The best of everything: Welcome to The Sebel Yarrawonga, where high-end luxury, world-class golf and country hospitality collide.
At first it may seem a little far-fetched that a regional golf resort situated 300 kilometres from the nearest capital city could be globally recognised as one of the best in the country. Yet when you arrive in the magical Murray River town of Yarrawonga, home to The Sebel, you quickly realise its gong for best “Luxury Lakeside Resort – Continent (Oceania and Australia)” at the 2022 World Luxury Awards was no accident.
While many golf resorts can lay claim to a Top 100-ranked golf course or luxurious accommodation facilities, very few can combine all their offerings into a bespoke VIP experience to have you coming back for more.
Even rarer is being able to complement such red-carpet treatment with a dash of good, old country hospitality. Yet this regional Victoria hot spot on the shores of Lake Mulwala does exactly that, and it’s proving to be a winning combination that underpins why it has become the most travelled golf destination in Australia. That and the fact it is only an hour’s drive from Albury Airport and a leisurely three-hour commute from Melbourne.
“As a resort, The Sebel Yarrawonga creates a hybrid environment where the calming tranquillity of the waterfront resort and retreat is balanced by vibrant energy found in its extensive range of activities available within the hotel and external local areas,” says Andrew Freak, general manager of The Sebel Yarrawonga.
And what an extensive range it is. The Sebel Yarrawonga is no hotel; it’s a multi-award-winning luxury boutique hotel. As part of the renowned Accor Group, it offers a range of amenities that will make your stay unforgettable. From exquisite dining options like Stock and Barrel and Elizabeth’s functions and special events dining space to the outdoor infinity-edge pool, tennis courts and Sunset Poolside Bar, there’s something to suit every taste.
Further afield sits the jewel in the crown – Black Bull Golf Course – the country’s 73rd-ranked layout expertly designed by the legendary Peter Thomson and Ross Perrett. It’s undoubtedly highlighted by a rollercoaster three-hole stretch inspired by Augusta National’s famed Amen Corner. Black Bull’s version, aptly named “The Bull Ring”, produces more Instagram photos than birdies but that’s exactly the point. Come to Black Bull, conquer The Bull Ring, show and tell the world.
“They say there’s no marketing like word-of-mouth marketing and for our award-winning facility, the secret is well and truly out and it’s spreading like wildfire,” says James McCully, Black Bull’s director of golf.
Your journey to this patch of paradise begins with a bang from the moment you arrive, whether that’s via the VIP premium group bookings available (including private air charter flights and premium BMW car transfers) or arriving to your tee-time by boat. The choice is yours.
Golf purists will leave as better players with the help of the onsite McCully Golf Schools. Their top 50-rated PGA teaching professionals know a thing or two about the game and the surrounding area and can recommend just about anything – on and off the course – to help make your stay even more memorable.
Black Bull Golf Course also offers speciality corporate golf events tailored to suit, making it the perfect escape for companies looking to organise a staff gathering with a difference.
“It truly is a must-stay and must-play destination with a great range of golfing packages to suit everyone,” Freak adds.
For more information, check out silverwoodsyarrawonga.com.au/black-bull-golf-course or visit thesebelyarrawonga.com.au
Photos by Gary Lismore