Summer has faded and the cooler months are wandering this way, if not already here. The leaves are turning and Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges is at its most beautiful at this time of year. We’ve selected 10 properties to tempt you into the cool countryside, handpicked for their snug interiors, light-filled rooms and cosy fires.
The Pond House – Trentham
10 4 3
Expansive and stylish, The Pond House Trentham offers a unique luxury escape for people wanting the ultimate country experience. Located just 2km from the centre of Trentham, you arrive somewhere truly memorable. Backing onto the Wombat State Forest, the property feels endless, with the house sitting on one and a half acres of beautifully landscaped Australian and European trees on the edge of an ornamental lake.
Overall Rating 5
ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT!! My friends & I loved it so much we added an extra night to our already long weekend away. We were blessed with great weather but to sit and chill by the pond, food cooking on the fire, good space in the house,..perfect! Do not hesitate to book this place.
Timothy – April 2021
Botanica – Daylesford
4 2 1
Botanica is a quintessential Daylesford cottage where you can dream the days away mesmerized by lovely views across the town and gardens. It is warm and cosy with a beautiful sunlit lounge and open fireplace, guaranteed to help ease the transition into the cooler months.
A large well-equipped kitchen allows you to stay in and cook from home, and for those who want to make the most of eating out and exploring the region, the best of Daylesford is a short stroll away.
Overall Rating 4.4
Gorgeous cottage with everything you need. A very special tiered garden and in a fabulous position with a short stroll to anywhere you might want to go to over a weekend in Daylesford. Waking up to a flood of green and dappled sunlight was such a lovely way to start the day. Relaxing in the deep claw foot bath the perfect book end.
Magdalina – April 2021
Green Retreat passive House – Hepburn Springs
4 2 2
This 9 star eco-friendly abode with beautiful Silvertop Ash cladding features 2 spa baths, stylish touches, soft tones and high end linen, perfect for romantic getaways or as a getaway with friends and family.
Make the most of the full kitchen to create lovely meals or relax in style on the comfortable lounge. When you are ready, venture out to the nearby spas, restaurants and cafes in Hepburn Springs.
Overall Rating 4.8
The air quality and temperature of this property are second to none. Well located, attractive furnishing, comfortable beds. A wonderful base for exploring, or just stay in and relax. Bush, garden or sky views from every window, a sunny verandah and king size comfy beds. Bliss.
Michelle – March 2021
Orchards @ Spring vale Farm – Weatherboard
10 5 3
If it’s a romantic weekend away or a weekend getaway with friends or family, Orchards at Spring Vale Farm is the perfect location.
Imagine an autumn weekend getaway staying in the 1860s bluestone homestead, set in picturesque gardens with stunning water features and views to a large spring-fed dam. Imagine the glow of the open fireplaces, sipping on the homesteads Award Winning Cider or local wine and enjoying the company of good friends. To make the stay even more special, guests have access to the tennis court, the gym, pool table room and of course the picturesque gardens to roam and frolic.
Overall Rating 5
We had an enjoyable stay with extended family, young and old there’s something to do for everyone. Scroll along the orchard farm or play tennis. High recommend this luxury property, the welcome hamper with cider made from apples grown on the property was a special touch of hospitality.
Maily – January 2021
The Hideout – Daylesford
3 1 1
The Hideout is a special place that provides atmospheric interiors with deep soothing natural tones, creating a feeling of relaxation and escapism. Layered linen bedding, a stunning black stone bath, a Heat and Glo fireplace, and cool designer furniture blend together effortlessly.
During the cooler months, the property is ideal with a fully stocked kitchen to prepare gourmet or comforting meals from. The lounge has a T.V and the fireplace for Netflix movie marathons, and a super-luxe breakout room to retreat to, to read your favorite book or listen to some music.
Overall Rating 4.5
The ‘Hideout’ lives up to it’s name. It is cosy, comfortable, clean with modern comforts and some old style character. Loved it and would love to come back again. Thank you to the owners for sharing their stylish presentation and great warm space.
Clare – March 2021
Zelman Cottage – Hepburn Springs
8 3 2
The former holiday retreat of famous artist, Victor Zelman (1877 -1958) is now again a holiday cottage. Built by Zelman in 1910 the sensitive refurbishment to keep it’s integrity intact feels as though not much has changed except the addition of modern luxurious bathrooms and beautiful furniture and linen.
A north-facing deck brings in light and a cosy wood heater is situated in the lounge where you can sit with a glass of red wine and study the work of the hand-painted frieze and imagine days gone by.
Overall Rating 4.2
Without a doubt, this is one of the favourite accommodations I stayed so far. We 7 people had two great evenings staying here, which also added up to the experience. The atmosphere is so fresh, clean and quiet, and the cottage makes us feel at home. Highly recommend this town and Zelman cottage for a comfy, chill, and relaxing trip with friends or family.
Le – March 2021
Lakeleigh
6 3 2
With direct access to the foreshore of Lake Daylesford, Lakeleigh has views from every room across the lake to Lake House Restaurant, the church spires of Daylesford and beyond.
The English country style cottage is oozing with privacy, charm and elegance, from the conservatory to the living areas, kitchen and bedrooms, every comfort has been thought of.
Overall Rating 4.7
Lakeleigh is the most charming cottage right on the Lake. Attention to detail is amazing and the owners have made every effort to think of everything a guest may need. Superb linen, comfortable beds, gorgeous sitting areas, the conservatory for meals and a great outside space. It is perfect and would highly recommend.
Jen – March 2021
Sanctum – Hepburn Springs
2 1 1
Sanctum blends nature with sophistication, setting itself apart through creativity and stunning design. Beautifully styled, the interiors include classic design pieces, soothing tones and luxurious fabrics. Linens, velvets, wool felts and textured wallpaper, sit in harmony with one another and the extra features provided at the property, making this a one of a kind experience.
The gas log fire is a treat for the cooler months and the steam room and two person sunken spa offer tranquil views over treetops. Straight from the pages of a magazine.
Overall Rating 4.7
I could not have envisioned a better stay for my partner and I. The home was just that – it felt like a home. Everything was super clean! Not a spec of dust could even be found. The bed was comfy, view was amazing, spa was beautiful to enjoy. Everything we needed right there in our own love bubble. Couldn’t recommend this place enough, …
Samantha – March 2021