FEBRUARY  2012  RIPPER  SPECIAL  DEALS,  STAY  WITH  US  IN  THE  MONTH  OF FEBRUARY  AND  RECEIVE  A  FULL   20%  DISCOUNT ..... READ  ON

We have had our busiest month ever this January and generally speaking the month of February tends to be a little quieter. we dont want that so we are offering a great deal.

If you stay with us for 2 or more nights in the month of February, then you will receive a full 20% discount.

Example: regular price 2 nights Sunday to Thursday for 2 people inc breakfast hamper $520....  In February less 20% $416 saving of $104  ($208 per couple per night)

Example: regular price 3 nights Sunday to Thursday for 2 people inc breakfast hamper $690...  In February less 20%  $552 saving of $138 ($184 per couple per night)

Example: regular price 5 nights Sunday to Thursday for 2 people no Breakfast hamper $950...  In February less 20%   $760 saving of $190 ($152 per couple per night)

Example: regular price 7 nights no breakfast for 2 people $1190..   In February less 20% $952 saving of $238 ($136 per couple per night)

Example: regular price 2 nights weekend inc breakfast hamper $590...   In February less 20%  $472 saving of $118 ($236 per couple per night)

NOW TO RECEIVE THESE SPECIAL RATES,  JUST EMAIL OR PHONE US ON   0409 678 046

It is subject to availability and a quick look at our availability page will show the dates we have free.   But remember do not book online,  phone or email bookings only!   SEE YOU IN FEBRUARY

DID YOU KNOW

You will be able to see with a quick look at our tariffs page that our most common tariff is $295 per night for a weekend or $260 a night from Sunday to Thursday.. Now that is for 2 people and it includes our fantastic breakfast hamper for 2 people as well!!

Now given that we are AAAT 5 star rated I truly believe that we represent really great value for money. But what are we able to do to offer a better deal? Well read on.

 If you were to choose to be our guests and stay with us a little longer, that helps to keep our costs down and we are happy to pass those savings right back to you.

consider these special deals.

Stay 3 nights midweek, tariff discounts to $230 per night including breakfast hamper.

Stay 5 nights midweek tariff discounts to $190 per night, we do not normally add breakfast to this deal, most people like to do it themselves, remember each of the 3 units has its own full kitchen with a full size fridge.

Stay 7 nights and all you pay is $170 per night, again breakfast is not included with this longer stay.

Are you a company Representative or regular traveller? If so talk to Julie or myself and we will try to put a special package together to suit your needs.

If a longer stay is an option for you, then being fully self contained means there is a washing machine, dryer, iron with ironing board even a hair dryer!! We even include all the soaps and powders for the appliances. Now the kitchen has a full size oven, full size fridge, gas hot plates, dishwasher, pots, pans, all crockery and cutlery. Just bring yourselves and relax because we have organised all of the mundane things and have left our guests to enjoy a relaxing holiday time.

Ah yes the spa

50" Plasma and gas log fire

I had a steak at a restaurant in South Australia approximately ten years ago... It was the most tender and best flavored cuts of beef I have ever had............. How much did it cost?  I have absolutely no idea, I have long forgotten. It is just the lovely memory that lives on still those ten years later...

"Live the experience" that is what Julie and I want to achieve for all our guests. To have nothing but the fondest memories of their stay with us at 3 Kings. Kindest regards Brian 

 July 2011

 Wild Thyme Resturant and Cafe

This little restaurant in the main street of Warburton, 10 minutes drive from 3 Kings has been open i guess for about  20 years and Allan who opened it all those years ago is still in the kitchen today.

The catch cry for this place is "a little bit of inner city in the country" and it lives up to that description it is very nicely alternative, it has beautiful fresh homemade fare and georgous home made cakes.There is always plenty to eat and it just has a great vibe about the place.

A stay in the Yarra Valley is not complete with out eating here as it has received lots of reviews in Melbournes newspapers.

The prices a all very reasonable and they are of course licensed, enjoy!

January 15 2011

Yarra Junction RSL

Julie the I, along with our kids and some friends of ours went up to sample our newly extended and renovated RSL. It is about a 2 minute drive or a nice walk if the idea is to burn some of those calories that dinner will put on!

The restaurant faces North and takes in some strikingly beautiful views, as they have used extensive glazing, so make sure you face in the right direction when you are seated.

I had a chicken Parma (I know im boring) and Julie had a Steak and they were both great. The kids devoured their kids meals, however they devour everything and our dining buddys both enjoyed their fare.

It has pokies if you would like a flutter and the choice of drinks is good. Remember the dress code is no thongs or singlets. the staff were friendly and the food was good and the prices were very reasonable, so this establishment gets my tick of approval. Make sure you try it for yourselves when you stay

July 20 2010

Number 5

Eat right here at 3 Kings!!

That's right, as you might be aware we are happy to place BBQ packs in your unit for you to enjoy at your own pace. However with the colder months with us we have put together a wonderful option to warm the tummy from the comfort and warmth of you unit.Try this...A beautiful slow cooked curry of chicken , Lamb or Beef or vegetarian delight, served with freshly steamed vegetables, rice and topped off with a choice of deserts!!

