Backdropped by native forests and captivating countryside encompassing the famed Hanging Rock, the newly refurbished Cleveland Estate in Lancefield stands as a drawcard destination among the picture-perfect Macedon Ranges, the heartland of Central Victoria's artisanal food and wine scene.

The first property to emerge under the new LMG Collection, a sister brand to Lancemore Hotel Group, Cleveland Estate (formerly Cleveland Winery) officially reopened in February 2024, unveiling to guests a new look across its 50 guestrooms and suites. Grounded by a once pioneering vineyard and breathtaking established gardens, the reimagined property now presents as a relaxing retreat in a truly one-of-a-kind Victorian-era setting, with 130 acres of serene farmland at its doorstep.

“The brief for Cleveland Estate's transformation was not to create something perfect and definitely not pretentious,” says Julian Clark, CEO of Lancemore Hotel Group and LMG Collection. “We wanted the property, with its roots tied to Victoria's gold rush era, to transcend time and trends and reflect LMG's love of art and design. Its architecture is distinctively Australian and, like Australia, the refurbishment offers a melting pot of design references from diverse cultures, countries and periods, each combining to create a truly unique and colourful personality.”

At the heart of the multimillion-dollar refurbishment, spearheaded creatively by design and art enthusiast Caroline Riddell-Clark, is the rebirth of the estate's late 19th century homestead, the foundations of which date back to 1887. The renovation pays homage to this architectural heritage through an at-times daring colour palette and captivating collection of antique and modern pieces, each hand-picked to create “wonderfully eclectic and theatrical interiors,” Riddell-Clark shares, resembling the warm and opulent six-bedroom home of a collector and design connoisseur.

“For decades I've enjoyed collecting intriguing pieces from my travels around Australia and abroad,” Riddell-Clark says. “More recent finds – big and small – now inform the inviting interiors of Cleveland Estate, combining with the property's historic features and abundant natural beauty to shape the next generation of guest experiences in the Macedon Ranges.”

Each of the accommodation buildings that halo the main homestead have a distinct design narrative reflective of its purpose, including the Lakeview dwelling, which features timbers salvaged from wharves, bridges and other historic buildings. “Lakeview exudes luxury and contemporary style. Despite its relaxed nature, every piece of furniture within it is a modern design icon,” says Riddell-Clark, highlighting pieces from the likes of Knoll, Moroso, Minotti, B&B Italia, Rodolfo Dordoni and Patricia Urquiola. “The mix of leather, velvet and suede these pieces provide, alongside auction finds and beautiful reclaimed objects, adds layers of interest and sophistication to each space.” 

Impeccably decorated, all guestrooms and suites throughout the estate, along with shared zones such as the billiard room, laidback lounging areas and dining nooks, exude elevated country-manor style, incorporating modern nature-inspired materials – timeworn corrugated iron, faux fur upon Malawian chairs or boucle-upholstered sofas – in each of the voluminous spaces.

With outlooks that traverse cottage garden corners, vineyard vistas and bucolic panoramas home to alpacas and highland cattle, the guestrooms and suites bask in boundless natural light, where antiques and vintage curios are offset by modern touches including sleek freestanding bathtubs and artworks by celebrated artists such as John Olsen, Russell Drysdale and Kate Bergin.

From the accommodation and verdant outdoor “rooms” to the on-site restaurant and cellar door, the property offers a multitude of areas in which guests can enjoy the splendours of the region. “Lancefield and its surrounds are renowned for impeccable food and wine culture,” Clark explains. “Complementing the estate's renewed aesthetic across guestrooms, suites and shared spaces, the restaurant and cellar door bring guests closer to enjoying the best local produce. Getaways here are now a holistic experience, giving guests everything they expect from a Lancemore property but with an eclectic, playful sense of energy that's come to define the new LMG Collection.” 

The underground cellar door, occupying the former stables, showcases wines meticulously crafted by the skilled hands of winemaker Barney Flanders. It stands as a symbol of the revival and rejuvenation of Cleveland Winery, revered for exceptional vintages. Sommelier Jacquie Lewis is responsible for the wine list in the nearby restaurant, Carriage House, which offers cuisine reflecting a simple blend of traditional and contemporary Italian flavours in what was once the shearing shed.

Now open for reservations, the estate presents as the ultimate venue for special occasions, with a warm and attentive events team dedicated to ensuring seamless celebrations. From birthdays to destination weddings, engagement parties or conferences, Cleveland Estate provides an idyllic base in Lancefield, with impeccable food and wine amid spectacular camera-ready scenery.

Conveniently situated an hour's drive from the CBD of Melbourne, the estate invites visitors to explore the treasures of the region, too. Here, at the southern end of the Great Dividing Range, guests are beckoned to delight in acclaimed restaurants, charming cafes, breathtaking natural attractions and a bounty of boutiques, antiques shops and art galleries.

For more information on Cleveland Estate or to book visit www.lancemorehotels.com.au