Travel Diary – Shepparton, Victoria

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Victoria Park Lake, Shepparton Parklake Hotel, Michelton Winery, Tahbilk Winery

Shepparton

One thing I love about living in Melbourne is how easy it is to escape from the city and the abundance of road trip options – from venturing out to the vast array of wineries across the Victorian countryside to immersing yourself in the gorgeous scenery and when we’re lucky – some fantastic weather to go with it!

Last weekend I made a visit to Shepparton, just under 2 hours drive from Melbourne, for some R&R and squeezed in visits to two wineries in the Nagambie wine region (Tahbilk and Michelton). My last trip to this region was actually stop over as part of a high school canoeing camp over 10 years ago so I was much looking forward to being back.

Accommodation – Parklake Shepparton

We stayed in a family room at the Parklake Shepparton, situated right opposite Victoria Park Lake. The proximity to the lake is a huge drawcard for the hotel, as it features amenities such as a fitness centre, a playground, skateboarding rink and a footpath that goes all around the lake, making a perfect running track. It’s also a good spot to catch the sunset (Unfortunately, I only managed to catch the last part of it as my afternoon nap went overtime!).

There are two levels to the hotel and the room we stayed was on the top floor with views of Victoria Park Lake. The room was clean and bright with cable TV, complimentary toiletries, wifi (you’ll need to request a coupon from the reception) and a minibar. The beds were comfortable and fitted with crisp linen and additional pillows – much needed after a long day of walking. The hotel itself also includes a licensed restaurant, spa, both an indoor and outdoor pool. Unfortunately, the indoor pool was undergoing renovation during our stay however will be re-opening in December.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
Loved these quirky Alice-in-wonderland-like chairs in the lobby

One of the highlights of the hotel was the buffet breakfast that is served at the restaurant, which offers the option of a continental selection ($17) with fresh fruit, cereals, pastries or a full buffet ($24) which includes the continental selection plus various hot dishes. The full buffet also has a DIY pancake maker which creates these delicious little pancakes – I could not get enough of them.

Overall, it was a great weekend away in Shepparton and given the weather in Melbourne is starting to get warmer, I strongly encourage everyone to start planning those road trips away!

The Parklake

http://www.parklake.com.au

481 Wyndam Street
Shepparton VIC 3630
+61 3 5821 5822

Tabletopaper stayed as guests of The Parklake, opinions are our own