The idea is that you place your order with us and will will have your dinner prepared for you delivered to you when you wish.. If a special occasion is in order then we will set the dinner table white linen,fine china and crystal glassware.

Feel free to contact us at any time and we will run through our menu and options with you. Now this is decadence at it's very best, enjoy the occasion.

Please remember that this is freshly cooked and slow cooked so it means we will require at least 24 hours notice 

February 4 2010

number4

Cafe Mechanica.. Thomas Av Warburton .

Cafe Mechanica is not a restaurant, it is as the name suggests a cafe.

However it is very different and is worth a visit. Julie and I had some very yummy toasted sandwiches on thick slabs of sour dough with good quality fresh coffee to follow. It was filling enough to call it lunch rather than a snack.

It is the cafe itself that grabbed my interest You see 32 years ago as a fresh faced 15 year old, I took on my very first job as an apprentice motor mechanic. I worked at Donna Buang Service Station, the petrol was sold upstairs on the Highway and the work shop was underneath around the back. That was when Warburton was a commercially based town catering for the locals that lived and worked there. The town has now become a weekend tourist haven, so the dynamic of this beautiful place has changed accordingly. The old petrol station has now become a bakery and the workshop down below has now been transformed into Cafe Mechanica.

This Cafe, lady's, is one that your man would be happy to come along with you. It has all sorts of bikes and car paraphernalia with interesting posters and magazines to read. there is a large flat screen TV in the back which is playing a selection of car and top fuel drag racing events. Different? Yes. Good? Yes. Blokes the lady's can have coffee and cake and you are able to get up and wander (check the motorised bicycle and guess it's age)

The Yarra river runs right past the front of the place and after coffee and eats go for a walk down Thomas av and have a look at all the work that has been done around the back of the Warburton Main Street and in the rehabilitation of the Yarra river.

Cafe Mechanic is open from 9am till 1pm Monday to Friday and later on Saturdays and Sundays and is situated behind the Valley Bakery 3415 Warburton hwy Warburton. regards Brian 04/02/2010   

January 30th 2010

Number 3.

Cunninghams Hotel.

Ya wanna country pub???? Well this is it!!!!!

Cunninghams Hotel is on the Warburton Highway in Yarra Junction, it is a Californian Bungalow style of building, was once a guest house I believe and was moved to the spot where it is now about 80 years ago.

The place has one main bar where you can order your meal. They have a inside dining area which is made up of a number of small rooms so its quiet and cozy. Or if the weather is good, then do what Julie and I and the kids did and eat outside at the front of the pub. You have the choice of eating under the veranda or the front beer garden it is right on the main road so one is able to enjoy a cold ale while watching the world go by.

The hotel is super relaxed and the atmosphere is pure country, this building has been left alone as far as major renovations goes, so it has a kind of feeling that you are only able to get from a place that does what it does without any special graces.

What about the food? Well at first glance there is about a dozen mains 4 or 5 entrees and the same with deserts. I had a chicken Florentine and Julie had a Kiev and a desert (which I can't remember) and the meals were great really tasty and a good size. To be honest we had not tried Cunninghams for a number of years and that was a mistake on our behalf. we have made the pledge to try make it a regular eatery.

The meal prices range from about $19 to $25 for a main and there was a good selection real typical pub style. The place is owned by Gail and Trotter (Michael) they are naturally very friendly people, know their stuff and you can be assured that one of them will be mixing or pouring your drinks you order at the bar. They have only really taken over the place for about 6 to 12 months and the little pub has really got busy, testament to them doing the right thing.

If you decide to stay at 3 Kings and have a meal at Cunninghams, then you will be entitled to a freebe.... order a meal and the deserts are free!!!! that's right no charge!! Just let Julie or myself know and we will organise the rest.

Now from 3 Kings forget the car keys because it's about a 5 minute lazy walk, so it can help to burn off the dinner calories. It's at 2424 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction, call Gail or Trotter on 59671080  sorry there is no web site. Eat well kind regards Brian

 January 24th 2010

Number 2.

The Home Hotel..  Winner 2008 Victorian country pub of the year!

The Home Hotel has been around for I think about 120 years and has always been a Pub. It has been lovingly restored and is totally in keeping with its period style, it is gorgeous inside. What you will notice when you venture inside is that the place is absolutely spotless which I think is pretty important given that you are going to eat there!

Denise and her son Brad have owned and run the business for about 5 years and do a great job I have no hesitation in recommending them every time.

As you walk in the front door, turn right into the smaller semi detached dining room. This is a great place to dine if you are seeking a more cozy and romantic setting. through the smaller dining room into the main bistro with its soft lighting, oil paintings and lovely garden visible through the widows certainly wont disappoint. They have a secure children's play area set up as well so the little ones can be kept entertained as you relax.

The mains range from about $23 to $29 the food is terrific and there is lots of it. The meals are definitely more restuarant style than pub fare and Chef changes the menu for the seasons so there is good variety also.

What you will notice if you drive by at meal times is that there is always lots of vehicles in the car park, because this is the pub that a lot of the locals eat at. That is generally a very good advert for an establishment on its own.

