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Local Walk Trails

12/2/2025

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Punchbowl Lookout - Onkapringa Gorge Trail

Discover the Best Walking Trails in Willunga, McLaren Vale, Onkaparinga Gorge, and Beyond! 🌿🚶‍♀️
If you’re a lover of nature, adventure, and scenic walks, the Willunga and McLaren Vale region has something for everyone! From rolling vineyards and rugged gorges to stunning beaches, these trails offer a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of South Australia. So, grab your hat, lace up your walking shoes, and explore some of the best local walks in the area. 🌞🍃
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1. Onkaparinga Gorge Walk – A Natural Wonderland 🌄A stunning highlight of the Onkaparinga River National Park, the Onkaparinga Gorge Walk offers breathtaking views of cliffs, river gorges, and native bushland. Perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature, this trail is both serene and invigorating. You’ll spot plenty of wildlife along the way, making it a perfect spot for bird watchers too! 🦅
Explore the Onkaparinga Gorge Walk on All Trails
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Onkaparinga Gorge Trail
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​2. Willunga Hill Trail – A Hike with a View 🏞️For panoramic views of the Willunga region, head to the Willunga Hill Trail. This moderately challenging trail gives you stunning vistas over vineyards, farmlands, and the distant coast. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk, this trail is sure to leave you inspired. 🚶‍♂️
Discover the Willunga Hill Trail on All Trails
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Willunga Hill Trail
3. McLaren Vale to Willunga Shiraz Trail – A Scenic Journey 🚂🌾This 8.5 km trail takes you along the historic rail line, offering a relaxing walk through the heart of the McLaren Vale wine region. Along the way, you’ll enjoy lush vineyards, fields of local produce, and the charming rural landscapes that make this area so special. Stop by the local wineries for a refreshment or two! 🍷 Take out the Mulberry Lodge Electric Bikes, you can access the trail from the Mulberry Lodge Paddock 
Wineries close to the trail include:
  • Battle of Bosworth
  • Down the Rabbit Hole
  • Shirvington Wines 
  • Sampson Tall
  • Primo Estate
  • Lino Ramble
  • Hugh Hamilton
  • Mitolo 
  • Wirra Wirra
  • Serafino 
Walk or Cycle the McLaren Vale to Willunga Rail Trail on All Trails
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Shiraz Trail - Willunga to McLaren Vale
4. Maslin Beach to Silver Sands Walk – Coastal Bliss 🌊For a beautiful beachside walk, head to Maslin Beach and Silver Sands. This coastal walk offers stunning ocean views, sandy shores, and the chance to spot local marine life. It's the perfect trail for a relaxed day out by the sea. 🐚
Explore Maslin Beach and Silver Sands Walk on All Trails
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Maslin Beach to Silver Sands Walk
​5. Sellicks Hill to Aldinga Beach Coastal Walk – A Seaside Adventure 🌅This picturesque coastal trail takes you from Sellicks Hill to Aldinga Beach. As you walk along the cliffs, you’ll enjoy sweeping ocean views, with the chance to spot dolphins and seabirds. It’s an easy-to-moderate walk with some steeper sections, but the views are well worth the effort. 🐬
Enjoy the Sellicks Hill to Aldinga Beach Coastal Walk on All Trails
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Sellicks Hill to Aldinga Beach Coastal Walk
Why You’ll Love These Trails:
  • Variety of Scenery: From gorges to vineyards and coastal beauty, these trails offer something for everyone.
  • Wildlife Galore: Spot native birds, kangaroos, and maybe even some dolphins! 🦘
  • Fresh Air and Fresh Finds: Perfect for fitness lovers, nature enthusiasts, and foodies alike, as there are plenty of local wineries and cafes to enjoy after your hike. 🧀🍇
  • Easy Access: These trails are all easily accessible from the heart of McLaren Vale and Willunga, making them ideal for a quick nature escape!

