It's true that living in Victoria we become conditioned to the nature of changeable weather; a characteristic of our southern state that often gives us no choice but to go with the flow. Thankfully the large open-plan spaces of Shiki Chalet allowed us to do just that; lean into a summer-one-day, winter-the-next kind of weekend!

Less than half an hour's drive 'down the hill' from Mount Hotham, the aptly named 'Shiki', meaning four seasons, provides country luxury with incredible views, a steaming hot (or refreshingly cool!) spa on the deck and sweeping verandahs that overlook the expansive pasture below.

At sundown each night we'd sit high up there, sipping a wine or a tea as the local brumbies wandered on in for their evening graze. I couldn't believe my eyes the first time I saw these visitors, a dozen wild horses that seemed to relish in the same solace as I did, by simply being amidst Shiki's peaceful surrounds.

The start of our November weekend on the property blessed us with a 30 degree day in the sunshine; one we were certain would melt any last remaining mountaintop snow. So we dropped the temp on the hot tub, donned the hats and sunnies and took in the balmy serenity of what felt like the start of summer. By the end of the weekend however we were firing up the jumbo Coonara and watching the cold front return, all cozied up on the bay-window day bed that offers beautiful views across the ranges. I couldn't decide which climate I loved more, yet experiencing one end of the weather spectrum to the other verified how beautifully the Chalet could provide for a group getaway no matter the time of year.

Embracing the changing elements we took a drive up to Mount Hotham, the snow flakes falling as we increased in altitude. By the time we reached the village we were surrounded by a winter wonderland, with shin-deep snow to step out into; an unexpected November treat (or tease!) for the snowboarders within us. We grabbed our 4 year old's board and took her for a play in the fresh stuff, laughing in pure presence and feeling such gratitude for the family we are.

On return to the Chalet that night we sunk into the now steaming hot tub and reflected on the spontaneity of our adventures, before dreaming up some more in the comfort of our King size master room. With another three queen rooms to boot we were already planning to come back with mates, and having fur-babies welcomed here too makes this mountain chalet stay a no-brainer.

The Victorian High Country has always captured my heart, and with hosts like David and Lisa, Shiki Stayz is sure to always have us return!