The good news is that they are open every day for lunch and dinner, I would suggest maybe booking on weekends if you were looking to be seated in the smaller dining room. Phone 59673303  2170 Warburton HWY Launching Place  (5 minutes from 3 Kings) www.thehomehotel.com.au  well that is suggestion number 2 see what you think regards Brian 

January  15th 2010

welcome to food and wine....

I have been a resident of this part of the Yarra Valley for 35 years and in recent years it has never ceased to amaze me of what we have along the Warburton Highway as far as food and wine are concerned..

Well read on, because this local fellow is going to let you in on some tips of exactly where to head to. Now firsty no one listed in this blog is paying me one cent or giving me any freebies to promote them so you will not be getting a clouded opinion.

Further more, I am going to take it on myself as my duty to visit places i have not been to before and then chat to you about the good ones.(tough gig hey)...

Number 1

          Bulong Rest

          The  range of white and red

Bulong Estate Winery and Resturrant

The owners are Judy and Howard Carter and the chef is Antoine... You just know sometimes when you meet people for the first time that they are just plain nice and great to chat to. Where they will take a really genuine interest in what you are about, you know country people!!

Well Judy and Howard actively run the winery and Judy was originally the chef, (I personally have never tried her fare but I believe people still ask for her skill on occasion). Matt is their son and he is the wine maker, that's right readers this is one of those boutique wineries that grow the grapes harvest and bottle all on the property and that is not as common as you might think.

Now if you are like me and know that you like the taste of, but know nothing about the process, feel free to ask all of the questions and Matt will know the answers. He is happy to talk about it as well, because this place does not have 10 bus loads of people coming through daily getting the same stock information day in day out. So I guess he is not bored with it and that makes a big difference with the whole experience.

Wine prices

Most of the wine is priced between say $19 and $24. they have a limited Cab Sav at approx $35. I think that is pretty good for a premium wine. you can purchase at the cellar door or by mail order. phone number is 03 5967 1358 or www.bulongestate.com.au

Restaurant

Now I have to tell you, this is one of the Yarra Valleys very very best restaurants this Antoine can really cook. The meals are just divine the setting is great with terrific views of the vines and mountains.. This is the place to go to when its just the 2 of you for that special romantic occasion... Stay with us at 3 kings and do this place for dinner or lunch it is a must.

The down side..... Sorry people they are only open Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday for lunch.

Prices

About $29 for the mains!!! that's right about the same that you would expect to pay at a place half as good... see local knowledge, you have to chat to the locals to find the best value and quality. Well that's my first recommendation I will chat about another one in my next update. keep posted and live for the experience... Bye for now Brian 15/01/2010

3 KINGS HAS NOW ADDED AN EXTRA BREAKFAST OPTION

07/02/2011

We have decided to add an extra breakfast option for our guests. 

Up to date we have placed a gourmet breakfast hamper in each of our units just before our guests arrive. this allows people to cook breakfast at their own time in the morning, or maybe late at night if they get an attack of the munchies.

Our gourmet hamper consists of free range eggs and bacon, vine ripened tomatoes, large fresh mushrooms, baked beans, a loaf of fresh bread, quality juice, milk, yoghurt and condiments. This over time has proved to be very popular indeed, however some of our guests have suggested that some cereal might be nice, so we have decided to offer the following.

Our continental hamper consists of Kellogs Variety Pack with 8 choices of single serve breakfast cereals, a tub of yoghurt, a loaf of fresh bread, milk, quality juice and condiments.

Each unit has tea bags and instant coffee and we have a DeLonghi coffee machine loaded with fresh beans so an option for hot drinks is well catered for as well.

From this point of time on when you choose to make a booking with us we will ask which option you would like. If you are staying for a longer stay then we would be happy to mix and match a selection that suits your requirments.     

WARBURTON HIGHWAY WINERIES AND TOUR OPTIONS

20/07/2010

Last weekend I had the opportunity to organize a wine tour for a couple that stayed at 3 Kings for a Saturday afternoon. We started off just after lunch and headed down the Warburton Highway. Our first port of call was Killara Estate, they have a heap of different wines to try including sparkling. Killara has a great price range as well wine starting from $7 a bottle if you purchase a dozen. The reason for the bargain price has nothing to do with a lack of quality, in fact this is all premium product, the winery looks to clear out some of last years stock and are prepared to discount heavily to move it. It is worth remembering that buying from the maker direct cuts out the middle man and passes the savings on to you the customer. We spent about half an hour here tasting and enjoying the view and ambiance and great company. If your hungry then stay a while longer and eat at the restaurant.

From there it was about a 10 minute drive to Seville Estate, down a small country lane, this is a smaller winery where the tasting takes place in the the open corrugated iron shed. however don't be fooled by the size because my guests liked and purchased from here. The wine is good quality and the effort has gone into the product rather than all the bells and whistles. Here you can talk to the family that grows and makes the wine you will be sampling, this is as close as you can get to the coal face and it's great, just try and get this sort of information from your local supermarket. You are able to see the small winery manufacturing area as you drive down the driveway past the owners house. Ask any questions and the owners will be happy to answer all your queries.

