Raise a glass to a special day
INCREDIBLE food, awardwinning wines and great company – it’s the not-so-secret secret to an unforgettable day out….. and it’s a recipe that Fiona Boileau has expertly perfected.
Fiona and husband Ken are the creative force behind Boileau Concierge Service, a premier, customer-orientated business that creates tailormade experiences for their valued clientele.
Calling on a lifetime of knowledge in the travel industry, Fiona knows how to make an escape feel truly special and one of the company’s most popular excursions is hosting a day trip to the captivating Stanthorpe region to enjoy the fine foods and magnificent wines that have enshrined it as a ‘must-visit’ destination.
“Our winery tours are incredibly popular because we take away all the hassles of designated drivers and devising itineraries and can let our guests sit back, unwind and savour the day as it unfolds,” Fiona explains.
“You’ll travel in total luxury in a private prestige vehicle with cold bottled water onboard and fresh cold towels – we take care of everything.
“I’ll pick you up at your home and we’ll travel via Allora to see the Mary Poppins house,” Fiona says.
“This is where author P. L. Travers lived when her father was transferred there in 1905 as the bank manager of Australian Joint Stock Bank.
“Everyone loves to stop for photos.”
Fiona says the tour then continues along the ‘Sunflower Route’, named for the sunflower crops that proliferate the landscape during the summer.
“It’s a very pretty drive from Allora to Warwick, out through some of the most fertile farming land in the Darling Downs.”
And while you’ll love the drive, you’ll also appreciate a chance to stretch your legs with a break for morning tea at the Weeping Mulberry.
“We have a private room available and you can relax with a coffee or potted tea and enjoy the wonderful pastries,” Fiona says.
Then it’s on to the ‘main event’ – Stanthorpe’s world-renowned wineries.
“We start at Kominos Winery.
“Tony and Anna are the owners (and expert wine makers) and they’ll guide you through their wine offerings with a private presentation.
“We then move on to Ballandean Estate – the oldest winery in the Granite Belt (established in 1932).
“Our wine tasting will take place in a private room with a selection of seven wines and a cheese board to match. After the tasting, a picnic basket for lunch is provided, filled with fresh local produce.”
The third stop is Symphony Hills and Fiona says the barrel room is a great environment to open a bottle of ‘something special’ for her guests to try.
“This isn’t available to the general public, so it’s a wonderful and unique experience.
“Last but certainly not least, you are welcomed into a private presentation area at Summit Estate Winery for a personalised wine education session.
“At the end of the tasting, you adjourn to the terrace overlooking the vineyard and share a freshly prepared cheese board with wine, and reminisce about the day.”
The all-inclusive package costs $370 p/p (price is based on two people travelling, with discounts available for groups of up to six).
“It’s an unforgettable day packed with incredible memories and plenty of laughs,” Fiona promises.
“But everyone has different likes and expectations, so you’re more than welcome to tailor a Stanthorpe winery experience to suit your own tastes.
“We can personalise the day to take in your favourite wineries, restaurants or sights in the region. Just let me know what you’re looking for and I can make it happen.”
If you’d like more information on how Boileau Concierge Service can create an extraordinary experience for you, please visit their website at www.boileau-cs.com.au or give Fiona a call on 0408 457 970.