destinations

Grand Mercure Basildene Manor Accor Vacation Club Apartments

Timeshare travel review – Grand Mercure Basildene Manor

Posted on by admin

Set amongst manicured gardens in the award winning Margaret River wine region of Western Australia, Grand Mercure Basildene Manor is a one-of-a-kind historic property.

Classified by the National Trust and Heritage Council and dating back to 1912, Basildene Manor is a firm favourite with Accor Vacation Club’s Members, offering a laid back yet elegant experience just three hours south of Perth.

 

Oh Margaret, what’s not to love!

A two minute hop, step and jump away from Basildene is the township of Margaret River, a seriously stunning destination famous for its decadent food and produce, and serious wine industry.

It’s equally famous of course for its spectacular surfing beaches and natural attractions, while offering a variety of walking and cycling tracks that hug the river line. For those who love the great outdoors, these tracks offer a brilliant opportunity to explore ancient forests and vistas of vineyards along the way.

Wine-lovers will vouch for the regions award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Semillon vintages, crafted by some 200 vineyards that call the area home.

 

Pristine Prevelley

A short 10 minutes from the hotel is sublime Prevelley Beach, well regarded by locals and surfers for its exceptional surf, pristine environment and dramatic limestone caves.

Despite becoming a more trendy destination in recent times, Prevelley’s charm remains in the fact that it has lost none of its authenticity and is still regarded as a ‘sleepy village’ by most. It is still undeveloped and even for non-surfers, it’s hard not to be impressed by its rolling surf breaks, stunning sand dunes and Indian Ocean views.

 

Isn’t it romantic…

Whether you are celebrating love, rekindling a spark, or looking for an excuse to just reconnect with that special someone, Basildene Manor is a perfect setting to conjure up cupid. Serving up a great dose of old world charm aside contemporary comforts and luxurious surrounds, it’s little wonder that Grand Mercure Basildene Manor was voted an impressive #12 out of 24 top hotels recognised in the ‘Top Hotels for Romance – Australia’ category. With so many great wineries and beaches close by for sunset strolls, who would be surprised!

Of course, the hotel is a destination appeals to lovers of life and great travels generally, with Basildene also ranking #1 out of 10 properties located in Margaret River, Western Australia, in TripAdvisor’s annual Travelers’ Choice™ awards* for Hotels.

In 2018, travellers’ awarded a further ‘Certificate of Excellence’ for consistently earning great guest reviews, making for an impressive hat trick of accolades earned in 2018. All worthy reasons to add this hotel to your accommodation bucket list on your next visit to Western Australia.

 

Styling up in the great outdoors

Proving that the outdoor environment is just as worthy or attention as the inside experience or a hotel destination, Accor Vacation Club undertook an significant outdoor enhancement program at the property to better showcase its sprawling gardens and ensure that its outdoor living spaces remain top of mind for Members.

Timber decking has been replaced with sturdy stainless steel, while new lighting – including ambient fairy light installations throughout the estate’s ancient trees – now feature, to extend the appeal of Basildene’s outdoor spaces from dusk to enchanted evenings spent outdoors. Further coach lighting has been installed down the Manor’s famous drive and entrance, for an added sense of arrival.

Need extra storage when you stay? No problem! The hotel recently added more luggage space for the convenience of guests awaiting check in and departure.

 

Address: 187 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River, WA 6285

Phone: (08) 9757 3140

 

* Travelers’ Choice awards are presented annually to the top 1% of businesses across selected categories, with the hallmarks of winners being remarkable service, quality and value. A Travelers’ Choice award is regarded as TripAdvisor’s highest recognition, and is highly sought after in the hospitality and travel industry.

 

The information in this article is not personal financial advice and has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person. Before making a decision to purchase or upgrade a membership in the Accor Vacation Club, you should consider the PDS dated 1 January 2017, issued by A.P.V.C. Ltd AFSL 245515 and available at www.accorvacationclub.com.au or by contacting A.P.V.C. Ltd on 1800 70 81 90. All hotel and cruise bookings are subject to availability.

Hotel St Moritz, MGallery by Sofitel - heli picnic Memorable Moment.

How to make a moment into a memory, Queenstown style

Posted on by admin

Queenstown is one of those magical destinations where making holiday memories comes easy. Blame it on the breathtaking scenery, crisp mountain air and wonderful wineries weaving their magic at every turn!

