There is nothing better than the tranquillity of nature when looking for the ideal venue to while away your cares with a meal to remember.
Whether by a babbling stream, in the natural bush or simply looking out over a lush vineyard, views as good as the food certainly leave lasting memories, long after the last plate has been removed from the table.
Here are five we think you should visit for a sojourn with nature:
Chef-hatted Dining Destination
Cocooned within a lush garden setting, Nautilus on Murphy Street in Port Douglas successfully melds the relaxed ambiance of the tropics with elegant dining. Explore a Modern Australian menu inspired by the produce and vibrant flavours of Far North Queensland while seated amidst an open-air dining room with nothing but the swaying palm trees and stars overhead.
The Chef-designed degustation menu is a mouth-watering exploration of flavours, textures and techniques; think dishes such as hiramasa kingfish and sugarcane-cured salmon to start, followed by twice-cooked duck breast, sweet yam and orange mash, snow peas, red cabbage and black cherry gel. Perhaps Black Angus beef fillet entices, with colcannon, Asian mushrooms, smoked cauliflower and garlic purée, carrot, beef and soy broth.
Listen to Sounds of Birds
Set in a charming, 142-year-old country homestead, Harry's on Buderim is a romantic dining destination for both locals and visitors to the Sunshine Coast. Ambient meals begin at tables on the wrap-around verandah, where sweeping lawns span from the restaurant out to the forest beyond, the air feels clean to breathe and the sounds of birds can be heard as guests unwind alfresco.
A lavish interior with roaring fireplaces makes for a cosy dining atmosphere during chillier months, while a seasonal menu of Modern Australian cuisine showcases locally sourced, quality produce. Begin with entrées of charred Mooloolaba prawns, local scallop, red cabbage, fennel, herb purée and pink grapefruit emulsion, moving onto marinated, charred lamb rump, tomato fondue, salad of mint, zucchini and Spring peas and lamb jus.
Nestled in Thala Beach Nature Reserve
An intimate atmosphere is perfectly complemented by a remarkable vista of Coral Sea islands, reefs and mountain ranges at Osprey’s Restaurant, nestled in the exclusive Thala Beach Nature Reserve in Port Douglas. Located on a private headland, diners from across the region and world come to this spectacular restaurant for an unrivalled treetop dining experience, whether stopping in for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Choose from a seasonal local menu and dine on plates like baked half-shell Hervey Bay scallops, wakame and finger lime, or spanner crab on housemade brioche to start, served with iceberg lettuce, avocado and aioli; for the main, delve into slow-roasted pork belly, fried scallops wontons, soy broth and greens, or banana leaf-wrapped barramundi, steamed coconut rice, pak choi, corn and yellow curry sauce.
Gaze Out Over Majestic Blue Mountains
Nestled in the picturesque town of Mount Victoria within the world heritage-listed Blue Mountains, Victoria & Albert Guesthouse on Station Street is a haven of tranquillity set amidst six acres of stunning grounds. Step through to doors to feel instantly transported to a bygone era, where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered; take a leisurely seat on the wrap-around balcony, gazing out over the majestic mountains while sipping a glass of local wine or a perfectly brewed cup of tea.
Begin a memorable meal with chilli salt squid, seasonal greens, lemon and dill aioli, before delving into tempting mains such as white fish, braised French lentils, baby fennel and lemon caper butter; or crispy chicken, potato and leek gratin, carrot, sweet peas and red wine shallot sauce.
Energise Your Soul through Nature
Nestled at the foothills of the Grampians, Mount William Station on Mount William Estate Road in Willaura is an historic farm turned luxury hotel and dining venue. Built in 1842, the stately homestead has undergone a modern upgrade, however, its pioneering structures are showcased throughout.
The Dining Experience at Mount William Station delivers an unforgettable evening where guests gather in the communal dining room to enjoy a relaxed fine dining, farm-to-table experience - the gourmet, three-course set menu changes every evening to showcase the freshest, in-season ingredients from the onsite farm and gardens as well as local artisan suppliers. Coupled with the warm, countryside hospitality, this dining experience is perfect for any occasion and will make you feel right at home.
