Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley

Yarra Glen -37.63272200, 145.40072700 , 1309 Melba Highway (Show on Map)
8.3
Very Good


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Summary of reviewsBalgownie Estate Yarra Valley is widely celebrated for its stunning location amidst the picturesque vineyards and serene countryside of the Yarra Valley. The hotel offers a tranquil retreat with a beautiful setting, ideal for relaxation and activities such as ballooning, wine tasting and exploring nearby attractions. Its strategic and convenient positioning makes it a preferred choice for various events, including weddings. Guests frequently praise the gorgeous outlook, peaceful environment and breathtaking sunset views.

Compliments are abundant for the breakfast experience with many commending the buffet's variety, quality, flavorful dishes and thoughtful catering to dietary requirements. Although there are some criticisms regarding limited options, coffee quality and occasional crowdedness, the overall enjoyment and deliciousness of the breakfast still stand out.

The dining experience at Balgownie Estate is noteworthy for its excellent food quality and exceptional service. Guests enjoy delicious, well-presented meals in a wonderful atmosphere, whether indoors or on the deck. The combination of wine tasting and dining further enhances the experience. However, a few guests find the pricing to be somewhat high and some menu combinations disappointing.

Rooms at Balgownie Estate offer spaciousness and comfort with amenities like spa baths and balconies adding to the enjoyment. Despite some inconsistencies in decor and cleanliness, the beautiful views and helpful staff contribute to an overall pleasant stay. Improvements in cleanliness and modernization could elevate the guest experience even more.

Cleanliness generally meets good standards with many guests describing the estate as very clean and well-maintained. However, sporadic lapses, such as dusty surfaces and dated amenities, highlight areas needing attention to enhance guest satisfaction.

The staff at Balgownie Estate receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Attentive and welcoming, they contribute significantly to the positive guest experience, despite occasional remarks about the need for better training in specific areas.

Despite the picturesque escape Balgownie Estate offers, the wifi service poses challenges with many guests reporting slow or non-existent connectivity. Managing expectations regarding internet use can help enhance the stay.

The spa facilities, including the Endota Spa, are appreciated for their relaxing atmosphere and treatments. Some guests, however, note that certain facilities are dated and could benefit from better maintenance.

The gym and pool facilities provide convenience and multiple options for relaxation and fitness. Feedback on the gym varies and the pool, while generally enjoyed, has room for improvement in maintenance and temperature consistency.

Parking options receive mixed reviews; while some praise the availability and spaciousness, others cite challenges such as difficulty navigating the driveway and the distance from rooms. Improvements here could enhance convenience.

Balgownie Estate is a great choice for family vacations, offering a kid-friendly environment and activities that children enjoy. However, it could benefit from more flexibility in catering to families' needs. Despite minor drawbacks, it remains an enjoyable venue for family stays.

Overall, Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley is lauded for its beautiful setting, excellent service and quality amenities with room for improvements in certain areas to enhance the guest experience further.
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Luxury Resort
Balgownie Estate offers luxury accommodation with 70 suites, including spa suites, set on 30 hectares with vineyard views. The estate features a 5-star Halliday-rated winery, a cellar door for tastings, a restaurant showcasing local produce, and an on-site Endota spa.

Resort near Vineyards
Located in the Yarra Valley, this resort provides luxurious accommodations amidst its seven-hectare vineyard dominated by Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vines. Wine tastings are complimentary at Yarra Valley Cellar Door, where the label's 50-year history comes to life through a selection of vintage wines charting the estate's journey.

Resort for Honeymoon
Located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, this resort offers luxurious accommodations amidst vineyards. It features wine tasting experiences, gourmet dining, and stunning views, perfect for a romantic and relaxing honeymoon.

Resort with Spa
Features spa services as part of its winery and resort offerings in the Yarra Valley.

Romantic Resort
Balgownie Estate offers a romantic vineyard escape in the Yarra Valley. The luxurious accommodations, wine tasting experiences, and scenic views create a perfect setting for couples.

Resort with Parking
Balgownie Estate offers complimentary self-parking onsite. The resort provides a spacious car park, ensuring convenient parking for guests.

Family Friendly Resort

Resort with Swimming Pool

  Heated Pool    Indoor Pool  


Business Resort

Accessible Resort

Resort with Gym

5-Star Resort

Resort with Indoor Pool

Resort with Heated Pool

Room Types
Standard Queen Room This room has a queen-size bed and has limited views.

