Best high tea

Earl Grey

WITH A TWIST

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LEFT TO RIGHT: Time for a cuppa? Images: Thorngrove Manor Hotel; Ginza Miyako.

With a rising demand for bite-size morsels and fine china, the “afternoon tea” experience has been taken to the next level by these fantastic venues across Australia. Whether you’re a lover of savoury treats or chocolate decadence, there’s something for everyone in these eight extraordinary high tea experiences.

Words: Gemma Hart

COLLINS COFFEE HOUSE, VICTORIA

Many of the finest high tea experiences around come from large-scale hotels, their kitchens and cafes specifically designed to offer high-class gastronomic delights. Sometimes, however, high tea is best tasted as it once was: in the intimate confines of a pretty cafe or elegant drawing room. The Collins Coffee House in Melbourne has a fantastic atmosphere for high tea. Dine in a beautiful heritage building with marble-topped tables and fine china, where dainty delicacies give the illusion of a smaller, more intimate venue. If you’re looking for the full, immersive experience, the House also hosts themed events including a Bridgerton-inspired high tea this October. Grab your lace gloves and formal wear, lords and ladies: it’s time to dine like it’s 1819. 

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The trend for high tea has gone in many unique and unusal directions. Images: Living Room Bar; Chocology; Collins Coffee House; Eat Your Art Out; Cambewarra Estate; Crown Perth.

FIREWATER GRILLE WESTERN AUSTRALIA

When we think of high tea, images of dainty, crustless sandwiches and cupcakes start dancing through our minds: pretty and delicious but not always the best when you're craving a little sustenance in your afternoon. At the Duxton Hotel, however, the Firewater Grille has you covered. As well as a classic sweet-breads high tea, they also provide meat and bread-based canapés, turning your afternoon event into a savoury one. Petite, meat-packed sandwiches, ham bites and savoury pastries are on offer alongside tea and cocktails. Themed events are also widely popular, including their upcoming Spring High Tea, where food and drink are crafted on the theme of native Australian flowers. If you’re looking to enjoy creative, culinary delights this October, we recommend booking now.

CAMBEWARRA ESTATE NEW SOUTH WALES

The beautiful grounds of Cambewarra Estate are the perfect locale for fine dining. Relaxing with a succulent piece of cake and accompanying cup and saucer can surely only be improved with sunshine upon your face? Open to individuals, groups and families (including high teas designed for children) the Estate has something for everyone to enjoy. Still not satisfied? How about indulging in a nostalgic Alice in Wonderland moment and enjoying your high tea sitting in a giant tea cup with Cambewarra’s VIP High Tea Cup Experience? The Mad Hatter’s tea party awaits…

GINZA MIYAKO SOUTH AUSTRALIA

How about switching classic sandwiches and pastries for dorayaki and an-pan? Ginza Miyako, in the heart of Adelaide, offers a Japanese fusion high tea that combines the best of English Regency elegance with a centuries old Japanese tea ceremony. Eat on floor-based seating, in a traditional manner, inside a shoji screen dining room. With soft, muted lighting, a zen-like atmosphere and awardwinning food, Ginza Miyako is an experience not to be missed if you’re looking for a unique afternoon boost in Adelaide.

THORNGROVE MANOR SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Ever wondered what it would be like to dine as English royalty? A small jewel of a hotel with a mighty facade, Thorngrove Manor is a fairytale castle nestled in the verdant greenery of the Adelaide Hills. Iron gates, tended lawns and historical decor create a medieval fantasy for both overnight guests and dining visitors. Enjoy the high tea package beside a roaring fireplace in their dining hall, or take it to the next level in their Ultimate High Tea for Two: a private experience in the Kings Chamber, popular with romantic dates and soon-to-be newly weds. The manor’s combination of skilled chefs, impressive hospitality and unbeatable location make it a must-visit for lovers of history and medieval whimsy.

