Style Spaces Edition 2 by Ebden-Small

Style Spaces

{ } Fashion passes, style remains. Coco Chanel

Style Spaces Edition 2

The finest accommodation in Daylesford, the Macedon Ranges and surrounding villages from Dayget.

Contents Welcome

Property portfolio

Daylesford 8-113

Hepburn Springs 114-165

Villages 166-187

Icons

Lake Daylesford 22

Cultural Connections 57

The heart of Spa Country 124

The Argus Dining Room 138

Getting out there

Recipes Just for you

Fresh produce and the farm gate 29

Buttermilk Pancakes with Blackberries 90

Tipperary Ice Cream Sandwich 148

Pickled Beetroot Carpaccio with Tuki trout 139

Lemon, Lime and Bitters Argus style 186

Embrace the great outdoors 63

Discover the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wines 173 CafĂŠ culture 81

In The know Weather 181

Directions 188

It all began with a search for a weekend retreat... 191

Property A to Z 192

Welcome Welcome to Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges, home of Victoria’s spa country, and the birth place of Dayget.

here is something very special about this region that you don’t see anywhere else in the world. Perhaps it’s because it’s the original Australian home for the majority of Swiss and Italian immigrants (mainly from Switzerland’s Ticino & Italy’s Lombardy regions) to Australia in the mid 1800’s. They brought with them globally renowned expertise and heritage in design, chocolate, patisserie, dairy farming and mineral spas, not to mention a phenomenal love for good food and coffee. All this European style and flair interwoven with the charm and hospitality of rural Australia has created a region bursting with appeal. Maybe the special magic comes from being the home of Australia’s first Mineral Springs Reserve and the primary source of more than 80% of all mineral water for Australia. The mineral water was discovered just as the gold rush of the mid 1800’s began to take hold across the region. The Swiss/Italians recognised liquid gold when they saw it and dubbed the springs, “The Foundations of Youth”. Today, Daylesford and Hepburn Springs is the most frequented spa destination in Australia.

Whatever the source of the allure, we wanted to create a business that lets the world experience this region’s style in a very personal, elegant and intimate way. So, in 1999, we set up Dayget (originally named Daylesford Getaways), gathering together stylish self-catered villas and cottages, each chosen for their flair and distinction. We then wrapped them in a conciergestyle booking service, representing the best of rural hospitality. More than a decade on, Dayget has a portfolio of over 140 of the most stylish properties in the region, covering Daylesford, Hepburn Springs and surrounding villages and even further afield at the beautiful Mount Macedon. We believe that everyone deserves to stay in style, so settle back with a cup of tea, peruse Style Spaces and discover the perfect location for your next getaway. We look forward to seeing you soon. Chris Malden Co-owner

Wayne Cross Co-owner

Dayles

sford D

aylesford is renowned as the spa capital of Australia. This iconic village boasts the highest ratio of day spas and the largest number of therapists per capita in the country. Located 90 minutes from Melbournes CBD and just an hour from Tullamarine airport, it is a world away from the bustle of city life. Unique is the perfect word to describe Daylesfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main thoroughfare, Vincent Street. Laid-back, pretty and an enticing combination of boutique retail, art galleries, great places to eat and more practical shops (supermarkets, hardware stores and the like), you could spend a couple of hours roaming from one end to the other and filling your basket. Home to scenic Lake Daylesford and popular State Parks including Macedon Regional Park, Hepburn Regional Park and Hanging Rock Reserve, as well as Wombat State Forest and Mt Disappointment State Forest, this enchanting destination is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts, food lovers and arts enthusiasts alike. Daylesford is the place to rejuvenate the soul and revitalise the senses.

bsolute offers all the charm of an original minerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cottage coupled with a unique modern style. The interior colours have been especially chosen to create a harmonious, inviting, relaxed environment and an easy atmosphere for socialising. Three bedrooms - two queens and one with two singles - ensures there is room in this spacious cottage for up to six guests. Each room has an individual style, but all have a relaxed uncluttered feel with warm homely interiors, earthy timbers and a splash of colour. The master bedroom features an en suite bathroom, while the main bathroom offers a two person spa and separate shower. The

Absolute Daylesford

open plan living, dining and lounge is the heart of the house offering an engaging light filled space with large modern windows and traditional leadlights. The gourmet kitchen features an island bench, which doubles as a breakfast bar. The rear deck is perfect for drinks and a barbecue, with scenic views of Daylesford landmark Wombat Hill. Guests can even bring their dog and the property is fully fenced. Absolute is located in the hub of Daylesford, just a short stroll to the main street, allowing you to enjoy everything that the area has to offer. 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 6 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Gas log fire | Pet friendly | Spa

n elegant period home, where you can while away the hours on the sunny back deck surrounded by manicured lawns, hedges and trees with views of Wombat Hill Gardens. Tastefully decorated with a narrative connected to the past, Airlie has the luxury of two living areas, each with its own distinctive style. Period highlights include stained glass doors and a traditional window seat in the second living room. This is juxtaposed with lots of colourful throw pillows framed by arched fretwork detail. Both lounges have sofas and armchairs for six; one is for conversation and relaxing, filled with books and magazines. The other has a TV and glass front fireplace, an air conditioner and sunny dining area with country style wooden dining table and sliding glass doors leading onto the deck. Bedrooms are spacious with soft-toned walls, wood framed sleigh beds and antique furnishings. There are three bedrooms; two with queen size beds and one with two singles. In the bathroom there’s a spa and separate shower. Perfect for families or groups of friends, Airlie is full of character and history, yet informal enough to make you feel right at home from the moment you walk in the door. Located in Daylesford near the lake, it is an ideal place to explore the town’s galleries, restaurants and cafés.

Airlie

Daylesford

et on a scenic property flanked by majestic spruce trees, All Views has access to gentle walking tracks through the bush and to nearby Lake Daylesford. This quaint and inviting fully renovated minerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cottage sits perfectly amongst its surroundings. One of the most delightful spots is the sunny front verandah. Guests can lounge on large wooden deck chairs with a glass of local wine listening to the native birds and enjoying the natural landscape. Interior woodwork and craftsmanship

All Views Daylesford

brings out the heritage feel of this charming cottage. With wood panelling on the walls and ceiling throughout the property and wooden floors in the main living area, the cottage has a distinct feeling of warmth and homeliness. Plum furnishings accent the wooden features and can be found in the large soft fabric sofas, curtains and placemats. Soft lighting sets the mood as you laze on the sofas in front of the fireplace, or partake in a romantic dinner, prepared in the fully

equipped kitchen. In the bathroom, wood panelling almost gives it a Scandinavian spa like feel. And there is a beautiful vintage vanity and deep claw foot bath. A roomy shower is tucked away into a nook. The bedroom has gorgeous French doors leading onto the verandah. The comfortable queen sized bed sits on a wooden frame with country style shaped bed ends and a beautiful wood turned dressing mirror sits in the corner.

picturesque miner’s cottage set in a peaceful location on the slopes of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, Allspice features panoramic views across the countryside. Outside, dormers punctuate the sides of the steep classical style roof. Inside, high vaulted timber ceilings add a dimension of space and light to the main living area, with plenty of room for a mezzanine and second bedroom on the upper level. The open plan living area includes a full modern kitchen finished in wood cabinetry, a breakfast bar and dining table. The adjoining lounge features high ceilings and doors that open onto a terrace. During the cooler months a wood fireplace provides warmth and there’s a stylish rattan lounge with comfy plump cushions. The mezzanine bedroom is a wonderful light filled haven, with 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 4 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Spa | Undercover parking | Wood fire 13

detailed wood panelled ceilings, exposed beams and sunny windows. Country style and rattan furnishing complete the look. The second bedroom is located downstairs. Both bedrooms feature king split beds offering flexibility for sleeping arrangements. The main bathroom features a luxurious two person corner spa and separate shower. After a visit to a few local wineries, visitors can spend the evening sampling newly discovered vintages on the front verandah while taking in a golden sunset over the panoramic landscape. Stow your vehicle in the carport and just a short walk away is the popular Convent Gallery. Breakfast and coffee is a must at Cliffy’s Café located at the bottom of the hill.

Allspice Daylesford

wooden bridge over a landscaped rock garden leading onto a bull nose verandah entices guests to experience the magic of this charming weatherboard Federation period home. Inside, the rustic wooden floors and a vibrant warm colour scheme creates a comfortable ambience. The lounge has an air of sophistication and cosiness with its deep blue walls, soft couches, patterned rug and wood fireplace. Curl up for some leisurely reading with something from the library of books and magazines, or choose a movie from the DVD collection. Cooking and lively dining is a real pleasure at Alvie. Green walls make a dramatic statement and contrast beautifully with the white kitchen cabinets and the wooden country style dining table. Porcelain ducks flying on the wall add a delightful vintage touch.

Alvie

Daylesford

The three bedrooms can be configured to suit your needs. There is a choice of king size beds or twin king singles. Each room has a unique colour scheme in lovely warm tones, plus large works of modern art are featured on the walls. In the corner of the master bedroom there is a private spa and in the main bathroom there is a semi-sunken bathtub and separate shower. Outdoors is the perfect location for afternoon dining. Enjoy the sunshine in the beautiful gazebo set on immaculate sweeping lawns, overlooking the lake. Time passes easily at Alvie, whether its relaxing, enjoying good company, cooking up a storm or ambling through nearby bushland. 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 6 Guests BBQ | Pet friendly | Satellite TV | Spa | Wood fire

ocated at the edge of Daylesford, this property has a rural feel with leafy outlooks and expansive lawn areas making it the ideal family getaway. A brisk 15 minute walk will see you in the heart of Daylesford. Light filled interiors and open spaces have a welcoming effect and you will find yourself wishing you could stay longer. 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 6 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Gas log fire | Jacuzzi 15

Alyonah makes for the perfect home away from home as it is equipped with all the essentials combined with additional touches such as games, books and DVDs. A fantastic commercial grade childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play area ensures that kids are well catered for and the hot tub/jacuzzi located on the decking means the adults can kick back and relax. Bring your family and friends and enjoy the wide open spaces.

Alyonah

Daylesford

maris is the perfect spot for two couples travelling together. This unique property is a mirror of itself in every way. It is cleverly split down the middle so that each couple has their own open plan bedroom, living, dining and en suite bathroom with private exterior access. Here you can enjoy the companionship of being with friends, yet still have private space with your partner. Set in amongst established cottage gardens with extensive decking and spectacular views of Doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gully, Amaris is a traditional Australian wooden weatherboard villa. Interiors are bright and spacious, with a soaring high cathedral ceiling and crisp white walls.

Amaris

Daylesford

Extra light shines in through dormer windows set into the steep angled roof. Amaris is generous in space with personal comfort and unmistakable style. It features plush pillowed leather sofas in the lounge, a cosy gas fireplace and wooden country style bedroom suites. Each lounge features a secluded alcove with a two person spa bath. You can even enjoy the bubbles while watching TV. The beauty of Amaris is that you have the ability to choose how much time you wish to spend with your friends right next door, while enjoying your own cosy sense of seclusion.

eflecting Daylesford’s Swiss/Italian heritage, Amici embodies the relaxed, casual Italian lifestyle focusing on family and friendship. Explore local farmers markets, visit boutique food specialists and stop at farm gate producers to gather ingredients for a meal in the fully equipped culinary kitchen. Not only do you have all the modern appliances and equipment at your fingertips, you’ll also be cooking in style, as everything is colour coded in a rich chocolate brown. Even the full sized fridge is coordinated with cupboards and cabinets. In the Italian tradition of good food and good company, Amici has a large open plan dining area with long wooden and frosted glass top table and soft leather high back dining chairs so that meals can be savoured in comfort. Relaxing afterwards takes place on the ‘L’ shaped leather modular sofa with plenty of room for everyone to gather around the wall mounted stainless steel gas log fireplace. A plasma TV, CD and DVD player sit in the corner, or as alternative entertainment, board games and a full sized pool table are provided. The colour scheme throughout the interior is a combination of chocolate browns and caramel, with small sections of red accents. Rooms have a modern flair with a sense of warmth, calm and peacefulness. Generous sized luxurious bedrooms radiate from an elaborate entrance hall with polished dark marble tiles. While the master bedroom has an en suite, the main bathroom has been crafted with the ultimate indulgence in mind. It features detailed mosaic tiling, a walk-in shower and a large round two person spa as the centrepiece with a TV/DVD on the opposite wall for spa viewing. A golden glass vessel basin sits atop a tiled pedestal and on the wall is a beautiful oval mirror. Outside, is a lovely covered terrace with barbecue and dining area looking out over a quaint private garden. Amici is a ten minute walk from the main street and only two minutes to Lake Daylesford.

Amici

Daylesford

rgyle is a rare gem amongst some of the finest accommodation in the region. Nestled at the foot of the Wombat Hill Gardens this secluded property offers contemporary finishes and sleek lines opening onto a private courtyard-like oasis. The warmth of the timber clad exterior radiates throughout the high comfort interiors of both the main pod and separate studio. Both bedrooms are spacious and designed with privacy and indulgence in mind. Luxe touches include king size beds, beautiful Kevin Murphy pamper products, high tech gadgets, including wall mounted televisions to ensure that guests wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wish to leave either 2 Bedrooms |2 Bathrooms | 4 Guests | Air conditioning Gas BBQ | Gas log fire | Spa | Undercover parking 19

of the decadent sleeping quarters. The main pod hosts an entertainers kitchen, lavish living area, main bathroom and master bedroom with a freestanding two person hydrotherapy spa bath. Connected via the external decking is the separate studio bedroom with en suite. All of this is located within walking distance of The Farmers Arms Hotel, Wombat Hill Gardens, Sunday Markets, The Convent Gallery and is a leisurely stroll to the main shopping district and some wonderful restaurants that the Daylesford and Hepburn Springs region has to offer.

Argyle

Daylesford

elle Maison translates to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;beautiful homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and this stunning villa is just that. A spacious property for two, the property features timber weatherboards with stonework accents, steep angled roofs, covered verandah and dormers with oversized windows. Inside is all about chic luxury and comfort where every detail has been carefully considered. Whites and soft tones, contrast with colourfully grained polished bamboo floors. The lounge is focused towards the Jet Master flame fireplace, with a large wall mounted TV and entertainment system. Lie back on the leather sofa or armchair with chaise style curved footrest. The Euro kitchen is bound to inspire you into some culinary experimentation with its sleek appliances, including a glass front bar fridge. Cabinetry is finished in white with generous drawers and cup-

Belle Maison Daylesford

board space. The look is completed with platinum mosaic tiles on the bench splashback wall. Dine at the designer white round table with four matching chairs, the dining area also has sliding door access to the verandah and outdoor seating. Belle Maison has an elegant light filled mezzanine/loft style bedroom, air-conditioned with high angled white painted wood panel ceiling, queen size bed, luxury lighting and furnishings, including a black velvet Louis XV chair. Guests can enjoy a private balcony which offers elevated views of the gardens, snippets of the lake and Daylesford township. Even the bathroom is luxurious; styled with large floor and wall tiles, finished in pale earth tones, plus stonework details. All fittings are of contemporary design, including the corner spa with overhead shower fixture.

1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Gas log fire | Spa 21

Lake Daylesford

icturesque Lake Daylesford was officially opened on the 15th April 1930 and was the culmination of a decades long campaign by the local people to beautify the local area and build an ornamental lake reminiscent of their European ancestry. Today, Lake Daylesford is one of the most popular destinations for visitors and locals to while away the hours relaxing in the beautiful surrounds. The Peace Mile track takes you on a full circuit around the lake and is a popular spot for some morning exercise, or meander on one of the gentle walking trails to explore the surrounding bushland. Dayget offers plenty of stunning lake-side properties where you can wake up to magnificent lake-side views every morning.

oatshed House is one of the most luxurious lakeside properties in Daylesford complete with coveted views of the stunning lake. Set amongst beautiful gardens and a forest of mature trees, Boatshed House has all the visual cues of an historic colonial grand summer house, with its light coloured weatherboards and period oval window highlights. Yet from the inside, extensive renovation has produced a contemporary finish reminiscent of a stylish urban loft apartment. The spatial open plan concept of the main living area maintains an easy natural flow between kitchen, dining and lounge. Deep cushioned leather sofas, ottomans, a Barcelona style bench seat and Eames recliner chair makes the lounge a congenial comfortable space for socialising and relaxing. There’s a large wall mounted TV with home theatre sound, plus books and magazines.

A stylishly designed kitchen is conveniently stocked with all the essential cooking equipment and sleek appliances. The island bench makes this a spacious area for preparing and serving gourmet meals and the dark wooden dining table with white moulded chairs is a standout feature. Retreat to the oversized bedrooms to find elegant soft, designer interiors with luxurious linen and extravagant king sized beds; three out of the four rooms have private en suites featuring spas or double showers. Sleeping up to eight, with the option of converting king beds into singles, allows for total flexibility of accommodation. Whether you’re travelling as an extended family, or enjoying a girls’ weekend away, there’s room for you all.

