About us.
For more than 150 years, The Victoria has been a gathering place at the heart of this vibrant region. Established in 1868, the hotel began as a modest wooden building before being transformed into the iconic two-storey brick landmark by Shadrack P. Gollings in 1893.
With its heritage features -including Rutherglen’s original mortuary tucked just beyond the carriage gates - The Victoria proudly holds Victoria’s longest continually operating hotel licence.
In 2021, Kate and Matt Halpin became the custodians of this historic landmark. Both regional-born and widely travelled, after successful corporate careers they returned to their origins, guided by the philosophy of ‘city style meets country soul.’ Their vision was to honour The Victoria’s heritage while transforming it into a modern destination that celebrates connection, community, and the spirit of the High Country.
Through a meticulous, multi-million-dollar restoration, they preserved the hotel’s historic character while introducing contemporary appointments and thoughtfully elevated experiences.
In 2025 The Victoria was awarded ‘Best Redeveloped Hotel’ by the Australian Hotels Association Victoria.
Today, The Victoria is more than a hotel - it’s a place to DINE, GATHER and REST.
Guests can savour award-winning dining, discover curated local wine experiences, explore nearby distilleries and breweries, or retreat to boutique accommodation that blends heritage architecture with contemporary style.
The Victoria is also perfect for special occasions, birthdays, private dining, and curated events. With cycling routes at the doorstep, wellness-focused escapes, and the High Country within easy reach, it’s an ideal base for exploration, celebration, and renewal.
Welcome home.
Location.
Around 30 minutes drive from the regional hubs of Albury/Wodonga, Wangaratta & Yarrawonga, The Victoria is the ideal base to explore North East Victoria and the surrounding heritage townships of Beechworth, Milawa, Chiltern, Wahgunyah and Corowa. Or venture a little further afield for a day trip to the Alpine snowfields and picturesque Bright & Myrtleford, located less than 90 minutes away.
Perched in the centre of Rutherglen’s historic and well-preserved Main Street, The Victoria has become the heartbeat of the quaint village made famous over 150 years of innovative winemaking. With views as far as the mountains, The Victoria is perfectly positioned to take in the idyllic surrounding vineyards and vibrant countryside which comes alive with the bold colours of Spring and Autumn.
Whether you prefer to meander along the local waterways, visit local distilleries, olive groves and vineyards, ride the rail trail, or play a round of golf, The Victoria is the perfect retreat after exploring this intriguing region.