Number 3 was Elmswood Estate, this was the first time I had been here and I must admit I have driven past at least a 1000 times, well I'm an idiot because this establishment is absolutely first class, great views, great staff and great wine. They can cater for weddings and special occasions and you are able to dine in the restaurant as well. Elmswood has a terrific range and the sparkling red was explained as a party in your mouth, and what a party, if you like bubbles then do yourself a favor and try this and all the rest for that matter. If on the off chance you are looking at getting married then pay this place a visit and check it out for an option as a great reception center.

Last but not at all least was a visit to Seville Hill. We stock their sparkling in our fridge at 3 Kings along side Domain Chandon and in my opinion id rather it (now that is saying something) Again this is a smaller winery but they are the nicest people and the product is top quality. I have now visited this winery twice and we have seemed to stay there the longest, that's a big tick for company, quality and character. As with all of these that I have mentioned, they are within 5 minutes of each other and about 10 to 15 minutes drive from 3 Kings. I would be more than happy to personally take you on a guided tour or provide you with details of how to find each of them yourselves and you are able to take the self drive option. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to contact me, Brian on 0409 678 046 if you have any further questions and i will be more than happy to help in any way possible.        

07/06/2010

Hello,I have just recently completed my first personal mini tour with a lovely couple that were our guests at 3 Kings.

It was our new package that includes a massage pampering at the Lotus Rooms in Warburton. We had just over 2.5hrs to explore this majestic part of the Yarra Valley before returning for 2hrs of relaxation at the Lotus Rooms. Our tour included the view from atop of Mt Donna Buang lookout tower, which is 30mtrs high, the day was clear so views were available for 360 degrees, with a clear view of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay! The clear fresh air was filled with sounds of Liar Bird mimicking the call of at least six local birds and the motor drive of a camera. these little guys a just amazing to hear and there a lots of them all the way to the summit. On the way down we stopped at the Cement Creek Sky-walk and strolled around ancient rain forest , massive Mountain Ash and the purest of mountain streams.

We were then off to the Village of Warburton, I have lived in this part of the world for more than 35 years and was able to offer a guided tour and give a short recent history and a view of points of interest in the area.

A short drive to the top of Dee Road had us at one of the entry points for the Aqueduct Trail and as we were admiring the great views a Deer strolled past us on the walking trail not more than 50 mtrs away. sometimes you just are lucky to be in the right spot at the right time.

The thing is this..... I am happy to offer tours of any duration and any where of interest, from Marysvile, via the Cumberland Junction (250 ft Mountain Ash) or Ackeron Way. How about the Upper Yarra Dam or the Massive Ada tree or even 7 Acre Rock.  Healesville, Warburton or some local craft markets.

If a winery or two with some beautiful scenery and some local knowledge and great places to stop for lunch while we are at it sounds like an idea and you don't have to bury your head into the road map at all, then talk to me and we will put our heads together and come up with a personal itinerary that is just perfect for you.

Please feel free to contact us at any time on 0409 678 046 and discuss the things that we are able to offer, regards Brian  

19/01/2010

If you have had a chance to look at our gallery photos and our revolving mast head, not only is 3 Kings one of the nicest and luxurious places to stay in the Yarra Valley, it is also aimed fair square at couples seeking that special occasion or private retreat.

Lots of our guests are really happy to lock themselves away in our beautiful units and relax and let the world go by without them for a day or 2 and that's great, however if you do venture out, what to do??? Well that is where Julie and I come into the picture, with our local knowledge of this area we are more than happy to offer you a list of things that we can mix and match for a package to make your stay totally hassle free. We will suggest, make enquiries, then book on your behalf any thing that you would like to do in the Yarra Valley.Here is some food for thought.

• Lunch or dinner at a restaurant (let us know the style you like)
• Massage in house
• Massage at a day spa
• Balloon flight
• Golf at Warburtons picturesque 18 hole course
• Push bike hire
• The best places to ride those bikes
• The best places to drive to and see the best the valley has to offer
• Winery tours- which tour guide that best suits your wants
• The best cafes to eat at
• How about trying archery
• Where some of the biggest and tallest trees in Australia are
• Maybe a BBQ pack (3 kings style) in your unit for you to BBQ at your leisure
• Enjoy a fruit platter (3 kings style) in your unit
• Place your idea or request here

In the past Julie and I have lit tea candles on the steps leading up to the units and placed rose petals on the ground near the door. We have placed gifts cards and flowers in the units before arrival, blown up balloons and placed streamers.

If you have come up with a great idea or surprise then we are only too happy to implement it on your behalf. Please take a look at some of our accommodation packages on our tariffs page for inspiration. Then feel free to mix and match any of those ideas with yours so we can make your stay truly memorable. Call us any time on 0409 678 046 and talk to us about your plans,... Live the experience, kind regards Brian

we are now even greener

Did you know that each of our units have double glazed windows and our walls and ceilings are fully insulated, in addition we have soft start inverter type air conditioning. our toilets are flushed with rain water gathered from the roof of unit 2.

