A ramble in and around Romsey

Base yourself at Little Wren Cottage, located just outside Romsey. Originally built in the 1950’s, Little Wren has been renovated into a beautiful one-bedroom cottage surrounded by rolling hills and eucalypts. An ideal escape for couples, this blissful retreat features a log fire and beautiful French doors that open onto a verandah and hundreds of acres of countryside. Relax in the hammock, enjoy a barbeque, or get cosy by the outdoor firepit.

An excellent option for larger groups, Glenfern House is an impressive 4-bedroom home, located a short drive from Romsey. Once the site of Cope Williams Winery, one of the region’s original flagship wineries, Glenfern House is surrounded by stunning countryside. Features include an award-winning accessible landscape garden design called “Tramlines”. This stunning accessible garden was created by Dylan Alcott (tennis superstar, and 2022 Australian of the Year) and Vivid Designs. Bookings can be made through Relax Holiday Rentals.

Start your explorations of Romsey with a unique vineyard dining experience at Mount Monument. True to its name, Mount Monument is truly monumental in both vision and execution, with sculptures scattered over the expansive landscape. Created by Nonda Katsalidis, the architect behind MONA and Eureka Tower, the style and sculptures flow inside, and the cellar door and adjoining restaurant is extraordinary. Here, the menu changes with the seasons and is a testament to the region’s abundant produce, with each course crafted to pair beautifully with their signature wines

Continue your wine explorations by sipping on a sparkling wine at Red Poppy Estate. Located within Tall Poppy Farm, this boutique winery uses regenerative principles, as well as organic and bio dynamic practices. Their specialties are petillant natural (pet nat), sparkling wines and a bold Heathcote shiraz – all of which can be enjoyed within their rustic and welcoming cellar door.

Make sure you save some space for dinner at The 1860. With a name that pays tribute to the year this Romsey landmark first opened, this historic pub reopened its doors in late-2023. The menu features elevated pub fare, while drops from Macedon Ranges wineries like Lyons Will Estate and Hunter Gatherer Winery make this a top place for tasting local wine too.

Day 2

Venture behind the weather boards for a wholesome breakfast at Verdure. This welcoming and cosy eatery serves up simple and seasonal dishes, paired with delicious coffee. Top picks from the menu include their popular shakshouka or big breakfast. The space also houses a small, select food store of Victorian and local produce, along with a growing range of sustainable retail products.

If visiting with young ones, a visit to the Romsey Ecotherapy Park is a must. Popular with kids of all ages, this sensory playground made from natural materials features an active nature space with an extensive ropes course, art installations and a sensory therapeutic space.

The Federation Trail, linking Romsey with Lancefield, is a fantastic option for those looking to add some physical activity into their visit – via either bike or foot. As you leave Romsey’s main street, the 16km return trail becomes a well-formed granitic sand surface and the surroundings transform from classic Australian architecture to expanses of rolling farmland. Stop for a meal at the Lost Watering Hole in Lancefield, or enjoy a post-ride drink back at The 1860 in Romsey.

Time your visit right and join a guided tour or take part in a work shop at Chin Chin Farm. This mixed farming enterprise is dedicated to sustainable farming practices, farming lavender, Australian White Sheep, bees and more. Located an easy drive from Romsey, Chin Chin Farm offers a variety of engaging and creative workshops, allowing you to connect with nature and craft unique items.

End your exploration of the far eastern side of the Macedon Ranges with a crisp and refreshing cider at DV Cider House. Founded by Marc Serafino, DV Cider focuses on creating unique, craft ciders using heritage cider apple varieties grown on their own orchard, planted in 2014. Open every weekend, you’ll find live music on Saturdays and chill-out vibes on Sundays. Innovative ciders are accompanied by tasty homemade dishes – think cider-glazed wings, local artisan grazing boxes, nachos with fresh guac and chilli con carne.