Ready to hit the trail? 🌟 Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a more challenging hike, the walking trails around Willunga, McLaren Vale, and the Onkaparinga Gorge are a must-do. With stunning views, local wildlife, and the chance to explore the diverse beauty of this incredible region, it's time to get walking!
Happy hiking! 🥾👣

You can find detailed maps and directions for these trails on All Trails to plan your adventure!
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Savoury Breakfast Brioche Buns

12/2/2025

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Savoury Filled Brioche Buns
Wake Up to a Gourmet Breakfast at Mulberry Lodge! 🍽️☀️
There’s nothing quite like starting the day with a delicious, hearty breakfast, especially when it’s made with love and the finest local ingredients. Here at Mulberry Lodge Country Retreat, we take breakfast seriously – it’s the most important meal of the day, after all! One of our guests' favourite morning delights is our Breakfast Brioche Bun – a heavenly combination of fluffy homemade brioche, earthy spinach, spicy Portobello mushrooms, silky omelette, and rich caramelised onions. 🤤✨

Want to recreate this gourmet breakfast at home? Keep reading for our signature recipes! 👩‍🍳

Homemade Brioche Buns Recipe 🥖Soft, buttery, and slightly sweet – the perfect base for a luxurious breakfast!
Ingredients (makes 6 buns):
  • 250g  bread flour
  • 30g  sugar
  • 5g (1 tsp) salt
  • 5g (1 tsp) instant yeast
  • 2 eggs
  • 60ml warm milk
  • 90g  unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
Method:
  1. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
  2. Add eggs and warm milk, mixing until combined.
  3. Knead the dough for 5–7 minutes, then gradually add the butter, kneading until smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover and let it rise for 1.5–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Divide into 6 equal portions, shape into buns, and place on a baking tray.
  6. Cover and let rise for another hour.
  7. Preheat oven to 180°C . Brush buns with egg wash and bake for 15–18 minutes, until golden brown.
  8. Let cool before slicing.

Caramelised Onions Recipe 🧅✨Rich, golden, and packed with flavour – the secret to a perfect breakfast bun!
Ingredients:
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • Pinch of salt
Method:
  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add onions and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Sprinkle in brown sugar and salt, stirring well.
  4. Continue to cook for another 15–20 minutes until golden and soft.
  5. Stir in balsamic vinegar and cook for 2 more minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and set aside.

Bringing It All Together 🍳To Assemble Your Breakfast Brioche Bun:
  1. Prepare the omelette: Whisk eggs, season with salt and pepper, and cook in a non-stick pan until just set. Cut into rounds to fit the bun.
  2. Sauté the mushrooms: Slice Portobello mushrooms, season with chili flakes or cook in chilli oil, salt, and pepper, then cook in a pan until tender.
  3. Layer it up! Slice your brioche bun, add a layer of fresh spinach, the omelette, spicy mushrooms, and top with caramelised onions.
  4. Enjoy! Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit or your favourite morning beverage. ☕🥂
There you have it – a luxurious breakfast that’s sure to impress! Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful morning at Mulberry Lodge or bringing a taste of our retreat to your home, this Breakfast Brioche Bun is a winner.

Give it a try and let us know how you like it! ❤️
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Soft and Chewy White Chocolate & Cranberry Cookies

12/2/2025

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PictureSoft and Chewy White Chocolate & Cranberry Cookies

At Mulberry Lodge Country Retreat, we love welcoming our guests with little homemade treats that add a special touch to their stay. One of the delights in our cookie jar is my Soft and Chewy White Chocolate & Cranberry Cookies—a perfect blend of creamy white chocolate, tart cranberries, and a buttery, chewy texture. 

Why You'll Love These Cookies 🏡✨
  • Perfectly Soft & Chewy – Just the right balance of crisp edges and a tender centre.
  • Sweet & Tart Flavours – The richness of white chocolate complements the tangy cranberries beautifully.
  • Ideal with a Cup of Tea or Coffee – A comforting treat for a relaxed afternoon at Mulberry Lodge.
​ Preparation Time: 15minutes
 Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
 Quantity: Makes approximately 18 cookies.​

Ingredients:
  • 125g unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup white sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ¾ cups plain flour
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup white chocolate chips
  • ¾ cup dried cranberries
 
 Method:
  1. Preheat your oven to 170°C (fan-forced) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients.
  5. Fold in the white chocolate chips and dried cranberries.
  6. Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls and place them on the baking tray, leaving space between each.
  7. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden (the centres will still be soft but will firm up as they cool).
  8. Let the cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. The’ll keep well in an airtight tin for a 10 day.
 