Boatshed House Daylesford

reen Door and Yellow Door are two delightful modern villas; each fully self contained, separate and unique. Both are situated just a few steps from the serene Lake Daylesford waterfront. Their design is inspired by traditional Australian summer homes, integrating indoor and outdoor spaces from the entry. The boatshed theme is instantly apparent as you step across a wooden causeway onto what represents an old wooden jetty, flanked by chunky round posts tied together with thick nautical rope. Wake up to breakfast in the king size bed and the sounds of geese on the lake, or take tea and toast on the balcony. Prepare meals in the well appointed modern galley style kitchen and dine at the stylish white round table and chairs beside a wall accented in a botanical motif. If you prefer al fresco dining you will find table and chairs on the terrace and a gas barbecue. Each of the properties has a stylish modern lounge suitable for entertaining, or for a romantic evening in there is a large leather sofa by the fire. Under the angular ceiling is a mezzanine floor, providing a quiet space for personal relaxation, while each of the en suite bathrooms features a two person corner spa and white accented tiles.

Boatshed Villas Green Door & Yellow Door Daylesford

et on half an acre of cottage style gardens, Cabrito is a delightful miner’s cottage nestled on the edge of Daylesford. The property is flanked by wild native bush on one side and a sprawling vineyard on the other. The charm of the cottage is instantly apparent as you enter through the iron gate and take in the quintessentially Australian front verandah, capped by an original bull nose shaped corrugated iron roof. Wooden decked terraces sweep around the side and the rear of the cottage and there’s also a rustic alfresco dining area situated in the garden. Interior colours consist of a simple palette with crisp white walls and ceilings. The kitchen is a modern take on the classical country style with wooden bench tops, white cupboards and a breakfast bar.

Cabrito

Daylesford

Put your feed up on the deep cushioned sofa with built in chaise. A selection of DVD’s, books and magazines provide the perfect way to pass away the hours in front of the cosy wood fire. There is also a more traditional sitting room adjacent to the master bedroom which features a vintage sofa, arm chairs and another wood fireplace. Cabrito has two spacious queen sized bedrooms, both with garden views and the second bedroom has French doors leading onto the terrace. The bathroom is elegant and timeless. Painted wainscot panelling merges comfortably with more contemporary white ceramic tiles. The most striking feature is the deep , freestanding claw foot bath tub, the outside is finished with matt black and antique chrome feet. 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 4 Guests | Air Conditioning BBQ | Pet Friendly | Wood fire

asa Mia is set over two levels and comfortably accommodates eight guests. The upper level consists of a generous entertaining space with the ground level offering four bedrooms. Upstairs, dividing the open plan living and dining area by the gas log fire, is the relaxed sitting area and full kitchen which features views towards the Wombat State Forest. The living space opens to a covered balcony alfresco area with views towards Lake Daylesford. A separate powder room is also located on the upper level.

The master bedroom suite with queen bed, features a kitchenette, sitting area and en suite bathroom. A further three bedrooms offer guests the choice of either a king bed or two single beds in each room. The main bathroom and en suite both feature spa baths with built in TV, so guests can relax and enjoy their home away from home. Laundry facilities and a spacious main bathroom are also located on the ground level. Casa Mia invites you to come and enjoy, celebrate, bring friends and family, or both.

Casa Mia

Daylesford

rom the outside, Charlies appears to be a regular historic period home, but step inside and you’ll be captivated by its stylish charm and chic styling. This 150-year-old captivating getaway boasts prime position in the idyllic village of Daylesford.

Charlies Daylesford

Only a stone’s throw from the main shopping precinct of Daylesford, guests of Charlies have easy access to the many cafés, restaurants and shopping spots for which the area is renowned. An easy stroll away is The Convent Gallery and Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens.

Charlies has been meticulously renovated with contemporary interiors while retaining its charming period features. Perfect for a couple looking for a true country getaway but with the conveniences of town nearby, Charlies is a true find. 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests Air Conditioning | Spa

Fresh produce And the farm gate

igns that read ‘chickens for sale - just bring a box’, ‘waterlillies $5’ and bunches of local flowers with an honesty box are common sights when driving around the villages of Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges. The region is as almost as famous for its fresh produce and gourmet delights as its mineral spas. If you meet any of the farmers in the area, you’ll find that a lot of them are former city folk who arrived for a tree change. They cultivate small plots, raise rare breeds of animals and vegetables and do it all with a lot of heart. The number of local producers winning awards is an indication of just how much the idea of niche farming has taken hold here. Daylesford Organics, Tuki Trout Farm, RedBeard Bakery, Sher Wagyu, Meredith Dairy, Istra Smallgoods and Holy Goat cheeses are all examples of those who have been recognised for their achievements. Dayget co-owners Wayne Cross and Chris Malden are just one example of produce to plate concept farmers when they purchased the 400 acre Birch Estate in Smeaton. Now running rare breed Hampshire Downs sheep and British White cattle, they have also planted extensive organic vegetable gardens and orchards. The plan is that the farm will provide the primary source of produce and provisions for their hotel - Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat and restaurant The Argus Dining Room in years to come. This new generation of farmers are putting the region’s organic, artisan produce on the map. You’ll find their produce at one of the farmer’s markets or on menus throughout the region.

Daylesford 1st Saturday of month, 9am – 1pm Kyneton 2nd Saturday of month, 8am – 1pm Trentham 3rd Saturday of month, 9am – 1pm Lancefield 4th Saturday of month, 9am – 1pm Talbot 3rd Sunday of month, 9am – 2pm

f you’re looking for an intimate weekend away in a stylish cottage in the heart of Daylesford look no further than Circa 1, 2 or 3. These three one-bedroom studio cottages are ideally located within walking distance of the shops, restaurants and cafés of Daylesford and set in picturesque and tranquil gardens.

Circa 1, 2 & 3 Daylesford

Each offers a magnificent canopy bed, double spa bath, double shower and eclectic styling. Enjoy a romantic getaway, explore local villages or relax in one of the region’s many mineral spa retreats.

Each cottage: 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Gas log fire | Spa 31

et amongst bushland with landscaped gardens and lawns stretching out to an ornamental dam, the architectural aim of this house was to embrace the earth in more than just its surroundings. To achieve this a palette of materials were used including timber, concrete and sandstone. Swooping curved rooves illustrate how the property got its name; Courbe is French for curve. At one corner of the house, the roof hangs over a large, well lit outdoor dining and barbecue area, set on wooden decking. Floor to ceiling windows flood the house with sunlight and allow guests to appreciate the view from any room. The innovative interiors are a mix of textures and aesthetics. The open living and dining area has polished concrete floors, sandstone wall accents, soft rugs, a fabric sofa and arm chair. There is a glass front, wood fire and an entertainment centre. A fully equipped galley kitchen is accessed just off to the side of the dining area. The bathroom has an aqua theme, with grand oval Aero Spa, surrounded by Mediterranean sea-coloured mosaic tiles. Opposite is a matching wall by the shower. From the spa, you can gaze out of the massive wood framed picture window into the gardens and bush. Both bedrooms are spacious with large wooden windows and doors leading out onto the deck. Behind the bed is a boldly coloured accent wall, featuring a line of small inset cube windows that let in heavenly shafts of light.

Courbe

Daylesford

ourthouse Kimberley invites you to create your own ambience in a space that offers warmth, comfort and character. Fresh new interiors offer the choice of either two king beds or four single beds in the two uniquely toned bedrooms. Each bedroom is complete with split system heating and cooling, wall mounted televisions and en suite bathrooms, one incorporating a lovely corner spa bath. This two storey property emanates a comfortable warmth and invokes a feeling of celebration and fun. The flexible bedding arrangements make the property ideal for couples, families or a girls weekend away. While staying here it is easy to enjoy the host of activities on offer in Daylesford. Only moments from your door is the popular The Convent Gallery, Wombat Hill House CafĂŠ, The Botanic Gardens, and the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many dining options are all located within a short stroll. Within the complex is a gorgeous indoor pool and whirlpool for your enjoyment. In addition to the generous complimentary treats, a chilled bottle of sparkling wine awaits upon your arrival.

Courthouse Kimberley Daylesford

erindah means ‘beautiful and happy’ and this lovely villa is just that. Situated in a quiet cul-de-sac as part of the Courthouse complex on Wombat Hill, the property offers a mix of comfort and style with light and spacious interiors. The contemporary open plan living area includes kitchen, dining and lounge. Deep, soft white leather sofas in the lounge set the tone for socialising and relaxing. At your feet is a large cow skin style rug, resting over the polished wooden floor. Rest your cup of tea on the 50’s-retro kidney shaped designer glass coffee table. The kidney shape is repeated in the form of a vintage mirror on the wall above the gas log fire and there is a large wall mounted TV for your entertainment. A wood themed kitchen is well equipped and even includes an espresso machine. Everything is highly detailed right down to the multi-toned mosaic tiled splashback. Meals are taken at the modern European style dining table and chairs with seating for six. Bedrooms are an absolute delight with dark carpet and muted wall tones contrasting with bright vintage colours and patterns on padded upholstered headboards and psychedelic 60’s covered dressing chairs. Each room has split system air conditioning and chrome ceiling fans, plus wall mounted TV’s. Each bedroom offers the choice of either a king or two single beds with private en suite bathrooms featuring glossy white wall and floor tiles with black diamond tile design. The master bedroom en suite has the added luxury of a corner spa. As part of the Courthouse complex you have unlimited access to the heated indoor pool and spa area.

Courthouse Merindah Daylesford

ourthouse Orchid is a comfortably styled two storey villa in a private complex set on Wombat Hill overlooking Daylesford township. It features two charming and elegant upstairs bedrooms with the main living area on the ground floor. Bedrooms are tranquil, peaceful havens, coloured in harmonious pale yellows, with heavenly king sized beds, botanical print pillows and bed linen. Rooms can be reconfigured to accommodate twin single beds if desired to suit your needs. Each bedroom has a stylish en suite bathroom with a relaxing two person corner spa in the master suite. The dining and living area is open plan with a kitchen in between, allowing you to easily cater for a four people at the wooden dining table, or prepare delicious nibbles for pre-dinner drinks in the lounge. In the spacious lounge you will find deep designer leather sofas with plenty of room for friends. Or you might like to be a little selfish and stretch out on one all to yourself, with a cosy woollen blanket soaking up warmth from the large gas log fire. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit, as one of the property’s highlights is a fabulous indoor heated pool and jacuzzi, in a light filled atrium surrounded by European terracotta tiles and large arched windows. Courthouse Orchid is located just below the popular Convent Gallery and close to Daylesford’s main street, with an array of boutique shops, funky wine bars, cafés and restaurants.

Courthouse Orchid Villa Daylesford

art of the Courthouse complex, this self contained studio suite is inspired by the spiritual design influences of the Orient. The open plan single building opens out onto a shared brick courtyard, surrounded by private fencing, terracotta potted shrubs and trees. The courtyard’s central feature is the covered gazebo with handcrafted table and chairs made from rustic logs and timber. Interior colours are a combination of soft tones and blocks of deep burgundy - symbolising an auspicious or happy occasion with a hint of romance. Soft upholstered club chairs sit on either side of the gas log fireplace with a traditional ironwork surround. A large landscape antique style gold mirror hangs above the mantle. The lounge features a shaggy deep pile woollen rug and classical distressed brown leather sofa - perfect for cosy nights wrapped up and watching the LCD TV. At one end of the room is the kitchenette while the other end houses a beautifully crafted tall curved wooden sleigh bed and en suite bathroom. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit, as one of the property’s highlights is a fabulous indoor heated pool and jacuzzi in the light filled atrium surrounded by European terracotta tiles and large arched windows. Courthouse Zen Suite includes private off street parking and is located just below the famous Convent Gallery, Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens and Daylesford town centre is just down the road. It is the ideal place to relax and unwind.

Courthouse Zen Suite 10 Daylesford

1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests Gas log fire | Pet friendly | Swimming pool

his luxury villa offers uninterrupted views of Lake Daylesford with private access to the walking track that meanders around Lake Daylesford via a footbridge. Guests can enjoy magnificent views from the inside living area or from the spacious balcony. The architecturally designed villa features unique and modern design elements that result in a natural relationship between the indoor and outdoor spaces. There is a sense of openness and space inside the villa with glass doors and skylight windows providing natural light allowing the changing scenery to become a panoramic backdrop. A free standing wood fire provides atmosphere and warmth in the lounge and there is a fully equipped European kitchen with stylish appliances and wood finish cabinetry. The bedroom opens onto a private balcony, perfect for romantic breakfasts and there is also a luxurious two person spa bath in the open plan bedroom. Couples seeking peaceful and tranquil surrounds will fall in love with this private sanctuary located only five minutes walk from Daylesford town centre.

Daylesford Lake Villa 1 Daylesford

deally located on the shores of Lake Daylesford, this split level luxury villa offers fabulous views and direct private access to the lake. Via the back gate, guests can access the walking track around the lake and enjoy the local landscape, flora and fauna of the region. Stunning views and bird life can also be enjoyed from the comfort of the villa and outside deck. The villaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interior features wood floors and subtle calming colour tones. Its lounge area is designed for entertaining and relaxing and the fully equipped European kitchen is complete with polished granite bench tops. From the main living area, a wooden staircase leads up to the two king size bedrooms and bathroom suite. Bedrooms are designed in a fresh contemporary style. Expansive windows bathe rooms in sunlight and offer elevated lake views. If you are seeking the perfect tranquil retreat, this captivating and peaceful haven will entice you back time and again.

Daylesford Lake Villa 2 Daylesford

2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 4 Guests | Air conditioning Spa | Wood fire

et in the heart of Daylesford, is this stylishly designed Spa Villa. Guests can enjoy the relaxing secluded atmosphere from their own private terrace, surrounded by manicured hedges, native gardens and views across the countryside. The subtly elegant design guarantees unrivalled comfort. Lounge on the large suede leather two seater sofa in front of the wood fire complete with stylish tiles decorating the hearth and enjoy a big screen TV in the corner. Behind the sofa is a pleasant table setting and beside this is a full kitchen styled in blocked colour bench top and cupboards, tiled floor and splash back. Even the kettle and toaster coordinates. The bedroom houses a king sized bed with large pillows and throw cushion plus a TV. Designer bedside lamps sit on modern cane tables that match the cane framed large mirror on the wall. There are also spacious his and hers wardrobes. The en suite is beautifully appointed. Set in an alcove is the luxurious corner shaped twin spa bath, where you can recline and let champagne-like bubbles soothe your body.

Daylesford Spa Villa 1 Daylesford

xperience the quiet and privacy of this contemporary style villa with scenic views overlooking a native tree-lined gully. Enjoy barbecue and drinks on a private covered terrace with glass doors opening off the lounge and dining area. Prepare gourmet meals in the modern kitchen which features solid wooden bench tops and enjoy dinner by candlelight on the black lacquered dining table with Italian moulded white leather and chrome chairs. Relax in the lounge which features a large two seat leather sofa, bold patterned rug and wooden floorboards. Sit back and put your feet up in front of the large, high-definition TV and entertainment system. A double-sided, free standing gas log fireplace sits between the lounge and open plan queen sized bedroom. Set in the bedroomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bay window, surrounded by tall windows, is a deep two person spa bath with built in neck support pillows. Relax in the spa in the glow of the firelight, before turning in for the perfect nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rest. The en suite bathroom is stylised with wall length vanity mirror and radiant heated floor. The large walk in shower is immaculately styled with a curve shaped rear wall.

Daylesford Spa Villa 2 Daylesford

rom lushly landscaped bush gardens to an entrance way accessed by a long wooden bridge onto the second level of this enchanting villa, this inspired property is affectionately called “La Casa Romanza”. Exteriors are clad in corrugated iron and vertical natural timber weatherboards allowing it to become one with its surrounds. Wooden beams frame a covered terrace on each level, where you can enjoy the panoramic views of Doctor’s Gully, Wombat Hill and in the distance, Mount Franklin, while sipping wine or alfresco dining. On the lower deck is a beautiful outdoor oasis with a sunken two person spa. The villa’s lower floor is dedicated to a deluxe bedroom which is furnished in a contemporary minimalist style with king size bed and plush throw pillows, perfect for propping yourself up to read a good book

1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Gas log fire | Spa 41

or watch your in-room TV. You may however, simply find yourself gazing out the wide windows at the countryside views. Off the bedroom is an elegant en suite bathroom, with a vanity mirror that reaches up to the ceiling and a fashionable combination of tiling and natural calming tones. A glass and wooden door leads to the outdoor spa area. Upstairs, the comfortable lounge has a leather sofa, plus two leather cubed ottomans for extra seating or putting your feet up while you watch the wide screen TV. Temperatures can be adjusted for your comfort with split system air conditioning. In the open plan space from the lounge, is a dining and kitchen area, with modern glass topped table and squab seating along the length of the window, situated next to the custom built designer kitchen.

