Secluded Stays

Narenna Bloomfield You've been isolated on and off for the last 12 months, not by choice, and certainly not in one of these properties. There’s a vast difference between forced ‘iso’ and getting away from it all. For some stress-relieving escapism, here are five places that'll make you, and those you're with, feel like the only people on the planet.

#1 Reverie 101 is set within a magnificent ten-acre landscaped garden in Lyonville, just a 15-minute drive from Daylesford and 8 minutes to Trentham. Two storey high hedges with stunning architecturally designed gates greet you as you enter one of the region's most splendid gardens. This bespoke retreat adjoins the Wombat State Forest, and its large open windows allow you to take in full view of the local wildlife and the glorious surrounds.

#2 Daybreaker Daylesford is an architecturally designed home like no other. Nestled amongst the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, this spectacular four-bedroom, threebathroom multi-level home offers expansive 180-degree uninterrupted views from the highest point in Daylesford. Hardwood floors and white walls adorn the downstairs areas. The main lounge features a gas log fire, large entertainment area with TV, sound system and a collection of board games. The interiors are bright and open, with floor to ceiling windows letting in an abundance of natural light.

#3 Charter Farm is still a working farm, so you may be lucky enough to see sheep being herded past the house into the woolshed nearby. Set on 300 acres with the Loddon River running through the middle of the undulating property, there is plenty to explore and numerous places to set up a picnic or sit out under the stars. Although secluded, you can remain busy with a tennis court, in-ground trampoline, mountain bikes, boules, yabbie nets and tennis rackets. Inside the home are original artworks by Craig Waddell, Joan Ross, Sam Leach and Fiona Pardington, plus the simple luxuries that boutique accommodation specialist, Flop House, is known for: hotel quality linen, Aspar body products and a hamper of locally sourced produce. Charter Farm sleeps ten guests with two bathrooms, has a large living and dining area, and separate renovated farmhouse kitchen. With a smart TV, Bose sound system and wi-fi, you still won't miss out on anything.

#4 Skyview Pavilion is set on 20 acres, within a hidden valley, only minutes from Daylesford. It is comfortable and elegant, designed with one purpose: for you to relax, breathe out, and disconnect. The open-plan style welcomes you with a wood fire, modern self-contained kitchen and spacious bathroom. The luxurious, king-sized bed provides a comfortable night's sleep, and you will awake to our glorious nature, including the curious and friendly free-ranging alpacas, chickens and kangaroos. Open the curtains and floor to ceiling sliding glass doors to lose yourself in the amazing view. Spill out onto the spacious outdoor living area with BBQ and firepit. With complete privacy, you'll enjoy this nature-loving retreat.

#5 Lewellyn House, circa 1861, was established by Daylesford's first Parliamentarian, Henry Wheeler. You can witness the history throughout. Popular with large groups, Lewellyn House can accommodate 18 guests with 9 bedrooms and 9 ensuite bathrooms. It is perfectly positioned opposite The Convent Gallery and a short walk to Daylesford main street. And for those who enjoy escaping outdoors, the home's garden is said to have been planted alongside that of the Wombat Hill Botanic Garden by GermanAustralian botanist Baron Ferdinand Von Mueller.

Photos (opposite page): Top: Skyview Pavillion Clockwise from Left: Lewellyn House, Reverie 101, Charter Farm, Daybreaker

REVERIE 101 daylesfordcountryretreats.com.au/reverie-101 DAYBREAKER discoverdaylesford.com CHARTER FARM flophouse.com.au/charter-farm SKYVIEW PAVILLION dayget.com.au/skyview-pavilion LEWELLYN HOUSE thehousesdaylesford.com/lewellyn-house

DAYLESFORD 5 Maxela Court

CLEAN LINES AND CUTTING EDGE DESIGN

A new residence by award winning architect Ben Robinson of Tecture, reflecting a relaxed flexible entertaining floorplan, filled with luxury fixtures, fittings including Meile appliances & smart technology throughout. Featuring abundant storage, heated and fenced plunge pool, hydronic heating, ducted cooling, incorperating self contained guest studio with own kitchen & private courtyard, fully landscaped gardens. A short stroll to local retail & restaurants. Ideal family home or holiday investment property.

FOR SALE VIEW By Appointment GUIDE $1,249,800

3 a 2 b 3 v 612sqm Approx r

Annette Leary 0407 917 054 Christine Lewis 0431 853 727 Will Walton 0412 511 717

belleproperty.com

NEWBURY 4 Pronk Track

WESTBURY ON BLUE MOUNT

Set high on Blue Mount, overlooking 37 acres of native bushland is this architecturally designed, north facing, off grid, self sufficient 4 bedroom home. Nestled amongst the trees, you will enjoy expansive views from soaring floor to ceiling windows and bi-fold doors that open to inviting alfresco entertaining areas. Featuring concrete floors, 4.5 metre high spotted gum beams and fully solar powered.

FOR SALE VIEW By Appointment GUIDE $1,495,000

4 a 2 b 4 v 37 w

Ceri Spain 0437 730 220 Fiona Kelly 0488 547 004 Will Walton 0412 511 717