Como Historic House & Garden was the home of an elite colonial family for almost a century. Protected by the National Trust, the South Yarra mansion is noted for its iron-lacework verandas and period furnishings. House visits are by guided tours only.
Edward Williams built Como House in 1847 and his residence is an intriguing confluence of Australian Regency and Italianate influences. Set in five acres of gardens, it retains many of William Sangster's original decorative designs, as well as Ellis Stones' fountain terrace and water garden.
Included in the ticket price is a guided tour of the house, after which you can picnic under the peppercorn tree next to the water garden, walk the gently sloping lawns and sample the fresh produce at the Como Café accompanied by some delicious Australian wine.
It's easy to see how idyllic Edward Williams found this spot and you can be quickly transported back 150 years into, quite literally, a different world - and so close to the bustling heart of one of Australia's most cosmopolitan cities.