Daylesford Spa Villa 3 Daylesford

ith fabulous elevated views of Doctor’s Gully, this contemporary Spa Villa is architecturally designed with clean simple lines and uses natural materials in keeping with the bushland setting. Built into the hillside, enjoy views from the raised terrace which is covered with an opaque skylight designed to reduce heat and glare through the property’s large windows. An integrated kitchen and dining area is separate from the lounge and features a fully custom built kitchen with touches of bright colours offsetting natural timber cupboards and bench top highlighted with gloss black tiles. The stainless steel round dining table sits by an expansive window with designer glass. Relax in the lounge on an all enveloping leather sofa, with matching ottoman, or put

your feet up in front of the double sided fireplace. Wooden floorboards are covered with a large designer rug and original botanical canvas prints decorate the walls. A highdefinition LCD TV with home theatre sound system is tucked neatly away in the corner. Step up into the raised master bedroom, which features a king sized bed, designer lamps, wooden side tables and a large builtin wardrobe. The bedroom is heated from one side of the dual facing gas fireplace from the lounge and there’s nothing quite like drifting off to sleep by a warm glowing fire. Next to the bedroom is a magnificent en suite, beautifully styled with intricate mosaic tiling. It features a large walk in shower and set into a window alcove is a deep oval shaped two person spa.

Daylesford Spa Villa 4 Daylesford

his architect-designed villa takes a minimalist approach by combining clean lines, open spaces, simple geometric shapes and windows allowing natural light to flow, unobstructed throughout the interior. An elevated location offers scenic views of Doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gully, especially from the covered terrace which is also an ideal spot for drinks and barbecues. The terrace is conveniently accessed by glass doors opening off the main living area. Overall interior design is about contemporary style with all the necessary features for a comfortable and relaxing stay. A highly functional custom kitchen, with all the latest appliances, is combined with a dining area, separate from the lounge. Inviting leather sofa, club chair and

matching oversized ottoman sit around a dual front fireplace with tile hearth and surround. This becomes a night time focal point as it can be enjoyed from both the lounge and bedroom. The elegant bedroom is raised by a couple of steps. A king size bed provides luxurious comfort for a dreamy nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep. Designer bedside lamps provide an ambient glow on the warm toned accent wall. Just off to the side of the bedroom is the private en suite bathroom, characterised by elegantly detailed mosaic tiles. This is a room for indulgence and rejuvenation, from the massaging pressure of the walk in shower to the soothing bubbles of the oval two person spa.

Daylesford Spa Villa 5 Daylesford

ffectionately known as La Casa Grande, this spa villa is a delightful getaway for one or two couples. The terrace provides a lovely vantage point to enjoy al fresco dining while taking in the native bushland of Doctor’s Gully and the commanding views of Wombat Hill and Daylesford’s Convent Gallery. Expansive windows and glass doors mean that you feel a connection with nature from indoors as well. The villa has two large bedrooms with king sized beds, designer furnishings and wall mounted TV’s. A neutral palette of white, beige and browns adds to the room’s calm atmosphere. For extra indulgence, each bedroom has its own private en suite bathroom.

Open plan kitchen, lounge and dining areas have convenient terrace access for indoor/ outdoor living. A full kitchen has everything you need and is designed in a striking colour scheme. The lounge features lovely wooden floorboards set off by a luxurious soft rug and offers direct access to the outdoor sunken spa. Sit around on comfy leather sofas and armchairs and enjoy the large gas log fire, watch the wall mounted LCD TV, or simply gaze at the outside views. La Casa Grande a perfect relaxing and stylish getaway.

Daylesford Spa Villa 6 Daylesford

2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 4 Guests | Air conditioning Gas log fire | Spa

his classical open-plan villa located on the lake’s edge with expansive views, epitomises the essence of Daylesford. Evenings can be spent on the terrace preparing a barbeque meal and watching over the changing colours and reflections of the lake as the sun sets. In keeping with the villa’s traditional exterior, interior furnishings are an elegant blend of modern, antiques and French Provincial style. There are two separate living areas: one on each level. Upstairs is the perfect retreat area with bedroom, en suite, spacious living

area and glass sliding doors which lead onto the balcony. The upstairs bedroom can have either a king sized bed or two king singles. On the lower floor there is a large open plan lounge and dining area. A round wooden dining table with white patina chairs is located under a classic chandelier. The downstairs bedroom, which offers beautiful lake views, is lavishly finished with Laura Ashley soft furnishings and has its own spa. Both bathrooms offer Natio products for use during your stay. In the lounge, the big soft brown leather sofas have been set around a glass front

wood fire. In the corner is an LCD TV, with DVD library provided for your entertainment. Sliding doors lead out onto the terrace, while large windows let in plenty of light and frame the stunning views. Duck’s Bay is a tastefully decorated home with every comfort in mind. It is located adjacent to The Lake House restaurant and a short walk to Daylesford’s shops and cafés, although you have little reason to leave Duck’s Bay as there is a selection of breakfast provisions supplied.

Duck’s Bay Daylesford

ukes Cottage was built in the 1850’s and was originally home to the manager of the Cornish Hill Mine and his family. The cottage was renovated 15 years ago with careful attention placed on retaining its heritage charm while incorporating modern facilities such as central heating. The historic miner’s cottage is located on a spacious site in a prime location so guests can enjoy Daylesford’s many attractions. It is within easy walking distance of the main shopping area, restaurants, the lake and is only a few minutes drive to the village of Hepburn Springs.

Up to four guests can be accommodated in the two bedroom property. The master bedroom is furnished with a queen sized bed and the other a double bed. The dining table has seating for six and the living area has a relaxing fireside area with two sofas. For entertainment, there is a flat screen TV with built in DVD player, CD/ MP3 player/radio and also an iPod dock. There are DVD’s, CD’s books and games on hand. Kitchen facilities comprise a gas/electric cooker, refrigerator, ample cutlery, utensils, crockery and glassware. In the adjoining util-

Dukes Cottage Daylesford

ity area there is a modern washing machine, tumble dryer, ironing table and iron, laundry powder, pegs and all. The bathroom offers guests a comfortable corner spa with soap, shampoo and hair dryer all provided. Comfort throughout the house is assured with a hydronic radiator central heating system and an enclosed wood fired heater (with generous wood supply). Dukes is a pet friendly property where your small dog is very welcome to share your holiday experience. 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 4 Guests Pet friendly | Spa | Wood fire

his ideally located property offers a contemporary retreat for two. Its modernist style blends perfectly with its natural surroundings and the private garden provides a secret relaxation corner. The exterior is finished in charcoal grey with white window and door framing while inside is a mix of contemporary and classic styles and smooth colour tones. Large windows finished with white slatted venetian blinds maximise stunning views and bring in natural light. Walls are painted in subtle but strong colours and finished with mirrors and pictures. Soft antique leather sofas are topped with plush cushions in the lounge providing the perfect location to curl up in front of the log fireplace during winter or a great place to relax and watch a movie on the plasma. A highly functional custom kitchen sits beside an intimate dining area. The kitchen features blocked colour coding, wooden bench top and cupboards, wood effect flooring and a polished black splash back. The open plan living room leads into your private bedroom featuring a queen sized bed with soft leather headboard, soothing lighting and Scotch pine green walls. The en suite is made for luxury with a deep two person spa bath and overhead shower.

1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Spa | Wood fire 47

Eastern View Retreat Daylesford

here’s no denying that Eastern View Studio lives up to its name with a lush garden, native bush and valley views. Design is simple and uncomplicated; a contemporary take on traditional Australian style with the wide covered verandah. The lounge is a cosy haven with angled ceilings, highlighted by exposed beams, which contrast nicely with the light colour scheme. There’s a large soft fabric sofa with built in chaise so you can put your feet up in front of the wood log fire and watch TV, listen to the stereo or read a book. Large windows allow you to appreciate the views from the comfort of the sofa and glass sliding doors open onto the terrace, for indoor/outdoor living during warmer months. The open plan living space has an intimate dining area for two and a stylish galley kitchen with wooden finishes, bold contemporary colours and rich gloss black tiled splash back. There’s a full size fridge/freezer, modern oven, gas stove and hob. The bedroom is a romantic private retreat, with luxurious queen size bed, soft throw rug and pillows. Designer bedside lamps project an ambient glow upon the luscious green walls, featuring modern art works. The room is open plan with an alcove en suite bathroom off to the side. A soothing bubble bath in the two person corner spa just before bed is the best way to ensure a blissful night’s sleep. Within walking distance of the Convent Gallery and Daylesford town centre, Eastern View Studio is perfect for a romantic weekend or mid week escape.

Eastern View Studio Daylesford

cenic views of valleys, native forest and countryside located within easy walking distance from Daylesford town centre. A lovely big deck with pergola beams and wood slat shading allows you to sit and enjoy the views at a wooden table for four. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect location for a leisurely lunch, to take in colourful evening sunsets or enjoy a glass of local wine. The open plan kitchen and dining area features wood flooring, a fully equipped European corner kitchen with modern stainless steel appliances, wooden bench top and designer tiling. Dine at the stylish glass top table with Scandinavian inspired, moulded laminate wooden chairs. Lounge in front of the wood fire on the comfortable fabric sofa or chic red arm chairs, watching the 40 inch high-definition TV with surround sound theatre system. The blu-ray player enables guests to bring a memory stick complete with their favourite movies to plug in, sit back and enjoy. A library of DVD movies is provided along with a CD player and iPod dock. Throughout the villa are some spectacular original works of contemporary abstract wall art and the Villa is one of the few rental properties in the area to have its own built in carport. Both queen sized bedrooms feature luxurious white linen and plenty of storage space for clothing. The bathroom has a large wall mounted vanity mirror, tastefully tiled flooring, wooden cabinetry and deep two person spa bath with overhead shower fixture. Its easy to unpack and unwind at Eastern View Villa.

Eastern View Villa Daylesford

xtensive timber decking, large windows and sliding doors, gives a sense of connectedness with the outdoors and internal spaces at both of these properties. Whilst the interior is essentially open plan, multiple levels have been utilised to define spaces. Floors are immaculately finished in Jarrah and Blackbutt. A full kitchen outfitted with Swedish design ASKO appliances has everything for eating in during your stay, including complimentary provisions such as muesli, juice, mineral water, tea and coffee and a range of gourmet snacks. Outside, there is also a gas barbecue as an for alternative cooking means. The sunken lounge has been specifically created for relaxing and hi-tech entertainment equipment. A deep seated leather sofa spans almost the entire length of the area; which houses a gas log fire, 50

Elira 1 & 2 Daylesford

inch wall mounted TV, theatre quality audio system with Foxtel cable and a library of DVD’s, CD’s and magazines. Step up another level into the serenity of the Japanese bath house inspired spa area; with pebbled Zen garden and rice paper screens. The pampering doesn’t stop there, as you’re also provided with a selection of luxurious hair, body and face beauty treatments. Your stay should be as restful as possible and luxury continues into the bedroom with the best king sized pillow top mattress, high quality linen, plus iPod docking station and wall mounted TV and DVD player. The en suite bathroom is romantically designed for two, with large walk in shower, featuring twin rain shower heads, heated floors for your comfort, slippers and pampering products are provided.

n a serene location, nestled high on the hill, capturing awe-inspiring views of Daylesford township and across the treetops to the picturesque lake reserve, French Doors is a three bedroom home designed as a modern take on country style and Australian traditions. To really appreciate the spectacular outlook, the property has extensive covered verandahs which span around three sides of the building.

French Doors Daylesford

Access to the verandah and barbecue area is encouraged through French doors from the living room. Interiors have been created to be casual, yet fashionable and inviting. The modern open plan style of living, dining and kitchen area features off white walls and classic wood flooring. An image of the Eiffel Tower above the open wood fire provides a dramatic focal point and a plentiful supply of firewood ensures a cosy night at home.

A large rug with abstract motifs defines the lounge space surrounded by deep leather club chairs and sofa. Round country style dining table and chairs sit by the well equipped kitchen; with an extra section of bench space that can be used for serving up meals. Complimentary continental breakfast items are provided for the first morning of your stay. Bedrooms are delightful and pretty with brightly coloured walls. 3 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 6 Guests BBQ | Spa | Wood fire

his contemporary apartment is one of two that sits on a stunning landscaped property, along with a larger villa. The apartment is self contained, very private and separate from the other buildings. It is tucked away with a private garden laden with lavender, native plants and majestic poplar trees. For total relaxation, guests can take advantage of unlimited access to the solar heated outdoor salt water swimming pool and jacuzzi, which is surrounded by wood decking and pool side sun lounges. The apartment is splendid inside with a colour theme of white, natural timber and bold splashes of red. The layout is open plan, integrating lounge, kitchen, dining and bedroom areas. There is a large soft two seater leather sofa, with red patterned throw pillows which coordinate with the red area rug. A slim LCD widescreen TV sits above a contemporary mirrored glass electric fire place. Guests can lounge in the button-tufted Italian leather chaise looking out through the French doors onto the terrace and gardens the perfect spot for an afternoon siesta. Prepare meals in the modern kitchenette with microwave oven and refrigerator and sample the delicacies from your complimentary arrival hamper of regional treats. The deep red theme is continued in the open plan bedroom, with red soft furnishings and a solid red accent wall. Through stylish wooden and rice paper shutter doors is your en suite bathroom which features a two person corner spa. Gables Bend Apartment is a perfect hideaway for two, or can be used as part of a group booking combining the Villa and Studio.

Gables Bend Apartment Daylesford

ables Bend Studio is designed for two as a private getaway, or as extra accommodation for friends staying in the adjacent Gables Bend Villa. Your own private terrace is set high on the hill to make the most of spectacular views over the beautifully landscaped gardens and Doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gully. It is the perfect place for dinner cooked on the electric barbecue, or to simply watch the sunset over a glass of wine. Inside, the studio is open plan, contemporary and comfortable with a colour theme of white, natural timber and bold splashes of red. A well planned out kitchenette and dining area features a full size refrigerator, tea and coffee making facilities and a microwave oven set atop a wooden butcherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s block. The dining area is set for two, with stylish white chairs and square wooden table. The lounge entertainment centre has CD and DVD player, iPod docking station, LCD TV with cable/satellite stations. The TV sits above a contemporary electric log fireplace. Comfort is courtesy of a soft two seater couch and a round back leather club chair. French doors open onto the terrace and garden views. In the bedroom area is a queen sized bed with stylish wooden and iron frame. Through rice paper and wooden shutter doors is the en suite featuring large two person oval spa bath. All guests have use of the solar heated outdoor saltwater swimming pool and jacuzzi, which is surrounded by wood decking and pool side sun lounges. Centrally located a mere 10 minute walk to the centre of Daylesford, Gables Bend Studio is a wonderful couples escape for relaxing and experiencing all the delights of the region.

Gables Bend Studio Daylesford

luxury villa for two, with the option of using the adjacent Gables Bend Studio and Apartment if staying with extra friends. The property is surrounded by lush green trees, landscaped native gardens and pets are welcome, with a shared dog run on the grounds. Wide elevated terracing spans across the front of the bedroom, dining, living and spa areas, overlooking Doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gully and the large solar heated outdoor saltwater swimming pool and jacuzzi. Each room has sliding doors opening onto the terrace, a wonderful spot for barbecues and alfresco dining. Or simply lay back and soak up some rays on the sun lounges. Interior layout has a natural flow between rooms and utilises expansive windows and the gentle slope to maximise light and space. White is a dominant colour, which contrasts beautifully with wooden floors and dark timber furnishings and abstract modern art adorning the walls. The lounge features satellite LCD TV, airconditioning/heating, big comfy sofa and club style chair with oversized cushioning and moulded wooden arms. The kitchen and dining area is well appointed and has a wooden dining table with seating for four. Through Japanese style sliding doors from the lounge is the beautiful spa room; an oasis of calm and serenity, with a round two person spa set into the floor and warmth from the electric log fire. At the other end of the property, down a small hallway is the bedroom, with lovely queen sized bed featuring leather padded frame and bed head, soft brown carpet and plush rugs cover the floor and an LCD TV sits on top of a wooden tallboy dresser. The elegant bathroom has designer fittings and vanity, plus a large glass petitioned walk in shower. With spacious contemporary interior, quality furnishings and distant views, Gables Bend Villa is a genuinely unique property.

