We were booked for a two-night stay at Balgownie. Upon arrival to our room (Room 604), we found two dead cockroaches on the floor, hairs on the carpet, and a broken AC remote. We had also requested a cot as part of our booking, which had not been set up. Reception was quick to assist with the cot, however the issues with the air-conditioning and carpet required further follow-up. It also appears this room may have ongoing issues as noted in a previous review below. Eventually, reception kindly relocated us to another room and provided a generous compensation, which we were very happy with.
Unfortunately, some issues continued during our stay. When dining at their restaurant, 1309, we were overcharged for dinner and were advised that reception would be informed and the issue would be rectified at checkout. This did not occur and upon checkout reception had advised they weren't told. Additionally, our room key card stopped working on the second day however, reception took accountability, apologised, and resolved this promptly which we appreciated. Lastly, we requested new pillows from reception and they advised they were happy help however, we did not hear from them or receive any new pillows.
While there were many positives — including a wonderful massage at the onsite Endota Spa, a delicious buffet breakfast, and very friendly and attentive restaurant and cleaning staff — the overall experience was impacted by communication issues. These challenges are particularly heightened whilst travelling with a baby, where timely assistance and clear communication are especially important and ultimately put a bit of a damper on the weekend. We would have expected a little more for a 4 star accommodation.
Emily Davies · 2026-02-01
Beautiful estate complex of which we stayed one night in a modern, well-appointed, spacious & quiet Garden Terrace Room. We thoroughly enjoyed the premium Museum wine tasting session (great to compare Aussie wines with NZ wines), followed by predinner drinks outside on the deck, ending with a delicious 2-course set dinner in Restaurant 1309. Our room also included breakfast in the restaurant and everything was freshly made & tasty. One thing that really stood out for us during our short stay was the friendliness and helpfulness of all the staff. Our stay at Balgownie Estate was overall an amazing experience. Highly recommended.
Jules Whiteman · 2026-01-07
We held our intimate wedding at Balgownie Estate - and could not have been happier. It ticked all of our boxes and more - everyone we had dealt with were so helpful and polite.
The venue is just beautiful, the team is absolutely lovely, the food and drinks are divine and the accommodation on site was stunning - and SO convenient!
Absolutely everything is of the highest quality.
It was an absolute honour to have had our special day hosted at Balgownie Estate and we'll definitely make a habit of visiting often.
Casey Kelly · 2026-01-12
No communication to inform us that the pool hadn't been working for MONTHS. No apology either, we were simply told at check in that 'the pool is currently under maintenance'. We paid $150 for some bread, a pie and pasta at the restaurant which tasted like food from a kids menu. So glad we went to Levantine Hill, St. Huberts and Tarrawarra - highly recommend them for good food and wine! The complimentary wine we received in our room at Balgownie was left behind intentionally.
Family Friendly
R N · 2026-02-02
We stayed at the Balgownie during the heatwave week. The winery and restaurant was beautiful. The food was served on time and plated nicely. Tastings were reasonable and our gal was very knowledgeable about all the wines and a great attitude. We stayed 2 nights at room 604 & 605. It was disappointing with all the bugs and mosquitos and spiders hanging at the entrance door. Thought the rooms could be better maintained. I left w 20 mosquito bites and additional bed bug bites. It was not comfortable. I would recommend the tasting and dining, not the staying.
Mish C · 2026-01-12