Of course to ensure that a fleeting moment in time with a loved one become a fully-fledged ‘forever’ memory, it definitely helps to enlist the skills of an in-the-know local to craft a truly one-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Hotel St Moritz, an MGallery by Sofitel property included in Accor Vacation Club’s New Zealand accommodation portfolio, is one such place offering that service for visitors to Queenstown.

In addition to its impeccable service, five-star facilities and captivating designs, the hotel offers guests the chance to indulge in its ‘Queenstown Memorable Moment’, curated by the staff themselves.

Flight of fancy – a heli picnic on an extraordinary alpine plateau…

Hotel St Moritz ‘Memorable Moment’ package is indeed spectacular, featuring a flight by private charter helicopter to “The Ledge” on Cecil Peak for a magical half hour of tranquility.  There, overlooking The Southern Alps you will enjoy a delicious picnic prepared by the hotel’s own Lombardi Restaurant.  It’s definitely a worthy addition to your bucket list, creating an incredible sensory moment, where the imposing scale of nature is awe-inspiring.

The Memorable Moment experience from Hotel St Moritz  is available on request and can be taken at your leisure during your stay. To find out more, call the hotel on +64 3 442 4990 and speak to the concierge, or visit www.stmoritz.co.nz

What is a Memorable Moment?

MGallery by Sofitel is comprised of a collection of captivating boutique hotels that exude luxury, charisma and a profoundly local character. Each hotel has developed its very own Memorable Moment for guests, taking various forms, however always remaining deeply rooted in the local landscape, culture and hotel character. Your moment could be something as intimate as a dinner, or as grandiose as a helicopter ride to survey a local landmark.

In any case, the experience is likely to be one of the most defining of your stay. For more visit https://www.accorhotels.com/gb/brands/hotels-mgallery.shtml

Feeling inspired?

If you now feel inspired to explore an Accor Vacation Club Membership and plan your next holiday to Queenstown, contact a representative of the Accor Vacation Club Member Services team on 1300 761414.

Golden holiday moments – the Gold Coast, uncovered

Posted on by admin

If you think it’s time to visit – or revisit – the iconic ‘coast with the most’, then prepare to be inspired!

Famed for its bright lights, breathtaking beaches and theme parks, the Gold Coast is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most popular hotspots. The destination has certainly come a long way since it first surfed the beach culture wave to fame back in the 1950s, evolving into the diverse, high-end, holiday haven it is today.

Whether you prefer scenic hinterland drives, epic beach breaks and paddle boarding, or taking in an action-packed calendar of cultural and sporting events (not least of all the 2018 Commonwealth Games), there is no better time than now to rediscover the Gold Coast .

Welcome to Paradise

Surfers Paradise comfortably maintains its position as the good-times hub of the Gold Coast, The new foreshore is bustling throughout the day with walkers, cyclists and skateboarders taking advantage of this beachfront boulevard vista overlooking the surf and sand. Like the Surfers Paradise of yesteryear, beachside shopping, dining, bars and clubs continually offer the complete holiday experience all in one compact destination package.

Fairway to heaven

The Gold Coast is not only a ‘Surfers Paradise’, but a golfers’ paradise too, boasting more than 40 of Australia’s finest golf courses.  Nestled between Lakelands and Palm Meadows golf courses, Accor Vacation Club’s newest address, Mercure Gold Coast Resort, is the perfect resort for a golf holiday, partnering with five golf courses all within a ten-minute drive from the resort. Play at one course, or enjoy five different locations. Guests can take advantage of Mercure resort’s booking service to arrange tee times at their preferred course. If you are after some professional advice to up your game, check out The Golf School at Palm Meadows Driving Range.

Sky is the limit

Arguably the best way to take in the magnificent Gold Coast is from above. A twilight experience on Australia’s highest external building climb, Skypoint, is a must-do, lasting 90 minutes from the beginning to the end and featuring an awe-inspiring, open-air adventure atop one of Queensland’s most recognised land marks – the iconic Q1 Building. The Skypoint Observation Deck is available for those who wish to watch their friends and family climb, without donning the harness themselves! Rising 270m into the air, SkyPoint Climb is Australia’s highest external building climb and provides unparalleled 360′ views of the Gold Coast and beyond. For a less pulse racing, but equally stunning, view of the coast from above, a hot air balloon ride is also unforgettable. Balloon Aloft Gold Coast has been showcasing the Gold Coast and its spectacular scenery for over 20 years. Departing from the Mercure Gold Coast Resort, you will have the chance to float like a cloud as you witness the sunrise climbing over the stunning panorama, from high-rises and shimmering waterways to the Hinterland.