Gables Bend Villa Daylesford

rom the street, this modern minimalist style house looks simple and modest, but step inside and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be impressed by its sheer size, luxury and beauty. Harlequin can comfortably accommodate up to eight guests, with four king size bedrooms, two with en suites and a main bathroom. The overall layout provides a good balance between indoor and outdoor living, public and private spaces. Enter through the front door and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be greeted by a stylish living/reception area, featuring minimalist, modern Japanese inspired furniture and

Harlequin Daylesford

decorations, which blend beautifully with the rich dark grain of the timber floorboards. The open plan dining and main living area is specifically designed for entertaining large groups and feels bright and spacious with high ceilings and shafts of light streaming in through the staggered rectangular pillbox windows. The wooden dining table seats eight in comfort on high back leather chairs. A large soft leather modular sofa with chaise offers deep seat cushions you can sink into meaning that everyone has plenty of room to relax.

A glass coffee table and entertainment cabinet add to the minimalist aesthetic and blend in without crowding the room. Large sliding glass doors open at the end of the lounge, revealing the outdoor terrace, dining and barbecue area in a private garden. Bedrooms are simple and elegant and again draw influences from Japanese modern design; from miniature bonsai trees to original Asian wall art. Beds are covered with soft doonas and throw pillows.

4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 8 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Gas log fire

Daylesford’s cultural connections

he Daylesford region has a strong history of arts and culture and high on Wombat Hill you’ll find the area’s most popular gallery – The Convent. Formerly home to the Presentation Sisters, the space has been transformed by managing director Tina Banitska. Tina, who is also a practising artist, took over the enormous and sprawling 1860’s convent 20 years ago and commenced on what was a project of massive proportions. The scale of what she’s built here is impressive. There are seven beautiful art galleries, a restored chapel, a large retail store, a café, a lounge bar and function rooms that accommodate large weddings. Not to mention the gorgeous gardens and restored original nun’s quarters. A total of 45 fulltime employees from gardeners to chefs, clerks to baristas and sales staff to assistants keep this operation humming year round. Tina is immensely proud of her labour of love, The Convent Gallery, and rotates exhibitions in the galleries about every eight weeks. She also has a strong commitment to showing the work of artists who live and work in the area. “Artists look for surroundings that are conducive to the aesthetic,” she says of why the region has attracted so many creative types from painters to writers. “It’s the landscape, the geography, and for me, as an artist, the town is inspiring because it has the whole healing environment going on.” Its proximity to Melbourne also helps, “it means an artist can have the best of both worlds”, and the fact that after the war it was a very cheap area to live. Now, with real estate market booming in town, many artists have spread into country areas and the surrounding towns like Creswick and Castlemaine. “Artists thrive on a sense of community,” says Tina, “Many of your best ideas come from interaction, from bouncing ideas off other artists.” Within the township of Daylesford itself there are several other galleries showing primarily the work of local artists including the Clayfire Gallery. A short drive out of town you’ll find Stony Creek Gallery while the annual Woodend Winter Arts Festival celebrates the wider artistic community hosting among other activities, world music, writing workshops and art exhibitions. The Convent Gallery Daly Street, Daylesford | 5348 3211 | conventgallery.com.au

arts Lane is listed as the seventh oldest dwelling in Daylesford, originally built by two Welsh brothers during the early gold rush. It started as a simple single gable miner’s cottage and was extended with a second gable as the family grew. The large gourmet kitchen will draw out your inner chef, as you work on the black polished concrete bench top, using industry quality cookware, utensils and crockery. Cooking classes have been hosted in this kitchen and it has also been featured in a number of magazine photo shoots. Your culinary creations can then be served on the Australian Huon pine dining table, rescued from a local church. Seating around the table is in the form of restored

Louis the Fifteenth dining chairs. Floors are made of dark Tasmanian oak with a Japanese black lacquer, and splashes of dusty blue, corn and yellow draw your attention to different spaces. In the lounge you’ll find comfortable, laid back vintage furnishings and collected objects that each tell a story. Seating is centred around the off white Jotul fireplace, imported from Belgium. A separate area is set aside for entertainment, with a TV, DVD player and a long sofa that’s so big and soft, you’ll literally be able to curl up in front of the telly. The house has two bedrooms each with its own style. The front bedroom is decorated in fresh green and includes a private

Harts Lane House Daylesford

balcony which gets lots of early morning sun and has beautiful views of the old convent. The second bedroom has more of a Georgian feel, with large French armoire and a view of the lovely back garden. Both rooms have white linen bedding and large Country Road rugs. As the day nears its end, retire for a tranquil soak in the bathroom’s deep two person spa. It’s a charming, peaceful spot, surrounded by crisp white tiles and on a warm evening, you can open the side door onto your own private Japanese courtyard.

rom the outside, Harts Lane Studio displays its Cubist architectural influences. Finished in charcoal black, the building’s minimalist form, becomes a silhouette, merging into the natural landscape. A lovely exterior detail is the bedroom’s box balcony, cleverly finished in patina paint, to give the appearance of rusted steel. The double storey building was designed to maximize uninterrupted views of the old Convent, the Wombat Hill Botanic gardens and across the hills to Mount Franklin. Inside, all the extra height brings about a light, airy feeling of a warehouse loft apartment, with tall windows and 12 metre high ceilings from the ground floor. Wherever you look, you’ll find unique objects, from old metal toys, to large shop and road signs, which have all been collected from small towns and communities around Victoria. Also on display is a host of original art works. Designer Simon Carver, likes to think that each piece is a little vignette, that can take your imagination to a different time and place. 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Wood fire 59

In the lounge, floors are covered with Balinese rattan matting and contemporary oriental rugs. Laze on a luxurious fabric sofa and leather arm chairs, with winter warmth coming from the corner cast iron fireplace. During warmer months, doors open out to the garden terrace. Cedar shutters allow for shade, privacy and a soft breeze, feeling like you could almost be in a European resort. The mezzanine bedroom is your own private sanctuary, with rich black lacquered floors and vintage furnishings, including a leather Louis XV arm chair. Doors open onto your own private balcony, an ideal spot for soaking up the morning sun and gazing over the valley with a fresh coffee in hand. The bathroom is a real treat. A minimalist, contemporary style, modelled on the traditions of a European spa. You’re surrounded by intricate blackberry mosaic tiling and the invigorating shower is completely open, without walls or partitioning.

Harts Lane Studio Daylesford

azelnut is one of four self contained chalet studios, nestled in private gardens with mature trees, twisted vines and a large ornamental pond that can be crossed by a rustic wooden bridge. Large sliding doors open from the lounge onto a spacious covered deck for indoor/ outdoor living during warmer months. Here guests can also relax and enjoy the garden. Inside, high vaulted ceilings with white

painted exposed beams, give the open plan bedroom and living area a dramatic sense of space. Wooden floors are found throughout the property and there is a well equipped kitchenette, with a breakfast basket, filled with local treats for the first morning of your stay. The lounge has two big fabric sofas and is well equipped with TV, DVD and CD player. At one end of the lounge is a luxurious queen

Hazelnut Chalet Daylesford

sized bed and there is a single bed at the other end so the studio is suitable for a couple, family with one child, or a small group of friends. A free standing Japanese screen can be moved around for extra privacy. There is a large two person corner spa bath and walk-in shower in the spacious bathroom and lovely natural coloured floor tiles.

1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 3 Guests | Air conditioning Pet friendly | Spa

ocated on the northern side of Wombat Hill this charming house backs onto Daylesfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Botanic Gardens. Beautifully decorated to infuse warmth and comfort throughout, and only moments from the Convent gallery, Sunday markets, and boutique cafĂŠs, this unique property boasts two bedrooms, each en suited, on separate levels. The upstairs loft style bedroom features glass skylights which provide a delightful and cosy space, infused with sun/ moonlight, en 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 6 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Spa | Wood fire 61

suited with a small powder room. This bedroom offers the flexibility of either a king size bed or two single beds. Downstairs, leading from the living area, the queen sized bedroom features an en suite with a spa bath of generous proportions. This en suite also acts as the main bathroom as it hosts the shower over the spa bath.

Hill House Daylesford

lovenian for ‘home’, Hisha is an amazingly presented work of unique architecture. Wedged into the hillside among the treetops with distant views to the Convent Gallery, Wombat Hill and beyond. Sectioned cubic elevations are strategically utilised to define different spaces and maximise views. The dining and living area is designed in direct relation to the two flanking terraces on either side. One deck has an alfresco dining area and four burner gas barbecue, while the other houses a large digitally controlled six person jacuzzi with many features and coloured lighting effects. Hisha has a second, more intimate living area called the ‘Snug’, which is a sunken area, reminiscent of a 1970’s conversation pit. Banquette seating surrounds the open log fireplace with wall mounted plasma TV and sound system. The bedrooms all have king size beds, with the option to reconfigure them into two king singles to suit your needs. Each bedroom has a TV and DVD player and its own en suite bathroom. The master bedroom’s en suite, has the added luxury of a two person spa bath, set into a bay window. Tucked down a country lane and set on two magnificent acres of gardens flanked by a native bush lined gully, Hisha is one of Daylesford’s most prestigious locations. Apart from grazing kangaroos and other native wildlife, you’ll enjoy absolute privacy.

Hisha

Daylesford

Embrace the great outdoors

visit to Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges offers many activities for outdoor enthusiasts - from cycling, walking, quad biking or horse riding there is an experience to suit those looking for a relaxing or invigorating break. Walking One of the best ways to experience the region is on foot. The national, state and regional parks in the area include Lederderg State Park, Macedon Regional Park, Werribee State Park, Hepburn Regional Park and Hanging Rock Reserve, as well as Wombat State Forest and Mt Disappointment State Forest. The Great Dividing Trail sees Daylesford located at the junction of three sections of this magnificent walking trail - the 71 km “Lerderderg Track” to Bacchus Marsh, the 57 km “Dry Diggings” track to Castlemaine and the 92 km “Wallaby Track” to Ballarat. For a shorter trek, the 16km Tipperary Track is picturesque and takes walkers to Sailors Falls, the now extinct volcano Mount Franklin, through native bush, around the Blowhole miners’ tunnel and past mineral springs. The 1.3km Hanging Rock Trail is also popular with the area most famous for its portrayal in the classic Australian novel and movie Picnic at Hanging Rock. Cycling Cycling through the countryside unveils spectacular views and there is a range of biking tracks and trails. Whether it be meandering the local shops, riding around iconic Lake Daylesford, mountain biking through the Wombat Forest or cruising along the newly formed Great Dividing Trail from Daylesford to Woodend, hopping aboard a bike is a great way to get around. Bring your own bike, or for those who prefer to travel light, mountain, urban and children’s bicycles are available for hire in the region.

his large traditional Victorian home has been extended and fully renovated in a lavish style, making Holly Lodge the ultimate home away from home. The first thing youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll notice upon arrival is its spectacular gardens which are fully surrounded by hedges and feature a small orchard of fruit trees, walnut trees, silver birches, plus camellias, rhododendrons and more. In honour of the property name, four grand holly trees stand in the front garden. Inside, Holly Lodge is all about space, comfort and luxury with four bedrooms and four bathrooms. Each bedroom has its own unique classical style with chandeliers, exquisite beds with high quality soft linens, arm chairs and wooden armoires. For an extra touch of privacy, two of the bedrooms have their own private sitting room

Holly Lodge Daylesford

and French door access to a private decked courtyard. When not spending time in your own sitting room, there are other areas for relaxing, including a library with sofa and armchairs, a gas real flame fireplace, and wall to wall shelves packed with a lifetime of books. In the main living room, settle into brown leather chesterfield sofas, under a cashmere throw rug, in front of the open log burning fireplace. Create magnificent feasts in the beautifully appointed modern kitchen. There is also a large dining area, or you may wish to dine al fresco on the covered verandah outside overlooking the gardens.

4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | 8 Guests Gas log fire 65

1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Gas pebble fire | Jacuzzi

rom the facade, Interlude appears to be very industrial with no windows, walls of cement sheet, ‘C’ sectioned steel and a cube-like entrance clad in rusted steel. These design elements have been created to entice curiosity and create a sense of expectation upon entry. Unique style secrets are revealed throughout the innovative split level, open plan property with massive glass windows and expansive views across Doctor’s Gully and towards Mt Franklin. The ceiling remains level with the floor height changing throughout. This works to add visual impact and space to the main living area and creates an intimate feeling in the bedroom. Unashamedly urban and sophisticated in its appointments, Interlude evokes the ultimate in luxury and relaxation. Furnishings have

been imported from Italy including a soft leather sofa, quilted chaise chairs and marble top coffee table. The brushed stainless steel Jetmaster fireplace rises out of the floor and around the fire hearth are exquisite crocodile skin tiles. Inside the spacious bedroom, the king size bed has a sculptured curved canopy backboard of Mahogany slats. Step into the en suite bathroom for the ultimate in luxury minimalist design. Sandstone tiles provide contrast in the large walk in rain shower, with picture window, while under floor heating will keep your feet nice and cosy. Outside are two large raised stilted decks. One angles out to a point, reminiscent of a scenic lookout, while the other houses a covered deck and a four person jacuzzi.

Interlude Daylesford

uilt in the style of a traditional single gable miner’s cottage, Kilcoan oozes charm and offers guests a quaint and private getaway. Upon arrival, you will be enchanted by this property’s fairy tale appearance - white picket fence, periwinkle blue weatherboards and covered front verandah, highlighted by white trellis. The setting is relaxing and private featuring beautiful cottage gardens with english box hedging and mature trees. The interior colour scheme features a blend of fresh country tones including cloud white, eggshell and natural timbers. Relax in front of the glass fronted wood fire on the classical deep green leather chesterfield arm chair and sofa. Dining is simple yet stylish, with a lovely round white dining table and the wooden French doors that open onto a private backyard. The kitchenette is equipped with microwave and hotplates or you can barbecue on the back terrace. The bedroom’s queen size bed is the central focal point of the room. A vintage style floral duvet completes the cottage look, as well as country furnishings such as the large timber wardrobe. Bathrobes are supplied for chilly mornings or lazy evenings after relaxing in the two person corner spa, situated in the en suite bathroom. Kilcoan Cottage is a welcoming, laid back and romantic escape and the perfect location to enjoy all of the delights Daylesford has to offer.

Kilcoan Cottage Daylesford

n exceptionally stylish modern home set in the countryside with well established trees and gardens, sweeping lawns and views. From the beautiful wide decking, you can take in the scenery and enjoy a glass of wine or barbecue meal at the large outdoor table with wooden chairs and two person bench seats. When you’re not dining outside, the interior dining area is fit for banquets and features a long wooden dining table and designer cane chairs which mould into the curve of your back. You can prepare a feast in the modern kitchen with lots of bench and cupboard space and even a built in wine rack. The expansive lounge has everything for your comfort, with a beautifully bold patterned rug, lovely big soft leather sofas, floor cushions, pillows and throw rugs. The gas log fire sits alongside a large TV and home theatre sound system mounted in the wall. 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 6 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Gas log fire | Spa 69

Given you’re in spa country, you’ll need a decent place to immerse your body during your stay and Kuca Slate doesn’t disappoint, with a specially built spa room for four. The tub is filled from a waterfall spout and large windows look out onto the terrace. There’s even a TV mounted on the wall. Kuca Slate has three lovely bedrooms featuring bold modern art, a king sized double bed or two king single beds in each, all finished with beautiful linen, duvets and throw pillows. Each bedroom has its own chic en suite, all with large glass petitioned walk in showers and the wall mounted chrome soap and shampoo dispensers are a nice convenience. This luxuriously appointed property is a wonderful relaxing spot, best shared with a group of friends for a few days.

Kuca Slate Daylesford

ith views of the rolling countryside, Kuca Stone is surrounded by panoramic views which can be enjoyed from the terrace or through the many large floor to ceiling windows. French doors open off the main living area for indoor/outdoor living. A special private haven is the opulent spa room, with natural stone floors surrounding the two person spa bath with built in neck pillows. Lie back and enjoy the bubbles, watching the wall mounted TV and feeling the warmth radiating from the dual front wood burning fire, which also services the open plan lounge and dining area. Relax on the soft leather couch with lots of colourful print pillows, or in the booth canopy love seat. The lounge also features a 42 inch plasma TV on a sleek white entertainment cabinet. The dining area contains a table built for conversation, as it is â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Uâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; shaped with restaurant style booth seating. This sits next to the large modern kitchen.

Stunning bedrooms with king sized beds, artwork and soothing colours await your slumber. Furnishings and bedding are exotic Asian inspired and elegant sheer curtains add extra atmosphere and privacy. The bedrooms wrap you in luxury with the finest natural latex pillows and mattresses on beds covered with beautiful bed linen. Completing the picture are luxe bedside tables, storage cupboards and lamps. Luxury continues in the exquisite minimalist design bathroom. An apron front sink is set into a custom built vanity, finished in natural timber with contrasting black cupboards. White tiled floor and white walls makes this a fresh light space. The large shower designed for two people, with two shower heads, is sure to revitalise you in the morning. This exceptionally stylish modern villa is the perfect way to enjoy stunning sunsets and open countryside, while being wrapped in luxury.

