What's new in Victoria in July

Regional Victoria

Yoga and hiking tour – Victorian AlpsPark Trek Walking Holidays has launched a new fully guided, pack free 4-day hiking and yoga tour in the Victorian Alps. Running from 16-19 November 2019, the tour includes approximately 58 kms of hiking amongst the spectacular peaks of the High Country. There is also daily yoga and meditation sessions designed to soothe the body and re-focus the mind led by wellbeing guide Liz Donohue. With only 10 places available, guests will embark on a journey through the mountains that will nourish the body, mind and spirit. Three nights’ accommodation in Falls Creek Village and all meals and park entry fees are included in the $1700 twin share, single supplement additional $300 cost.

Pt. Leo Estate launches wine, dine and stay packagesPt. Leo Estate on the Mornington Peninsula has announced a new series of experiences including a luxury wine, dine and stay package. Partnering with RACV Cape Schanck Resort, guests will explore the Sculpture Park at Pt. Leo Estate, enjoy a guided wine tasting at the Cellar Door, sit down for a five-course dinner at the award-winning Laura restaurant and hop on the private transfer to enjoy a sleep at the new RACV at Cape Schank overlooking the Peninsula coastline. The three different package options include Pt. Leo Restaurant Wine & Art Experience, Laura Wine & Art Experience, and A Taste of the Peninsula, guests are sure to experience world-class dining, outstanding wine and evolving landscapes at Victoria’s premier hotspot. High-res images availablehere.

Farmhouse PolperroStunning Polperro Winery nestled among the undulating vines, pine forest and towering gum trees of Red Hill is the location for a newly renovated Farmhouse accommodation designed in conjunction with renowned design firm Hecker Guthrie. The three-bedroom farmhouse is inspired by the 1950s era and brings the outside in with a fusion of country and beach-style aesthetic. This premium luxury accommodation provides a true rural Red Hill escape. A kitchen, an open fire place, luxury bath, extensive outdoor kitchen, extending to fire cooking facilities and a large chefs table and a fire pit are some of the features. All presented with an immaculate attention to detail. Three rooms comprised of one king bed and two queen beds, sleeping six guests total. Polperro Farm House -  64 Donaldsons Rd, Red Hill VIC 3937

Melbourne

Element Melbourne Richmond opensPart of Marriott International’s Westin Brand, Element Melbourne Richmond is situated on the banks of the Yarra River near to the vibrant Swan Street precinct. The hotel marks the debut of the Element brand in Australia with a focus on longer-stay eco-conscious travellers. The hotel has 163 light and spacious rooms, with some sweeping views of the skyline. Amenities include the onsite Mint Lane Restaurant & Bar and further Relax area for casual drinks.  A 24/7 Motion Fitness centre and complimentary Bikes-to-Borrow program that allows guests to take their workout outdoors. The hotel is also pet friendly, offering pet beds, toys and even a dog-friendly mini bar, meaning guests can travel with all of their loved ones. 588 Swan Street Richmond, Melbourne VIC 3121

Eazy PeazyThe seemingly incessant desire for Japanese cuisine continues with a new offering from the team behind sake brand, Toji Sake. Located on Swan Street, in the Richmond precinct, the casual and simply designed restaurant will offer a menu based around the round heating and grilling device called hibachi – with wagyu cuts, chicken yakitori and of course raw dishes such as kingfish. Owners Shar and Yuta Kobayashi are a Melbourne based Japanese couple with a history in hospitality, and a few years ago launched Toji Sake as a sake brewed specifically for the Australian palate and appreciation. Occupying a former Swan Street newsagency, the 100-seat restaurant will be another welcome addition to the vibrant neighbourhood. 108 Swan St, Richmond VIC 3121​​​​​​​

Juke’s Karaoke BarCrown Melbourne has welcome the ultra-colourful, excess fun, Juke’s Kakaoke Bar on level one of the complex. Perfect for parties, gatherings, celebrations, or bonding sessions. Juke’s has something for everyone. Private rooms adorned with plush velvet sofas and psychedelic seventies style can cater for small to large groups. The food and bar menu continues the fun psychedelic theme with jelly shots and tasting platters, cheese and chocolate fondues. Crown Entertainment Complex, 8 Whiteman Street Southbank, Victoria 3006

Patient Wolf Distilling Co.Brunswick based gin producer, Patient Wolf Distilling Co. will soon open the doors to a new distillery and bar located in Melbourne’s Southbank. The working distillery and bar is slated to open in early September 2019 and will become the largest independent distillery in Victoria. The 30-person venue will offer a seasonal drinks menu featuring gin and tonics, classic cocktails such as a negroni or a gin martini, alongside more experimental gin combinations, each with a distinctly Melbourne style. Patient Wolf gins will also be available for retail, including limited-edition and distillery-only releases. With a state-of-the-art 1000L still due to arrive early next year - the Patient Wolf distillery is expected to be Australia’s largest urban gin distillery. 34-36 Market Street, South Melbourne

ElektraGeorge Calombaris’ Press Club has closed its doors after 13 years of service and will re-open into the more laid back à la carte, Elektra in late July. The restaurant will retain most of its interior design which offers luxurious beige leather banquettes and stunning copper and brass ceiling design in the iconic heritage listed building on Flinders Street. The menu will be headed up by Chef Reuben Davis who will inject some of his own personality and inspiration from his days of classic European training. It's a no booking affair catering for both the quick bite pre or post show, or a longer relaxed sitting. Drinks will also be a simplified affair with affordable wines and curated list of spirits and cocktails. 72 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9677 9677

Molly RoseAnother new brewery has opened in what is becoming the brewery hub of Melbourne. Molly Rose, in Collingwood, prides itself on its ‘creative brews’. Brewer and owner Nic Saunders combines techniques picked up on his international travels with collaborations closer to home. Co-owner and wine investor Callie Jemmeson has provided inspiration, as have others local businesses including  Proud Mary coffee and Bad Frankie bar. Sours, ales and fruit beers go by names such as Beer By A Winemaker, Luiz and Millions Of – a peach-infused bière de garde (dry French farmhouse ale) matured in brandy barrels. Toasties and other snacks are available as is wine on tap in the open plan industrial space among the stainless steel kegs.279 Wellington St, Collingwood VIC 3066​​​​​​​

Godiva launches healthy chocolate breakfast menuBelgian chocolatier Godiva with stores in major shopping destinations Emporium Melbourne, Chadstone Shopping Centre and Westfield Doncaster has introduced a new all-day cafe menu. The menu includes healthy chocolate breakfast options like breakfast granola filled with cacao nibs and 75% Godiva dark chocolate chia puddings, meaning breakfast can be light and healthy as well as filled with Godiva's iconic flavours.  Various venues around Melbourne.