Otway Escapes Summer 09 Newsletter

Dear Friends,

Welcome to our Summer Newsletter.

The Otways have never looked better, substantial winter rains and fresh growth has ensured that the region is at its spectacular best.

If you are visiting the Great Ocean Road Beaches or the Hinterland you can be assured of experiences that will heighten your senses.

In the following newsletter we have addressed some potential touring routes that incorporate businesses associated with the Otway Harvest Trail, we have also highlighted two interesting local businesses and incorporated a special readers accommodation deal at Otways Number 105.

Otways Number 105 - Luxury Cottage Accommodation

Discover a luxury couples retreat offering the finest self contained accommodation in the region. Enjoy the serenity and natural beauty of the Otways and surrounds. Indulge in the in-house facilities including a double spa (rain water filled), sauna, gourmet kitchen and quality Hi Fi equipment.

Click here for accommodation information.

Summer Getaway Accommodation Deal (for stays between 1st Dec 09 - 1 Mar 10)

This is an exclusive offer to recipients of this newsletter only.

You must make reference to this "Summer 09 Newsletter" when you make a booking.

If you cannot come and stay yourself, why not send this email to a friend! Or better yet, ask us about a gift voucher (the perfect Christmas present).

• For guests booking this Summer we will be delighted to include a Summer Sampler Take Home Hamper.
• The hamper will include 1 bottles of Local Wine (red or white), Local Olive Oil, Olives. Value $50.00

Click here to Check Availability and Book Securely Online.

--------------
Conditions: Bookings must be made prior to 11th Dec 2009 for stays between 1st Dec 2009 and 1st March 2010. Accommodation is subject to availability. Quote "Summer 09 Newsletter" when booking.
--------------

The Otway Harvest Trail

The Otway Harvest Trail is a celebration of the seasons that bestow their rich bounty on our luscious part of The Otway Ranges in Victoria.

Summer is all about being outdoors. All the berry farms have opened and their sweet juicy berries are ripe for the picking. The lush emerald green of the vineyards become more distinctive as the land around slowly turns a golden brown.

People clamour for outdoor tables and chairs at cafes and restaurants to soak in the warm days, mild evenings and glorious pastel sunsets. Local wines and beers go so well with the seafood, vegetables and fruits in plentiful supply. Wine lovers are welcomed at cellar doors and their curiosity is rewarded with the discovery of new Wines.

Website - www.otwayharvesttrail.org.au

A Spotlight on Local Business and Attractions

Blakes Estate Winery: This is an award winning local winery, that is located within an easy 10 minute drive from Otways Number 105.

Deans Marsh and Pennyroyal areas on the Northern flanks of the Otway Ranges have been noted for their Strawberry and Raspberry farms since the 1930s

In the spirit of these enterprises Blakes Estate is a producer of "Burgundy Style" pinot noir and a "Champagne Style" sparkling wine using pinot grapes.
Their product is highly recommended by Otways Number 105.

Website: www.blakesestate.com.au

Old Lorne Road Olives: This casual eatery with its fine locally sourced products is a local favourite.

Nestled amongst the 1300 olive trees is our brand new cafe and art gallery. The serene location provides a beautiful afternoon of wine, great food and breathtaking views of the rolling hills of Deans Marsh and surrounds.

Indulge in a taste of the Mediterranean with our Italian inspired menu. Break some Ciabatta and soak up our own flavourful olive oils dunked in dukka or simply enjoy a glass of wine and the view. Then work it off with a game of pétanque or a stroll around the grove.

This Restaurant is only a 5 minute drive from Otways Number 105.

Website: www.oldlorneroadolives.com.au

Interesting Things to Do

At the Beach: We paid a visit to the Cape Otway Lighthouse recently. This is the oldest lighthouse on mainland Australia, playing an important role in Australia's marine history. It is open daily from 9am.

