GETTING THERE
I am sure you’ve heard the saying, “It’s the journey that counts, not the destination”. Well in the case of Sagres Queenscliff – it’s both!
We arrived in Melbourne and decided to take the scenic route, driving towards the Mornington Peninsula, enjoying the coastal roads and stopping along the way at some of the beautiful beaches, cafés, wineries, restaurants and hilltop vantage points with panoramic views looking back over the city skyline of Melbourne across the bay – all the way until we reached the car ferry that departs Sorrento hourly, heading straight for Queenscliff on the Bellarine Peninsula.
The ferry is a very relaxing way to put kilometres behind you as you sit and sip on a coffee (or wine depending on the hour) and look out for any dolphins playing in the ships wake. Arriving in Queenscliff is like stepping back in time. The borough of Queenscliff is littered with historical highlights; from the (still operating) 150 year old steam train to the military barracks and relics left on display – with routes back to 1853, Queenscliff’s main street has been very well preserved and a stroll along the shop front, admiring the antiques in the store windows while enjoying Australia’s #1 award winning pie, is a must.
THE HOUSE
There is no other word to explain Sagres Queenscliff other than; Spectacular!
The very private gates open to a long winding driveway, bordered by trees and flowers, passing the stunning pool – to the main entrance of the 3 storey luxury house.
Bathed in light, Sagres is a gem on the coastline of Queenscliff, nestled above the sand dunes of Nuns beach, making you feel as though you are on the sand. Overlooking the channel of Port Phillip Bay, an array of interesting vessels sailing by, directed by the busy pilot boats as they guide container ships, cruise ships and of course the beloved “Spirit of Tassie” in and out of the heads. The one that really stood out was the Spirit of Tasmania departing Victoria in the evening, lit up like a Christmas tree as it gracefully cruised through the silk waters of a stormless night out to sea.
Sagres itself has 5 bedrooms, 2 luxurious bedrooms upstairs, which you’ll have to toss a coin for as the view from the floor to ceiling – wall to wall – windows is to die for. We opted to keep the curtains open throughout the night. There are also 3 spacious bedrooms downstairs, along with a large rumpus room for the kids to lose themselves in. And no details have been spared in the modern bathrooms; including premium products by Leif, towels by Quoin and lust-worthy Turkish bath robes.
The stunning entertainment area is on the mid-level of the house, with an open kitchen and outdoor space for large groups to enjoy. The setting couldn’t have been more perfect for 6 adults and 8 grandchildren to celebrate their grandfather’s 75th birthday.
We chose to cook, making use of the great facilities at Sagres Queenscliff such as the barbecue and the modern kitchen amenities, but for those that prefer to be waited on, there are options to dine in with private chefs and caterers of choice. Insider tip: ensure you book them well ahead of your event.
As the evening wound on, and the kids were entertained in the rumpus room downstairs – the adults retired to the fireplace and some well deserved drinks from the stylish hidden bar area, making great use of space under the staircase.
Once the kids were bathed (made easier with the choice of an entertaining outdoor tub), we tucked ourselves into bed eagerly awaiting to see what the view would look like with the sunrise in the morning – and it did not disappoint.
WHY VISIT SAGRES QUEENSCLIFF
Sagres Queenscliff is the perfect coastal getaway for a luxurious weekend trip or a longer stay for anyone travelling from interstate or overseas. Just over one and a half hours drive to Melbourne you can decide whether its worthwhile heading back to the city, or continuing your journey down the coast past the twelve apostles and beyond…
This review of Sagres Queenscliff was written by James & @kelly_beckwith from The Asia Collective.
You can find an Instagram video of their stay here.
WEBSITE: www.sagres.com.au
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