Weekend Away: Red Hill

Melbourne is obviously the best city ever in the history of time and space, but even paradise can get a bit long in the tooth after awhile  – especially in winter.

The good news is there’s a bunch of places within a well-aimed stone’s throw of Melbourne that its denizens can visit. We recently took a trip down to Red Hill.

EAT
Despite its namesake film, you won’t find marauding bandits roaming the countryside here. You’re more likely to run into winemakers, crafty types and the occasional masseuse. And plenty of food.

Port Philip Estate has a great mix of architecture, views and top notch dishes. Don’t leave without trying the tuna. For something less formal, Merricks General Store is sort of like a fancy milk bar. Here you’ll find all sorts of hand made jams and sauces. Being Red Hill, it also comes with a cellar door.

Or if you’re after something more rustic head down to the pier at Flinders to buy mussels from Harry the fisherman.

DRINK
While Red Hill is justifiably renowned for its riesling, shiraz, pinot gris and pinot noir, but there’s also a lot of good beer being crafted on the hill.

Wine fans flock to perennial favourite Foxey’s Hangout, while if beer’s your thing Red Hill Brewery makes a first rate Scotch Ale.

STAY
Throw a gourmet chestnut and you’re bound to hit at least three B&B’s from pretty much anywhere in Red Hill. We reckon Lindenderry is one of the prettiest.

Set on 30 rollicking acres, this boutique hotel has its own winery, restaurant, day spa and a surprisingly eclectic array of art on display. It’s close to everything you might want to visit – yet with Lindenderry’s pinot clocking up 94 points on James Halliday you might want to curl up by the fire with a few bottles and stay in.

SHOP
There’s no shortage of arts and crafts around Red Hill, but for something a bit different check out the Red Hill Community Market on the first Saturday of the month between September and February. Here you’ll find knick knacks, gourmet food and wine and some excellent dimmies and scones.

For cinephiles and the nostalgic, pop into Dromana Drive In on the way home for an awesome movie experience you can’t get at Gold Class.