Kuca Stone Daylesford

majestic Victorian country house, steeped in history, originally built in 1890. Surrounding the property is a well established, timeless country garden, filled with roses, camellias, rhododendrons, lavender and more. The old cherry tree and apple trees burst with brilliant blossoms in the spring time. As you enter through the white picket gate, there is a lovely water feature and at the rear of the property is an ornamental pond where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll hear the chorus of native frogs. Inside, Lake Daylesford Country House has taken on an elegant, distinctive French Provincial style, opulent yet rustic, warm and extremely appealing. Bedrooms wrap you in luxury and comfort. They each have an individual style, featuring classical French furnishings and antiques, gas log fires, plus elegant bedding and curtains from designers such as Laura Ashley, Sheridan and Pierre Frey. En suite bathrooms are in every room, three with corner spas. Wood panel walls painted in a traditional yellow adorn the bright, inviting lounge, with the main focal point being the marble gas log fire, with golden antique mirror above the mantelpiece. Classical sofas, Louis XV chairs and a finely crafted tea table all complement the colour scheme. The kitchen is often the heart of the French Provincial home and this country house has a delightful kitchen with plenty of rustic charm, painted in white with cottage green accents. The old distressed farmers table and cream 1950â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Aga cooker adds to the nostalgic atmosphere. Meals in the dining room have a real sense of occasion with soft coloured walls, aged timber floorboards, elegant furnishings and curtains. Full length bi-fold doors open on to the covered terrace where there is another table for al fresco dining. To really make the most of the magnificent lake views, wander up to the rooftop deck and sit on the sun lounges sipping champagne as the sun goes down.

Lake Daylesford Country House Daylesford

ake Daylesford Lodge 2 is one of a small collection of two storey luxury style apartments. Design is contemporary, using materials and forms that work in harmony with the landscape. The composition of the building is directed towards dramatic views of Lake Daylesford, which can be admired from your private patio at ground level, the balcony which leads off the bedrooms on the upper level, or through floor to ceiling windows. Inside, white on white works as the base colour scheme. Walls are decorated with large mirrors and framed European printed art. Floors are tiled or in mirror finish gloss polished concrete, which radiates with under floor heating. In the lounge, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be able to lie back and relax on the large fabric covered modular sofa. The flueless gas log fire place is both stylish and functional and you can spend lazy evenings in front of it watching the big screen TV. The open plan kitchen and dining area is immaculate with a central bench which also has the dual purpose of being a breakfast bar with stool seating. Meals can be taken at the round glass and chrome dining table with matching chrome and white leather director style chairs. This property has two large bedrooms on the second level with king sized beds, featuring oversized padded fabric headboards, warm carpet, large windows and a sliding door leading out onto the balcony. Each room also has its own private en suite bathroom, with under floor heating and separate showers. The master bedroom en suite is fitted with a two person corner spa, while the second bedroom has a free standing deep oval stone bath.

Lake Daylesford Lodge 2 Daylesford

f you’re looking for a modern counterpoint to Daylesford’s historic ambience, Lake Daylesford Lodge 3 offers contemporary living with an avant-garde stone finish exterior and natural river-rock garden. Interiors are finished with rich, custom details and the polished concrete floors add drama to each room. The lounge is spacious with the central hub being the large u-shaped modular fabric sofas with plenty of room for a large group to sit around socialising. For entertainment, there’s a 42 inch plasma TV with home theatre sound system and iPod docking station. A big glass front gas log fireplace will keep everyone warm on cooler evenings. After a pre-dinner drink in the lounge, the group can move to the dining area which is open to the lounge. Six can be seated at the long antique finished wooden table. The open plan kitchen is conveniently nearby and is fully equipped with all the modern culinary conveniences. Enjoy a glass of wine on the deck and soak up breathtaking lake and parkland views or take an early morning stroll around the lake. Lake Daylesford Lodge 3 accommodates up to six guests, with three elegant bedrooms. Perfect for girls’ weekends away, you can choose from luxurious king sized beds or rooms can be configured with two king singles on request. Each bedroom has a spa-inspired en suite bathroom; two with deluxe spas, one with a luxurious stone bath tub and all have separate showers. Modern, chic and ideally situated at the southern end of Lake Daylesford, Lake Daylesford Lodge 3 is perfect for guests wanting a stylish base from which to explore the delights of the region and just a short stroll to the heart of town.

Lake Daylesford Lodge 3 Daylesford

ake Daylesford Lodge 4 combines location with striking, unique architecture and offers guests a stylish, multi-level villa with open plan living in a series of flexible and interconnected spaces. The property has three bedrooms with king sized beds, or different rooms can be configured with two king singles on request. Contrasting colours are kept to a minimum for elegance and sophisticated style and long landscape mirrors are a beautiful focal point. There is also access to your own private balcony. Each bedroom has a spa-inspired en suite bathroom; two with corner spas, one with stone bath tub and all have separate showers. The lounge is generously spacious with oversized plump cushion fabric sofas and a large area rug covering the polished concrete floor, which has radiant heating. Warmth also comes from the free standing gas log fire, situated between floor to ceiling windows and glass doors, allowing you to gaze at the views of the changing day. For entertainment, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a 42 inch plasma TV with home theatre sound system and iPod docking station. A big glass front gas log fireplace will keep everyone warm on cooler evenings. Raised up a step from the lounge is an integrated kitchen and dining area. Six can be comfortably seated at the large designer square glass top table. The open plan kitchen is conveniently nearby and is fully equipped with all the modern culinary conveniences. Meals can also be enjoyed outdoors at the six seater glass top table on the ground floor deck, which enjoys beautiful views of Lake Daylesford and the surrounding parkland.

Lake Daylesford Lodge 4 Daylesford

ositioned towards spectacular views of Lake Daylesford, native trees and parkland, Lake Daylesford lodge 5 is a stylish, multi-level villa in an outstanding location with striking architecture. The interior environment reflects the views and is a combination of international style and design objects. Floors are tiled or in mirror finish gloss polished concrete, which radiate warmth with under floor heating. Light colours and natural materials create a warm and modern atmosphere. Floor to ceiling windows in every room allow you to enjoy the stunning backdrop and follow the movement of the sun throughout the day. Relax in the lounge on contemporary classical sofas and armchairs in a modern space. The flueless gas log fire place is both stylish and functional and you can spend lazy evenings in front of it watching the big screen TV. The integrated open plan kitchen and dining area is immaculate with a simple colour palette of white on white. Most importantly, the 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 4 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Gas log fire | Spa 77

kitchen comes equipped with a cappuccino machine for your morning coffee fix. Meals can be taken at the round wooden dining table sitting on comfortable high back cane chairs. This property has two large bedrooms on the second level with king sized beds, or the option of king singles on request. They feature oversized crocodile skin and botanical print padded fabric headboards, carpet, large windows and a sliding door leading out onto the balcony. Each room also has its own private en suite bathroom, with bespoke joinery, under floor heating and separate showers. The master bedroom en suite is fitted with a two person corner spa, while the second bedroom has a free standing deep oval stone bath. Lake Daylesford Lodge 5 opens directly onto the grassy shores of Lake Daylesford. From here, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just a short walk along the shore to Daylesfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many restaurants, bookstores and shops.

Lake Daylesford Lodge 5 Daylesford

ake Daylesford Lodge 6 is one of a small collection of two storey luxury style apartments. Design is contemporary, using materials and forms that work in harmony with the landscape. The interior of the apartment follows the primary idea of creating a soothing, modernist atmosphere by using white and soft natural tone colour themes throughout. Floors are tiled or in mirror finish gloss polished concrete, which radiates with under floor heating. The lounge features an inviting gas log fireplace, soft brown leather sofas and large LCD TV. The integrated open plan kitchen and dining area is a wonderful place to enjoy long leisurely meals or you can dine and barbecue al fresco on the outside patio, conveniently accessed via sliding doors in the lounge. Bedrooms are glamorous spaces with soft carpet and a queen or king size bed. Each room also has its own private en suite bathroom, with bespoke joinery, under floor heating and separate showers. The master bedroom en suite is fitted with a two person corner spa, while the second bedroom has a lovely free standing deep oval stone bath. Modern, chic and ideally situated at the southern end of Lake Daylesford, Lake Daylesford Lodge 6 is perfect for guests wanting a stylish base from which to explore the delights of the region.

Lake Daylesford Lodge 6 Daylesford

njoy dramatic views of Lake Daylesford which can be admired from your private patio at ground level, the balcony which leads off the bedrooms on the upper level, or through floor to ceiling windows in the lounge room. This property has three glamorous light filled bedrooms with king sized double beds which can be configured as two king singles on request. Plus you have the added luxury of a spa-inspired en suite in every room. Two of the en suites have corner spas and one has a beautiful deep oval shaped stone bath tub - all have separate showers. The lounge is generously spacious with a large ‘L’ shaped modular cream leather sofa, so there’s plenty of room for a large group to sit around socialising. For entertainment, there’s a 42 inch plasma TV, Blu-ray DVD player, CD player and iPod docking station. A big glass front gas log fireplace will keep everyone warm on cooler evenings. After a pre-dinner drink in the lounge, the group can move to the dining area which is raised up a step from the lounge. Six can be seated at the stylish wooden table, with designer laminate moulded chairs. The open plan kitchen is conveniently nearby and is fully equipped with all the modern culinary conveniences including a Nespresso coffee machine. Alfresco meals and barbecue can also be enjoyed outdoors on the patio overlooking the lake and picturesque grounds. Lake Daylesford Lodge 7 is perfect for a private getaway for friends travelling together, wedding parties or a girls weekend away.

Lake Daylesford Lodge 7 Daylesford

picture perfect landmark home with that true Australian Colonial and early 1900’s aesthetic. This large double storey house is made-to-measure for groups and families looking for plenty of space. True to its name, the property is situated right next to the inspiring beauty of Lake Daylesford’s calm waters, with easy access to the Peace Mile walking track, which takes you on a full circuit around the lake. Scenic views are enchanting through large wooden windows and doors in almost every room and from the wide covered verandahs on both levels of the house. Lakefront has five well appointed bedrooms and two bathrooms. Four rooms have luxurious queen beds, while the other has two king singles. Bathrooms have beautifully crafted wooden vanities and bench tops, slate tile flooring and the upstairs bathroom has a corner spa, with views overlooking the lake and treetops. Central living activity takes place around the open plan lounge

Lakefront Daylesford

and dining area. Everyone has the opportunity to be seated in comfort, as there is enough space on the big deep cushioned leather sofas to seat 10, as well as plenty of room around the long vintage wooden farmer’s harvest style dining table, which is right next to the fireplace. A large screen LCD TV with Foxtel is situated in the lounge and two of the bedrooms also have TV’s. If you bring your laptop, you’ll be able to make use of Wi-Fi internet access, available throughout the house. The ‘U’ shaped open plan kitchen has everything you need to rustle up meals of feast proportions and lovely long bench tops make sure that more than one cook can work comfortably in this space. There’s also a bar top, so onlookers can keep the chefs company. Another delightful feature is the downstairs lounge and games room, with casual sofas and a full sized pool table. Garage style double roller doors open up this room to the outside, which is particularly handy during an afternoon barbecue. 5 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 10 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Internet | Satellite TV | Spa | Telephone | Wood fire

CAFÉ CULTURE

aylesford and its surrounding villages of Hepburn Springs, Kyneton and Trentham are packed with a range of dining options, including hatted restaurants, funky cafés, quiet breakfast spots and scenic lunch venues. There is a close relationship between regional chefs and local producers with farm gate and locally grown fare featuring strongly on many of the region’s menus. From heirloom vegetables to estate grown wine, beef, lamb and trout, local producers keep the region’s restaurants stocked with fresh quality produce. Café culture is a big part of the region’s appeal. For a hearty breakfast in a laid-back space, you can’t go past Breakfast & Beer in Daylesford’s main street and a visit to the Frangos & Frangos gourmet emporium on the corner of Vincent Street and Central Springs Road is a must. Just down the road in the village of Hepburn Springs is the highly acclaimed Argus Dining Room which serves Modern Australian cuisine with an emphasis on regional produce. Utilising produce grown onsite in the Argus Kitchen Garden, the menu is also supplemented by Birch Estate rare breed beef and lamb. For a country pub experience, try The Cosmopolitan Hotel in the foodie destination of Trentham which extends visitors a welcome to local food, wines and good times. Its mantra is ‘eat, drink, love, local’ and the menu utilizes the region’s finest seasonal produce.

3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 6 Guests BBQ | Gas log fire

akeleigh has all the charm of a traditional English cottage, with a magnificent outlook over Lake Daylesford. Surrounding the cottage, which was originally built on an old gold mining site, are dry stone remnant walls and established gardens with bursts of colourful blooms. Here, outdoors are equally as important as indoors, and to make the most of the lake front location, there are a number of areas for alfresco dining and relaxing in the sun. A pebbled courtyard, with classical wooden bench seats sits down by the foreshore. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a wooden observation deck protruding over the garden, with seating and sun lounges. On the stone tiled terrace, under a canopy of grapevines, is an old iron frame table, imported from France, with stone top and matching iron chairs, which feature lovely handmade cushions in vintage French fabric. Two out of the three bedrooms also have French doors leading out onto private balconies. The classical colour palette of white on white is all about simple elegance, while still maintaining the English charm of fresh flowers, mixed patterns and exposed beam ceilings. Lakeleigh has two living rooms, which flow into each other; one with a beautiful traditional bay window with seating, and the other features a gas log fire with hand crafted sandstone surround. Behind the fireplace wall in a sunny glass conservatory is the main dining room. It features flag stone floor and a majestic all stone dining table. The cottage style kitchen is so appealing, you may find yourself inspired to bake some traditional English scones. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s filled with beautiful old style crockery and charming details, such as wire mesh, wooden lattice cupboard doors and rustic wooden parquetry flooring, arranged in a heritage herringbone pattern. Bedrooms are cosy and inviting, with ceilings that follow the angles of the roof line. Beds are covered in the finest imported linens and furnishings have that artful vintage touch. Windows and French doors are beautifully accessorised with white plantation shutters. While these are very pretty and aesthetically pleasing, they also have a functional role in keeping rooms cool in warmer months. Lakeleigh is a harmonious blend of modernity and stylish English interior design. It has been featured on TV which is a testament to this lake side propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beauty and attention to detail.

Lakeleigh Daylesford

stunning two level villa using a combination of bright colours and contemporary architecture. The most notable feature of the building is the use of rammed earth walls that run through the lounge, dining and kitchen area and extend out to the entrance way and back terrace. This is an ancient construction technique which has been used here in a very unique and contemporary manner. The open plan living area features polished wooden floors and soft brown leather sofas. A focal point is the stylish gas log fireplace, offset from the wall, yet keeping the rammed earth surround. Dine at the wooden dining table and chairs and prepare meals in the

Lakeside Villa 1 Daylesford

sleek modern galley kitchen. Through tall glass French doors off the lounge is a terrace clad in rustic timber. Looking through a small stand of gum trees and out onto an expansive lawn which stretches right down to the lakeside. The upstairs bedroom has a king sized bed and doors that open onto a private balcony which provides an elevated view of Lake Daylesford. The en suite bathroom is modern with radiant white wall and floor tiles along with a splash of gloss finish bright purple on the designer vanity. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a large walk in shower, plus an oval two person spa bath. 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Gas log fire | Satellite TV | Spa

highly original modern lakefront getaway. One of two villas with the defining structural element being rammed earth walls that forms a spine to the structure, continuing from the entrance, through to central living area and beyond to the rear terrace. This ancient construction technique, has been used here in a very unique and contemporary manner, providing a striking visual aesthetic and warmth to the interior. The building has been orientated to take advantage of the spectacular view of Lake Daylesford from as much of the house as possible, whether from the upper and lower decking, or through floor to ceiling windows. This villa has two king size bedrooms with natural light, fresh off white walls and rich natural finishes. The master bedroom has glass 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 4 Guests | Air conditioning Satellite TV | Spa 85

door access to your own private balcony. The bathroom is very modern with radiant white wall and floor tiles with a splash of gloss finish bright red on the designer vanity. For added luxury there is also a beautiful oval two person spa bath. On the lower level the open plan living area features polished wooden floors and soft brown leather sofas. A focal point is the stylish gas log fireplace, offset from the wall, yet keeping the rammed earth surround. Dine at the wooden dining table and chairs and prepare meals in the sleek modern galley kitchen with plum coloured accents. Through tall glass French doors off the lounge is a terrace clad in rustic timber. Looking through a small stand of gum trees and out onto an expansive lawn which stretches right down to the lakeside.