NOTE: This cookie dough also freezes well for 3-4 months  

​Enjoy a Taste of Mulberry Lodge at Home 🍷🌿
These cookies are a guest favourite at Mulberry Lodge, and now you can enjoy them in your own home! Whether you're serving them fresh from the oven with a cup of coffee or packing them as a sweet picnic treat, they're guaranteed to be a hit.
We love hearing from our guests! If you bake these cookies, share your photos with us on Instagram and Facebook @mulberrylodgecountryretreat. Happy baking! 😊🍪
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A Stroll Through the Mulberry Lodge Gardens

28/1/2025

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At Mulberry Lodge Country Retreat, our gardens are more than just a backdrop – they’re an integral part of your experience. Whether you’re sipping coffee on your private deck or wandering through our tranquil spaces, our gardens offer beauty, serenity, and a connection to nature. Let’s take a stroll together! 🌳✨

Fresh and Flavorful: The Veggie Garden & Fruit Trees 🍎🥕
Our veggie garden and fruit trees are a source of pride – and flavour! From crisp vegetables to juicy seasonal fruits, these gardens provide fresh ingredients for our breakfast hampers. There’s nothing quite like produce that’s been grown with care and harvested at its peak. 🌿🍇
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​A Blooming Paradise: Roses & Hydrangeas 🌹💐
At Mulberry Lode we have 2 exquisite rose gardens that fill the air with their sweet scent and dazzle with their vibrant colours. For a splash of pink, don’t miss our hydrangeas thriving in the shady spot beneath the Silver Birch trees – a picture-perfect hideaway on warm days. 🌸🌳
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A Grand Entrance: Agapanthus & Bottle Brush 🌾🌺
Driving into Mulberry Lodge is a breathtaking experience in itself. The driveway is lined with striking Agapanthus and native Bottle Brush trees, creating a stunning welcome that sets the tone for your stay throughout the year. 🚗✨
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A Poolside Oasis 🌊 🌺
Our enclosed pool garden is a celebration of tropical and native beauty. Fragrant jasmine, vivid hibiscus, and the elegance of magnolia and native frangipani trees come together to create a secluded spot to relax.🌳 🌼
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Views to Remember 🍷🌄
From our gardens, enjoy sweeping views across the vineyards of McLaren Vale. These vistas are a constant reminder of our region’s natural charm and its celebrated wine culture. Grab a glass of local wine and a chair on our lawn, and soak in the scenery – pure bliss! 🍷
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Discover the Magic 🌟
The gardens at Mulberry Lodge are a reflection of our love for nature and beauty. Whether you’re here to unwind, explore, or simply soak in the serenity, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Ready to experience it for yourself? We can’t wait to welcome you! Check out our range of packages available to book your perfect stay HERE    🌿🏡
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The Bounty of Mulberry Lodge's Veggie Garden: Fresh, Seasonal, and Delicious

28/1/2025

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At Mulberry Lodge Country Retreat, in the heart of the McLaren Vale Wine Region, South Australia we take immense pride in our vibrant veggie garden. It's not just a patch of land; it’s a source of inspiration for the fresh juices, breakfast hampers, treats, and afternoon teas that our guests adore. With each season, our garden transforms, offering a delectable variety of produce that epitomizes the farm-to-table experience. Let’s take a closer look at what makes our garden so special and how we cultivate these delicious treasures in South Australia’s unique climate.

Spring and Summer Bounty 🌞🌼As the weather warms up, our garden bursts into life with a kaleidoscope of flavors and colors. Here’s what we grow during the sunnier months:
  • Herbs: 🌿 Basil, mint, parsley, and thyme thrive, adding fragrant touches to our dishes and drinks.
  • Vegetables: 🌱 Asparagus, 🍅 tomatoes, 🌽 zucchini, spring onions, 🍆 eggplant, 🍇 capsicum, 🥒 cucumber, 🌶️ chillies, 🍊 pumpkin, 🌾 sweetcorn, 🥒 lettuce, and radishes.
Spring and summer are perfect for growing these crops because of South Australia’s long sunny days and mild evenings. We recommend planting tomatoes and capsicums in well-drained soil with plenty of compost to retain moisture during hot spells. Mulching and regular watering early in the morning help prevent heat stress on plants.

Autumn and Winter Harvest 🍂🍁When the weather cools, our garden shifts gears to hardy, nutritious crops that flourish in the cooler months:
  • Root Vegetables and Greens: 🥔 Potatoes, 🥕 carrots, 🌿 spinach, and rocket.
  • Cruciferous Veggies: 🍦 Broccoli and cauliflower.
  • Other Seasonal Delights: 🍏 Green beans, leeks, onions, and coriander.

