By KATH GANNAWAY
WHETHER heading out for a long lunch, looking for somewhere to warm up after a brisk walk, or snuggling up after a day on the toboggan run, nothing says “come on in” quite like the warmth of an open fire.
It’s an aspect of winter that sets the scene for wonderful memories that are less about excitement and adventure and more about those times where just being together with friends and family, or perhaps with friendly strangers, makes for wonderful memories.
There’s something authentic about an open fire place and they remain a feature of many older pubs, restaurants, cafes and B&Bs.
They are also regaining popularity as a drawcard in some of the more modern accommodation and food venues in places such as Warburton, Olinda and Marysville, Toolangi and Healesville where winter visitors look to take advantage of a chance of scenery in a winter environment.
The crackle of logs and the mesmerising flames are the perfect setting for a winter break where taking the time to read a book, watch the latest films – or some old favourites – indulge in a steaming spa-bath or catch up with friends is just the pick-up that is needed when the days are shorter and it’s time to hibernate a little!
