Fact Sheets & Video - Queenscliff

Just under a 1.5 hour drive from Melbourne (via Princes and Bellarine Highways), or a 40-minute ferry ride from Sorrento on Mornington Peninsula, Queenscliff is a charming seaside village known for its imposing Victorian-era hotels, huge military fortresses guarding the entrance to Port Phillip Bay, old churches, an historic railway line and quaint fishermen's cottages.

The town also boasts art galleries, shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs, farmers markets, good accommodation, safe beaches and a glorious tree-lined foreshore. Here visitors can take a step-back-in-time and sojourn the wide tree-lined streetscapes and retreat to timeless classics, such as the 125-year-old Vue Grand hotel.

Of the beautiful residences, guest houses and hotels erected during the latter half of the 19th century, none was more impressive than the Vue Grand Hotel.

The Vue Grand has seen many changes over the years, from the original 32-room wooden licensed hotel it was rebuilt as a 52-room wooden hotel, then a magnificent brick hotel of 102 rooms, then is was partially destroyed by fire, to be rebuilt as the 32- room modern licensed hotelthe metamorphosis of the Vue Grand Hotel continues as modern society dictates the changes of the hospitality industry.

In addition to accommodation, The Vue Grand now also boasts two dining options: the magnificent Grand Dining Room for lovers of fine food and wine, and the more relaxed and casual atmosphere of Cafe Lure.

But there's more to Queenscliff than 19th century history, in fact, there's a whole lot of soul happening in this coastal town. Queenscliff is home to the world's one and only Blues Train.

This unique experience combines four of Australia's best live blues performers with breathtaking scenery. The blues train travels along the historic Bellarine Railway line, which hugs the water around scenic Swan Bay providing captivating views, before climbing through the rolling hills of the Bellarine Peninsula to Drysdale.

Reminiscent of a Mississippi freight train, visitors can jump aboard the Blues Train for a progressive party with a difference. Here up to 200 revellers can enjoy a meal before succumbing to the rhythm and blues of live musicians in unison with the clickety-clack of a vintage steam train. It's a music festival in one night and a party you'll never forget.

Also regarded as the music lovers' capital of The Bellarine, Queenscliff celebrates its reputation on the last weekend of every November at the Queenscliff Music Festival when popular Australian and international artists play to large crowds. Other annual events in Queenscliff include the Queenscliff Blue Water Challenge in January and the Queenscliff Seafood Festival in April.

Further Information:

The Blues Train - From $75.40 a person. Includes dinner, bottle of wine & free Blues Train CD. Valid for Saturday 6 October only. Lines close midday tomorrow 13/5/07. First 100 callers. Call Ticketek on 13 28 49.

Prices correct at 12/5/07. Subject to availability. Conditions apply.

The Vue Grand Escape - From $95 a person. Includes 1 night accommodation, room upgrade & breakfast. Valid to 31/7/07. First 100 callers. Call Vue Grand Hotel on (03) 5258 1544. Prices correct at 12/5/07.

Based on twin share. Subject to availability. Conditions apply.