Smeaton

Throw in a line

Don’t get distracted while driving or you might miss the tiny town of Smeaton completely. Set against a backdrop of rolling farmland, volcanic plains and bushland, it is surrounded by great beauty, but is best known for a single, true farm-to-plate dining experience. Or should that be lake to plate? At Tuki, throw your line into the spring-fed ponds and catch a fish for lunch (or dinner). At the dining room, once a shearing shed, it will be served to you, perfectly cooked. Otherwise choose a dish created using the property’s lamb, vegetables from its garden, or other local produce. Tuki also has six luxury stone cottages, complete with fireplaces, overlooking the land. Retreat from the bustle and watch the sheep grazing and the sun setting in the distance.

Nearby Anderson’s Mill is a huge stone building that began processing flour after the end of the gold rush. Now, it’s open once a year for the National Trust’s Anderson’s Mill Heritage Weekend. The site is also home to The Millhouse, a beautiful wedding and events space. If you’re passing through, why not stop at the cosy, historical Smeaton Hotel for one of its famous parmigianas and some home-baked dessert?