Chinaman's Kilnhouse, Porepunkah: A pleasure to be in

Cavedons Lane, Porepunkah

Phone: 0400 733 170

Email: stay@kilnhouse.com.au

Web: kilnhouse.com.au

The location Porepunkah is a farming area located at the foot of Mt Buffalo, near Bright, three hours' drive north-east of Melbourne. It's also a region known for its gastronomic industries. The accommodation, one of three self-contained houses on the property, was built four years ago on a working Alpine Angus cattle farm.

The place The design of Chinaman's Kilnhouse was inspired by the traditional tobacco-smoking kilns that punctuate the area, its name deriving from their conical hat-shaped top and the moniker of a nearby swimming hole. The place is an aesthete's delight with its 20th-century designer furniture, neutral palette, heated concrete floor, high-end "cook's kitchen" and fabulous views. The house has two bedrooms (it sleeps four) and extensive terracing.

The experience The house is a pleasure to be in, so visitors may choose just to stay in and relax. There are short walks to be taken and at the end of the lane you can stroll to "Chinaman's swimming hole", a perfect spot for a summer bathe. There are fine wineries close by, including in the nearby King Valley. The location is also suited to day trips to mounts Feathertop, Buffalo and Hotham, and bike riding along the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail that goes from Wangaratta to Bright and runs near the property.

Don't miss The 100km-plus cycling and hiking trail is a main drawcard (murraytomountains.com.au/the-rail-trail/). Also recommended is Simone's restaurant in Bright, a 10-minute drive away (03 5755 2266; simonesrestaurant.com.au). Owner Patrizia Simone runs Italian cooking classes at venues including the Kilnhouse.

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