The Royal Mail Hotel’s newly refurbished cottages tick all the boxes. Stylish, check. Secluded, check. Immersed in nature and just a stone’s throw away from a two-hatted restaurant, check, check. 

Byrne Architects have given the Deluxe Mount Sturgeon One Bedroom Cottages a seriously stylish makeover. Paying homage to the cottages’ origins as shearers’ quarters, the 1850s bluestone walls have been retained and a palette of warm earthy tones, natural textiles and rich timber furnishings have been added to emulate the design of Western Victoria woolsheds. 

Just three kilometres from the main property and steps away from Grampians National Park – home to the largest number of significant and ancient Aboriginal rock art paintings and shelters in southern Australia – the cottages are not only luxurious, but also conveniently located. 

Nature lovers can explore the surrounding terrain through a range of walking adventures. Experienced hikers can embark on a 13 day/12 night journey along the Grampians Peaks Trail from the north to the south of the national park. Guided day tours are also available for those wanting a bite-size experience of the trail. 

Foodies will relish the proximity of the cottages to the Royal Mail Hotel’s hatted restaurant, Wickens. The executive chef at the helm is Robin Wickens. He takes full advantage of the 1.2-hectare kitchen garden, which makes up 80% of the produce showcased on various menus throughout the hotel. The Chefs Tasting menu changes frequently and is dictated by produce harvested daily. If you want to see Robin up close and in action, opt for the Chef’s Table located within the kitchen. 

The menu is paired with wines selected by the sommelier from the Royal Mail Hotel’s staggering 25,000 bottle wine cellar. Here, you’ll find the largest private collection of Bordeaux and Burgundy in the Southern Hemisphere. The sommelier hosts a guided comparative wine tasting in the cellar for just $25 per person.

We’ll drink to that. 

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