The trip to the lighthouse would take a little more than one hour from Otways Number 105. The trip provides a magnificent over view of the Otways and Hinterland and some of the most spectacular views en route. Koalas are numerous in the eucalypts in the National Park leading to the Lighthouse.

No trip to this region would be complete without a Visit to the spectacularly located Chris's Restaurant at Beacon Point. Pop in for a Coffee or a meal and soak up the views.

In the Hinterland: The Otway Fly is an easy hour drive from Otways Number 105, located in the spectacular Eucalypt Forests near Beech Forrest.

The Fly provides a close up view of the rain forest from 25 m above the ground. You can walk on the Spring Board Cantilever or climb the Spiral Stairs to the lookout. If you love the Australian Bush, this is for you!

As part of the trip you could also visit the Triplett Falls, which are currently flowing very strongly. Allow 1 hour return walk.

Markets

Aireys Inlet Community Market: This is a community-owned authentic farmers market specialising in fresh produce, locally made goodies, and art & craft. With a cosy indoor/outdoor setting, the Aireys Inlet Community Market is perfect in all weather and has become a Sunday morning mecca for Aireys locals seeking out a more sustainable shopping experience.

Aireys Inlet Community Hall. 13,27 Dec, 10,24 Jan, 14 Feb, 7 March

Anglesea Riverbank Market: Set in one of the most picturesque locations this market is a treasure trove (200 stalls) of eclectic stalls and stallholders. Food, fashion, tools, toys & trinkets, jewellery & books, plants & gardening good and much more!

1,10,17 Jan, 7 March

Deans Marsh: Fresh Local and Organic Produce, Local Art and Craft. Plants and Flowers. Live Music. Coffee and Food. Charming village market reflects a vibrant community leading the emergence of progressive farming practices. Deans Marsh is also rich in music, art and live entertainment is a feature all year round at Martians Cafe.)

3rd Sunday every month

A recipe from Christine and odd bits of news

Healthy Breakfast Muffins:

Makes approximately 8 muffins.

• 2 Tablespoons honey
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon LSA (available at supermarket in health food area)
• 2 Teaspoons vanilla essence
• 11/4 cups wholemeal self-raising flour
• 2 Tablespoons walnuts
• 1/2 cup frozen or fresh blueberries

To make: Mix bananas, honey, oil and LSA in a large bowl. Fold in remaining ingredients and mix. Spoon into a non-stick muffin pan and bake in a moderate oven for 20-25 minutes.

Serve a warm muffin with a spoon full of Blueberries and a desert spoon of LSA.

otway thoughts...

To all our guests who have avoided the little Silky free range egg in your breakfast Hamper, I have taken a picture of one of our Little Silky hens and her two prodigies, free ranging at the farm.

The eggs may be small but they have big yolks and are simply delicious. The Silky chickens are the most wonderful mothers. When the chicks are little they carry them around tucked under their wings.

On the subject of chicks, the Willie wagtails are all nesting (a photo has been included). They seem to nest later than other birds. Their nests meticulously woven are often quite low.

On the farm, we have a nest in the old dairy at head level, and one in the tractor shed on an old door. The chicks I am sure grow 50% each day. It seems that within a week they are out and about learning the hazards of the skies!

I am also excited about our resident Koala that has been sighted by several guests at Otways Number 105.

I have been alerted to them from the strong turpentine smell from their scats. A green smelly sign to look up into the eucalypts!

Some closing thoughts as the sound of rain replenishing our water tanks is better than listening to Mozart!

However looking out from the Otway Escapes office, a just born grey calf is struggling to stand on undisciplined feet. I always feel sorry for calves born under such heavy rainfall. At least at this time of the year it is not cold.

We hope you enjoyed this newsletter and found the content to be interesting and informative.

Wishing all our friends a Happy Christmas, and all the best for the New Year.

Always note to be careful of our wildlife on the roads when heading out to stay with us,

Kind Regards,
Christine and Brett