Surfing the menu

The increasing sophistication of the region has brought a serve of top-notch restaurants and cafes for visitors to try. Broadbeach, Mermaid Beach, and Surfers Paradise all offer an exceptional choice of eateries, from prizewinning pizza places and gelato bars to fine dining options, such as ocean facing The Fish House ay Burleigh Beach. In a league of its own, The Fish House Is credited with introducing a style of dining that put the Gold Coast on the food map nationally and sparked the beginning of the dining revolution. Palm Beach is the latest emerging dining precinct of the Gold Coast. The once sleepy suburb is now the new destination for discriminating diners. For those who want to taste test the GC themselves, there are a number of locally led food and wine tours available.

This little tourist went to market

The Gold Coast offers a fascinating and diverse array of markets to satisfy every need, from art and craft to fashion, seasonable fresh produce, gifts and knick knacks. A trip to any one of the Gold Coast’s markets can mean a shopping bag full of edible souvenirs, gourmet products and other delights. For early risers, the Gold Coast’s bustling markets serve up delicious paddock-to-plate inspired breakfasts from 6.00am at Palm Beach, Bundall and Helensvale. For those staying in Surfers Paradise, The Esplanade Surfers Paradise offers market stalls between 4pm and 9pm every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday night.

Hinterland fling

Springbrook and Mt Tamborine are just two highlights of the local hinterland and rainforest region that form the beating green heart of the Gold Coast. Ideal for day trips (a 45 minute drive from the tourist strip), the hinterland offers numerous walking trails, or for those who prefer to cruise, breathtaking scenic drives. You’ll see views waterfalls that tumble down into the depths of the canyon, cool rock creeks that flow into swimming holes and some of the oldest trees in Australia. For a change of pace, there are several local wineries to stop by including Tamborine’s Witches Falls cellar door, a brewery and even a mountainside distillery Add to this award-winning restaurants, art galleries, sweeping coastal views and that delicious mix of old and new-world charm for a perfect day out.

Modern Family 

Ready to release your inner child? The Gold Coast is home to a literal world of theme parks – think Movie World, Dream World, Sea World, and even White Water World. And let’s not forget that family favourite, Wet & Wild for the summer season, and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (where a Koala cuddle is almost obligatory). With so many aqua attractions splashed around the Gold Coast, it can be hard to find a beach that best suits children. Tallebudgera Creek offers a sandy bottomed lagoon, crystal waters and plenty of shade for afternoon lazing. For kids a little older and eager to learn, Currumbin Alley Surf School is perfect for a family-friendly surf session on some of the best beginner waves on the GC. When heading out with the kids seems too hard, keep in mind that Accor Vacation Club’s Turtle Beach Resort on Mermaid Beach offers a holiday kids’ club for 4-12 year olds.

 

Handy holiday tip…It’s easy to forget just how widespread the Gold Coast actually is, so planning ahead is important, especially when driving between the beaches and hinterland, from Coolangatta airport in the South, or to the theme parks in the North.

 

Accor Vacation Club Apartments to explore:

 

 

The information in this article is not personal financial advice and has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person.  Before making a decision to purchase or upgrade a membership in the Accor Vacation Club, you should consider the PDS dated 1 January 2017, issued by A.P.V.C. Ltd AFSL 245515 and available at www.accorvacationclub.com.au or by contacting A.P.V.C. Ltd on 1800 70 81 90. All hotel and cruise bookings are subject to availability.

The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach, Accor Vacation Club

The top 5 destinations Accor Vacation Club Members love

Posted on by admin

It’s here – our top 5 destinations! To help Members get the most out of their leisure time with family and friends, Accor Vacation Club has carefully curated a fantastic choice of holiday destinations and superb accommodation options.

Accor Vacation Club is a premier loyalty offering for AccorHotels, allowing members privileged access to stay in top quality accommodation across Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia.

Members receive an allocation of Première Points every year which can be redeemed for holidays or short breaks. Whether for a family get together, a romantic weekend or the holiday of a lifetime, the choice is up to you.

Here’s our round-up of the top 5 destinations for Accor Vacation Club Members.But be sure to book quickly, these spots are in hot demand!

