I arrive at Tanwarra Lodge B&B Cafe with Oscar, a blue cattle dog, which causes a ruckus as the resident hounds sense an intruder. Once the canine excitement dies down, I begin to enjoy the tranquil bush setting that envelope Tanwarra Lodge. I hate to say it, but it’s probably too quiet, as I the only one there, as it almost feels as though I am intruding. Although only a few minutes drive away from the historic mining village of Sofala, Tanwarra Lodge feels a world away from civilisation, and I can imagine a few nights at the B&B could revitalise tired city slickers. My Devonshire Tea arrives quickly and on a clever glass plate that seems specifically designed for such a spread. A generous dollop of thickly whipped fresh cream sits snugly beside plenty of ‘better-than-your-average’ strawberry jam. The scones are definitely homemade but are slightly chewy today – maybe they are frozen and reheated? They are also smaller than usual, and considering the amount of cream and jam served with them, it feels there should be at least three. The cafe is open from 5 – 8pm Monday to Friday and 9 – 9pm on weekends.

Scones: 

Jam: 

Cream: 

Tea: A standard selection of Twining loose-leaf teas served in a pot.

Price: $$

Overall: A tranquil bush setting, which feels a long way from anywhere.