CHOCOLOGY TASMANIA

So, you possess a sweet-tooth that just can’t be sated by cake alone? The Tesoro Hobart in Tasmania won’t let you down! Their Chocology afternoons of cacao-inspired high tea are the perfect indulgence for those whose desires tend towards the bittersweet. Whether your love lies in the darkest of chocolates or the sweetest of treats, these Chocology events have something for you, serving their confections alongside pots of tea or glasses of bubbly. With their decadent little morsels packed with ingredients such as tryptophan to boost your serotonin,

a happy afternoon with these chocolate connoisseurs is practically guaranteed. With events for both children and adults, Tesoro Hobart spreads the joy to one and all. Best yet, they offer boxed confections for you to take home!

LIVING ROOM BAR QUEENSLAND

For some, nothing beats the calm of the high tea experience. The meditative sipping of hot tea creates a cocoon of mental tranquillity. For others, such serenity leads to itchy restlessness. But what if tea was accompanied by an activity? A creative pursuit to inspire the mind and preoccupy the hands? The Living Room Bar of West Brisbane has you covered. At their Eat Your Art Out event, instead of canapés and vibrant snacks, you’re served a blank canvas of panna cotta. Edible paints and fine brushes replace condiments and cutlery and suddenly you’re the chef in charge of your cuisine’s aesthetic. Create a work of art as you sip a hot beverage or fine wine (your choice) and then enjoy the fruits of your labour by tucking into your creative dessert. We love this imaginative take on the high tea phenomenon.

CROWN PERTH WESTERN AUSTRALIA

If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy high tea in Perth, there is one name that rises above all others. Crown Hotel prides itself on delivering not just one exceptional high tea package but a choice of many, depending on your favour. From artisanal gin to Cantonese-inspired snacks, there is a high tea for you, no matter your mood. Our recommendations, however, lie with their High Cheese event. Held in the La Vie Champagne Lounge, the High Cheese afternoon tea favours savoury over sweet, and crisp flavours over creamy sugar. From roasted potatoes and cured meats to fine, infused camemberts and goat cheese desserts, this “high tea” can be accompanied by tastings of champagne or Glenfiddich Whiskys and is a gentleman’s and lady’s delight. TB

THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE, TOP TO BOTTOM: The iconic yellow and green Sydney Ferries; Taronga Zoo with Sydney skyline; Camp Cove; Robertson's Point Lighthouse; Parramatta River at Gladesville. Images: Destination NSW.

Ferry nice Forget trains, buses and cars: jump on one of the iconic yellow and green Sydney Ferries and cruise to these iconic gems around the harbour.

WORDs: Carolyn Chen

TARONGA ZOO

Celebrate Australia’s diverse array of wildlife at Taronga Zoo, reached by a short ferry ride from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo Wharf. It’s also the starting point for the Bradley Head’s Walking Track, one of Sydney’s best seaside walks. You’ll get fantastic views of the city and Sydney Harbour Bridge to complement the natural landscape.

WATSON’S BAY

For a soothing, serene journey, ride the ferry to peaceful Watson’s Bay to relax and rejuvenate. Munch on some of Doyle’s famous fish and chips while you’re here, and be sure to take the excellent coastal walk up to the charming Hornby Lighthouse. Splash in the stunning blue ocean at Camp Cove, or wait until sunset for a truly dazzling display.

CREMORNE POINT

Touted as one of the best ferry experiences by locals, the ferry ride to Cremorne Point and subsequent walk to Mosman Bay is a must-do. Once ashore, stroll along the harbour path for glimpses of idyllic beaches and unique architecture. With a heritage-listed lighthouse, rainforest paths and scenic views, this is a hidden gem you don’t want to miss.

PARRAMATTA

In Sydney’s Greater West, Parramatta is a fast-growing hub of art, entertainment and delicious eats. Instead of taking the train or bus, travel in style by cruising on the RiverCat down the smooth waters of the Parramatta River for a truly unique ferry experience. Once you’ve arrived, enjoy your time around town or visit the nearby Sydney Olympic Park. 

TOP TO BOTTOM: Bundeena Wharf; Shark Island in Sydney Harbour; Manly Wharf; Balmain Markets. Images: Destination NSW.

BUNDEENA

Hop on the ferry from Cronulla Wharf to Bundeena for the best way to access Sydney’s spectacular Royal National Park. In Bundeena, get your adventure shoes on for an array of fun outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, kayaking and more. We recommend the easygoing bush walk along the Jibbon Track for wonderful coastal views, Aboriginal rock engravings and a unique view of the Sydney skyline.

