Freeman on Ford is Beechworth’s first and only five-star accommodation, having remained so for the past 15 years. It is accredited with numerous national awards for excellence, including winning Trip Advisor’s coveted award for Australia’s best bed and breakfast in 2013. Today this unique establishment still finds an illustrious niche in their Australian Top 10 ranking – all due to a firm commitment to quality and service.
Part of its charm is the individually decorated rooms and suites, which provide an unmatched level of luxurious respite within its central Beechworth location. Exclusive refinements and unprecedented attention to detail have made it a clear leader in boutique accommodation within North East Victoria.
We step inside one of the two 1930s deluxe ground floor King suites to admire the layers of luxury, beginning with the divine steel blue pure wool heritage carpet underfoot. A hand-carved baroque-style King bed is a masterpiece with its meticulously crafted regal gold carved embellishments, thousand thread cotton sheets and intricately designed embroidered quilt. Opposite, a grand silver-framed mirror hangs above a large marble fireplace. Adjacent French doors open onto a granite flagstone terrace with a private table setting – just the place to enjoy a local prosecco or cool climate Beechworth chardonnay. Here one can gaze upon the private landscaped garden complete with Renaissance-inspired figurative sculptures, pool, spa and dining patio.
As expected, the Deluxe King rooms feature all the mod cons: flat-screen 40 inch TV, free WIFI, full kitchenette with sink, bar fridge, tea/coffee making facilities; but it’s the en suite bathroom that has us amazed. Floor-to-ceiling Carrara marble is a knockout wow factor that we genuinely admire. The marble forms a luxuriously painted backdrop that compliments the cleverly chosen furnishings and fixtures. A handcrafted double sash window featuring bevelled stained glass was created in a sunflower design using five colours and varying textures of custom-made glass. A large ornate, oak-carved, marble-topped vanity is another showcase piece within the room. An extra-large double-spa bath compliments the super spacious double rainfall-head shower, completing the en suite design as a work of spectacular artistry. Slipping into a monogrammed bathrobe as you dry off adds a further layer of comfort.
Weekend breakfasts at Freeman on Ford feature a selection of perfectly plated dishes. While many enjoy the traditional English or European style breakfasts with all the trimmings, it’s Greek/Mediterranean offering that catches our eye. Creamy feta cheese, garden fresh tomatoes, and plump and juicy marinated olives combine to make a flavour-packed pick-me-up.
Meals are served silver-service style in the grand dining room. Here you can expect French polished dining and side tables, starched napkins, crystal fruit salad bowls, as well as silverware teapots and egg cups – here, even toast soldiers stand in line ready for duty.
If you’re looking for the royal treatment in a wonderfully crafted boutique hotel setting, dripping in crystal chandeliers and European charm, then Freeman On Ford is for you. Gift vouchers are available; however, we do suggest you spoil yourself!
Freeman on Ford
97 Ford Street, Beechworth, Victoria
Tel 03 5728 2371
Mob 0417140921
freemanonford.com.au
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