely planning a return visit to visit our friends and their fabulous beach house.
Starhaven Retreat
13 Calimo Place, Indented Head, Bellarine Peninsula VIC 3223
Book at Starhaven Retreat here.
