As a fledgling business launched in 2021, and busy owners who 'wear all the hats' – it was an unexpected reward for Eden Yarra Valley to win Silver for Self-Contained Accommodation at the 2024 Victorian Tourism Awards. The award was announced at the recent gala ceremony at Melbourne's Crown Casino, attended by 1,000 industry professionals.
The Awards are hosted annually by the Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) to honour business excellence and performance within the industry.
Eden Yarra Valley co-owner and Chief Eden Officer Lisa Chapman said,
"The team at Eden Yarra Valley were beyond thrilled to win Silver with our very first time entering an award. Running a premium accommodation catering for up to 30 guests - with an unwavering commitment to excellence - is a seven day a week job, and you rarely get the time to celebrate the 'wins'. The Awards ceremony was an opportunity to do just this, and we couldn't be prouder of what we've achieved at Eden and of our passionate team".
Eden Yarra Valley is a unique offering in the Yarra Valley and indeed Victoria; a private estate set on two acres of lush gardens, complemented by amenities such as heated pool, games room with pool table, fully equipped bar, trampoline and swings, a separate large dining or conference space, 'Potter's Gallery' and parking for 17 cars.
"One reason for Eden's popularity is our estate's versatility and the broad range of guests we cater for: 48-hour wedding 'staycations', micro weddings in our gardens, 21st to 90th milestone birthday celebrations, corporate off-sites and yoga and wellness retreats".
"Our vision for Eden was to fill the massive gap in Yarra Valley accommodation offerings given the popular region is Victoria's wedding and winery capital; with a private estate catering for larger guest groups. And it seems to be working; we have forward bookings well into 2026 and almost 300 five-star reviews from past guests", said Chapman.
The fact that Eden is fully equipped for BYO catering is much appreciated by budget-conscious guests grappling with cost-of-living increases. With the average wedding in Victoria costing around $37000, brides and grooms can plan a totally DIY micro wedding ceremony and reception for a fraction of this cost, plus spend precious extended time with loved ones. Being only one hour from Melbourne's CBD or the airport adds convenience.
Eden is regularly described as the 'Yarra Valley's best kept secret' however with the prestigious Silver Award win, this may well be about to change.
Key Facts:
- Eden Yarra Valley launched in 2021
- Private luxury retreat in Victoria's Yarra Valley sleeping up to 30 guests
