A jewel in the Dandenongs

EMERALD – BUTTERFIELD COTTAGES

Emerald in the Dandenong Ranges, east of Melbourne, is one of those villages that bring fresh delights whatever the season. Magnificent native and exotic trees in mature gardens provide an ambience all of their own.

At Butterfield Cottages, you've the perfect place to stay put in absolute comfort or they provide the perfect base from which to explore this very special region. The two cottages at Butterfield Cottages are simply like no others. The soaring timberwork and stained glass evoke the sense of an intimate chapel – a warm and welcoming place for rest and reflection. Antique furniture and Persian carpets add to the sense of permanence and tranquility. Log fires and underfloor heating in the cooler months add to the overall sense of luxury and indulgence.

On a balmy summer evening, settle on your private balcony with a bottle of chilled chardonnay from the Yarra Valley. You'll feel like you're living in the manner of a continental movie.

The fully equipped kitchens are provided with gourmet breakfast supplies – eggs, bacon, cereal, fruit juices, ground coffee and teas. At bedtime, there's chocolates and vintage port to round out a perfect day.

The cottages have television sets, CD and DVD players – what better way to catch up on all those movies you've missed, than by laying in a stock of DVDs for a movie marathon over a chilly weekend?

There's plenty to do beyond the gates of Butterfield Cottages. The villages of Emerald and Olinda have plenty of coffee shops and restaurants offering the best in regional menus and you're only a short drive from the Yarra Valley, with its wineries, vineyards and cooking schools. The Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Australia'–s leading reserves for rare and endangered wildlife and a perfect place to take overseas visitors.

TARIFF: from $165 couple/night