Finding Serenity in the Yarra Valley
My Australian Summer Escape
By Pearl (Guest Post)
At 56, I still buzz with the energy of someone half my age—a trait my friends in Singapore often tease me about. And I am delighted to have been invited to add a post here for Kangaroo Ridge Retreat.
After decades in Singapore’s vibrant chaos, I found myself craving a place to channel my enthusiasm into new experiences while reconnecting with nature.
Taking the Leap
“I’m booking a solo trip to Melbourne and then Yarra Valley! I am going to see Kylie and The Corrs at a winery!” I announced to my girlfriends. “What will you do out there alone? Can you even get around without a car?” they asked, knowing my aversion to driving. I laughed and replied, “I have absolutely no idea, but isn’t that marvellous?”
Though I’d spent years in Western Australia in my twenties, the eastern states remained unexplored. My biggest concern was logistics—wine regions are spread out, and I dislike driving. This led me to contact Rebecca at
Kangaroo Ridge Retreat, who recommended a completely personalized package including dedicated drivers and private transfers from Melbourne. “You’ll have complete freedom without touching a steering wheel,” she promised.
From City to Serenity
My adventure began at Melbourne’s QT Hotel after seeing Kylie at Rod Laver Arena. Craig, my driver, collected me on schedule. At Yarra Valley Dairy, I happily abandoned my planned shopping expedition to spend the afternoon enjoying cheese and Chardonnay while Craig shared stories about the region’s history.
At Kangaroo Ridge Retreat, I found a welcome surprise—local sparkling wine, sweets, bath soaks, sleep balm, and cozy Kangaroo Ridge PJs and robe. These thoughtful touches made me feel instantly at home.
The Corrs Concert and Nature’s Drama
The next day brought The Corrs concert at Rochford Winery. Having Lee as my dedicated driver meant I could fully enjoy the experience without worrying about transportation. “This is the way to do it,” remarked a couple anxiously checking the time for their tour bus.
That evening, a windstorm swept through. Though powerful, it felt wonderfully primal rather than frightening. There was a power outage in the region that lasted the day, but I was impressed that the retreat had backup generators, making me feel secure despite nature’s drama.
A Day of Exploration
February 24th dawned with a cloud inversion below my cabin. When Lee arrived, I bombarded him with questions about this phenomenon. “It’s one of the Valley’s special tricks,” he explained.
We visited Beechworth Bakery for my long-craved Cornish pasty, then explored at a leisurely pace with Lee suggesting viewpoints and stops not found in guidebooks. We ended at Domaine Chandon with a sparkling wine paddle, the perfect conclusion to our day.
When we returned, I struggled with the smart key. Rebecca quickly assisted me remotely, another example of the attentive service that defined my stay.
Recovery and Farewell
I spent my final full day savoring the serene environment, watching kangaroos and reflecting on how this trip offered exactly what I needed—exploration and stillness, adventure and comfort, independence without isolation.
As my driver took me back to Melbourne Airport, I reflected, “I’ve traveled all over the world, but I’ve never experienced a place quite like this.” By removing the stress of navigation, I was free to fully engage with the landscape, people, and experiences.
To my fellow Singaporeans who share my aversion to driving: the Yarra Valley offers a magnificent counterpoint to our urban existence, and dedicated drivers enhance the experience immeasurably.
Thank you, Rebecca, for creating an experience that solved the “car problem” so elegantly through your personalized Solo package. From the welcoming treats to the seamless transfers, every detail was thoughtfully arranged to create a journey I’ll treasure forever.
Take Care,
Pearl
Healesville
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