CAVERSHAM HOUSE
Swan Valley, Western Australia

LOCATION In Caversham, skirting the Swan Valley and just 20 minutes' drive from Perth city. PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA Perth's Swan Valley is known for its undulating hills, beautiful wines and art galleries, but there's also a particular venue that is one of the region's best-kept secrets. Caversham House was originally built for English settlers in 1835 before becoming a reception centre in 1960. Since then it has played host to many weddings and functions, with the main house operating as a restaurant. The original structure underwent a refurbishment in 2005 to add a touch of French provincial style to the already breathtaking building. Diners at the restaurant can take in views of the perfectly manicured gardens while feasting on incredible modern Australian cuisine under the 120-year-old wisteria. The food is simple and fresh with an emphasis on classic flavours and impressive presentation. The goat's cheese tart with baby spinach and olive tomato dressing is a great way to start your meal, as is the freshly shucked oyster plate featuring a mix of natural, Kilpatrick and rockerfeller oysters. A handful of main dishes cover most tastes in food, with fish, steak, duck, lamb and chicken all being represented in a range of modern cooking styles. The grilled local barramundi served with spiced vermouth sauce is cooked to perfection, just like its carnivorous counterpart, the prime fillet steak. Served with a creamy spring onion potato tartlet, prosciutto-wrapped asparagus and baby onion with red wine jus, this dish is worth writing home about. When you visit Caversham House, make sure you leave enough time to take a stroll through the multitude of landscaped gardens. The renaissance-style "Hidden Gardens" in particular are amazing with their tiered limestone walls, meticulous hedging and grand staircase. It's no wonder so many people want to be married here! Karen Bilsby