We have been running compact fluorescent light globes where possible for the standard size light globes and now we are in the process of replacing all of our other lighting with LED technology. they use a fraction of the power, last up to 30 years and contain no mercury. Within the next 3 weeks we will have dimable LEDs in our bedroom chandeliers  We hope to be able to drop our lighting power consumption by 60%! Every little bit helps... 23/09/2011

Brand new up dated photos 01/02/2011

We have just added up to date photos on our website and placed a lot in our gallery page. With all the rain this year and a nice wet summer our gardens have really taken off. when we look back at the property when we first opened we are amazed at how much the look has changed. It is worth noting that no color enhancing or angled lenses or any photo shopping has been performed, all of our photos are true so what you are seeing is exactly what is here, so be our guests and check it out for yourselves!!  

New web site changes 21/09/2010

We are in the process of making some exciting new changes to our web site.Why? because we are making some great changes at 3 Kings.

First. We now have our wine list that we stock in all of our units listed on our wine page with all the prices next to them and remember all of these wines have tasting notes in a booklet in each unit also.(see more read below)

Second. Food is arriving!! We are in the process of placing all of our meals and BBQ packs on the one page. we have our yummy slow cooked meals listed there as of today and we can now offer delivered to your door a full menu from the award winning Home Hotel. That's right, ring reception and place your order then presto within the hour it is all delivered ready for you to enjoy!

Third. We are separating our tariffs page from our package page so that it will be easier to read and understand.

When our guests want accommodation in the beautiful Yarra Valley and they want style and luxury with their stay, well we want 3 Kings to be their only choice. To that end Julie and I will continue to set new limits in great service and luxury accommodation.

Please feel free to talk to us at any time to discuss your special occasion, regards, Brian

3 Kings is going wine!!!!!!!

3 Kings Bed and Breakfast is smack bang in the middle of one of Victoria's and Australia's best cool climate wine regions. So it occurred to Julie and I that we should provide some quality wine for our guests to enjoy. So on that basis we decided to place a small wine rack in each unit with half a dozen or so reds and whites and a couple of sparkling wines in the fridge.

Now you are probably aware that to keep wine at it's absolute best then it should be cellared at approximately 15 Celsius out of direct sunlight and with a minimum of vibration so as not to disturb any sediment that may still be in the bottle. Well how do we do that in a unit when the heater or air conditioner changes that to suit our guests personal comfort requirements?

Answer... Purchase 3 thermoelectric wine storage cabinets. So what does this mean? Thermoelectric does not use a refrigerator compressor and is silent and has no vibration. The cabinet is able to hold the wine at a constant 15 degrees, which is perfect for all of your red wines. If you prefer a white say a Sav Blanc then out of the cabinet and a further 15 minutes in the fridge, would see that perfect at approximately 5 degrees for drinking. Finally the cabinet keeps the wine out of any bright or sunlight.

Each cabinet holds 28 bottles and we intend on filling them with premium Yarra Valley wines. We will make sure that for every bottle there will be comprehensive tasting notes and most importantly EVERY BOTTLE will be sold at cellar door prices. That is the same price you would pay if you drove to the winery yourselves and bought direct.

3 Kings has a moto that says 'when quality matters' and we will constantly strive to provide the best we are able to do. So if fine wine is on your agenda, then please consider 3 Kings as the perfect partner.

We hope to have everything up and running and in the units before August 2010. So please feel free to ask any questions or to enjoy this very tasty part of our beautiful Yarra Valley, cheers Brian and Julie

Star rating evaluation carried out by AAA Tourism.

Well it was that time of year again for us at 3 Kings (actually it is the 3rd time in 18 months) when the AAA tourism inspector turned up to do an inspection on our property. This time around the inspector turned his eye on unit 3. All of our units are the same, exactly if fact, so it would be fair to expect that if they are the same then an inspection of one should then tick off all 3, right? Wrong. In all the inspection lasted for approximately 2 hours. Everything is checked, including free space inside the unit.

At the end of the inspection we were informed that we have retained our 5 Star rating!!! We actually increased our points total due to the inclusion of Chess, Monopoly and Scrabble board games in each of our units.

We have a number of improvements on the table at the moment, including an extensive wine choice all held in temperature controlled storage. An ungraded CD sound system and even Blue Ray DVD players. Maybe some really nice bedside lamps and an upgrade of our BBQs. AAA tourism explains 5 Star as being truly exceptional in all aspects of the accommodation. That's us and we plan on even getting better. we will keep you posted on all the things we do as they come to hand and it is our guarantee to supply the very best we can. 20/07/2010

3 Kings would love some help!!

3 Kings has been operating now for just about 18 months, in that time we have had some fantastic testimonials that we have placed on our web site. It is so heartening to read that our guests have had a wonderful experience and comment that they will tell their friends and family and promise to return again.

However as yet we do not have any guests reviews on Stayz.com.au . Stayz are one of the biggest search engines for accommodation in Australia and a good review I'm sure would help us a lot.. So if you have been our guest and you enjoyed the experience and happened to book your accommodation through Stayz, then we would be really grateful to see a positive review appear next to our listing. cheers for now Brian 7/06/2010  

More local information on things to do

Every week we will be placing a list of things that is happening in the Yarra Valley. It is compiled and put together by or local tourist centre, we print it and leave it in your unit, so you will be right up to date on all things that is Yarra Valley. cheers Brian 4/5/10

Gift vouchers, the perfect gift

Have you ever considered a gift voucher as a present?

