The secret is out. Maryborough and the surrounding district is fast developing a name as a luxury escape destination, with all the elegance, style and character of busier towns without the price tag (or the crowds).

In the heart of town

It’s hard to miss the Bull and Mouth Hotel when you first arrive in town. Located on the corner of Nolan and High Streets, the beautiful two-storey building has pride of place in the streetscape. Built in 1904 to replace the original, single-storey hotel, for its time it was one of the most modern hotels in Australia, with piped hot water and a telephone system.

Proprietors Jo and Mick Reid have honoured the history and grandeur of the beautiful building, with guests experiencing all modern facilities within the old-world opulence of times past

“When guests arrive, they are often surprised that the inside of the building is as grand as the exterior,” Jo said.

“We have carefully incorporated the best of traditional luxury with contemporary fittings you would expect to find in a modern hotel.”

An added bonus is that guest can dine at the hotel’s fully licensed café/restaurant for breakfast, lunch or dinner, with a menu to cater for all tastes, ages and appetites.

Head for the hills

For those wanting to truly escape the hustle and bustle, Mount Avoca Eco-luxe Lodges are nestled amongst the picturesque vineyard and olive grove at Mount Avoca Estate.

Offering a mix of elegance, style, character and regional distinction, large picture windows overlook the magnificent backdrop of Mount Avoca and the Pyrenees Ranges set the tone to recharge and unwind.

Stylish and comfortable, the generous living spaces and kitchenette open onto private balconies – a perfect spot to watch the sunset over the vineyard. Wall-to-wall windows offer postcard views of the Pyrenees Ranges, vineyard and the hills and valleys of the region, from both the king-size bedroom and living room.

If you find it difficult to leave your tranquil lodge and private balcony and decide to spend the day with a book and a glass of red, staff can organise a delicious gourmet hamper full of local produce. Staff are also on hand to help plan your daily activities and recommend great regional destinations.

Back to the future

Visitors to Maryborough often remark on the wonderful architecture and the care with which the beautiful older homes have been restored. Unlike inner-city suburbs, which have become obliterated with row after row of concrete townhouses, Maryborough has kept the wide streets, lovely front gardens and unique buildings.

With an eye for timeless beauty, David Graham and Simon Thomson are offering visitors to Maryborough a truly unique experience. Under the umbrella of their Whiskey June accommodation business, they hope to honour the rich history of the town while ensuring their guests enjoy a stay of luxury and opulence.

David explained they chose the name Whiskey June in honour of his grandmother, June, a lifelong Maryborough resident who, ironically, never drank. It is the combination of Whiskey and June that reflects the vision the couple have for their business.

David has fond memories of visiting his nan throughout his life, and his affection for the town is evident as he talks about future plans.

“Maryborough has an incredible vibe and great community atmosphere,” David said.

“Whenever I talk to people it seems everyone knows someone who has lived here and they reflect on the town in such a warm positive way. I think it’s a fantastic place.”

David and Simon are painstakingly renovating three properties, dating from the start of the 1900s up to the 1940s.

“The Whiskey June brand is a nod to that era and reflects that Maryborough was a very rich town. It’s a connection to the past with its old-world charm and prosperity while at the same time affording guests the modern comfort and the luxury they expect when they come to stay.

“The character is based on Wallis Simpson, a powerful woman who could have a bit of fun and walk into a bar all dressed up and people would just look and go wow,” David said.

That ‘wow’ factor is certainly evident in ‘Gilbert’, the first of their properties to welcome guests for the winter.

The Californian bungalow in Elgin Street has been restored to its former glory, with everything to ensure a memorable stay, even a complementary whisky cocktail on arrival.

“Gilbert is designed to let guests experience a taste of luxury, just like they did in the rich gold rush era right here in the Victorian Goldfields,” David said.

“It’s a place to get away from the every day. It includes three generous bedrooms, two with king beds and a third bedroom with a queen. The master features an ensuite for privacy.

“In the beautifully designed formal lounge guests can unwind or socialise around the fire. Cook up a feast in the open-plan entertainer’s kitchen and spread out in the dining and second living space, opening up to a large pergola with BBQ catching all the afternoon sun.

“Whether you want to dine and unwind or excite and entertain, you’ll find everything you need at your fingertips.”