Big Blue Backyard, St Andrews Beach accommodation review: Weekend away

Nov 12 2014 at 2:23 PM

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Our rating

4 out of 5

The location  

St Andrews Beach, just over an hour's drive from Melbourne, is a small village among the sand dunes on the Mornington Peninsula's wild western coast. Beyond the bush, the national park hugs a long stretch of coast where surf breaks outnumber beachgoers. The tourist town of Rye is close, but feels a world away.

The place 

Big Blue Backyard, tucked between one of the peninsula's many golf courses and a wild, dune-covered beach, is a cluster of three B&B retreats, each with a distinctive theme: bush, beach and African (the last one a nod to South African owner Lisa Dempsey's heritage). Outside there's nothing but tea tree, Moonah melaleuca and a winding track to the crashing waves. Wineries, golf courses, tourist attractions and great eateries are all close by, but it's hard to resist the allure of just staying put in this secluded, natural setting.

The experience  

Relaxation comes very easily here. The rooms are spacious, elegant and light, and a lovely aroma of basil and peppermint welcomes guests. Outside, the bush is dense but beautiful and there's a track to the beach waiting to be explored. The salt air is the perfect way to kick-start an appetite, and a spa bath on the deck outside is just the way to wind down after dinner. Mind the Bass Strait winds blowing out the tea candles, though.

Don't miss  

Eating well. There are excellent dining options in every direction from St Andrews Beach, but why get in the car again? You can ask to have a home-cooked dinner and breakfast, both showcasing local ingredients, delivered to your room. Just let the owners know 48 hours before you arrive. ADAM COOPER

Need to know

Cost: From $495 a room.

Distance: 1.5 hours' drive (100km) south of Melbourne.

Children: Under-twos by prior arrangement only.

56 Paradise Drive, St Andrews Beach, Vic

PHONE: (03) 5988 6011

WEB: bigbluebackyard.com.au