Lon Retreat & Spa

Lon Retreat, Point Lonsdale, Victoria, Australia - Hotel Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Set the scene. A long, winding driveway leads to farm fields and a collection of sandstone buildings on the Bellarine Peninsula, outside Melbourne. There’s the rush of the surf. The sense of space. Inside is a wood-burning stove and smooth concrete walls that contrast with timber ceiling panels and hand-made furniture. You’ll spot lights crafted from ostrich eggs, wallpaper inspired by indigenous artists, heirloom vegetables on the plate, and local gin in the honesty bar. What's the story? With more than 200 acres of rural and conservation land, tucked away on a hillside by the ocean, this place—once the orchard—has been in the Gemes’ family for more than 100 years and across six generations. It was always Claire Gemes’ dream to turn it into a home-hotel they could share; and this is exactly what she’s done, spending two years on the project—her father-in-law was the architect and the whole family was involved. What can we expect in our room? The Alto Suite is the pick of the bunch; though all seven rooms are atmospheric—each named after a cloud—with sunset views of the woolly farm land, dunes and ocean. Hot mineral springs are fed directly into your bath. With a private balcony—complete with barbecue, it goes without saying—you can settle in for several days. Windows frame views over the fields and woodland. How about the food and drink? There’s no restaurant yet—though one is in the pipeline—so breakfast baskets are left in each suite (banana bread, yogurt, granola), and you can order in dinner-style platters (simply cooked vegetables from the garden, cheeses, wines and beers) in the evening if you don't feel like venturing out. Anything to say about the service? Vivacious and passionate, Claire greets guests like old-time friends, warmly welcoming everyone and happily sharing local recommendations. Check-in is casual, efficient and friendly (and if you're lucky, involves one of Claire's mother's freshly baked muffins), setting the tone for the days ahead. Who comes here? Overworked urbanites in jeans and loose linen looking to slow down and recharge. How does it fit into the region? Five minutes’ drive from Point Lonsdale, it overlooks farmland and ocean, with Lake Victoria not far away. The Bellarine peninsula is, like the Mornington peninsula across the bay, making a name for itself as a foodie escape for weekending Melburnians—head to Merne at Lighthouse or Igni diner to tap into local menus. Anything else we should know? The private walkway down to the beach is great for early evening walks up to the lighthouse. And there’s a spa, tapping into the natural waters with jet massages, mineral soaks and body scrubs. Children are not allowed; this is an adults-only affair. And anything you'd change? An on-site restaurant will elevate the food experience a whole lot further. Views away from the sea overlook a newish housing development, so best not to look. Is it worth it—and why? Lon Retreat is an incredibly warm, welcoming escape surrounded by nature—and a quick and easy drive from Melbourne." - Georgia Hopkins