Established in 1982, Crittenden Estate is a second-generation business that is very much a family run operation. Managing Director, Rollo Crittenden, son of founders and wine pioneers Garry and Margaret, oversees every facet from the viticulture and wine making process through to sales. His sister (Zoe) manages marketing activities while Rollo’s wife (Linda) operates the Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate- onsite luxury self-contained accommodation in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula.
Suspended over the Crittenden vineyard lake, the three award winning luxury villas were renovated 18 months ago. Explains Linda, “We take pride in having crafted an environment that harmonizes seamlessly with the serene natural setting. The soft, muted tones and exquisite timber accents create a calming interior that feels warm and inviting. The unique setting on the lake provides accommodation with a true holiday experience. The deck is perfect for picturesque breakfasts set to the song of local birdlife with water lapping beneath you.”
Awarded Victoria’s best self-contained accommodation in 2019, the luxury villas were renovated 18 months ago. Explains Linda, “We take pride in having crafted an environment that harmonizes seamlessly with the serene natural setting. The soft, muted tones and exquisite timber accents create a calming interior that feels warm and inviting. The unique setting on the lake provides accommodation with a true holiday experience. The deck is perfect for picturesque breakfasts set to the song of local birdlife with water lapping beneath you.”
Designed as a couple’s getaway, the Lakeside Villas are in an idyllic location, and having wine tasting and a restaurant on site adds to the tranquillity and sense of escape. “The views, the considered interior, the heated flooring and wood-fired fireplace ensure you can enjoy all the luxurious touches you would expect from such thoughtful accommodation, which includes comfy king size beds and a stunning bathroom with a freestanding spa bath (with lake views). Custom kitchen and laundry facilities enhance the opportunity to stay in and enjoy your surrounds without having to leave. You can even order a gourmet platter for your arrival or a delicious catered picnic to enjoy in this peaceful setting. We have worked really hard to create a dream escape.”
Whilst created with couples in mind, the Lakeside Villas are family friendly with a sofa bed and extra bedding. Adds Linda, “The location offers the perfect destination for interstate and international visitors, however we also find locals choose to stay in the boutique accommodation as a special treat. They love that it’s so convenient, whilst engendering the feeling of being away in a serene location, surrounded by nature and the soothing views of the lake. The Lakeside Villas really are designed as a home away from home.”
When Kate Walker was explaining her philanthropic venture, My Happy Space Movement, to her friend Linda Crittenden, Linda was immediately enthralled by the concept. “I followed the journey from the inception, and felt it was a brilliant project to be a part of. When Kate told me about the first recipients selected to receive their joyful new spaces, we felt so deeply for what the Lunny family were going through. We knew that Jack and Kane would have amazing new bedrooms designed especially for them, so we really wanted Mel and Darren to have a quiet getaway where they could just relax and experience some down time. It was wonderful that they were able to have a weekend escape where they could reconnect, just the two of them, and spend such a precious time together.”
