International Hotelier Brings Oscar's on the Yarra to Best Western

Best Western, the World's Biggest Hotel Family has welcomed the distinguished Oscar's on the Yarra to the group, introducing the rebranded Victorian hotel as BEST WESTERN Yarra Valley. Set on 20 acres on the Yarra River, the
4-star hotel is located in Warburton's leading wine region, 65 kilometres east of Melbourne.

BEST WESTERN Yarra Valley is a 22-room boutique hotel recently restored by architect and designer, Jack Fugaro. Built in the 1920s, the property's period features have been carefully preserved, with chic modern furnishings and vintage chandeliers among the interior highlights used to deliver a truly authentic experience.

Hotel owner and Best Western International member, Walter Marcheselli has more than 35 years industry experience across hotel operations, food and beverage and regional tourism in the Venetian region. This year he celebrates 25 years owning and operating his first Best Western hotel, BEST WESTERN Hotel Cristallo in Rovigo, which joined Best Western Italy in 1989.

Rob Anderson, Chief Executive of Best Western Australasia is pleased to welcome Marcheselli's Australian addition.

“Walter is a highly regarded member of Best Western, possibly the first in the group's history to own a property in both the northern and southern hemispheres,” he said.

"We are always looking to expand our brand by adding the very finest hotels and most authentic experiences to our portfolio. The addition of this Yarra Valley boutique hotel is an exciting milestone for Best Western Australasia, and a very important addition to our brand as we continue to attract higher quality hotels and professional hoteliers like Walter to our Australian market.”

Marcheselli has served as Vice President of Best Western Italy for 12 years. He said Best Western's global reputation would attract international visitors to the Yarra Valley.

“I know the brand very well and it has been my dream to open a hotel in Australia," he said.

“Best Western stands apart from other large-scale chains. We're recognised across the world for having classic European palaces and five star resorts in Asia and the Middle East. We don't operate using a cookie-cutter model and this is one reason why we can offer different experiences in each country.

“I feel honoured to own this beautiful hotel. I grew up with my parents working in hotels and restaurants and I believe in all staff welcoming guests like they are family. I look forward to continuing this hospitality tradition at BEST WESTERN Yarra Valley."

Guests staying at BEST WESTERN Yarra Valley can choose between three room types ranging from standard king or twin rooms, to deluxe king or twin rooms and a two bedroom studio apartment, ideal for bridal parties and small groups. Free breakfast, free wi-fi, parking and concierge service are offered, with in-room features including Apple products, pillow top beds, LCD TVs, en-suite bathrooms and stylish décor ensuring a memorable stay. Each room will captivate guests with sweeping views of the Yarra River or the property's landscaped riverside gardens.

Fine-dining restaurant, Oscar's on the Yarra caters for private events, wedding receptions and corporate banqueting for up to 150 guests. It is open to the public from Friday to Sunday, or for meetings and events, the property offers seven event spaces fitted with modern audio and multimedia technology, with function and catering packages available.

Visitors to the Yarra Valley can enjoy wine tasting at over 30 or so vineyards, browsing local art galleries, or dining in local cafes and restaurants. Outdoor activities such as horse riding, kayaking and walking or cycling along the Warburton Rail Trail are enjoyed all year round, with the Warburton Golf Club a two minute drive from the hotel.

For more information, see bestwestern.com.au/yarravalleyhotel.