It doesn’t have the same ring to it as One Night in Bangkok, but one night in Queenscliff is just as enjoyable and probably a little closer to home for most of you (except Marissa).

After a spectacular afternoon at the Jack Rabbit Vineyard (yes, I will keep going on about it. Had the Pinot last night. Divine.), we continued on to Barwon Heads for a quick look in the shops (Annie’s Provodore was a favourite, as was the Kiitos – Living by Design homewares store) before checking into our accomodation for the night, the Big4 Bellarine. 

Kiitos – Living By Design @ Barwon Heads

Our blogging group was split into two households – Marianne and Iolanthe making up house one, while Leeyong, Sarah and I bunked in house two; gorgeous little cabins right next door to each other. Complete with deck (and table and chairs), kitchenette/living, 3 bedrooms and a bathroom, our home away from home was super cosy and comfortable.

Sarah and I outside our cabin at the BIG4Bellarine. Image thanks to Leeyong and Style Wilderness

Sophie and her husband Tim, owners of the Big4 Bellarine, made us feel right at home, with magazines specifically choosen for our tastes on the kitchen counter, together with a welcoming note and a breakfast basket. With the heater on and a cup of tea, we were all quite happy to curl up on the couch and have some ‘me’ time, until our stomachs got the better of us and the thought of a gourmet dinner at the Vue Grand enticed us out into the cool night. 

The Vue Grand is a beautiful building right in the heart of Queenscliff, a historic hotel and restaurant quite famous locally and beyond for their boutique beers and exceptional food. We certainly had a dining experience and a half, with Sarah and Marianne opting for their five course tasting menu, while Iolanthe, Leeyong and I ordered from the a la carte menu.

Greenvale Pork Shoulder, Loin and Belly with Pickled Rhubarb, Cider Gel and Crackle

The dining room was opulent and luxurious, the kind of place couples celebrate wedding anniversaries or friends toast a promotion. The experience was indeed, grand.

For entree, I ordered the Zucchini Flowers with Drysdale Haloumi, Barberries, Pistachio and Spicy Onion and this was served with quinoa to accomodate my dietary requirements, and for main, the Greenvale Pork Shoulder, Loin and Belly with Pickled Rhubarb, Cider Gel and Crackle. Yummy, although I probably could have used something green to accompany all that meat!

We left after the rest of the girls enjoyed dessert (I was stuffed!) and when we got back to the Big4, I fell asleep just as soon as my head hit the pillow.

The Big4 Bellarine has some great Winter specials for couples and families. Check them out!