Lakeside Villa 2 Daylesford

beautiful contemporary home shrouded by a tall manicured hedge and lush trees, the unassuming front entrance doesn’t reveal this property’s hidden secret - its stunning views of Lake Daylesford which can be seen from the deck, lounge and main bedroom. Enjoy lunch on the covered deck with lake views while listening to the sounds of ducks and geese in the background. Take a stroll through the landscaped rear garden and you’ll find a path and steps leading down to the lake front. The lounge has magnificent polished wooden floors, softened by a large contemporary patterned rug. Everything here is in contrast to the traditional look of the building from the outside with stylish modern cabinetry, tables, lamps and a wall mounted big screen LCD TV. Lakeview is modern and stylish, without being overtly contemporary. The lounge opens up to a dining area with glass top table and soft leather dining chairs, all conveniently located next to a modern, well appointed kitchen. The master bedroom features a king sized bed and the second bedroom has two singles. The interior design style of both rooms is sophisticated and luxurious. Walls and ceilings are a crisp white, while an accented satin back wall behind the beds, adds depth and warmth. The bathroom has a stylish dark grey tiled floor, with heat lamps, twin vanities, a separate shower and deep oval two person spa. Ducted heating throughout ensures a cosy stay.

Lakeview Daylesford

his contemporary architectural retreat is ideally situated, and offers elevated views over Lake Daylesford to a stunning backdrop of Wombat Forest on the horizon. All located within a stones throw of Day-

lesfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main shopping and dining precinct. Set over three levels, Lakevista boasts a captivating outlook from all levels, including the outdoor decked entertaining area. Four bedrooms will comfortably accom-

modate eight guests with a generous and light filled living and dining area located on the upper level.

Lakevista Daylesford

beautiful modern weatherboard cottage surrounded by bushland and only moments from Lake Daylesford. The living area is light with big sunny windows and an accommodating space opening onto an enclosed alfresco dining area. There is plenty of room for lounging around on the chocolate coloured fabric sofas and chairs, soaking up comforting warmth from the glass front wood burning fireplace, which is backed by a beautiful feature wall and panelled in natural timber. Listen to music on the stereo or watch a movie from the DVD library on the wall mounted TV. The lounge has cosy carpet and a big fluffy rug. As you walk through to the kitchen and dining area it changes to light wooden floor boards. Everything in the kitchen and dining area is modern,

Lakewood Daylesford

including the stylish ‘U’ shape of the kitchen with sleek stainless steel appliances and full sized fridge. White stools sit at the breakfast bar and the modern square dining table provides enough seating for six. Bedrooms are beautifully laid out with high quality comfortable manchester on the beds, wood frames and bed heads. The master bedroom has an en suite and the main bathroom features a shower with high pressure rain fixture. Plus, there’s a deep two person spa bath with built in neck support pillows so that you can just lay back and enjoy. At the rear of the house is a stunning covered terrace which looks out upon the garden, trees and bushland. It’s the perfect spot for a barbecue or sitting out on a bright sunny morning with a coffee, toast and the newspaper. 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 6 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Pet friendly | Satellite TV | Spa | Telephone | Wood fire

uilt in the style of a traditional large Australian country home with timber weatherboards and surrounded by generously spacious covered verandahs, Langdon House is a stylish luxury retreat, which can accommodate up to 10 guests. Once you step inside, you’ll be amazed by the way the home unfolds in front of you. The combined living, dining and kitchen area is the heart of the home and the place where you can entertain friends during dinner, relax in front of the television or read the paper at breakfast. The large kitchen is fully equipped for you to create feasts from fresh local produce. Alternatively there’s an excellent quality plumbed in barbecue on the verandah, to rustle up some authentic Australian fare. Meals can take place around the long wooden dining table, or through the French doors at the equally large table on the terrace; there’s room for everyone. Put some mood music on with a selection of CD’s provided, or bring your own music collection to plug into the iPod dock. Other entertainment includes Foxtel TV, DVDs, books, magazines and games. Four bedrooms radiate from the central living area and can be closed off for extra quiet. Each bedroom has French doors opening onto the verandah. The master bedroom includes an en suite. While the main bathroom has a spa, there is also a full sized eight to 10 seat jacuzzi on the terrace outside. There’s nothing quite like sitting in the hot bubbles, sipping champagne, watching the stars and relaxing. The fifth bedroom is an attached studio, with external access. It has an open plan layout, with stylish modern decor, kitchenette and spacious separate bathroom. This is also available as self contained accommodation for a mid-week couples retreat. Langdon house is set on two and a half acres of manicured gardens, with surrounding native bush and views over Mt Franklin and Daylesford. It is ideal for large groups and families and also as a boutique venue for small conferences.

Langdon House & Studio Daylesford

Buttermilk Pancakes, Sweetened Ricotta & Wild Blackberries

xecutive Chef David Willcocks from the Argus Dining Room in Hepburn Springs shares this easy to make and delightful recipe. Perfect fare for your weekend away. Pancakes • 1/3cups Plain flour • 3tsp Baking powder • Pinch of salt • 2tbs Sugar • 2 Eggs lightly beaten • 3cups Buttermilk • 75g Unsalted butter Sift the dry ingredients into a bowl, make a well and add in the eggs, butter and butter milk. Stir together gently and allow to rest for half an hour before frying in a pan with a small knob of butter. Ricotta • 250g Ricotta • 2tbs Honey • 1 Vanilla bean Split the vanilla bean and scrape the seeds into the ricotta, add in the honey and stir until smooth. Chill in the fridge until ready to use. Blackberries • 200g Fresh Wild Blackberries • 10g sugar Take a third of the berries and crush them in a bowl with the back of a spoon. Mix with the sugar until it dissolves. Use this berry sauce to dress the remaining berries. To Finish Gently fry the pancakes in a small pat of butter until they are golden brown. Spoon a large dollop of ricotta in the centre of the pancake. Garnish with the blackberries and sprinkle with a little icing sugar if desired.

uxe on Queensberry focuses on creating an ‘oasis of leisure’, enjoying commanding views across town to Wombat State Forest, from an elevated site surrounded by established native gardens. The view is best experienced from the entertainer’s deck, yet tall windows throughout the house allow you to feel inextricably connected to the landscape. Interiors are comprised of memorable, evocative spaces which are an innovative expression of contemporary living. The colour scheme is predominantly white which emphasises contrasts of wooden floors and earth tone accents. The main social hub centres around the open plan living area. You could be lounging on the white leather sofas in front of the wall

3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 6 Guests | Air conditioning Gas log fire | Spa 91

mounted gas log fireplace, engaging in conversation over a scrumptious meal at the designer wooden table, sitting on soft leather high back chairs, or simply enjoying the pleasure of fresh espresso coffee from the cappuccino machine. Luxe on Queensberry offers three bedrooms; two with queen sized double beds and one with two singles. There’s a beautiful bathroom featuring a wooden vanity with fashionable twin sinks. Mosaic tiles in different tones blend beautifully with rich, colourful Saltillo tiles on the floor and surrounding the oval shaped therapeutic spa. The master bedroom also has a stylish en suite bathroom sanctuary with separate shower.

Luxe on Queensberry Daylesford

ilk and Honey combines earthly sights with modern luxury and vintage finds. Perched on the northern face of Wombat Hill, the design embraces scenic uninterrupted views towards Mount Franklin. Interiors have been created to reflect the owners’ passion for collecting vintage worldly objects, advertising art and furniture. Many are rare pieces, which have come from exotic locations such as Asia, France and India. Rustic recycled wood flooring, white walls and ceilings are a blank canvas for the brightly coloured whimsical objects, like large French and Indian enamel advertising signs. In the lounge, the coffee table is made of

Milk & Honey Daylesford

timber salvaged from an Indonesian fishing boat and the TV sits on an old Japanese chest. It’s a style that is both classical and stylish. The kitchen has a sleek, elegant design with beautiful wood panelled cabinetry. Cupboard and drawer handles are bevelled to complete the smooth look. Appliances, such as the dishwasher are cleverly concealed. Plus there’s an amazing modern cooker that is almost industrial size; so an extra few guests for dinner won’t be a problem. Dine at the large rustic table with a top made from reclaimed Chinese Elm. Overhead lighting has that retro industrial feel, with original green enamel factory lamp shades.

Both bedrooms are an absolute delight, with their simple white walls, vintage furnishings, including old travel chests at the end of your bed. Handcrafted Suzani lamp shades, hand stitched Indian bedspreads and scatter cushions add a splash of vibrant colour. The second bedroom has an en suite bathroom and both rooms have doors which open onto the terrace. Milk and Honey is ideal for lazy days, soaking up the sunshine from the verandah or strolling through the adjoining Wombat Hill Gardens.

2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 4 Guests Air conditioning | BBQ | Wood fire

modernist property with great architectural character carefully planned to allow unobstructed views over the tree tops of the idyllic Lake Daylesford reserve. Millarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distinctly contemporary design uses angular shapes and simple proportions, created from a palette of local materials. The well-balanced interior is engaging, relaxing and inherently inviting, combining a fusion of minimalist style and contemporary influences, with art work throughout by Australian Artist, Frances Derham. Floor to ceiling windows in every room allow for plenty of light and provides you with a spectacular

backdrop of native Australian countryside. Layout is centred around the open plan kitchen, dining and living area. The kitchen has sleek modern lines and features quality appliances with lots of working space on a long bench. A glass top dining table sits upon a bamboo area rug, with comfortable high back designer chairs. In the lounge, a large modular leather sofa sits along one wall with built in chaise on the end. Stack stone detailing adds a warm earthy texture around the dual sided gas log fire with wall mounted TV above it. Concertina glass doors open up a whole wall onto

the terrace for indoor outdoor living during the warmer months. Outside are a choice of alfresco dining options, either on the patio by the terrace or down in the garden. If you need a little bit of quiet time, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always the spare sitting room. Millar has two bedrooms, the first is like a honeymoon suite with large round shaped bed, free standing oval spa bath and fireplace. At the opposite end of the house is the second bedroom with king size bed and en suite bathroom. An additional two guests can be accommodated in the sitting room, which has an option of a queen bed or two singles.

Millar

Daylesford

n early 1900’s home brought back to life, boldly blending old and new. Owners Jamie and Kim were originally attracted to the property because of the beautiful views along Doctor’s Gully, the surrounding bushland and its close proximity to Daylesford town centre. Although Jamie is a builder, they certainly had their work cut out for them when it

Mount Olive Daylesford

came to restoring the old house. The result of their hard work is a beautiful house that feels just like a home away from home. In fact Kim is often asked about specific decorating details, so that guests can replicate the look in their own homes. A local Daylesford interiors expert and friend helped with some of the design work and an eclectic range of rustic furnishings

and decorations were found at antique markets and garage sales. A large ‘L’ shaped white leather sofa sits in front of a big open fire in the lounge, with a coffee table that has been modelled on an old steel wheeled factory cart. A rustic country kitchen table is tucked away in the dining area with vintage style chairs under an antique chandelier and the wall has been

papered with an enlarged image of Lake Daylesford on a misty morning. When the sun is shining, Mount Olive allows you to make the most of the outdoors. Concertina windows above the kitchen bench slide open to create a bar outside, where you can sit on stools, socialise and keep the chef company. The large covered deck has a six seater dining table, plus cof-

fee tables and daybeds sit in a paved courtyard, where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re bound to enjoy an afternoon snooze. Bedrooms have king sized beds, or the option of singles on request, with oversized fabric covered padded head boards and vintage style bedside lamps. At the foot of your bed sits a beautiful antique travel chest. Both bedrooms have modern industrial style en

suite bathrooms, each with bold matt black tiles and extra large walk in showers. Square designer sinks sit on top of vanities made from vintage cabinets. Antique mirrors and dressing chairs soften the contemporary style.

2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 4 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Wood fire 95

spacious period style cottage with three gable roofs and cheery light blue weatherboards. Entry to Peppercorn is via a fragrant colourful rose and herb garden. The building is surrounded by covered decking, which has secure fencing, if you bring your dog. This is a great place for barbecue and relaxing in the sun with bush views as your backdrop. Inside, the ceiling utilises the roof line to create interesting angles and divisions of space in the open plan layout of the main living area. Polished wooden floors run

Peppercorn Daylesford

throughout the house and walls are coloured in a soft yellow with white highlights about door and window frames. From the comfort of the sofa you can gaze outside through picture windows positioned on either side of the large wood burning fireplace. Off to the side of the lounge is the dining area which is like a sun room. Large glass sliding doors let in lots of light and open onto the back terrace. Dining chairs are in a retro style with a modern twist. Seats and backs are finished in rattan on iron frames.

Eight chairs sit around the iron with glass top dining table. Meals are prepared in the large modern kitchen with a central island breakfast bar and three bar stools. Three double bedrooms are bright and fresh with large windows and soft comfy beds. Each room has an iPod dock, so you can play some of your own soothing music to send you off to sleep, or something more energetic when you wake up. The master bedroom also has its own en suite bathroom.

ne of Daylesfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest homes, circa 1860, Piccadilly House is perfectly positioned merely a block from the heart of town. This property has been transformed by a remarkable compilation of antique, vintage and modern interior adornments. Original polished floorboards, quaint sash windows, superb historic fireplaces, and a great hallway which spans from front door through to back. The five bedrooms are all stunningly endowed with king beds or if you wish, 10 king singles. The open plan living room, central din5 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 10 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Gas log fire 97

ing room and gorgeous country kitchen create a perfect setting for large groups. Essential necessities such as flat screen TV, kitchen mod cons, sumptuous couches, snug electric blankets and contemporary gas log fire are welcome additions. Piccadilly House has a profound tranquil ambience. You arrive, you stay but you never want to leave.

Piccadilly House Daylesford

hy the name Plonk? Because the owners have a thing for wine, all sorts of wine. So plonk yourself down and discover the voluminous reasons to stay a while. Double wrought iron gates await your arrival as you drive into the stone driveway on this sprawling property located within stumbling distance to the bustling and vibrant main street of Daylesford. This three bedroom, two bathroom property is the ideal space to

Plonk

Daylesford

share with loved ones. Enjoy both indoor and outdoor entertaining with the quaint but fully equipped kitchen providing the central hub between the two. The eclectic and modern interior and warmth of the open fire sets the mood. If you can drag yourself away from this property long enough you will find that neighbouring Lake Daylesford provides the perfect backdrop for quiet contemplation or a spirited walk or jog. 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 6 Guests BBQ | Spa | Satellite TV | Wood fire

Heights is aptly named Queensberry being located at one of the highest

points in Daylesford. This beautifully appointed villa boasts incredible views over the township and beyond to Wombat State Forest. Accommodating up to six guests in three bedrooms, Queensberry Heights offers stylish and comfortable interiors with a warm earthy palette. The lounge features polished timber flooring and comfortable white leath-

er couches softened with designer throws and plush cushions. Warm up by the gas log fire and watch your favourite movie on the LCD TV or enjoy picturesque sunsets from the lovely outdoor deck, easily accessed from the lounge. Positioned to take full advantage of the views, guests can witness the glory of Daylesford’s changing seasons through the expansive windows in the master bedroom or from the privacy of the two person spa in the

master en suite. Queensberry Heights is ideally located within easy walking distance to nearby restaurants and shops including Wombat Hill House, The Convent Gallery café and only a short stroll away from the main shopping precinct and picturesque Lake Daylesford. For larger groups of up to 12 guests, Queensberry Heights can also be combined with the neighbouring ‘Luxe on Queensberry’.

Queensberry Heights Daylesford

stunning spacious timber and stone country home surrounded by rolling countryside views and garden filled with lavender, herbs and colourful flower beds. The building has been designed in a traditional Australian style with steep gable roof and covered verandahs, decorated with classic fretwork. Many of the rooms have outdoor access doors and from the side of the dining room is a lovely large patio, framed with box hedges and pergola beams. This is the perfect sunny spot for an afternoon barbecue or twilight drinks. Lounge on soft fabric sofas in front of the log fireplace with its magnificent stone chimney. An abstract patterned area rug covers the white tiled floor. The main living area has an open plan layout with fully appointed chic kitchen and country style wooden dining table beside the lounge. Walls are adorned with artwork by Australian contemporary artists. Red Earth Clay has two gorgeous bedrooms, each with king size bed, or they can be reconfigured to accommodate two single beds to suit your requirements. The master bedroom has a wall mounted TV and shares the dual fronted fireplace with the lounge. Immerse yourself in the luxurious oval spa for two, which is surrounded by natural stonework. The bathroom also features underfloor heating and separate shower. In the bathroom are earthy floor tiles, white tiles on the walls and a luxurious oval shaped two person spa, which is surrounded by natural stonework.