Autumn and winter in South Australia bring cooler nights and occasional rain, making them ideal for leafy greens and root vegetables. To ensure a successful harvest, we suggest planting in a sunny spot and using raised beds to improve drainage during wetter periods or consider wicking beds to ensure a water is supplied as required and with less evaporation. Cover crops with frost cloth can protect them from unexpected cold snaps.       (unusual  in South Australia but you can get frost in the Hills) .  
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From Garden to Table 🌾☕
Every ingredient grown at Mulberry Lodge is treated with love and care, ensuring its freshness and flavor shine through. Imagine sipping on a refreshing cucumber and mint juice 🍹 or starting your day with a hearty breakfast featuring homegrown roasted asparagus and tomatoes . Our sweet treats and afternoon teas are complemented by adding fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables such as chives, thyme, pumpkin, zucchini and carrots to our home baked scones and cakes giving every bite a touch of homegrown goodness. The images above show some of our delicious home baked cakes and scones.  

Growing Tips for South Australian Gardens 🌿💧If you’re inspired to start your own veggie garden, here are some tips tailored to South Australia’s climate:
  1. Soil Preparation: 🌳 Enrich your soil with organic compost and aged manure to promote healthy growth.
  2. Water Wisely: 🌧️ Drip irrigation or hand-watering in the early morning helps plants thrive without waterlogging.
  3. Seasonal Planting: 🌱 Use a planting calendar to ensure you’re sowing the right crops at the right time.
  4. Pest Control: 🐞 Encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds by planting flowers such as marigolds and nasturtiums.
  5. Sunlight: 🌞 Most veggies need at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, so choose a sunny spot for your garden.

Visit Mulberry Lodge and Experience the Garden 🏡🌿There’s nothing quite like seeing our veggie garden in full swing, brimming with seasonal produce and buzzing with life. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or simply love fresh, delicious food, a visit to Mulberry Lodge is an experience to savour. Explore our seasonal veggie garden, taste the difference in our offerings, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the McLaren Vale Wine Region.

🚢 Book your stay at Mulberry Lodge Country Retreat today and discover the magic of fresh, homegrown produce! Choose from a range of special Packages that we offer HERE 

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Caring for Roses in South Australia's Climate

28/1/2025

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There’s nothing quite as enchanting as the sight and scent of blooming roses, and at Mulberry Lodge Country Retreat, we’re lucky enough to have two stunning rose gardens for you to enjoy. Each garden is a vibrant celebration of colour, fragrance, and nature’s artistry.  🌺✨

A Kaleidoscope of Roses 🌸❤️
Our rose gardens are home to an array of varieties, from classic hybrid teas to fragrant David Austin blooms. You’ll find vibrant reds, blush pinks, sunny yellows, and creamy whites creating a stunning palette that changes with the seasons. Guests love wandering through the gardens, finding the perfect spot to pause and take in the beauty. And let’s be honest – they’re a dream backdrop for a photo! 📸🌷

South Australia's Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, is ideal for growing roses. These timeless beauties thrive in the region, offering lush blooms and intoxicating scents for gardeners to enjoy. Here’s how to choose the right roses, care for your roses and a guide to the varieties that shine in South Australia.

🌱 Choosing the Right Roses
When selecting roses for South Australia, look for hardy, heat-tolerant varieties. Some top picks include:
  • Mr. Lincoln 🌟: A classic red rose with large, velvety blooms and a strong fragrance.
  • Iceberg ❄️: A reliable white rose that flowers prolifically and withstands heat.
  • Just Joey 🍑: Known for its apricot-orange petals and delightful scent.
  • Double Delight ❤️🤍: Creamy white blooms edged with red, celebrated for its rich fragrance.
  • Knock Out Roses 🌺: Low-maintenance shrubs that bloom throughout the season.