SHARK ISLAND

For a truly special Sydney ferry experience, book a ferry to Shark Island, nestled by Rose Bay. This tiny island has beautiful views, and despite the name, is not very popular with sharks. The best way to enjoy a trip to Shark Island is to bring a picnic basket for a day by the shore with family and friends.

MANLY

How could we not mention this Sydney classic? The Manly ferry has been entertaining locals and tourists alike since 1855. Hop aboard this iconic vessel from Circular Quay and enjoy the dazzling blue waters of the bay as well as views of Sydney’s most famous landmarks. Once you’ve touched down at Manly Wharf, take an easy stroll along Manly Beach, or for those who enjoy a challenge, head off on the 10 kilometre Manly to Spit Bridge walk, with enchanting views from North Head and Sydney Harbour National Park.

BALMAIN

Head over to the lovely suburb of Balmain by crossing underneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge by ferry. This vibrant suburb has a rich history as an industrial centre. In Balmain, you can check out Ballast Point Park for unique views over the harbour or hit the Dawn Fraser Baths for a swim. If you’re here on a Saturday, visit the Balmain Markets. Support a local vendor and peruse through handmade art and crafts, antiques, trendy fashion and more. TB

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SEVEN SEASIDE POOLS IN Western Australia

Dip into WA’s amazing natural and man-made pools located by the sparkling Indian Ocean.

WORDs: Carolyn Chen

SCARBOROUGH BEACH POOL

One of Perth’s most popular beaches now has a geothermally heated public pool right by a beautiful stretch of white sand and teal sea. Scarborough Beach Pool is a massive 50 metre outdoor pool with great facilities, a cafe and tons of food options nearby. Its clear waters are suitable for year-round swimming – perfect for fitness or leisure. Open early and closing late, Scarborough Beach Pool is also the ideal spot for a splendid view of the sunrise and sunset.

METTAM’S POOL

Mettam’s Pool is a calm yet exciting spot in Perth that's great for families. Its turquoise waters reveal protective reefs and a rock pool to explore. This natural lagoon has the perfect conditions for an afternoon of snorkelling fun. Watch out for all the different kinds of fish and shellfish in this lovely area.

HAMERSLEY POOL

With shallow water and a cosy beach, this seaside destination is another beautiful natural pool for swimmers and snorkellers. Small but inviting, Hamersley Pool is perfect for relaxing on the sand or taking a dip free from large waves.

BICTON BATHS

Bicton Baths is located by the beautiful Swan River near the Perth oceanfront. Not only a great place for a swim, this location is also great for picnics, barbecues, strolls, paddleboarding and more. Built and operated by the Melville Water Polo Club, Bicton Baths has several pools to choose from and a superb view of the sparkling blue river.

INJIDUP NATURAL SPA

Three hours south of Perth you’ll find Injidup Natural Spa. This treasure of a rock pool is sheltered from the boisterous Indian Ocean by an outcrop of rocks. The white foam cascading over the rocks makes for an iconic photo. Better than a regular spa, Injidup Natural Spa is a must-visit destination with its natural massage sensations and stunning views.

GREENS POOL

WA locals love this spot in Williams Bay National Park, known as one of the best beaches in Australia. With glassy turquoise waters, Greens Pool is spectacular for swimming and snorkelling, and is the perfect summer spot for everyone. You’ll get your exercise in while having a fantastic time. If you’re looking for leisure, bask in the sun on the fine white sand or huge granite rocks, and enjoy the undeniably beautiful seascape.

LITTLE LAGOON

Further up north in Denham, this incredible natural pool off the Peron Peninsula is a hidden gem for adventurous travellers. Little Lagoon’s calm waters are perfect for swimming and fishing, and the pool is a stone’s throw away from other amazing sites like Shark Bay’s Monkey Mia. Come bask in all the natural beauty of this almost perfectly round azure jewel of the west.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Greens Pool; Injidup Natural Spa; Little Lagoon; Bicton Baths (Image: Darryl Ruland); Mettam's Pool; Scarborough Beach Pool. Images: Tourism WA.