Imagine your friend or loved one receiving a personalised letter from 3 Kings inviting them for a weekend or midweek stay. this is not a massed produced gift certificate with the blank spots for their names to be filled in.

We will construct a personal letter of invitation just for them with any details that you deem relevant and will include one of our A12 brochures just to whet their appetite!!

If its a birthday,Christmas present, wedding night, anniversary, appreciation thank you or just a nice thing to do, then have a chat to Julie or myself and we will be more than happy to make that special gift happen just the way you would like. Call us any time on 0409 678 046  

Saturdays are starting to prove popular!

February 24th 2010

3 Kings has been open now for approximately 15 months and Julie and I have discovered that the toughest thing to have to say to prospective guests is 'I am very sorry we are full'. This is made even more painful when it is a special occasion that they have been planing for weeks and weeks.

The problem is, is that we only have one Friday and Saturday per week. Now I don't know who is to blame for this oversight because two Fridays and Saturdays each week would make life much better for us that is for sure!

On a little more serious note, the first available Saturday that 3 Kings has is the 24th of April 2010!  So if a weekend away in the beautiful Yarra Valley and enjoying that in the luxury you deserve, then please contact us sooner rather than later so we will be able to secure that date that you are seeking. From Sunday through to Thursday we have a good vacancy rate, so if a Sunday, Monday or midweek break is a possibility and remembering it's cheaper as well, then we are sure we will have your unit how you want it and when you want it at the time that suits you.

I would expect that this years snow season for lake Mountain (cross country) and Mt Donna Buang (sightseeing and snow play) should prove to make things very busy for us given that a lot of the accommodation lost in the black Saturday wild fires has not yet been rebuilt. One thing that is true about the Yarra Valley area is that there is something happening all through the year. So go on pick up the phone and have a chat with us about your plans nice and early and relax 3 Kings style. Cheers for now, Brian

 Why not try this new trail?

On Sunday the 7th of February, Julie, the kids and myself decided to try first hand a part of the newly opened O'Shannassy Aqueduct Trail. From 3 Kings we drove to Millgrove (5 mins) and headed up to the end of Dee Road. This is one of the many entry points to this picturesque walking trail.There is a large car park and an information board showing where the trail runs and for how long with a bit of local history.

The construction of this water course started in 1911 and was completed in 1913 it was designed to transfer fresh drinking water to Melbourne it was managed for nearly the whole century by Melbourne Water, being decommissioned in the 1990s. It was then gifted to Parks Victoria and they then went to work turning it into the Yarra Valleys newest trail. The water has not flowed for quite a few years however the concrete lined V shaped channel is there to see and the trail runs right along side. (be careful not to fall in)

On Sunday we hit the hustings mid afternoon and headed off towards Warburton it was 32 Celsius we were pushing a pram with our 5 yr old on his electric scooter. The heat was not really noticed due to the shade protection from the towering Mountain Ash and tall Tree Ferns. Being a channel the grade is very slight and the track very smooth for our wheeled vehicles. The distance from Millgrove to Warburton is about 7 kms, we walked for about 5 kms then turned around and walked back to the car, so we were on the trail for couple of hours. Do not worry about keeping left too much because we only saw a small hand full of fellow walkers, maybe because of the heat but I think that not too many people have discovered this beautiful part of the Yarra Valley.

Make sure you stop and check out the large landslip that occurred in the 1940s. They fixed the problem by building a bridge over it and replaced the channel with a steel section, very clever indeed. There is lots of diversion gates and old valves to see along the way even a creek that passes underneath the channel. The view at the top of the Dee Rd of the Valley is absolutely stunning, take a while for a photo or just soak it in, this is how life should be!!

This is only a small section of this trail it actually starts at the O'Shannassy's Well near Reefton and runs all the way to the Don Valley near Launching Place. You are able to hop on at lots of different spots and the views and vegetation would change as the area changes. This has my tick of approval and from the heart foundation i guess as well, It is great exercise!

If you would like any information about the O'Shan trail please do not hesitate to talk to Julie or myself any time. Cheers for now Brian 9/02/2010

My opening attempt 

Well, well yet another brand new piece of technology(for me anyway) to come to terms with! Hello my name is Brian and along with my beautiful partner Julie we are the owners of 3 Kings Bed and Breakfast, nestled in the village of Yarra Junction, smack bang in the middle of Victoria's beautiful Yarra Valley. 3 Kings has now been open in full swing for about 12 months and it has been truly exciting and hectic.

We are AAAT 5 Star rated the newest in the valley, so you can be absolutely assured that luxury and quality is what you will expect and find if you will be our guests. the photos that you see on our web site do NOT have special filters or funny shaped lenses or enhanced colours. the most recent photos were taken in November 2009, so what you can see is exactly what you will receive.

One of the things that we have found in our first year is that a lot of our guests are looking for an experience to remember, to celebrate a wedding or anniversary, a special birthday or just a well earned break!