King Room with Garden View This double room features fantastic garden views with ground floor access. It has a 42-inch flat-screen TV with satellite channels, as well as an en suite bathroom with a walk-in shower.

One-Bedroom Suite This spacious suite comprises 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. This suite is air-conditioned and features a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a private entrance, a minibar, a coffee machine, as well as a wardrobe. The unit offers 1 bed.

Superior Suite This spacious suite comes with 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. The air-conditioned suite features a flat-screen TV, a private entrance, a minibar, a coffee machine as well as mountain views. The unit has 1 bed.

Two-Bedroom Suite This spacious suite consists of 1 living room, 2 separate bedrooms and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. The air-conditioned suite provides a flat-screen TV, a private entrance, a minibar, a coffee machine as well as garden views. The unit offers 2 beds.

Director's Suite Featuring a private entrance, this air-conditioned suite consists of 1 living room, 2 separate bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower and a bath. The suite's kitchenette, which features a refrigerator and a microwave, is available for cooking and storing food. The spacious suite provides a flat-screen TV, a minibar, a coffee machine, a seating area as well as garden views. The unit offers 2 beds.

Premier Corner Suite Boasting a private entrance, this air-conditioned suite features 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and a bath. The spacious suite features a minibar, a coffee machine, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, as well as garden views. The unit has 1 bed.

Premier Two Bedroom Suite Boasting a private entrance, this air-conditioned suite features 1 living room, 2 separate bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower and a bath. The spacious suite features a minibar, a coffee machine, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, as well as garden views. The unit has 2 beds.

Deluxe Signature Suite Featuring a private entrance, this air-conditioned suite is comprised of 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and a bath. The spacious suite offers a flat-screen TV, a minibar, a coffee machine, a seating area as well as garden views. The unit offers 1 bed.

Signature Suite This spacious suite includes 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. The air-conditioned suite offers a flat-screen TV, a private entrance, a minibar, a coffee machine as well as garden views. The unit has 1 bed.

Guest Reviews
8.3
Very Good
Location
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley boasts a stunning location amidst picturesque vineyards and the serene Yarra Valley countryside. The hotel is lauded for its beautiful surroundings, offering guests a tranquil retreat perfect for relaxation. Visitors frequently mention the beautiful setting, ideal for activities such as ballooning, wine tasting and exploring nearby attractions like Healesville and Coldstream.

The property's location is not just scenic but also convenient, being close to other popular sites, public transport and wedding venues, making it a preferred choice for various events. The hotel's on-site facilities, including a restaurant with stunning vineyard views and well-maintained rooms, complement the beautiful setting.

Guests rave about the gorgeous outlook and peaceful environment, highlighting the superb sunset views and the overall ambiance. The blend of exquisite scenery and strategic positioning in the Yarra Valley makes Balgownie Estate a top choice for those seeking both beauty and convenience.

Breakfast
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley offers a breakfast experience that garners a mix of enthusiastic and critical reviews. Many guests praise the buffet breakfast for its variety, quality and flavorful dishes with adjectives like "amazing," "fantastic," and "sensational" frequently used. There's a consistent appreciation for the ample choices available, catering thoughtfully to dietary requirements and providing a satisfying self-service experience.

However, there are notable criticisms as well. Some guests found the buffet options limited with certain items not always available or fresh. Issues with the coffee service, including paper cups and subpar quality for an upscale venue, were mentioned frequently. The breakfast experience could also feel chaotic at times with instances of crowdedness due to external walk-in guests and some dishes served lukewarm or cold.

Overall, while the breakfast at Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley is often described as enjoyable and delicious, there's room for improvement in maintaining food temperature, enhancing coffee quality and managing the breakfast crowd more effectively.

Dinner
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley offers a dining experience that ranges from good to exceptional with many guests praising the restaurant’s food and service. Most reviews highlight that the food is consistently good with some describing it as amazing and fabulous. The restaurant itself is noted for being convenient with a short and pleasant walk from the rooms. Many guests enjoyed their evening meals, describing them as delicious, well-presented and superb.

Wine tasting and the dining experience together have been termed lovely and memorable and the combination of food quality and service has been frequently commended as exceptional. Several reviewers found the restaurant’s atmosphere wonderful whether dining inside or out on the deck.