🌞 Growing Tips for Success
  1. Location Matters 🌤️
    Plant roses in a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Morning sun is especially important to dry dew and prevent diseases.
  2. Soil Preparation 🌿
    Roses prefer well-draining, fertile soil. Enrich your garden bed with compost or well-rotted manure to boost organic matter. A slightly acidic pH of 6.0-6.5 is ideal.
  3. Water Wisely 💧
    Deep, consistent watering is key. Water the base of the plant early in the morning, avoiding overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Adjust frequency during heatwaves but avoid waterlogging the soil.
  4. Feeding for Blooms 🌸
    Feed roses with a balanced fertilizer designed for roses every 6-8 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Supplement with seaweed or fish emulsion for extra nutrients.
  5. Pruning Time ✂️
    Prune roses in late winter (July-August) to remove deadwood, shape the plant, and encourage vigorous new growth. Always use sharp, clean tools to avoid damage or disease spread.
  6. Pest and Disease Control 🐛
    Keep an eye out for aphids, black spot, and powdery mildew. Treat infestations early with organic sprays or a gentle soapy water mix. Promote good air circulation by spacing plants appropriately.
  7. Mulching Magic 🌾
    Add a layer of mulch (e.g., straw, bark chips) around the base to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from the stem to prevent rot.

🌹 Why Roses Love South Australia
With long, sunny days and low humidity, South Australia offers a near-perfect environment for roses to flourish. By choosing heat-tolerant varieties and following these care tips, your garden will reward you with stunning blooms year-round.
So, grab your gloves, a pair of secateurs, and start creating a rose-filled paradise! 🌟

What’s your favourite rose variety? Share your gardening stories! 🌺✨

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Wake up to the ultimate breakfast experience at Mulberry Lodge!

23/1/2025

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At Mulberry Lodge Country Retreat, we believe breakfast is the most important meal of the day – especially when it’s crafted with fresh, wholesome ingredients. That’s why our daily breakfast hampers are brimming with delicious offerings made with love and care, often featuring produce straight from our garden. 🌿🍎

Every morning, guests can enjoy a freshly prepared  breakfasts, carefully curated to fuel their day in the McLaren Vale Wine Region. And while each day brings something new to the table, one dish has become an undeniable guest favourite: our savoury croissant, filled with bacon, egg, avocado, rocket, and our homemade tomato chutney. 🥐🥑

Why Our Savoury Croissant is a Winner 🌈This buttery, flaky croissant is more than just a treat for your taste buds – it’s a wholesome start to your morning. Using locally sourced bacon and eggs, creamy avocado, fresh rocket from the garden, and our signature tomato chutney, it’s a flavourful blend of textures and tastes that guests rave about. Paired with a steaming cup of coffee or tea, it’s the perfect way to ease into a day of exploring McLaren Vale.

A Taste of Mulberry Lodge: Savoury Croissant Recipe 🍽️Want to recreate this guest favourite at home? Here’s our recipe for making croissants from scratch and assembling the ultimate savoury breakfast sandwich:

Ingredients for Croissants:
  • 500g (4 cups) strong bread flour
  • 10g (2 tsp) salt
  • 80g (6 tbsp) sugar
  • 10g (2 tsp) instant yeast
  • 300ml (1 1/4 cups) cold milk
  • 300g (10 oz) cold unsalted butter, cut into slices
Method for Croissants:
  1. Mix the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in a bowl, ensuring the salt and yeast don’t touch directly. Gradually add the cold milk, kneading into a smooth dough. Cover and chill for 1 hour.
  2. Roll the dough into a rectangle and place the butter slices in the center. Fold the dough edges over the butter and seal the edges.
  3. Roll out the dough into a rectangle again, then fold into thirds like a letter. Chill for 30 minutes. Repeat this process 3 more times to create layers.
  4. After the final chill, roll out the dough thinly and cut into triangles. Roll each triangle into a croissant shape. Place on a baking tray, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
  5. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and puffed. Let cool.

Assembling Your Savoury Croissant:
  • 1 freshly baked croissant
  • 2 slices of crispy bacon
  • 1 fried or poached egg
  • ½ avocado, sliced
  • Handful of fresh rocket
  • 1 tbsp tomato chutney (homemade or store-bought)

  1. Slice the croissant in half and warm it slightly.
  2. Spread the tomato chutney on the bottom half.
  3. Layer on the bacon, egg, avocado, and rocket.
  4. Top with the other half of the croissant and enjoy immediately.
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Experience Breakfast Bliss at Mulberry Lodge 🌿Whether it’s our savoury croissant or one of the other delightful options in your breakfast hamper, mornings at Mulberry Lodge are all about celebrating fresh, seasonal ingredients and the joy of starting the day right. When you stay with us, you’re not just enjoying a meal – you’re indulging in a true taste of McLaren Vale.