Julie and I want to hear the phrases.... "if its not too much trouble"    " could i ask a special favour"   "I'm looking to make this a stay to remember"    " do you have any ideas to make this extra special"   "my wife/husband has no idea that i am organising this"  " I am going to propose"  "this is the first time we have taken time out for ourselves"

3 Kings does not have an official reception desk we have a small coded key safe next to the door of each apartment. You do not have to front up for keys and sign in, rather push in your code and walk right in, maybe have that card or special gift mailed to us earlier and we will place it in your unit for your loved one before you arrive! Champagne on ice as you open the door or local handmade chocolates on the table. balloons, streamers and banners or maybe that bottle of wine that you both enjoyed on your very first date...

We are about special romance and a time to remember. Motels are a great place to sleep we want to be a great place to experience. Even our breakfast hampers are placed in the refrigerator just before you are due to arrive. And what a breakfast it is!! free range eggs, bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes, baked beans, yogurt, juice, a whole loaf of bread, milk and condiments. coffee, tea, hot chocolate and of course your very own coffee machine with top quality fresh beans.

Privacy, yes you bet, however if you need assistance we are only a minute away. The experts do say that the perfect waiter is the one that you really don't notice was there. 

We have some fantastic packages that we forged with some of the best operators in the Yarra Valley. From great value local restaurants with superb menus, to in house massage or hours of bliss in a day spa. If it is fine wine you seek where the wine grower produces the grapes and makes the wine right there on the property and is there to talk about his product face to face. Maybe golf or a balloon flight or a sightseeing tour with some cycling involved. Farmers markets or visits to the farmers property to sample the product off the tree. Then you need to talk to Brian or Julie your hosts and we will be happy to organise all the details for your special occasion.

In the coming weeks we will list attractions and supply up to date information about what is happening on our side of this beautiful Yarra Valley. So keep checking our brand new blog and we hope that we can be a valuable source of information to visitors and guests of 3 Kings Bed and Breakfast. In the mean time please call on 0409 678 046 and talk to either Julie or Myself and discuss what we can do to keep 3 Kings "fit for a king" ... kind regards Brian Westlake 

Christmas is just around the corner !!!!!!!

In fact it is less than eight weeks away, so if 3 Kings and the Yarra Valley is on your list of things to do

this Summer please consider making your reservation early. Between Christmas and the tenth of January

we have a two night minimum stay policy. Last year we were full between those dates by the start of December.

Call Julie or myself directly or book online via our website and hopefully you will be our guests, Brian 24/10/11  

Markets

The Warburton Community Market 
The market runs on the 3rd Saturday of each month from 9am to 2pm at St Mary's Church Hall, Warburton (opposite the Tennis Club).  Each market there is a host of stalls selling a variety of products including plants, art & craft, jewellery, clothes, honey, fairtrade products, home baked cakes and Frank's Sausage Sizzle.  Each market day there is always something of interest going on. Enquiries to Julian 5966 5500.  

St Andrews Market – Every Saturday morning.

Yarra Valley Organic Market @Healesville Railway Station - Saturdays

Country Market at Mont De Lancey - Saturdays

Eltham Community Craft and Produce Market – 3^rd Sunday of month

Healesville Racecourse Community Market – 1^st Sunday of month

 Bulong Estate and James Halliday wine Ratings

It would be true to say that I am not a true wine expert, looking for colour, swirling the glass, checking for the right finish and then spitting it out!

I simply pour it in the glass and drink it! If it tastes great then I drink some more.

However thankfully there are people who really know the product and are expert at classing and grading fine wines. they are able to guide us towards the best of quality so that we can choose with confidence and enjoy the quality without the risk of buying a dud.

Probably one of the most respected groups for doing just this is the James Halliday Wine Companion. They recently put Bulong Estate Winery to the sword and rated their wines.

Bulong received a 4.5 star rating, up from 3.5 and 4 star. As James says in his forward "4 1/2 stars indicates an excellent winery able to produce wines of high to very high quality, knocking on the door of a 5 star rating".

Bulong produces approximately 7 different varieties, 5 of which scored between 89 and 94 points.

All of this quality and they are 2 minutes from 3 Kings. So if tasting really good wine is one of the reasons that you will be visiting the Yarra Valley then be sure to place Bulong Estate at the top of the list. It is great and heartening to know that some of Australia's very best wine is being produced right here in Yarra Junction.

Our warmest congratulations go to Matt (wine maker) Judy and Howard (owners) and all the team at Bulong for a job well done.

Cheers for now Brian 1/9/10 

Go on get fit

3 Kings Bed and Breakfast is located along the Warburton Highway and on the other side of that Highway, where we are is the old decommissioned Lilydale to Warburton passenger railway. It has been revamped and is now one of Victoria's most popular walking, horse riding and cycling trails. Jump on one of 3 Kings bikes and head towards Warburton 10kms as the railway flies. It is really easy riding /walking and the view of the valley and surrounding mountains is just superb. It is a slight grade up in places on the way to Warburton but not too taxing and it does serve to make the ride home a bit easier.

Now way back in 1911 our government decided to build an aqueduct to allow the water of the Yarra Valley to make it's way to the folk of Melbourne town. This section took 4 years to build,(mainly by hand) and is placed 3 parts up on the side of a mountain. It has a slight down hill gradient all the way, (because water won't flow uphill). Anyway about a dozen years or so ago they decided to put the water supply under ground and the aqueduct was turned off. About a year ago the whole thing was opened up as a walking and cycling trail that runs all the way right along side the channel, so don't get the wobbles up and fall in!

