Meticulously planned from an award-winning team of designers, Cinque is a quintessential luxury getaway, designed to capture the essence and beauty of the bush and natural setting of tranquil Hepburn Springs. We caught up with owners David and Donna to learn more about the stunning design behind Cinque.
Conveniently located at No. 5, Fourth Street, Cinque sits peacefully in the middle of a large landscaped block amongst a beautiful native garden, with sweeping views of the Hepburn State Forest. Only 3 km to the hub of Daylesford with its fabulous cafes and boutique shops, we are here to lay the claim, without sounding too corny, Cinque really does offer the best of both worlds!
Owners David and Donna moved to the area over 16 years ago after a long love affair with the region. Passionate about the native flora and fauna, they would slip up here at every available opportunity, spending many weekends and longer breaks here, very rarely venturing anywhere else. This region for the couple was like medicine, a tonic that would set them up again to head back to the city until next time they could visit. Avid bushwalkers, they would spend days exploring the many tracks through the state forest, enjoying the serenity. Their favourite time of year is always autumn, with the crisp nights and glorious days bringing clear-blue skies and the melodious sounds of the abundant bird life.
“I will never forget our first trip to the Daylesford region in autumn, ” say’s Donna reflecting back nearly 20 years. “the trees had exploded in all manner of hues including bright red, yellow and amber with leaves that appeared to glow in the late afternoon sun. The cool nights transformed the sky into a blaze of twinkling stars which make up the Milky Way…a true sight to behold”.
It was not long after this transformative trip that the couple decided to follow their hearts and move permanently. They began thinking about designing an accommodation space where others could come and immerse themselves in the peace and tranquillity, but one that also offered indulgence and luxury for total rejuvenation. Not to do things by halves, the couple engaged an award-winning architectural firm, Graham Jones Design, to put their ideas onto paper and bring the project into life. The name Cinque, No.5 in Italian, come from the unique inverted V shaped hip-roof denoting the number 5 in Roman numerals. With soaring ceilings, floor to ceiling glass doors opening onto a spacious deck featuring a sunken hot tub, to the LED lit rain shower and bath tub in the master ensuite, it is no wonder Cinque was awarded top prize for the Builders Design Association of Victoria Awards in it’s category.
After so many years living in and loving this region, we asked David to put together the perfect itinerary for any first time or returning guests, lets just say this was easy for him! His passion for the region, as well as his commitment to providing the best experience for any guests is clear.
After arriving, put your bags down and make the most of the late afternoon by taking a peaceful walk through the Hepburn forest via The Poolway, down to the Hepburn Bathhouse and picnic area.
“I love a round trip” say’s David, “So on your way back via the Hepburn General Store stop in and grab some antipasto goods to make a delicious platter, or treat yourself to some old fashioned mixed lollies from their huge selection”.
Back at Cinque, slip into your swimsuit and take a dip in the outdoor hot tub allowing the jets to drain any remaining tension away whilst listening to the sound of native birds settling in the trees around you. Wander down to Sixth Street to pick up a gourmet pizza from Ruben’s to enjoy back at Cinque with a glass of wine and maybe a movie.
The next day after an invigorating rain shower, roam the many cafes, boutiques, and cellar doors. Visit the incredibly beautiful Lavandula Swiss-Italian Farm, or indulge in a massage or spa treatment. Relax back at Cinque for the afternoon, then cook at home, or head down to The Grande at the end of Church Street for a sumptuous meal with great friendly service. If you choose outdoor dining warns David, beware of the local Kookaburras who are partial to a piece of top quality steak!
Sleep in late on Sunday, and then luxuriate in one last soak in the hot tub before a 12-noon check out. One last stop after dropping the keys back to Dayget is a stop at The Chocolate Mill for cake and coffee and a take-home sample pack of their finest Belgian chocolates!
Breath and make the most of being far far away from the hustle and bustle of the city or your normal everyday hectic lives and indulge in the Cinque experience!