Ready to experience the magic for yourself? We’d love to welcome you! 🏡✨
​
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Sip Your Way to Health: Fresh Breakfast Juices from Mulberry Lodge

23/1/2025

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At Mulberry Lodge Country Retreat, breakfast isn’t just a meal – it’s an experience designed to delight your senses and nourish your body. As part of your breakfast hamper, we provide freshly squeezed juices bursting with vibrant flavours and wholesome goodness. And the best part? Many of the fruits and vegetables come straight from our very own garden – you can’t get fresher than that! 🌿🍎

Why Fresh Juices? Starting your day with a glass of fresh juice is like giving your body a nutrient-packed wake-up call. These colourful blends are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to energize your morning and keep you glowing all day long. Plus, it’s a delicious way to sneak in a serving of fruits and veggies! 🌞

At Mulberry Lodge, we’re passionate about showcasing the seasonal bounty of our garden. Depending on what’s ripe and ready, our juices feature combinations like:
  • Crisp apples, zesty lemons, and a hint of fresh ginger 🍎☕
  • Sweet oranges paired with earthy carrots 🍊🥕
  • Beets blended with apples and a squeeze of lime for a detoxifying treat 🥒✨

Each juice is crafted with love and care, ensuring you start your day on the healthiest and most delicious note. ❤️

Recipe Highlight: Garden Glow Juice 🤍
Want to recreate a taste of Mulberry Lodge at home? Here’s one of our favourite juice recipes to try:

​Ingredients:
  • 2 medium carrots (freshly picked, if possible) 🥕
  • 1 apple (any variety you love) 🍎
  • ½ beetroot 🥒
  • A thumb-sized piece of ginger ☕
  • Juice of ½ lemon 🍋
Method:
  1. Wash and peel the carrots, apple, and beetroot.
  2. Chop everything into smaller pieces for easy blending or juicing.
  3. Feed the ingredients into your juicer or blend them in a high-powered blender.
  4. If using a blender, strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve or nut milk bag.
  5. Squeeze in the lemon juice, give it a good stir, and serve immediately over ice if desired. 🍬

The result? A vibrant, nutrient-rich juice that’s as beautiful as it is delicious! 🌟

A Toast to Wellness ✨Whether you’re enjoying the tranquil beauty of the McLaren Vale Wine Region or simply looking for inspiration for your mornings, a fresh juice is the perfect way to fuel your day. Next time you visit us, sip, savour, and let the goodness of our garden awaken your senses.

Cheers to health and happiness! 🍾🥂
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Mini Lemon Bunt Cakes

17/6/2022

 
Mini Lemon Bundt Cakes
Mini Lemon Bunt Cakes
​When lemons are bountiful in the Mulberry Lodge garden I'm always looking for ways to use then up. These cute  mini Bundt cakes decorated with a lemon glaze make a  delicious addition to an afternoon tea or serve them up as individual desserts. 

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Granola Breakfast Tarts

17/6/2022

 
Heathy Breakfast Granola Tarts
Heathy Breakfast Granola Tarts

Who wouldn’t want to wake up to a lovely crispy granola tart shell filled with creamy yogurt, lemon curd and fresh fruit in every colour of the rainbow? These little wholesome beauties are so perfect for weekend breakfast or  brunch gathering! 

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Stuffed French Toast with Berry Compote

17/6/2022

 
Stuffed French Toast with Berry Compote
Stuffed French Toast with Berry Compote
​Looking for something a little bit different and a little bit savoury and sweet, this stuffed French toast is great for a weekend breakfast or brunch, heck, have it for dinner it’s so good! Topped with a delicious blueberry sauce, this is the stuff dreams are made of.  
Bottom line, this cream cheese stuffed French toast is delicious. A creamy centre, filled with the perfect amount of cream cheese, the berry sauce adds just the right level of tartness to give the perfect balance.

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Giant Chorizo and Egg Sausage Roll

17/6/2022

 
Chorizo and Egg Spicy Sausage Roll
Chorizo and Egg Spicy Sausage Roll
​Why go small when you go can go BIG with this giant spicy sausage roll recipe with hardboiled egg placed in the centre. This is a perfect snack food for Saturday afternoon footie finals, or take to the beach for a picnic.