However, a few guests felt the meals were overpriced or featured portions that were too small. Others mentioned that while the food was good, it wasn’t necessarily worth the high price and that some dishes or menu combinations were disappointing. Despite this, the restaurant’s overall setup, staff efficiency and quality standards maintain a generally high approval. Diners particularly enjoyed the wine tasting experience paired with their meals, enhancing the overall dining experience at the estate.

In essence, dining at Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley is lauded for its excellent service, high-quality food and delightful ambiance, although some guests find the pricing and menu items to be less than ideal.

Rooms
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley offers a mixed bag when it comes to their rooms. Many guests appreciated the spaciousness and comfort with some rooms boasting lovely, peaceful views and modern facilities. The larger rooms often featured commendable amenities like spa baths and balconies that added to the overall enjoyment.

However, the state of the rooms varied significantly. A number of guests felt that the decor was dated and in dire need of renovation with some areas showing signs of wear and tear. Cleanliness was another inconsistent factor, as several rooms were noted to be spotless while others had issues with insects, cobwebs and leftover debris from previous occupants. The temperature control in some rooms was also a point of contention with air conditioning needing improvement and some rooms being described as too hot or cold.

Despite these drawbacks, the overall spaciousness and comfort level, combined with beautiful views and helpful staff, made the stay enjoyable for many guests. The layout of the estate was user-friendly and the tranquility of the surroundings was a highlight for most visitors. Overall, the rooms at Balgownie Estate display potential but require attention to consistency in cleanliness and modernization to fully meet guest expectations.

Beds
Located in the picturesque Yarra Valley, Balgownie Estate offers a mixed experience when it comes to the comfort of its beds. The majority of guests have found the beds to be very comfortable, describing them as super comfy and pristine with many appreciating the sizeable and king-size options available. However, there are also several reviews pointing out less favorable aspects. Some guests felt that the beds were either too soft or too firm and a noticeable number indicated that the mattresses were worn out and in need of replacement.

While many visitors praised the beds as comfortable or even delightful, others had a less satisfactory experience, indicating that some beds were wobbly or just plain uncomfortable. The pillows also received mixed reviews with some guests finding them soft and supportive, while others described them as hard, flat or lumpy.

In terms of room cleanliness, many comments highlighted that the beds were kept clean, adding a positive note to the overall bed experience. However, for those particularly sensitive to the state of their sleeping arrangements, it’s worth noting that feedback regarding the mattresses and pillows varied considerably.

In summary, while Balgownie Estate provides comfort for many, the inconsistency in bed quality suggests that future guests might encounter varied experiences.

Cleanliness
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley receives mixed reviews regarding its cleanliness. On the positive side, many guests highlight the estate as very clean with rooms being consistently described as clean, comfortable, well-maintained and tidy. The facilities, including the pool and sauna, were also noted for their cleanliness. The serene, beautiful surroundings contributed to an overall relaxed and clean atmosphere that guests appreciated. Staff were praised for their attention to detail and excellent service, ensuring that rooms were spotlessly cleaned daily.

However, some guests pointed out areas needing improvement. Issues such as dusty surfaces, mold in bathrooms and on curtains, stained furniture and dirty grouting were mentioned. Several reviews noted that certain amenities, like the pool and shower areas, required better upkeep. Specific complaints included the presence of cobwebs, insects and musty odors in some rooms. While the property is beautiful and stylish, some rooms appeared dated and in need of renovation.

In summary, while Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley generally manages to uphold good standards of cleanliness, there are sporadic lapses that necessitate attention for an enhanced guest experience.

Staff
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley has received numerous accolades for its staff and their exceptional service. Guests frequently highlight the friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism of the hotel team. From the reception to the housekeeping, staff members have been deemed attentive, welcoming and accommodating. The restaurant and cellar door staff were particularly praised for their excellent service and willingness to cater to specific needs, making dining experiences enjoyable and personalized.

The reception staff often received commendations for their efficient and pleasant check-in process, although there were occasional remarks about the need for better training and communication. Despite this, most guests felt warmly received and well-assisted during their stay. Staff members across the board were regularly described as polite, lovely and wonderful with some going above and beyond to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

While a few critiques were pointed out regarding certain areas, such as the need for more training and a few instances of unfriendliness, the overwhelming majority of reviews reflect a high standard of customer service. Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley seems to attract a team that embodies genuine hospitality, contributing significantly to the overall positive guest experience.