I used to ride this trail before it was officially opened. I saw Deer, Wallabies, Lyre birds and lots of general bird life. Now be told, this is a fantastic ride for anybody with just a little bit of bike fitness and is an absolute must bike tour. If you check our packages we have developed a tour around this particular trail. It is fairly new so it hasn't really been fully discovered by the general population as yet. So be the first to tell your family and friends about it. Feel free to contact us if you would like directions on how to get there. regards Brian 31/01/2010

3 Kings recommended wineries.

1/

I have just recently started having a bit of a look around this beautiful Yarra Valley's local wineries. Not very impressive on my behalf considering i have been a local for over 30 years!! Have I been surprised. I am not talking about Domain Chandon or De Bortoli, I think most people are aware that these people run a very impressive operation. I am speaking of the local wineries on the Warburton Highway, all within 10 to 15 minutes drive from 3 Kings. I stopped in first, at Killara Estate half way between Seville and Worri Yallock. 90 acres under vines and a view to die for. They have a fantastic selection including bubbles, red and white. They have wines on special starting from $7 dollars a bottle for run out specials, there is a lovely restaurant serving light meals, catering also for weddings and special events and all taking in this fantastic vista. Wine tasting is free and the deals are great, no need to book just roll up and say Brian and Julie from 3 Kings sent you and I am sure your experience will be as good as mine. 10 out of 10 for sure a must do they are on Sunnyside Rd Seville East Melway Ref 285 F10.

2/

Bulong Estate. This establishment is only a few minutes from 3 Kings and enjoys the same Yarra Valley aspect and views as 3 Kings. Judy, Howard and their wine making son Matthew run this family run winery. They produce a range of premium still red and white wines, have a restaurant with some of the best food going in the whole of the Yarra Valley. They are happy to cater for functions and weddings to couples for romantic dining. The restaurant is open for dinner Friday and Saturday night for dinner and Sunday lunch. Wine tasting is available every day and its free. they are located on Summerhill road Yarra Junction Melway Ref 288 G12

3/

Seville Hill. This place was a lovely surprise and all the people that i have taken to visit here just love the wine on offer. In fact after Julie and I sampled their sparkling we decided to stock it as one of our in unit house wines, it is a beautiful drop.

It is wine tasting only (no restaurant) however the tasting room is comfortable and warm and i believe they have cheese tasting at times as well. Do not miss this place it is only 15 minutes drive from 3 Kings. they are at Paynes Rd Seville Melway ref 119 J11

4/

Elmswood Estate... WOW now this is nice. I was really surprised on how beautiful this place was, the view and outlook is postcard perfect. The function area is outdoor like a giant Marquis which is completely enclosed with PVC clear blinds, it looks stunning and it takes the views in perfectly. Wine tasting is inside the main building and you just have to try their sparkling Pinot, i loved it. they have an extensive range and if you try them all then bring me or a designated driver along to drive you back to 3 Kings. They have a restaurant as well. Wine tasting is free and they have the doors open 7 days a week. the address is,75 Monbulk Seville Rd Wandin East Melway ref 305 C6

Bargain Winery Tours

Wild Wombat Tours 

Here is a new tour company, however your guide Yvette has been in the tour business for over six years so she knows her wineries.Yvette has a mini bus and offers full day winery tours including lunch, with free pick up and drop off at 3 Kings for $120 per person

To book contact 3 Kings or Yvette at Wild Wombat on 0417 595 164

Rayners Stonefruit Orchard

Len and Heather Rayner own and run this stone fruit farm. They have built it up from a bush block to now having over 200 varieties of stone fruit.Len for quiet a few years was busy growing for the Footscray fruit and Veg market, however was finding that the price offered was barley enough to cover the farmers cost. So Len and Heather made the decision to take their produce to some of the local farmers markets to try their luck.... Well the rest is great history they now sell almost all of their fruit direct, so its fresher and cheaper than what you could get at any super market! In fact it was so successful that things have really moved on with a cafe being built on the property last year specializing in the foods grown on the property, (you would be surprised with all the things you can make from fruit).

If you are the type of person who loves to travel in style, then why not try an orchard tour in the back of a Lamborghini! ah that's actually a tractor, you will be able to tour the farm while Len allows you to sample the delights direct from the tree! Now it just does not get any fresher than that and you will taste the difference.

Be quick because the season will be finishing in April if you miss it then the wait will be on until November when the season starts again.

Rayners Orchard is at 60 Schoolhouse Road, Woori Yallock about 10 minutes drive from 3 Kings. Phone 59 647 654 or check them out on www.raynerstonefruit.com.au  enjoy regards Brian 31/01/2010  

Yarra Valley Food, Wine & Craft Market

Healesville Amateur Race Course

 Yarra Glen Rd
Healesville 3777
(Melway ref 269 J12) 

The Yarra Valley Food, Wine & Craft Market is held at the Healesville Amateur racecourse in the heart of the Yarra Valley. Under an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is famous for its fresh food, wine, craft and breathtaking scenery. The markets are held on the first Sunday of the month and offer quality products and produce from the local area