Red Earth Clay Daylesford

ouâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll adore Red Earth Rock from the moment you pull up to this beautiful country home made from timber and local stone. Surrounding you are expansive countryside views, brilliantly colourful flower beds and pebbled paths lined with fastidiously manicured orderly rows of shrubs leading to a natural fresh water spring. Exterior stonework is finely crafted and adds a heritage feeling to the facade. Another nostalgic feature is the wood framed Gothic style window which looks out from the master bedroom. Light the wood burning fire, select a movie from the DVD library and lay back and relax on soft tan fabric sofas. There are plenty of red throw cushions and fluffy blankets so youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re extra comfortable and toasty warm. The fireplace is dual sided and also provides heat for the master bedroom, which has a wall mounted TV, king size bed and luxurious linen. An added indulgence is the en suite bathroom with underfloor heating and by the window sits a two person spa, surrounded by a very decorative wood frame. Red Earth Rock also has a second bedroom that can be configured with either king size bed or two singles to suit your requirements. The kitchen is packed with modern appliances, yet in keeping with the country feel, all the cupboards have a wood panelled look. An island bench gives you extra work space and doubles as a breakfast bar. The dining table has seating for four.

Red Earth Rock Daylesford

uby’s Amethyst Cottage blends modern luxury with old world charm. Traditional building materials such as natural mud brick finished in a rustic texture sit comfortably next to stylish contemporary tiled floors and magnificently detailed timber carpentry. The living and dining area feature a high vaulted ceiling with exposed timber beams. Cane chairs sit around the glass front wood burning fireplace in the corner, while in another part of the room is a more formal lounge with soft leather sofa, TV and home theatre sound system. The bathroom offers guests a luxurious deep two person spa, next to wood shuttered windows which look out into the bush and fern gardens. Up a spectacular wood and iron spiral staircase is the romantic loft bedroom, where guests can enjoy the angles and forms of the detailed ceiling. Natural light streams though dormer windows. The bedroom has wooden floors and features a wood and iron frame queen size bed plus some lovely country vintage furniture pieces, such as a rocking chair and dressing table. Outside are lush gardens, big old trees and quaint brick paths. A highlight feature of the property is the shared separate sauna room, complete with high wood lined ceiling, a two seater sofa, iPod docking station and a modern dry infrared sauna. Comfortably appointed, positioned within walking distance to Lake Daylesford, Central Springs and main street restaurants and cafés, makes Ruby’s Amethyst Cottage the perfect romantic getaway.

Ruby’s Amethyst Cottage Daylesford

modern stylish cottage, secluded in lush gardens featuring ancient trees, shrubs and bulbs, with quaint brick paths. The cottage has a fully equipped modern ‘L’ shaped kitchen. Dine at the iron and glass top table on lovely cane chairs, with large floor to ceiling windows on either side, making the dining room almost like a sun room conservatory and bringing the brilliant colours of the gardens indoors. Another pleasant spot is the brick patio, which is a wonderful place to sip your freshly brewed morning coffee, or for an evening barbecue. In the lounge is a big inviting sofa for you to relax in front of TV with surround sound system. There’s a Wi-Fi internet connection for your laptop. White on white walls add an extra feeling of spaciousness and contrasts with the country style furnishings, including the sideboard cabinet and coffee table. Wooden French doors open off either side of the lounge for outdoor access and to let in the warm summer breeze. The master bedroom is truly romantic with a wooden four poster bed. Folding doors open to reveal a two person spa in the en suite bathroom. However, the real party piece is that you have shared access to a sauna room, with tiled floor, natural mud brick walls and high wood lined ceiling, a two seater sofa, iPod docking station and a modern dry infrared sauna.

Ruby’s Garden Cottage Daylesford

his unique villa is a combination of glamour, and Zen-like peacefulness. Due to its design and location, you are nestled right amongst the tree tops and connected with nature through large windows and surrounding deck. Interior style blends Asian antiques with classical and elegant contemporary furnishings. Dark timber polished wooden floors are highlighted with large fluffy rugs in black, charcoal and retro orange. Asian statues adorn corners, along with selected works of contemporary art. Curl up in front of the fire watching TV, or create a culinary feast in the full kitchen and your meal can be savoured at the chunky distressed wooden table. A peaceful nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rest, or afternoon nap is assured in the romantic wood turned four poster queen sized bed with carved bed head,

Sadiki Spa Villa Daylesford

divine linen and natural latex mattress. The bedroom is very elegant with dark soft carpet mirroring the wooden floors in the living area, white walls and a leather Louis XV occasional chair in the corner. For night time reading, the bedside is lit by vintage style lamps with reflective silver shades. Even the bathroom is glamorous, you feel like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in a luxury spa resort. Stunning imported Italian tiles cover walls, floor and surrounding the deep oval two person spa. A decorative antique style mirror hangs on the wall above the sink and lighting comes from an overhead crystal chandelier. Every room has windows looking out into the bush, bringing the outdoors in and providing a serene backdrop as you escape the every day in this meditative and comforting villa. 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Gas log fire | Spa

onoma House & Stables is a private, picturesque property nestled among mature chestnut and apple trees. Many of the furnishings were sourced from local second hand dealers and antique markets, providing an uncontrived, eclectic feel of a home that has evolved over a lifetime. Most of the rooms utilise a selection of eccentric lamps as light sources, so that, by design, a more intimate mood can instantly be created. The sitting room is deliberately dark and moody. It is lined with book shelves, has an open wood fireplace, comfortable couches, an armchair and lamps to set a certain tone of relaxation and ease.

The open plan living, kitchen and dining area is the hub of the home. It’s a large bright space, where you are encouraged to experiment with produce discovered at farmers’ markets in the extensive kitchen; with commercial kitchen undertones, generous utilitarian surfaces and white marble tiles. A long vintage farm harvest table is the centrepiece of the dining room; an ideal pleasurable place to feast with family and friends, sharing good food and warm togetherness. Bedrooms are inspired by the elegant simplicity of Italian and French country styles, with large bed side lamps, big comfortable beds and soft linen. Light spills in through the dormer windows and allows you

to look out over the treetops at the colourful landscape. Sonoma House features four bedrooms and one bathroom, with extra accommodation available on the property. Located along the circular driveway and separate from the main residence, is ‘The Stables’. A private open plan loft space, split between two levels featuring a beautiful four poster king sized bed. Birdcage lamp shades, an intricate tapestry rug and wrought iron daybed set a romantic mood. A bathroom is located downstairs, or light the candles and soak in the free standing bath in your room.

Sonoma House & Stables Daylesford

aylesford’s alluring magic can sometimes have a strange effect on people. Karen, who owns Summer Haven, once came to visit for a long weekend and ended up staying for 15 years. She has now renovated this beautiful, classic, Victorian style cottage into an intimate romantic getaway. Part of Summer Haven’s attraction is that it is set in a quiet country lane and is surrounded by tall mature trees and native bush; giving the property a sense of seclusion and privacy. Yet you don’t have to feel like you’re stuck in the middle of nowhere, as Summer Haven is an enjoyable walk to Daylesford’s many cafés and restaurants. At the end of the garden is a fire track through the bush and be-

fore you know it, you’ve arrived right beside the lake. In the rustic gardens, the abundance of trees attracts a host of native bird life, such as brightly coloured Rosellas, Sulphur Crested Cockatoos, and a family of cheeky Kookaburras who perch on the balcony waiting for treats. The cottage has generous decking, which enables you to follow the sun as the day progresses. Sit on the front verandah with your morning paper, move to the side deck by midday and the back deck for late afternoon and early evening sun. This would be about the time when you can fire up the electric barbecue for a late lunch or evening meal. Interiors are simple and elegant to reflect

Summer Haven Cottage Daylesford

the slower pace of country life; reading and relaxing in the lounge on soft fabric sofas, or indulging in long, lazy lunches in the open plan kitchen and dining area. Colour schemes have been chosen by friend, acclaimed author and multimedia artist Kris Saknussemm. Kris has also contributed a number of original art works, which have been exclusively created for the property. One of the most pleasurable indulgences of Summer Haven is the unique bathroom, which has been extended to create a romantic spa area. While the bubbles surround you, gaze out into the garden through uninterrupted expanses of glass.

1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests Air conditioning | BBQ | Spa

ith its comfort, style and serenity, The Acorn has a reputation for romance. Many newlyweds have spent their wedding night here, numerous newlywed couples have celebrated anniversaries and it has even been the location of a few marriage proposals. Interiors are a mix of luxurious attention to detail and home style comforts. Soft neutral colours are elegant, yet understated. Layout is open plan with each area clearly defined. The central feature is a double sided glass front wood fireplace, which heats both the lounge and bedroom. Clearly the tone of the lounge is all about relaxation, as you each have your own feather filled chaise sofa to put your feet up

Personal pampering continues as you slip into the extra large round spa, which is raised up in a secluded alcove, beside a textured stack stone accent wall. A selection of decadent bath products are provided, including indulgent aromatherapy bags. The best thing about The Acorn’s spa, is that you’re positioned right next to the fire and can even soak in the spa while watching a movie. As you retire for the evening, move into your inviting romantic bedroom with a regal locally made four poster bed. Dreamy doonas with matching pillows and coordinating soft throw rugs add an extra touch of class. Draw your floor to ceiling sheer curtains across the room and watch as the ambient glow of the fireplace dances through the fabric.

The Acorn also has a charming reading room, which is equipped with a comfortable sofa and a writing desk, should you choose to simply relax with a good book or catch up on some correspondence. Outside, the gardens are like a little slice of paradise. No matter what the season, there’s always something to please the senses, including colourful displays of bulbs during spring. Grapevines provide shady spots for barbecue lunches and dinners in the summer and in autumn, leaves turn vibrant red, orange and gold. In winter the fragrance from the many Daphnes is intoxicating.

The Acorn Daylesford

he Garden House, with exquisite cloistered formal gardens, atop Wombat Hill presents as the ultimate relaxation destination. Meandering covert paths, densely vegetated grounds, a passive cascading fountain and rustic wood fired pizza oven ensure a memorable stay. Immerse yourself in the contemporary furnished interiors including king beds, wood fire and the charming vista which can be enjoyed from recessed window seats. The home is complete with a stunning, fully equipped, country

The Garden House Daylesford

kitchen. Cook like a chef, or if you prefer, dine at one of Daylesfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many restaurants. Accommodation is generous with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Ideally located, within a short, relaxed walk to the main town centre, The Garden House will undoubtedly inflame a love affair with this extraordinary village - Daylesford. A beautiful garden must be explored, a beautiful garden must be shared, a beautiful garden enriches the soul. The Garden awaits.

place for intimacy, romance, to unwind and recharge your batteries, Walnut is one of four self contained chalet studios, nestled in private, lush exotic gardens of trees, twisted vines and an ornamental pond that can be crossed by a rustic wooden bridge. There’s a spacious covered deck where you can enjoy the garden and relax in the sun. Large sliding doors open off the lounge onto the deck for indoor/outdoor living during warmer months. Interior layout is designed for comfort and convenience with a fresh modern style. Wooden floors and colourful designer rugs keep things cosy. There’s a well equipped kitchenette, with a breakfast basket, filled with local treats for the first morning of your stay and a stylish retro table for dining. The lounge has a luxurious botanical patterned three seater sofa and armchair and is equipped with TV, DVD and CD player. Just the place to enjoy your complimentary bottle of wine and delicious chocolates. You’ll be assured of a fabulous night’s sleep, stretched out in the king size bed, where bedside lamps glow on the soft sponge painted accent wall behind the bed. The bathroom is a light filled space, with a simple crisp palette of white walls and natural coloured tile floor. There is both a large shower and deep two person corner spa, set by a window which looks out into the garden. Although there is certainly a feeling of seclusion and privacy, Walnut Chalet is located in the heart of Daylesford, with local restaurants and cafés just a short stroll away.

Walnut Chalet 4 Daylesford

1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Pet friendly | Spa

his quaint 1890â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s miners cottage, forms part of Daylesfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rich history, originating from the town centre the cottage was later relocated to the current resting place where it enjoys beautiful bush views at the rear of the property. Lovingly restored to offer two bedrooms, one bathroom and a

2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 4 Guests Air conditioning | Wood fire 111

central living and dining area divided by the wood fire in the living room. Wattleglen is not without modern conveniences, a plasma television swivels to be enjoyed from either the living or dining zones. Beautifully decorated this delightful cottage oozes charm and country comfort, be

it from the sunny deck at the side and rear of the house, the front porch or the cosy sitting area. The bathroom features a slipper bath and hand held shower reminiscent of a bygone era.

Wattleglen Daylesford

hen Jenni Draper found the perfect site to build a home in one of Daylesford’s historic districts, she wondered why no one else had snapped up the vacant lot. With the guidance of renowned St Kilda architect, Grant Amon, the concept evolved into a style that represents a Dutch barn, with a combination of pale grey galvanised iron and rough sawn timber cladding. Interiors are open plan with loft bedrooms that work in the pitch of the roof. Grant describes it as an exercise in exploring the memory of an attic. Jenni’s idea of having a main living area, plus a self contained space for guests, shaped the elongated barn by dividing it into two parts; each maximising all day sun through a series of different sized double glazed cedar windows. Each window is like a picture, framing the outside view. Activity is centred around the English country style kitchen with modern Smeg and Bosch appliances. An antique dining table is the hub of the room, which is nestled by a cosy cast iron baker’s oven wood fire. Walls throughout are kept simple and white as a

Wombat Barn Daylesford

subtle backdrop to unique collected pieces, colourful cushions, antique furnishings and lamps. Even the designer rectangular sink in the bathroom sits on top of a beautiful vintage table. This perfect blend of old and new adds a warmth to the house, creating a lived in homely feel. Upstairs the main loft bedroom offers plenty of privacy and you wake up to the brilliant morning sunshine streaming through the windows. Barn style wooden doors open onto a central outdoor bridge balcony which connects to the second loft bedroom in the separate self contained guest area. This part of the house has private access, a downstairs living room with squab seating that can double as a spare bed, kitchenette and bathroom. Outdoors, gardens have been planted with a host of fruit trees, lavender, edible herbs and vegetables. The landscaping is in keeping with the rustic design, with sections walled by giant boulders. 2 Bedroom | 2 Bathroom | 4 Guests Internet | Wood fire

his large property offers six spacious bedrooms with a combination of bedding configurations, three bathrooms, indoor and outdoor living spaces and has room for up to 12 guests. Set in almost one acre of gardens, you would be forgiven for thinking you were on an isolated country property, but York

6 Bedrooms | 3 bathrooms | 12 guests Air conditioning | BBQ 113

House is a mere stoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s throw from the main street of Daylesford. This original minerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cottage, built in 1858, radiates an historic ambience with all the modern comforts you would expect thanks to a large contemporary extension that has been added to cater for large groups. York House has an eclectic style and

relaxed comfortable feel so you can ease into your stay without a worry in the world. There is also the option of increasing the number of guests to 20 by booking the four self-contained cottages that adjoin the property - Charlies, Circa 1, 2 and 3.

York House Daylesford

Hepbu Spring

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enowned for its mineral spring water, hot mineral water spas, and iconic heritage buildings, Hepburn Springs is an enchanting and historically rich destination. Originally known as Spring Creek, the village was later renamed as ‘Hepburn Springs’ after Captain John Hepburn, an early settler in the region. In the early 1850’s alluvial gold was found in and around the township drawing thousands of immigrants, particularly Swiss and Italians. Their influence on the gardens and architecture has been profound; bestowing upon the village a strong, European charm. This Italian influenced architecture can still be seen in some of the buildings today including Lucini’s Macaroni Factory (1859) and Villa Parma (1864), both heritage listed. This Swiss Italian heritage is honoured every year at the annual “Swiss Italian Festa” but today, the village of Hepburn Springs is best known for the effervescent mineral water and the time honoured tradition of ‘taking the waters’. At the historic Mineral Springs Reserve visitors can find a number of hand pumps that dispense mineral water, free of charge and for the ultimate spa experience, bathing in mineral water is a must. Located right in the heart of the village at Hepburn Springs is Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat, an original 1930’s Art Deco hotel. Here you can rejuvenate the senses with a massage and bathe in the heated mineral water pools at The Mineral Spa, taste the finest produce the region has to offer in The Argus Dining Room, explore the European inspired manicured gardens surrounding the Swiss Italian built Villa Parma or simply relax in the Stuart Rattle designed interiors of the original hotel building. Hepburn Springs is an idyllic spa village that continues to draw visitors from far and wide, only 3 mins from the main shopping precinct of Daylesford.

fter many years of building some of the most prestigious construction projects in the area, the owners of Alofi decided it was time to build something for themselves. Drawing inspiration from previous work and feedback from guests they created Alofi. The name was chosen as the owners had spent time in Niue and Alofi is the capital of this idyllic Pacific island. It also had an influence on the exterior colour scheme, with wavy corrugated iron finished in a deep tropical blue. Its contemporary design was inspired by the location - spectacular views of Breakneck Gorge and the main living area is confined to the second level to capitalise on the scenery. During your stay relax on the leather day bed and look down into the valley, spotting kangaroos and soaring eagles. To reach Alofi’s upper floor take the floating Tasmanian oak staircase, with sleek stainless steel banisters. Along with the stunning views you will also find a large fully equipped modern kitchen with mosaic tiling on the splashback wall and open plan lounge. Although the nearest cinema is more than half an hour’s drive away, you won’t have to leave Alofi, as it has its own gold class theatre. Walls are decorated with famous images of classic movie stars such as Marilyn Monroe and James Dean. Along with a blu-ray library of new and classic films there is a collection of movie books. Recline in soft leather theatre seats, complete with armrest drink holders and watch the magic unfold on a 60 inch plasma with a mind blowing Yamaha sound system. All you need to do is supply the popcorn. The bedroom has a luxurious king sized bed and the bathroom is a romantic oasis, with floor to ceiling ceramic Italian tiles, a double shower and corner spa, with floating candles. The bathroom is also fitted with an iPod docking stereo, so you can bring your own music to set the mood. At the rear of the villa is a lovely decking area set in amongst a private Tuscany style garden. Sitting outside on a clear evening, looking up at the stars, you will realise that you have finally discovered paradise.

