THE SETTING
Where gardens meet the Yarra Valley.
A Garden Always Becoming
The gardens at Villa Capra are a work in progress, constantly being added to and enhanced for the pleasure of our guests.
The theme of the gardens is a mixture of formality and symmetry contrasted with more free-flowing plantings. Statuary and urns, seats, the Pear Walk and Japanese garden form focal points within the gardens, while the surrounding farmlands, orchards and vineyards give way to the ever-changing colours of the surrounding mountains.
Wherever possible, the garden design and layout follows the advice of landscaper Russell Page: “Never plant one when you can plant many.” Plants are chosen for their tolerance to dryness, frosts and winds, as well as their foliage, flowers and fruiting qualities. Water conservation measures mean that water is recycled wherever possible.
Guests are welcome to wander through the gardens and enjoy the views of the Yarra Valley and its surrounding hills.
THE PEAR WALK
An avenue of ornamental pears drawn in two clean lines toward a stone urn and fountain — the garden's most romantic focal point, and its most seasonal. White blossom in spring, deep green shade in summer, then copper, scarlet and gold across the gravel in autumn.
At either ends, marble statuary keeps watch. It is a walk best taken slowly, early in the morning or at last light.
THE JAPANESE GARDEN
Raked gravel, water, stone and restrained planting — a quieter register altogether. The Japanese garden opens off the Yarra Suite and shares its cooler mood: pewter and soft grey, green shadow, and very little noise beyond birdsong.
It is a courtyard made for early coffee and long evenings.
THE FERNERY COURTYARD
Soft, sheltered and green underfoot, the fernery courtyard belongs to the Melba Suite. Its warm gold and copper palette carries outdoors into dappled light, tree ferns and the quiet sound of water.
Intimate and entirely private — the most romantic corner of the grounds.
THE SURROUNDING SCENERY
Beyond the gardens, Villa Capra is surrounded by the changing scenery of the Yarra Valley. From the rolling hills and vineyards by day to wide open skies and stars after dark, the landscape offers something different with every hour and season.
THE VALLEY BEYOND
Beyond the gardens, Villa Capra sits among the farmlands, orchards and vineyards of the Yarra Valley, with the surrounding hills changing character throughout the seasons.
Take your time. Wander the gardens. Follow the paths. Sit for a while.