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Savory Waffles with Spinach, Olive, Sundried Tomato and Feta Cheese

17/6/2022

 
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Savoury Waffles with Spinach, Olive , Sundried Tomato and Feta Cheese
This is a go-to breakfast fit for a king! Bacon, egg and avocado all on a crispy savoury potato waffle. Fills you up and makes you smile. 

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Gluten Free Persian Orange and Almond Cake

16/6/2022

 
Gluten Free Persian Orange and Almond Cake
Gluten Free Persian Orange and Almond Cake
This Persian Orange and Almond Cake is so simple to make and is sure to become a  favourite. Flourless and gluten free, it's a great cake for dinner parties and events as it can be shared with so many.

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Carrot, Cauliflower & Green Pea Fritters

31/5/2022

 
Carrot, Cauliflower & Green Pea Fritters
Carrot, Cauliflower & Green Pea Fritters
Cauliflower and carrots are in abundance in the Mulberry Lodge veggie garden at the moment. Cauliflower is such an amazing vegetable to cook with and It lends well to so many different flavours. Similar to rice it's a blank canvas for any meal. The addition of curry powder was genius, the result was pure deliciousness.

These vegetable fritters are easy to make – once you've combined all the ingredients they literally take minutes to cook. The sweet, crunchy carrots add texture while the cauliflower add creaminess and the peas freshness, and it all comes together with the earthy curry powder.

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Pumpkin, Thyme & Parmesan Scones

31/5/2022

 
Pumpkin, Thyme & Parmesan Scones
Pumpkin, Thyme & Parmesan Scones
Easy Pumpkin, Thyme and Parmesan scones 

During winter we like to use the large supply of butternut pumpkins that we harvest from the Mulberry Lodge veggie gardens to make all sorts of healthy meals and snacks. This easy Pumpkin, Thyme and Parmesan scone recipe is favourite in our home.  

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Salted Caramel Cookies

25/5/2021

 
Salted Caramel Cookies
Salted Caramel Cookies
These Salted Caramel Cookies are a match in caramel + flaky sea salt + white chocolate chip Heaven. I don’t throw around the term ‘the best’ lightly, but these truly are the best salted caramel cookies…EVER! Make them for your next party or get together and everyone will be asking you for the recipe between bites of cookie!  Not only that but the are so easy to make, no need to soften butter or use a mixer! 

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Mandarin Jam

25/5/2021

 
Mandarin Jam
Mandarin jam
Make breakfast extra special with homemade Mandarin Jam.

​Whether you prefer toast, crumpets or croissants, this jam is the perfect accompaniment  -  - my personal favorite is with a beautiful french style croissant made locally by Wendy at Four Winds Chocolate in Willunga.  

This recipe is super simple and quick and you'll love the end result.   

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recipe​

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Tomato & Chilli Sauce

25/5/2021

 
Tomato & Chilli Sauce
Tomato and Chilli Sauce
With an abundance of tomatoes and chillies in the garden this year I have been experimenting in the kitchen and think I've produced a delightful tomato and chilli sauce. Its a lovely sweet but spicy sauce and yummy on  meats, pies and burgers. 

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recipe​

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Pumpkin, Spinach and Feta Savoury Muffins

27/10/2018

 
Pumpkin, Spinach and Feta Savoury Muffins
Pumpkin, Spinach and feta Savoury Muffins
These gorgeous cheesy, savoury muffins make a perfect breakfast snack or lunch box snack. I usually make them with gluten free flour as many of our guests are gluten intolerant. The small snack size versions keep perfectly in the freezer so make a batch and they'll do for snacks for a couple of weeks ( or maybe not, they're so yummy you might just eat them all in one sitting). Enjoy!! Download a copy of the the recipe below. 

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Banana and Sultana Muffins

28/7/2018

 
Banana & Sultan Muffins
Banana & Sultana Muffins
This is great way to use up those bananas that always seem to be left to go brown. Quick and easy to make when you have a spare half hour in the kitchen.  I always have a selection of muffins on the go for our guest breakfasts and this is one of the favourites.   

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Healthy Coconut and Vanilla Muesli Bars

14/11/2017

 
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​Not only are these muesli bars delicious, they're a healthy version as there's no sugar  and coconut oil is used instead of butter. I offer these as part of my guest breakfast each morning but they're great snacking on during the day.