Wi-Fi
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley offers a picturesque escape with its serene surroundings and luxurious ambiance. However, for those who rely heavily on internet connectivity during their stay, the wifi may pose some challenges. Guests have reported issues with connecting to the wifi with many mentioning that the service was slow and at times non-existent. Streaming movies or using on-demand services can be particularly problematic, often resulting in freezing or glitchy playback.

While the accommodations and environment are clean and well-kept, the lack of efficient wireless details and consistent internet reception suggests that those needing reliable wifi may face frustrations. For assistance, contacting reception might provide some solutions, but overall, managing expectations regarding internet use could help enhance the stay at this otherwise beautiful estate.

Spa
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley offers a variety of spa amenities that have received mixed reviews from guests. The on-site Endota Spa is often praised for its lovely facilities and relaxing atmosphere. Treatments, particularly the remedial massages, have been highlighted as terrific and very relaxing experiences. The presence of spa baths and jacuzzis in several rooms has been noted as a standout feature with guests appreciating the relaxation these amenities provide, especially with views.

However, some guests found the spa facilities to be dated and smaller than anticipated. Issues such as cleanliness and maintenance have been reported with remarks on the steam room and pool area needing attention and safety checks. The layout of certain spa suites poses challenges, particularly for seniors and some features, like spa baths, have been described as potentially dangerous.

Despite these criticisms, the overall experience, including the convenience of having spa facilities and a restaurant within walking distance, adds a touch of luxury to the stay. Guests also enjoyed supplementary activities such as wine tasting, further enriching their visit to Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley.

Gym
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley offers a diverse range of amenities, including a gym and indoor pool, which many guests appreciate for their convenience during their stay. Descriptions of the gym vary with some remarking on its well-equipped nature and others noting its basic setup. The gym has received mixed feedback regarding cleanliness and maintenance with some guests finding it adequate and clean, while others felt it was more worn down and not up to their expectations. Despite these variations, the inclusion of gym, sauna and spa facilities does add to the appeal of the estate, providing guests with multiple options for relaxation and fitness. Overall, guests enjoy the array of facilities available even if some areas could benefit from closer attention to maintenance and cleanliness.

Pool
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley offers an indoor pool that has garnered mixed reviews from guests. Many visitors appreciated the pool for being clean and pleasant and found that it provided a nice spot to relax. Some guests mentioned that the pool area, while small, was always clean and featured nice views. The inclusion of towels was a convenient touch and children enjoyed playing in the pool, which helped keep them entertained.

However, several guests noted that the pool could benefit from some much-needed attention and updates. Issues such as a flaking surface, outdated facilities and a run-down appearance were commonly cited. The pool's temperature was another point of contention with complaints about it being too cold, especially in winter and inconsistent heating.

Despite these shortcomings, many guests still found the pool adequate and enjoyable, though the consensus suggests that a refurbishment could significantly enhance the overall experience. The gym and pool area were deemed basic, but functional, contributing to an overall mixed yet generally satisfactory experience for most visitors.

Parking
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley offers various parking options, but guests have mixed experiences. While some praise the ease and availability of parking, describing it as good, spacious and free, others find parking facilities lacking. Instances include the car park being a long walk from the rooms, inadequate allocation to specific room locations and difficulty navigating the narrow driveway. Some guests admitted to struggling with parking during the night and noted a need for more slots. Additionally, the presence of air conditioning pumps and slate steps leading to the units further complicates the parking experience for some. Despite these challenges, the central spot and main car park view receive a positive mention, highlighting the beautiful surroundings. Overall, while Balgownie Estate provides ample parking, improvements could enhance convenience and accessibility for all visitors.

Family
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley presents itself as a great family base for an excellent vacation. Guests enjoyed multiple visits and plan to keep coming back due to its kid-friendly environment and safe family-friendly setup. Children appreciated activities like swimming in family-close pools and relaxing baths, making it a wonderful destination for family stays. However, while many found it to be a nice and safe kid-friendly hotel, some felt that it's not entirely set up for families and could benefit from more flexibility. Additionally, there were mixed reviews about the food with one mentioning the whole family didn't like it. Despite some minor drawbacks, overall, Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley is seen as an enjoyable venue for family vacations, supported by happy and friendly staff.

