The Bellum Hotel

Drive around a bend on the Riddoch Highway and the Bellum appears like an apparition; surrounded by lush farmland, the Mt Schank volcanic crater is its backdrop. The Bellum offers a taste of the country: great food, terrific hospitality from friendly staff, cold beer and wine, take-away meals and bottle shop, beer garden, open fire, TVs, sunken cellar and rustic charm. Their warm winter menu includes lamb kofta balls, spring rolls, pork belly, scotch fillet, lamb shanks, lasagna, fish and chips, salads, schnitzels and burgers. Weekly specials are posted to Bellum's Facebook page. All meals are available as takeaways. Their wine selection has been cherry-picked to support local vineyards, and they sell "Sink Hole" gin. Beside the wood fire the front bar is the perfect place to relax on a cold night.