What Others Think

What the Media Says

Winestate, Nov/Dec 2008, by Windsor Dobbin
“North East Victoria is a treasure trove of wine and food discoveries, and one of the best bases from which to go exploring is Casa Luna in the King Valley.  With views over the Symphonia vineyards, stylish and elegant Casa Luna is within easy range of the cellar doors of Milawa, the King Valley and Rutherglen.  In the heart of the country, Casa Luna has just 2 luxury suites, in an architect-designed building with a glass-walled guest lounge that features an open fire in winter.  Previously a caterer in Melbourne, host Gwenda Canty serves sumptuous 3 course dinners, while partner David Byles is a wine aficionado so can suggest some great local accompaniments to the food.”

Herald Sun Travel Extra, 12th of September 2008, by Patrick Carlyon
“Casa Luna Gourmet Accommodation specializes in Italian cooking, and has the best library ever sighted in a bed and breakfast.  The DVD collection is filled with movies you actually want to watch.  The dining room is Casa Luna’s showpiece.  You can sip a red by the fire and wonder at the madness of city living.  Dinner might include penne baked with blue cheeses, served with pear, apple and walnut salad, then pork neck rubbed with rosemary, orange and fennel seeds – it melts in the mouth.  You’ll leave Casa Luna feeling very indulged.”

The Border Mail, 29th February 2008, by Sue Wallace
“Enjoy a lazy Sunday lunch at Casa Luna.  Start the day with an energetic game of bocce, served with assaggini and local sparkling wine.  Sit down to a long slow banquet of Italian food served family style in the centre of the table, featuring local produce, such as Welsh Black beef, salt bush lamb, Milawa free range chicken, served with Italian varietal King Valley wines"

The Age Weekends Away, 6th October 2007, by Jane Faulkner
“Take the Myrrhee turn-off and head straight to Casa Luna for the tranquility of its bucolic surrounds.  It’s a delightful spot.  Casa Luna has an Italian bent, but thank goodness this is no pretentious, faux-Tuscan villa. A modern Australian construct of corrugated iron, stone and wood, it houses 2 suites, separated from the main part of the house, which feature extremely comfortable queen-sized beds fitted with quality bedding.  You must have at least one dinner here, matched with local wines.  Dinner may include cotechino served with a lentil salad, or King Valley pork with braised fennel and semolina gnocchi.  In the sunlight-bathed dining room in the morning, the good food continues with Beechworth apple juice, an omelette enriched with hot-smoked salmon, cream cheese and dill, and a decent pot of tea.  Casa Luna makes a fine option as a weekend away with friends.”

The Weekend Australian, 30th September 2006, by Judith Ellen
Finalist Australian Travel and Tourism Awards 2006
“Situated in the lovely King Valley, three hours northeast of Melbourne, Casa Luna is the perfect country hideaway for discerning foodies.  Sleekly decorated guest suites afford relaxing rural views, and a light-filled lounge/dining room promises fantastic meals of regional Italian food.  Have a leisurely game of petanque or explore the cellar doors of the emerging King Valley wine region."

Time Out, National Accountant, Oct/Nov.2006, by Kaye Fallick
“If your preferred gourmet experience involves a more pampered approach, then Casa Luna is heaven on earth.  Pristine bedrooms, a charming valley view, and a cosy dining room, get you in the mood.  Chef, Gwenda Canty, offers excellent local produce, while her husband, David Byles, matches the menu with local wines.”

The Age Short Breaks, August 2005, by Mary Ryllis Clark
“Host of Casa Luna, Gwenda Canty uses local produce in her cooking and its drawing guests back for return visits.  She is a fabulous cook, producing her own version of regional Italian food.  After dinner, we ended the evening sitting on the patio looking up at the heavens, feeling well fed and completely content.  I was reminded of the saying – if you aim for the moon, you will land among the stars.”

Guest Comments

John, Astrid, Candida and Steve, Brazil and Melbourne, 18.1.09
“An unforgettable experience, fabulous lamb, a serene environment, a starry night too”.

Pauline and John, Echuca, 5.9.08
“Wonderful three days.  Idyllic setting, brilliant breakfasts and dinner.  Friendly hosts.  Thanks so much.”

Judy and Howard, Richmond, Vic., 20.7.08
“La Casa Luna was an opportunity to experience Gwenda’s great food passion.  Perfect break. Tranquil environment. Professional yet friendly approach.”

Anton and Antoinette, Wahgunyah, 14.6.08
“What a wonderful spot to stop and springboard into the King Valley.  An exceptional meal as well.” 

Shayne and Andrew, Brunswick, 26.5.08
“Our fifth visit – still a wonderful experience.”

John and Marilyn, Sue and Peter, Yea/ Ascot Vale, 28.4.08
“An adventure in every mouthful!  Beautiful spot and top hospitality.”

Tony and Diane, Ascot Vale, 1.3.08
“Second time around and it just gets better.  Looking forward to visit number 3.”

Elena, Mickey and Adrian, Central Coast, NSW, 9.1.08
“Perhaps the best place we’ve stayed – fantastic food, knowledgeable and warm hosts, amazing attention to detail in everything.”

Roger and Margaret, Wangaratta, 16.9.07
“Fourth visit – and about time we signed the book!  We’ll be back.” 

Jane and Lan, Alphington, Vic.
“A 5 star restaurant in the middle of a beautiful green valley.  Bring on more Slow Food/ Slow Life.”

Return to top.