Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley

We dined in Restaurant 1309, which was absolutely magnificent! The meal was 10 out 10, as were the views, choice of wine, etc., etc. Also had room service one night, which we couldn't fault. We stayed in the spa suite, which combined with a balcony overlooking the Yarra Valley, was very very good accommodation.

Only slight negative, was the day before we dined at 1309, we were offered to pick a table of our choice. However on the night we dined at 1309, the table we had selected was given to a "wedding tasting". Disappointing and while we understand, would've been good to have been notified of this change before we were led to the alternative table, i.e. we had to ask the waitress about our table before being advised.

The location was superb . The Cellar Door wine tasting was the best we did out of 5 in the Yarra Valley . The Reception staff were really friendly , efficient and helpful . The rooms were spacious and well -equipped .

The housekeeping was not as good as one would expect from a hotel of this quality with tea bags, ,milk etc not being replenished We were amazed to be charged for bottled water after our first night ! The pool area was disappointingly small with no room for lounging and the jet swim area too narrow to swim against the jet .

The arrival process was good and the suite excellent. The buildings were attractive and the estate was beautiful. We had a post-check-in snack lunch and were looked after by a marvelous lady with tremendous local knowledge. The food was of a pleasantly high order. Our afternoon wine tasting was conducted in an engaging and friendly manner.

The open plan of the public areas left us to a rather chilly evening. The bar service was poor, to say the least. The bar, which was clearly visible to many staff members nearby, was unattended for about ten minutes after we sat there and all customers (being three parties) were thus not served. Only a foray by a lady patron to "call" someone saw anyone arrive. Thereafter, we were ignored by staff for a long period (despite only two parties of two each being there at that stage). The bar "closed" early and without notice, because, we were told, the bar attendant had already "wiped down" the surfaces. Nonetheless we were given drinks and sent to sit in the hotel foyer by reception. It was ghastly.

It was a beautiful location, relaxing atmosphere

It was not overly supportive of elderly people with walkers. They changed our room to a ground level but it was a steep walk to the room which was a challenge. I was not offered any reimbursement for the room difference - deluxe spa room to a ground room - I was greatful that they could change the room but there was no discussion about if there was a $ disparity The shower was not able to be positioned it kept falling to the wall. A hand held shower head would have been easier as well

The bedroom, bathroom and living room were really spacious. We were also able to park really close to the room which was really helpful. The restaurant and spa was walking distance away. We had an amazing dinner at the restaurant - definitely recommend booking a table there. Breakfast was also amazing. Will definitely come back one day!

Nothing in particular. Would've been nice to be able to book a massage at the spa but we booked our stay last minute so understandable that they were booked out.

The buffet breakfast was amazing! the smoothies were both delish and the selection of food was on point! everything we tried and ate tasted perfect. My partner and kids as well as myself loved the room, the kids loved the bath and the view from the balcony was breathtaking! i also loved the location, the surrounding area was definitely a sight!

Nothing to complain about really. from the car park to process check in and then checking out-everything was perfect and i wouldnt want anything changed.

Room was perfect for our young family. My kids loved the in room spa bath and the view was gorgeous. The restaurant was stunning and we all enjoyed our meals.

The kids menu at the restaurant was a little too fancy for our kids. A couple of good options but perhaps some more standard kids options would have been great too. The internal door of the two bedroom apartment would automatically lock. Potentially hardardous if staying with young keys, you could get locked out inside the apartment.

The breakfast was amazing! What a spread, something for every tastebud! The spa bath was super relaxing. Exciting to hear about more renovations on the older rooms. We came a few years ago when the restaurant was still in a marquee and it was really cool to see the new building completed. You can stand and look over the vineyard and feel worlds away.

The room with the spa bath had an amazing view but it meant the bedroom was right near the door so depending on your neighbours, could be a bit noisy hearing them go in and out. Would have been nice to have something for the bath (e.g. salts or bubbles etc).

Balgownie is situated in a fantastic spot, a stone’s throw away from the Chocolaterie and about a 10 min drive away from Healesville and other surrounding towns. The rooms are extremely comfortable, with the bed a particular highlight. I’d recommend booking the spa suite, because the spa was a fantastic addition to the ambience. The TV was also stocked with a wide variety of free movies, which you don’t always get, so that was fantastic. Staff were, in general, very helpful and attentive.

The room you get at the hotel is critical, as a lot of the rooms don’t have particularly redeeming views, as they are blocked by shrubs, pathways etc. The restaurant was pretty underwhelming - dinner at 1309 was just okay, and the breakfast buffet seemed a little rushed. Almost all the hot food was cold. You can’t fault the decor, though. A lovely spot with some beautiful views of the vineyards. The pool and gym area seems very outdated, and isn’t really worth your time. Despite being a nice stay, you don’t really get your value for money. Definitely overpriced.

Excellent Dinner with great wine list. Very Good Breakfast. A fabulous wine tasting experience. Most friendly and courteous staff. Great and large bathroom. Room could do wth a makeover. TV old Flat screen. Bushes hide the very little view from the window. A coffee machine is almost standard nowadays instead of a kettle and Moccona sachets. Otherwise it was great stay with great staff.

No view and window very small and bushes hid the little view that could have been available. Kettle and instant coffee. A coffee machine would have been nice. TV a bit dated. A larger smart TV would have been nice.