.Make these sugar-free Muesli Bars part of your Sunday cook-up repertoire to have handy during the week.

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Gluten Free Chocolate & Raspberry Brownies

27/8/2017

 
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This has to be one of the most delicious gluten free treats that I make for our guests. Much better than the standard recipe and I always get lovely comments from our guests. So I thought it was about time to share this. Welcome to chocolate brownie heaven! .

The original recipe calls for fresh raspberries but I've found when they're out of season and expensive you can replace the fresh raspberries with a bar of dark Lindt Raspberry Chocolate, and of course I stock up on this chocolate when it's on special offer. I actually think I prefer them with the Lindt raspberry chocolate.

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Lemon Polenta Cake - YUM!

12/8/2017

 
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We have the the most amazing lemon tree on our property which fruits all year and  I have great fun finding lots  lovely recipes in which I can use our lemons.. This was a cake recipe that I found a while ago by Nigella Lawson and is one of the most delicious, and moist cakes that I have come across. The bonus is that it can be made gluten free and dairy free.

I always treat our guests to some homemade cake and this is by far one of the favourites. 

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Walking & Wine in Winter

17/6/2017

 
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Rob and Lucy recovered from trekking the first 5 sections of the Heysen Trail at Mulberry Lodge Country Retreat – Lucy’s written about it here 
 
In late June, we boarded a plane in sunny, tropical Cairns, and flew to Adelaide for a week of walking by the ocean and drinking wine in McLaren Vale. Obviously it was the best holiday ever. 
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​As a base to explore, I can’t think of a better place. We didn’t get to stay for half as long as I would have liked (damn those kids), but what we did see was brilliant – top quality wineries and restaurants within walking distance, friendly hosts, beautiful gardens and delicious food (thanks for the brownies Hazel, they were divine).
 
With no car and not much time, we relied on our fantastic hosts to ferry us from winery to winery (you know some of them open at 10am? 10am!). We went conservative and only shipped home 42 bottles from 5 wineries, and spent our evenings at The Salopian Inn working our way through their fantastic gin menu.

We loved Mulberry Lodge Country Retreat and McLaren Vale, even in the middle of a blustery winter - our only complaint was that we didn’t get long enough down there to see everything…
 
But not to worry, we’re already planning the return trip for 2017. 
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The Blending Bench at d'Arenberg

Rob and I are both from somewhere more Southerly than Cairns, and while the long, dry, sunshine-y Winter is beautiful, it often makes us long for crisp days and fresh breezes. We walk when we can (and when someone else offers to take the kids), but getting to walk the start of the Heysen Trail was something special, with and abundance of fresh air, incredible scenery, and heart-pumping exercise.
n general, my holiday requirements include
 good food, beautiful scenery, and wine (I’ll substitute wine for cocktails in the tropics)

Rob’s perfect get-away looks more like something from a boys’ own adventure so finding a place that fits us both can be a bit of a challenge (thankfully he feels the same way about the wine).
 
We found the Heysen Trail when searching online for ‘epic Australian treks’, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Off the bus at Cape Jervis, and within 30 minutes we’d waved goodbye to civilisation and were watching dolphins frolic in the waves. What followed was 4 days of magnificent cliffs, rolling green hills, and long sandy beaches, along a well-marked track which has been maintained by the Friends of the Heysen Trail (and they really do a great job).

​77km later, we were weary but elated to reach Encounter Bay.
 Which is where the eating and drinking began. 
 
3 nights of camp food was more than enough for me (and even Rob was hanging out for a steak), so we ditched the packs and started sampling the best of everything the Fleurieu Peninsula had to offer.
 
We tried everything (obviously I needed to regain the weight I’d lost on the trail. That’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it) and made our way the next day to McLaren Vale to stay at Mulberry Lodge Country Retreat
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Lunch at Au Pear next door to Mulberry Lodge
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    Hazel and husband Nik own and run Mulberry Lodge Country Retreat  which is a beautiful and unique mud brick property in the McLaren Vale wine region of South Australia. It's our home and business and run as a hosted luxury, country escape for the discerning traveler. We aim to provide our guests with a wonderful relaxed and indulgent experience. Through the blog Hazel will be sharing information her own recipes, our gardens and activities and experiences in the Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia 

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PO Box 850, 202 Main Road
Willunga
SA, 5172


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