Spring Stays

Narenna Bloomfeld Gardens are known to reduce stress and make you happy, and springtime is especially joyful. Maybe it’s the sight of buds and blossoms reminding you that every season, but particularly spring, is an opportunity for growth and renewal. Or perhaps it’s the warmth of spring sunlight that allows you to enjoy the outdoors and explore again. Whatever the reason, we’ve unearthed a range of places to stay with garden oases that will help revive and allow you to bloom once more.

BOLOBEK, MACEDON Established more than 110 years ago, Bolobek is one of Australia’s most famous private gardens. Many of the trees and shrubs planted over a century ago survive today, as does what is believed to be the original planting plan. Spring is a glorious time to visit, with the celebrated Garden Lovers’ Fair held annually (October 2-3). To truly bask in the beauty, you can stay on-site at The Cottage. It is the original Station Hand’s house and located next to the historic garden, and private tours can be arranged by appointment. bolobek.com.au

OLIVE GROVE, MUSK For an entirely different outlook, Olive Grove is a meticulously renovated two-storey estate that brings a Mediterranean feel to country Victoria. Set among expansive olive orchards, the large windows and sliding doors ensure you can view all the beauty around. There’s no need to stay indoors though, on the deck you will find an alfresco dining area and a large BBQ. Gaze over the neighbouring Passing Clouds Vineyard’s budding vines as you watch the sunset from the balcony. discoverdaylesford.com/olive-grove

KYNETON OLD RECTORY Built in 1850 of local stone, the Kyneton Old Rectory is listed by the National Trust of Victoria. Its mix of late Georgian and Victorian colonial architectural features sit within almost half an acre of beautifully maintained mature garden, including a significant 160-year-old walnut tree. Wander through the ‘rooms’ separated by pittosporum, cypress, English box and Myrtis hedging. You’ll happily discover numerous dining settings, including the shingle roofed verandah, where a magnificent white wisteria graces us with its blooms in early spring. kynetonoldrectory.com.au

SUNDAY HOUSE, MALDON Sunday House is an ode to the most relaxing day of the week and a nod to this ex-Sunday School building. This stylish 1865 architecturally converted church is right in the heart of Maldon. You could easily curl up inside, but to further enjoy the surroundings, open the double French doors to the large deck and sprawling entertainer’s yard. You will find a dining space, BBQ, fireplace/pizza oven and large lawn. The yard is pet friendly so bring your furry friend along. maldongetaways.com.au/en/1806846/sunday-housemaldon

THE POTTING SHED, TRENTHAM The Potting Shed is a studio style cottage on the 1,700-bush heritage rose farm, Acre of Roses. Owners Sandy and Rob dreamed of somewhere beautiful for guests to relax, reconnect with their senses, and pause to smell the roses. A garden theme has been used throughout by interior designer Belle Hemming, which has created a space for creativity and encourages soul searching. You’ll never want to leave, instead wanting to spend your days pottering about this stunning slow flower farm. acreofroses.com.au/potting-shed REVERIE 101, LYONVILLE Reverie 101 is set within a magnificent ten-acre landscaped garden. Two storey high hedges greet you as you enter one of our region’s most splendid gardens. This incredible retreat backs onto the Wombat State Forest, and its large open windows allow you to take in a full view of the local wildlife and the glorious surroundings. You may even catch a glimpse of the resident wombat, George, who is happy to share his home with people who appreciate nature .daylesfordcountryretreats.com.au/reverie-101

MONTACUTE PAVILION & GARDENS, DAYLESFORD In spring, the Montacute Pavilion Garden is a riot of colour. Golden daffodils, dainty bluebells, multicoloured rhododendrons and blushing camellias can be found nestled among the ancient chestnut trees of their historic garden. The garden is enchanting, but the house also turns heads with its distinctive medieval gothic adornments. The embellished rooftop stands out in a neighbourhood of miners’ cottages. The design was inspired by the great English Montacute House, Somerset, circa 1598. Inside you discover the luxurious treetop retreat with a tub perfectly positioned to admire the yard below. dayget.com.au/montacute-pavilion-and-gardens Photos (opposite page L-R): Top row: Reverie 101, The Potting Shed Second row: Sunday House, Olive Grove, Bolobek Third row: Kyneton Old Rectory, Montacute Pavilion and Gardens