5 Star
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley has received commendations for its exceptional five-star service with staff members delivering top-notch, attentive care that guests have found wonderful and luxurious. The resort's rooms and facilities consistently meet high-quality five-star expectations, providing guests with a pristine and luxe experience.

The hotel's restaurant, bar and wine tastings are frequently highlighted as excellent with an exceptional wine selection and complimentary tastings adding to the appeal. The overall ambience of the estate feels like a true five-star retreat with many guests appreciating the seasonal attractions and the value offered for a smart escape.

However, a few guests noted issues such as cleanliness not meeting five-star standards and the need for better quality mattresses. Comparisons were made between the experience of four-star and higher-rated stays, indicating room for improvement to reach a consistent five-star experience. Despite these minor setbacks, Balgownie Estate largely delivers a high-value, luxurious experience that guests would likely return to.

Accessible
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley demonstrates effort in providing accessible features for guests with disabilities. Guests noted that the shower was accessible and the room itself was suitably accessible. However, there were several areas that required improvement. The spa suite and accessible room lacked suitability for seniors and those with disabilities, respectively. Additionally, access throughout the estate, particularly in terms of car parking, was not deemed fully supportive. Enhanced lighting on stairs and improved facilities in the disabled unit's shower were also highlighted as areas needing attention. Overall, while there are some positive aspects regarding accessibility, the hotel could benefit from further modifications to better support elderly and disabled guests.

Heated Pool
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley offers a swimming pool experience featuring a separate heated pool and a steam room. Many guests noted that although a heated pool is available, it occasionally needs better temperature regulation. While some found the pool to be heated and convenient, others mentioned that it was not as warm as expected or even freezing at times. Overall, despite the inconsistent heating, the pool and related amenities provide an enjoyable addition to the stay.

Indoor Pool
The indoor pool at Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley offers a mixed experience for guests. Some guests describe the pool as awesome and consider it a significant bonus to their stay, particularly appreciating the provision of fresh towels. However, other reviews indicate areas for improvement, mentioning that the overall quality of the gym and pool facilities is more basic than expected. Concerns were also raised about missing heating walls, suggesting room for enhancements in comfort and usability. While it has its merits, the pool clearly has potential for upgrades to meet the expectations of all visitors.

Honeymoon
Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley offers an exceptional experience for honeymooners. It provides a great high-end stay perfect for romantic getaways. Guests can enjoy an excellent honeymoon package enhanced with special touches that make the moments even more memorable. The estate's focus on creating a romantic atmosphere ensures couples feel pampered on their special trip.

Luxury
Often described as a luxury estate, Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley offers a range of experiences catering to guests seeking opulence and romance. Many guests found their rooms to be luxurious, adorned with high-end fixtures and fittings. The estate is likened to a five-star resort, providing an environment that feels like a traditional retreat with modern amenities.

However, there are mixed reviews about the overall standards of luxury. While some highlight the opulent setting and the availability of a spa which adds to the romantic vibe, others felt the rooms were outdated and did not match their expectations of luxury. The affordability of the estate could be misleading for some, resulting in a pricing that doesn’t always align with the perceived value. Certain elements like the mattress quality have also been cited as needing improvement to meet the luxury standard.

Overall, Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley has a lot to offer in terms of a luxurious experience, though there seems to be room for enhancements to satisfy every guest's expectation of a high-end stay.

Romantic
Nestled in a lovely location, Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley offers an enchanting backdrop perfect for a romantic weekend away. Guests repeatedly emphasize the relaxing atmosphere and romantic ambiance, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking passionate escapes. With private rooms and intimate surprises, the estate provides a great place for those special moments. Whether it's through a romance package featuring rose petals and candles in the spa bath or a delightfully prepared couple's breakfast, the attention to detail does not go unnoticed.

The garden terrace provides a serene setting for couples to unwind while enjoying the beauty of the resort. The suites, particularly well-suited for anniversaries, boast a perfect ambiance for celebrating love. While some guests note there are better times to visit with a partner, the overall experience remains enchanting and full of romantic extras. The effort put into creating a romantic atmosphere is palpable, ensuring guests enjoy an ecstatic, leisurely stay. For those desiring a heartfelt romantic getaway, Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley stands out as a top choice.


Yes, Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Heated Pool, Indoor Pool.

Yes, a spa is available at Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley.

No, Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley doesn't allow dogs.

Yes, parking facilities are available at Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley.

Yes, Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley has a gym.

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