Great Escapes

Story in Lifestyle section of Marie Clare

If the past few months have proved anything, it’s that there’s no place like home. The land of Oz is exactly where we want to be right now, and as the country reopens after lockdown, we’re excited to see a little more of it. This month, we’re gathering the friends and family we’ve been missing, and road-tripping to next-level holiday houses, such as Dairy Flat Farm & Lodge, Victoria.

Dairy Flat Farm & Lodge, Musk, Vic

This working farm is the brainchild of the team behind Victorian destination-dining institution the Lake House. Set among rolling hills, vegetable gardens, vineyards, olive groves and orchards, it feels totally removed from city life, even though it’s only a 90-minute drive from Melbourne. The Lodge is like a real-life storybook, where geese wander garden paths, flowers are freshly cut, and supermarket spit guards are far away. There is accommodation for up to 12 guests and an in-house cellar so you don’t go thirsty (guests are treated to a bottle of wine in their room each day). The kitchen garden is an abundant source of produce for the award-winning restaurant at sister property the Lake House, which is known for its hyper-seasonal menu. On site there’s also a bakehouse, which produces slow-fermented sourdough treats for guests to graze on throughout the day. Visit dairyflatfarmdaylesford.com.au