OUT OF TOWN THE MELBOURNE

Within a morning's drive are rugged beaches facing the southern ocean, idyllic mountains where villages really know how to turn it on for the tourist, vineyards and wineries where world class wines are ready for sampling at the cellar door.

Major tourist attractions abound – the wonderful animal sanctuary at Healesville, the hilarious penguin parade on Phillip Island, the blood-and-guts re-enactment of the Gold Rush at Ballarat's Sovereign Hill.

There are rolling hills and endless beaches along the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas, green valleys and forbidding mountains in the higher reaches of the Yarra; fascinating old towns where gold was won in the nearby Central Highlands.

Wherever you go you'll find sophisticated hotels, resorts, spas, wineries and restaurants.

Moonlight Head - Moonlight Head private lodge is a must-do experienced for the luxury traveller. As well as the spectacular location, on over 40 hectares of Australian bush and farmland on the mid-point along the Great Ocean Road, Moonlight Head offers an impressive array of services including fishing, golf, scenic helicopter tours, hikes, wreck dives and winery tours. Guests can take out a BMW, Mercedes coupe or Ducatti motorbike to explore the Great Ocean Road and included in the price, is a personal chef, concierge and housekeeper.

Chateau Yering - This five-star luxury hotel with has been accepted into the prestigious international "Relais and Chateaux" association. The heritage listed Victorian mansion is set on 250 acres and borders the Yarra River and is set amidst established gardens dating from 1854. The luxury period accommodation and award winning Eleonore's Restaurant boast some of the best rural vistas in Victoria, whilst the lounges and sitting room are a showcase for fine paintings and antique furniture. The accommodation at Chateau Yering consists of 32 suites individually decorated with different colour schemes. Word has spread quickly of the high standard of food and accommodation. They also do helicopter transfers to and from the airport or city.

Meringa Springs - Meringa Springs provides five star resort accommodation adjacent to the Grampians National Park, catering to the needs of guests in a picturesque and unique environment. The hotel, which is perched on a hilltop with sweeping views, has five boutique rooms and villas, as well as the 'chic' main lodge, which has the licensed Sunset Bar and offers fine contemporary cuisine in Windows restaurant. The villas have king-size beds, double spas, double showers, tea and coffee making equipment, air-conditioning, mini-bar, fridge and quality TV/DVD audio equipment.

Chocolate Gannets (Apollo Bay – Great Ocean Rd) - 5 star luxury accommodation - Only 2 ½ hours drive south west from Melbourne, on the Great Ocean Road, directly opposite a beautiful sandy beach. Set on 100 acres surrounded by rolling country side yet only about 2.5 kilometres from the Apollo Bay restaurants and cafes, just 30-40 minute walk along the beach into town.

Balinese Retreat, Yarra Valley - An exclusive private hideaway for two. Guests enter their little piece of paradise through the outer pavilion along a walkway lit by 24 Balinese lanterns. The accommodation offers a romantic and opulent bedroom featuring a king size opium bed, and a stunning en-suite bathroom with a sunken jade mosaic-tiled pool of water complete with spa. Guests can pamper themselves with in-house massages and an array of spa therapies, including Sodashi - a 100% natural, chemical free skin care range designed to nourish and rejuvenate the skin. Guests can enjoy an exotic Thai banquet in the 'bale' – a private thatched pavilion located in the middle of the rear water garden. Or they can choose to simply relax in the room on the Balinese day beds while their personal chef prepares a stunning Thai inspired fine dining experience for two.

The Lakehouse, Daylesford - A small luxury hotel on the shores of Lake Daylesford - 90 minutes from Melbourne. Features award winning restaurant and 10,000 bottle cellar, breathtaking views, boutique accommodation and the state of the art Salus Day Spa. The Spa and Restaurant are open to residential guests as well as day visitors. The Lake House property includes, meeting and event facilities.