The raw beauty of Victoria’s regions will be showcased in the latest initiative to bring more visitors to destinations across the state, with the Andrews Labor Government backing a new off-grid accommodation experience.
A locally designed tiny home built by Victorian artisans from upcycled and hand-made materials, dubbed Stella the Stargazer, will travel to locations across Victoria enabling visitors to enjoy the diversity of the state’s regional destinations.
Travellers will have their first chance to visit Stella the Stargazer at Blue Gables vineyard in Maffra with bookings now open for stays from 14 October to 13 December 2022. Next year, Stella will pop up in the Great Ocean Road region from 3 February to 6 April then the Grampians region from 17 April to 18 June.
Port Fairy-based design and manufacturing business Ample is behind the tiny house, building the sustainable structure with input from local businesses.
Designed to inspire visitors to go offline and enjoy their surroundings, the space is fitted with unique features like a roll-out sleeping platform for stargazing and a shower with operable glass louvres, so guests are immersed in the landscape.
Guests will enjoy breakfast, a welcome hamper and bottle of wine curated by renowned Victorian chef Alejandro Saravia from Farmers Daughters – while interior items from crockery to bedding, will be sourced from Victorian designers and manufacturers.
Those who stay can breathe in the fresh air, relishing in the knowledge that their home-away-from-home has a minimal impact on its surrounding environment, with the off-grid management system ensuring this is a building that gives more than it takes.
Reducing the carbon footprint during the construction process while paying homage to the Victorian landscape, a number of recycled materials were woven into the building – including repurposed corrugated iron, Victorian hardwoods and old pieces of steel from a demolished rural farm in Penshurst, Victoria.
Stella the Stargazer is the latest iteration of the unique Visit Victoria accommodation campaign that showcases some of Victoria’s best locations, following the success of Wine Down Pop Up. Rates start at $330 per night.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
“We’re showcasing some of the state’s unique and picturesque destinations, while offering visitors a special and sustainable way to unwind that celebrates Victoria’s makers, creators, culture and natural environment.”
“Stella the Stargazer champions regional Victoria, from its food to its cultural offerings.”
Quote attributable to Visit Victoria CEO Brendan McClements
“Stella the Stargazer is not your typical accommodation experience. This uniquely Victorian stay sets out to deepen visitor’s connection to nature and country, bring attention to the benefits of upcycling and encourage them to uncover new favourite destinations.”
Reviewed 19 September 2022