In amongst the vines

Set high on a beautiful hilltop with stunning views of the Barossa Valley, The Louise is a lavish vineyard retreat complete with a celebrated restaurant.

Story by Lauren Broomham

Owned by Jim and Helen Carreker since January 2005, this luxurious property was previously known as Peppers Hermitage or the Hermitage at Marananga before being extensively upgraded and completely rebuilt in 2006. There are just 15 suites, which are styled around five themes, all furnished in a contemporary fashion and tastefully decorated with modern and traditional works by Australian artists.

Each suite is well-appointed with a king-size bed and fresh linen, and an ensuite bathroom that’s the ultimate in luxury featuring a double-head rain shower, heated towel rail and candle-lit spa tub for two – perfect for a long, relaxing soak. After your bath, slip into a soft robe and slippers and make yourself a coffee using the espresso maker, or enjoy a drink from the fully-stocked mini-bar. Why not curl up on one of the cosy lounges and watch a DVD on the widescreen TV, or for a truly relaxing experience, enjoy a massage in the seclusion of your suite or courtyard?

The suites are designed to ensure your privacy with large, gated courtyards and individual rear terraces overlooking the surrounding vineyards and olive grove. The two-bedroom Seppeltsfield Suite can generously accommodate up to four people and is ideal for two couples or a group of friends on a weekend away. For a romantic escape, you can’t go past the Greenock Suites – these large rooms feature a marble ensuite and sunset-facing gas fireplace with French doors leading to a secluded limestone-walled terrace with sunset views over the vineyards where you can lounge around in peace.

Some of the suites even have a private outdoor shower, complete with sunning bench. Visitors can also cool down with a dip in the outdoor swimming pool or for those who like it warmer, the hot spa and sauna. On arrival, guests are greeted with a gift of tawny port, homemade cookies and fresh fruit. A delicious continental breakfast is served in the suites daily and breakfast hampers are on offer for those departing early; plus, light meals are available through room service during the day.

But for a fabulous dining experience, you don’t need to go further than The Louise’s own on-site restaurant Appellation. Recognised as one of Australia’s top regional restaurants, it’s headed by Executive Chef Mark McNamara, who was inducted as a Baron of the Barossa for his role in developing awareness of the region’s food and wine. Mark and his staff pride themselves on using the best fresh produce and vary the menu frequently to take advantage of supplies from local producers. Open seven nights a week, guests at The Louise are assured a table at this award-winning restaurant when confirming a lodging and dining reservation.

Appellation’s extensive wine list includes a range of local, Australian and international wines, including artisan and boutique ones from the Barossa. Sample the Wine Flight Tasting Menu, which changes every month and pairs ten custom-developed dishes with seven selected wines and beverages. Appellation also offers a private dining room with a personalised set menu for small groups of up to 16 people, while the elegant bar serves before and after dinner drinks each night. During the summer months, guests can enjoy cocktails and refreshments on the restaurant’s terrace which overlooks the Valley’s vineyards and ranges.

Just one hour’s drive from Adelaide, The Louise is the perfect place to enjoy all the Barossa and surrounding regions have to offer, whether it’s a romantic getaway or a food and wine-tasting adventure.

The Louise
Seppeltsfield Road, Marananga SA 5355
Phone: (08) 8562 2722 within Australia or +61 8 8562 2722 outside Australia
Email: stay@thelouise.com.au

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