 

  1. The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach

Manly Beach, Accor Vacation Club top 5 destination

You’ll get a warm welcome at The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach. With a spectacular waterfront setting at the south end of Manly on one of Australia’s most iconic beaches, The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach is your gateway to golden sand, surfing and snorkeling. The hotel offers a variety of well-appointed accommodation to suit all requirements, from to one and two-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes, perfect for families or groups of friends. Accor Vacation Club members can choose from a range of options including Ocean View, Superior, or Standard: the rooms are all air-conditioned, with private bathrooms, LCD TVs and spacious, furnished balconies where you can sip a glass of wine while enjoying the views. Members and guests can enjoy casual, beachside dining at the Manly Wine restaurant in the hotel, or sample the cuisine at an array of seafood restaurants, cafes, bars and bistros nearby.

 

  1. The Sebel Melbourne Flinders Lane

The Sebel Melbourne Flinders Lane Apartments, Accor Vacation Club top 5 destination

The Sebel Melbourne Flinders Lane offers the perfect base from which to experience the sophisticated, urban vibe of Melbourne at its best. Located in the heart of Melbourne’s fashion and foodie district, this high end, boutique hotel offers accommodation in 56 luxuriously appointed self- contained apartments, all with spacious bedrooms and living areas and with their own kitchenettes. Set in a quiet location with guest parking available, The Sebel Melbourne Flinders Lane is within a short stroll of theatres, museums and the main sporting venues and offers easy access to the city’s transport network. WiFi, a fitness centre and babysitting service are available and there are an abundance of excellent eateries nearby.

 

  1. Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort

Accor Vacation Club's Grand Mercure Puka Park, top 5 destination

Escape to the breathtaking natural surroundings of the Puka Park resort, one of the most popular holiday destinations included in your Accor Vacation Club membership. Nestled on the slopes of Mt. Pauanui on New Zealand’s Coromandel coast, with enchanting views of the lush green landscape and close to Pauanui beach, this hotel offers Members the chance to relax in luxurious seclusion with attentive service and fine dining, Pacific Rim style. 38 comfortable and stylish apartments balance the laid-back ambiance of a mountain lodge with modern facilities, and the hotel is a memorable setting for weddings and conferences. Members and guests can enjoy surfing and other watersports, golf, tennis or explore the natural beauty of the region with fishing, cycling or hiking tours.

 

  1. Grand Mercure Basildene Manor

Grand Mercure Basildene Manor, Accor Vacation Club top 5 destination

The old world charm and modern comforts of Basildene Manor make it a captivating place for Accor Vacation Club members to enjoy a relaxing break. Set in a quiet location in the beautiful Margaret River wine region and surrounded by exquisite gardens, this old manor house is near to several wineries, cafes, restaurants and recreational facilities. With 19 refurbished rooms and suites, Members can choose the accommodation that suits their needs; the hotel also features a restaurant that serves a delicious buffet breakfast, a fireside reading room, a sunroom and conservatory, a lakeside pergola and a tennis court. With beaches, caves and wineries all within easy reach, Basildene Manor is the ideal base for exploring the natural splendours of the region.

 

  1. The Sebel Pinnacle Valley

Peaks Restaurant at The Sebel Pinnacle Valley, top 5 destination

Surrounded by the mountains, wineries and rivers of the Victorian High Country and just 30 minutes from the Mt Buller ski slopes, The Sebel Pinnacle Valley is an exciting year-round destination that Accor Vacation Club members love. The hotel boasts elegant conference facilities and is an enchanting venue for a romantic wedding. With stylishly decorated, contemporary self-contained apartments, and a bar, lounge with log fire, restaurant with al fresco dining during the warmer months and a pool, this resort is the perfect place for a peaceful holiday in stunning surroundings. Guests can choose from an array of outdoor activities, including snow skiing, bushwalking, horseriding, golf and winery tours – our helpful, knowledgeable staff will be delighted to recommend the best activities for all tastes.

 

Visit Accor Vacation Club online for more.

 

Story first appeared on as a feature on www.accorhotels.com blog – australia/magazine/one-hour-one-day-one-week

The information in this article is not personal financial advice and has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person.  Before making a decision to purchase or upgrade a membership in the Accor Vacation Club, you should consider the PDS dated 1 January 2017, issued by A.P.V.C. Ltd AFSL 245515 and available at www.accorvacationclub.com.au or by contacting A.P.V.C. Ltd on 1800 70 81 90.