Drift House Port Fairy is a small, multi-award winning luxury hotel and dining room, consisting of just six beautiful suites
Drift House Port Fairy
Designed by leading architecture practice, Multiplicity Drift House sets a new benchmark for luxury accommodation in regional Australia.
Drift House Port Fairy, the small hotel with a big reputation has received critical acclaim since opening in late 2013 and has scooped a bagful of local and international awards.
Sea-changer couple John Watkinson and Colleen Guiney own and operate Drift House. John is a former corporate high-flyer, but is now enjoying a far more relaxed lifestyle on Victoria’s spectacular South West coast. Colleen is a born creative and successful abstract artist. They are supported by a small team of exceptional and talented people.
To some people Drift House is a boutique Hotel, to others a B&B and to some a retreat. The label is not important. Put simply it is a special place to stay. It does not represent over-the-top opulence nor doily wrapped Victoriana. Drift House Port Fairy is unique, individual and entirely bespoke and sets a new standard of design for luxury accommodation. It appeals to those looking for an escape that is more individual and interesting.
The Architecture
Drift House provides guests with the opportunity to experience what it is like to live, eat and sleep in a space designed by one of Australia’s leading architects.
Clever and simply beautiful architecture is the Drift House signature. Floor plans challenge the hotel “cookie cutter” and provide guests with a sense of discovery.
Use of innovative materials, salvaged timber and beautifully designed fixtures results in a surprising and superbly comfortable environment. The original double story Victorian house and single story Edwardian villa are complimented by a range of modern buildings clad in a perforated metal skin. Walls crafted in local stone define the landscaping and anchor the building solidly in its prominent corner position.
Sustainability
Our approach to sustainability is the result of John and Colleen’s personal commitment to the environment and the community within which they have chosen to live.
It is not a marketing strategy or something required to meet legislative requirements. We do all the things we do because we want to and believe that they are the right things to do.
Practical steps are taken to monitor and save water and energy, and reduce waste, and we have a philosophy of source and buy locally because supporting small business is critical to the economic survival of regional communities such as ours.
A charitable donation is made for every direct booking that we take.
Our history
The buildings that make up Drift House have a long and varied history.
Over the years it has been home to the undertaker, stonemason, architect, publican, doctor, timber merchant, auctioneer, saddler, accordion player and even the Captain of The Militia! Now you can add your profession to this list and experience Drift House for yourself.
Port Fairy
In 2012 Port Fairy was awarded “Most Livable Community in the World” by UNESCO.
Nestled at the very end of the Great Ocean Road and standing guard over the mouth of the Moyne river, the town maintains a strong sense of community.
A long time summer holiday favorite for the farming families of the western districts. It is a year-round destination. The first choice for families, surfers, luxury seekers, cyclists and fishermen, Port Fairy caters for all. With good coffee, great restaurants, amazing beaches and now the best small hotel in Australia!