Foodies Delight
Alt Rd Vineyard
On the way to Forrest Haus Retreat, take the turn off to Winchelsea-Deans Marsh Rd and stop in to see Travis and Katie at Alt Rd vineyard. With a variety of grapes on the property you won't be disappointed that you stopped to grab your favorite drop. Running short of time? No worries, a selection of Alt Rd red wines are available in the honesty wine fridge in the house. Check out their Instagram @altroadwines for up-to-date event information or join them for lunch on Sundays when you can sip amongst the vines, grab a cheesboard or a lunch from visiting food trucks.
Brae
At Forrest Haus Retreat's doorstep is one of Australia's most acclaimed restaurants - Brae. Chef Dan Hunter has curated a foodie experience at Brae which you won't forget, incorporating sustainable farming methods and highlighting seasonal produce and local producers. To make a reservation click here.
Visit the General Stores for local produce
We are so lucky to have some of the best General Stores in the region close by. From amazing local coffee to delicious pastries, pies and delicacies you can find it all. It is also the community connection where you can see what's on in town, sample smaller producers and connect with locals. The best (in our opinion) is Forrest General Store, Deans Marsh General Store and drop into Moriac General Store on your way especially on Friday nights when they have resident food trucks visit!
Local distilleries and brews
Only walking distance from Forrest Haus Retreat is the Forrest Brewery which has a range of different brews to sample, purchase over a burger and chips. Local to the area, which guests can sample is Otway Distillery's range of small batch spirits using locally sourced and foraged ingredients.
Further afield is Otway Estate where you can have a cheese platter by the fire whilst having a gin or beer tasting . Those who want something more substantial there is a longer menu to fill your belly.
Click here for Forrest Brewery
Click herefor Otway Distillery
Click here for Otway Estate/Prickly Moses
Recommended restaurants
One of the most frequently asked questions is - where is good to eat? Although this is not a definitive list we have put together a list of our favorites for our guests to choose and explore. All of the recommendatiokns are hyperlinked to the pages which you can view menus and details.
Birregurra
Birregurra Grocer - great for brunch or lunch they have a range of hearty meals to enjoy.
Royal Mail Hotel - beautifully appointed gastro pub in Birregurra with an extensive menu to suit all tastes.
Lorne
Totti's - stunning Italian restaurant in a beautiful town. Great place to gather for lunch or dinner.
Ipos - high class Greek restaurant with amazing food.
Lavers Hill
The Perch - great place to eat especially if you are looking to combine with a visit to the Otway Fly as only a short drive away. Great menu and if going in the evening, be sure to catch the glow worms which is a short walk from the restaurant.