Leave the city behind and slip into a slower pace of life at Botanica, a historic two bedroom cottage perched on the side of Wombat Hill with magical views across Daylesford and beyond to Mount Franklin and the Wombat State Forest.
Busy Melbourne couple, Andrea and David, have had a special place in their hearts for Daylesford and the region for nearly 30 years.
We were given a wedding gift of dinner at the Lake House and spent our honeymoon in a beautiful timber miner’s cottage in Hepburn Springs. That stay triggered our love for the whole region. We’ve continued to visit and explore the area ever since and wanted our own part of this special place.
Wombat Hill has always captivated them with the beautiful Botanic Gardens and views across to Mt Franklin and the Wombat State Forest. After laying their eyes on Botanica, they knew immediately it was what they had always dreamed of owning and sharing with others.
Perched on the side of Wombat Hill, Botanica is a two-bedroom weatherboard cottage with many original features including timber floorboards and pressed metal ceilings. Whilst they have applied some tender loving care to the property, these charming features from an era long ago, still form an integral part of the home. The light filled living room features a warming open fireplace and soft comfy sofa. The large well-equipped kitchen has been updated and is perfect for those lazy days, staying in and enjoying a meal by the fire with family and friends.
Andrea reflects on what she wishes people will get out of their stay at Botanica.
We want people to feel relaxed and cosy in our charming little cottage, taking the opportunity to forget the rush that everyday city life brings and enjoy a simpler life. Take the time to enjoy the gardens and appreciate time with friends and good conversation.
From the back door, walk through the wonderful hidden garden and you will find yourself in the Botanic Gardens with incredible views across Daylesford and beyond. Meander along the path and you will find yourself at Wombat Hill House café, perfect for a morning coffee or lunch, and in the afternoon, take a 3-minute walk downhill to The Fromagerie and relax with a glass of wine and amazing cheese platter. What more could you want!
Venturing a little further, Andrea and David have discovered many wonderful places over their years of visiting the region. Glenlyon with its well-stocked General Store café and nearby winery, Fontanella. Walks in the forest at Creswick or a drive to the Tuki Trout Farm, where you can catch your own trout for lunch. Maybe drive through the Wombat State Forest to the Garden of St Erth or stop by the Radio Springs Hotel for a hearty Sunday lunch. The options are endless!
Sometimes however, I cant even leave the house and gardens, I just love sitting in front of the fire with a glass of champagne, reading a book and stopping to take in the view while listening to the birds settle down for the evening.