Alofi

Hepburn Springs

uilt in 1910, Amphoria has all the traditional charm of a bygone era. This idyllic property is shaded in privacy by established trees and hedges, with a weatherboard exterior coloured in natural antique tones and blue iron roof. Yet step inside and you’ll be greeted by a look of stylish chic. Chandeliers light the front hallway with bedrooms leading off to either side. Bedrooms wrap you in a cloud of decadence. Each room has a wall mounted TV, exquisite linen and soft pillows. A modern take on the traditional fireplace, with brushed metal and gold trim surrounds keeps you toasty warm. From the master bedroom is a private en suite bathroom featuring stylish vanity and large wood framed wall mirror, plus a two person shower. In the main bathroom, there is another two person shower and a beautiful therapeutic corner spa. The bathroom isn’t the only place where you can soak away in the 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 4 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Gas log fire | Satellite TV | Spa | Telephone 117

bubbles, as there is also a four person jacuzzi on the back terrace. You’ll be able to prepare the most wonderful meals using local produce from farmers markets and boutique food suppliers. The well appointed ‘U’ shaped kitchen, which has lots of bench space and modern appliances. Dine at the dark wooden table sitting on soft high back chairs upholstered in white fabric with bold brown botanical motifs. You’ll find yourself equally as comfortable dining alfresco at the cane and glass table through the French doors on the terrace. The lounge is designed for relaxing and entertainment with the main focus on the ultra chic golden fireplace. Or you can tuck yourself away in the conversation alcove which has an Asian style daybed sofa and an abundance of colourful throw cushions. Amphoria is an experience to remember, combining historical elements with 21st luxury and style.

Amphoria

Hepburn Springs

his split level villa is a fusion of Australian vernacular traditions and abstract modernism, using a simple palette of elemental materials, such as rough sawn weatherboards and corrugated iron. This design concept is structured in a way to ensure the building is in harmony with its environmental surroundings of native bush reserve. Internally, the exterior is reflected by ceilings following angled roof lines and clad in naturally finished corrugated iron. Simple, clean white walls, decorated with tasteful original artworks give a light modern feel indoors. A black leather sofa and chaise gather you around the fireplace, with a soft plush red rug at your feet. Watch the 42 inch high-definition TV with home theatre surround sound system. The kitchen is stylish, with island bench and cabinetry featuring wood and corrugated iron accents. Dine at the

Arcturus Star Hepburn Springs

designer white table and chairs set next to French doors opening onto the elevated terrace. Bedrooms are bright and sunny, with interesting shaped windows framing the views and sloping ceilings. Design style is all about comfort and country cottage furnishings, with wood and iron sleigh beds that feature cosy alpaca doonas. In the bathroom, treat yourself to the pleasures of the large deep two-to-four person spa, surrounded by windows overlooking the surrounding bushland. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a separate double shower. Arcturus Star is located in a private setting, yet within easy access to everything Hepburn Springs has to offer. Massage, spas, natural therapies, galleries, entertainment, restaurants, walking trails and mineral springs are all within a few minutes walk. 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 4 Guests | Air conditioning Spa | Wood fire

or many creative minds, a change of scenery can provide some much needed inspiration. The owners of Artisan have been doing just that for years; visiting Daylesford and finding charming cottages to hideaway and write. They eventually thought it was about time they bought their own and as fate would have it that they found the perfect property in the form of an original Miner’s Cottage. Their aim was to create a place that was both warm and homely, yet creatively stimulating. The result is Artisan, which features comfortable rooms that exude personality. It offers layers of texture, vibrant colours and a stunning array of collected artworks from around Australia and India. Old world

quotes from people and places, pop up in different rooms, to stimulate thoughts, or to merely make you smile. A bold red accent wall in the lounge, exudes passion and warmth as you relax on the matching red sofa in front of the wood fire. A diverse and eclectic selection of DVD’s, CD’s, board games and books are provided to make your stay as interesting and enjoyable as possible. Full kitchen facilities enable you to experiment with local flavours and the beautiful organic produce available in the area. Gourmet teas, organic coffee, continental breakfast and a bottle of local boutique wine are all complimentary. Bedrooms are bright and sunny with col-

ourful patterned doonas and coordinating throw pillows. Turquoise blue walls add to the calming and peaceful aura of the rooms. The exquisite bathroom will relax and revitalise you with its deep and luxurious 10 hydro jet dual massage spa, along with soothing scents from Daylesford Aromatherapy oils and bathroom products. Given that the inspiration for the property was as a creative space for writers and artists, a separate building has been converted into a garden retreat. Filled with stimulating books, art, comfy lie-about cushions, a wooden work table and wireless internet access, it offers a place to paint, write, practice yoga, meditation, massage, or simply to catch up on a little extra work.

Artisan

Hepburn Springs

et on a little slice of paradise, this beautifully renovated Victorian cottage backs onto Wombat State Forest. Built in a traditional Australian style, it is designed in a symmetrical shape with gently sloping roofs and classical proportions. The exterior is clad in weatherboard with white doors and matching window shutters. There’s lots of places on the huge covered verandahs to sit and follow the sun. The best place is the raised and extended deck out the back, where there is an outdoor dining suite and electric barbecue. Ashling is an artful blend of old and new, retaining Victorian charm and pairing it

Ashling

Hepburn Springs

with modern comforts. Traditional features such as painted wainscot panelling, board and batten walls, natural timber lined ceilings and rustic wooden floors add nostalgic authenticity. On the modern side, the lounge has luxurious leather sofas and a large woollen rug with damask patterns. The kitchen has been updated to today’s epicurean standards, yet still retains a country cottage style colour scheme and delightful details such as mosaic tile splashback and an oversized farmhouse sink with apron front. As there is nothing quite like waking up to the smell of freshly baked bread, Ashling’s kitchen is also

equipped with an automated bread making machine. Other areas to receive a modern makeover are the bathrooms and Ashling has two. The main bathroom is a mixture of classical and contemporary. Beautiful mosaic tile detailing is set off by crisp white walls. There is a large two person relaxation spa and stylish twin tank sink sitting on a wooden frame. Bedrooms have lots of charm with soft carpeting and luxurious bedding on queen size beds. Both bedrooms are equipped with a small TV and DVD player.

his enchanting 1880’s stucco cottage was once the landlord’s residence for Continental House in Hepburn Springs. It has since been elegantly renovated while retaining much of the unique character and period features of the original building. Tea and English muffins for breakfast sitting at the farm table in an intimate kitchen with patina walls and antique doors sounds like the perfect start to the day and you can do it right here at Bella Springs. The dining room has stucco walls and a vintage dining table. Wine glasses are stored in a charming old wooden cabinet that has leadlight glass doors above the fireplace. In the lounge the style is slightly more contemporary with a light relaxing and colourful space. Walls are kept simple in a neutral white, while window frames are highlighted in deep blue. The large red 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 4 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Spa | Wood fire 121

corner sofa is soft and inviting and a TV and sound system provide entertainment. Bedrooms have a warm homely feeling with classical coloured vintage style fabrics, pillows and throws, plus lovely wooden antique wardrobes. The bathroom is a delight with corner spa and overhead shower. Outdoors you are surrounded by bushland and here you can enjoy a glass of wine sitting on the separate free standing deck built into the hillside with log table and chairs - it’s almost like a sculptural art installation. Steeped in history, ambience and refined luxury, Bella Springs is a place where you can only imagine the tall tales this building could tell. You’ll be sure to enjoy a stay here and what’s more you can bring the whole family.

Bella Springs

Hepburn Springs

work of contemporary architecture that pushes the boundaries of materials and geometry in a spectacular setting that all began on a disused plot of land that was covered in blackberries and thistles. The project grew from a weekender for the owners, to building two separate retreats for friends and visitors. After four years of hard work, owners Arthur and Gabe were so pleased with the results, that they moved in to one of the retreats permanently. Views down the valley are absolutely magnificent and you are welcome to explore the 45 acre property, visiting the cattle, poultry enclosure and aviary.

In the immediate area surrounding the retreat are fruit trees, and native plants, grasses and a landscaped rock garden made from blue stones sourced from around the property. Also featured in the gardens are metal sculptures created by local artists. Building design is contemporary Australian with influences also drawn from Arthurâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mediterranean heritage. Simple, natural, earthy materials have been used, giving the interior a warehouse apartment feel, with polished concrete floors and walls laid out in plywood panels which, when lit up at night, give off a warm, deep yellow glow. Up a magnificent custom designed stain-

Breakneck Gorge Retreat Hepburn Springs

less steel staircase is the loft bedroom with windows on either side and a beautiful polished Jarrah wooden floor. One of Breakneck Gorge Retreatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most unique features is the black box spa area, recessed into the structure of the building. Slip into the deep deck level spa, under the glow of lanterns which sit on a black marble wall. Open the bi-folding glass panels and let the outside in. From your position in the spa, you can gaze right down into the heart of the valley and on to Mount Franklin. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s such a romantic place that marriage has been proposed, on a number of occasions.

1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Spa | Wood fire

aruma Ryokan is a purpose built villa which combines both modern and traditional thinking, influenced by Zen elements of Japanese design. The building is configured to make the most of the surrounding environment of gum trees, native bush and features views of Doctor’s Gully. Traditional Japanese features are integrated inside and out, from the stepping stones that guide your path into the villa, to authentic Japanese antique furniture and artefacts. Like many Japanese houses, the interior is kept simple, spacious, airy and minimalist in design. This is enriched by the connectedness between indoors and the peaceful bush setting outside. Floor to ceiling windows and sliding glass doors lead onto the expansive open air elevated terrace, which features outdoor heating, a large gas barbecue and teak chairs around a contemporary table. A neutral palette inside puts the focus on Japanese art work, the luxurious wooden floor and architectural details. The main living area consists of open plan kitchen, dining and living, with stylish modern kitchen, antique Japanese dining table, huge red leather sofas with oversized cushions, a wood fire and a 42“ wall mounted plasma TV. Bedrooms radiate off to either side of the central living area and are divided by sliding Japanese inspired glass doors. Look out at the forest from the comfort of your king sized bed. The master bedroom has the added luxury of a LCD TV and set into a bay window is a double semi-sunken spa. Both bedrooms have their own private en suite bathroom with a walk in shower with high pressure waterfall mixer, spacious enough for two. Complimentary quality body care products and fluffy towels are supplied for your convenience. Each room also has open access to the terrace. Daruma Ryokan’s bush setting gives you a serene sense of seclusion, yet it’s only a few minutes drive from Daylesford and within walking distance to the picturesque village of Hepburn Springs with its boutique spas, restaurants and walking trails.

Daruma Ryokan

Hepburn Springs

The Heart of spa country

aylesford and its twin town of Hepburn Springs are located in the heart of spa country. Here you will find more than 80 per cent of all mineral water springs in Australia. It is also home to the country’s first Mineral Springs Reserve which was founded in 1865. As hard as it may be to believe today, there was one resource that took precedence over gold in the 1800’s: spring water. There are more than 60 natural mineral springs in the area, and it was these, as much as the prospect of easy riches, that attracted the first wave of Swiss Italian migrants to the area. Rich in magnesium, calcium and silica, among other minerals, the region’s springs were believed to cure all sorts of afflictions from acne to arthritis. By the mid 1800’s, the locals were aware of these health benefits and lobbied the local council to halt sluicing for gold to protect the water. Soaking in mineral water has been associated with healing dating back for centuries. Ancient civilizations believed that the tradition of ‘Taking the Waters’ was beneficial and healing in many ways, especially for cleansing the body, relaxing the heart, increasing circulation and refreshing the mind. Today, visitors to spa country can soak in the local mineral spring water, enjoy a massage or treatment at one of the many day spas on offer. For a boutique intimate experience, look no further than The Mineral Spa, Hepburn Springs. Its signature Retreat experience is a relaxing and rejuvenating mineral water therapy zone which offers guests a premiere and indulgent spa experience using 100 per cent natural mineral water. The Retreat features two hot mineral water spa pools and a cool plunge pool overlooking beautiful landscaped gardens. Enjoy a lavender-infused basalt stone sauna and let the warmth of the infrared detox box cleanse your body. Step into the steam room to open the pores and relax your senses. The indoor/outdoor space features a sundeck, guest lounge and open fireplace offering guests a unique and highly relaxing experience. The Mineral Spa 124 Main Rd Hepburn Springs 5348 2100 | mineralspa.com.au

“There must be quite a few things that a hot bath won’t cure, but I don’t know many of them.” Sylvia Plath (American novelist 1932-1963)

125

eckhaus offers guests a modern take on a traditional country lodge with design influences from vintage and retro eras. The entrance way is magnificent, with a sleek art deco space-age canopy floating on two slim steel pillars leading onto a wooden bridge, over a rock channel to the front door. The building is surrounded by rustic paths and bushland and utilises natural stone walls. It features a combination of pleasing angles and staggered roof heights to complete the look. This is a building that challenges with form, yet eases itself into the forest context. The interior layout is at one with nature, using large windows so that everything feels more open to the landscape. A spacious kitchen, lounge and dining area forms a single unit allowing a direct passage towards the covered terrace. Large expanses of colourful polished timber covers the floors and ceiling. Walls are white, creating a light airy space, punctuated by a soft beige accent wall in the lounge area and a few signature modern artworks.

Deckhaus

Hepburn Springs

The lounge features leather recliner armchairs and large sofas, set around a glass front, wall mounted gas log fireplace. Beyond the lounge is a large country style wooden table in the dining area with enough room to comfortably fit eight at the table. Step up into the luxurious gourmet kitchen, which has little extras such as a bread maker and generous bench space allows extra room for a breakfast bar. Bedrooms are stylish and spacious with queen sized beds and an additional single bed in the third bedroom, with either large windows or sliding doors opening out onto the terrace. The master bedroom en suite has a sleek slim line spa bath, designer fittings and a huge mirror framed with artistic mosaic tiles, above the vanity. Deckhaus can accommodate up to seven guests in an impressive building that is spacious, rustic and refined.

itting on a sloping property overlooking native bushland into Doctor’s Gully, Dee Jay’s Studio (named after owners Denise and John) is a modern concept building partially sitting on stilts, with a sweeping curved roof, designed to blend in with the environment. The curved shape characterises the home’s exterior and softens the form of the structure. With a front of expansive floor to ceiling windows, the lines are blurred between indoors and out. Whether you’re sitting in the sun lounges on the covered terrace, or lying in bed, you feel a connect-

edness with the mighty gum trees, almost as if you’re living in a tree house. If you’re a fan of golf, bring your clubs, as the rear of the property backs onto the 9th green of the Hepburn Springs Golf Course and is just a short stroll to the clubhouse. The deck is also the perfect place for a bit of kangaroo spotting, as many can often be seen grazing at dusk. Interiors offer spacious open plan living, with wooden floors and lots of light streaming in through the large main windows and a bank of square skylights built into a notch

Dee Jay’s Studio Hepburn Springs

in the roof. Soft two seater leather sofas are arranged around the Ned Kelly-style wood burner, with satellite TV, a DVD and CD player in the corner. Dividing the lounge from the bedroom is a stylishly curved half height wall. From the bedroom side, you’ll discover the decadent twin spa, nestled behind the wall and raised up to give you grandstand views. It features a king sized bed and en suite bathroom, with powerful shower. Dee Jay’s Studio has received rave reviews and is certainly worthy of the accolades.

his romantic villa takes its name from a famous 1960’s Italian historical novel and 70’s film adaption ‘The Garden of the Finzi-Continis’. Hepburn Springs is renowned for its Swiss/Italian heritage and this villa embodies the very essence of European design with influences of indoor/outdoor living surrounded by immaculate manicured gardens. The gardens have a natural flow, reflecting the surrounding bush setting, through the careful placement of specimen planting, rocks, gravel, statues and night time lighting to create an interesting journey around the house and a harmonious outlook from indoors. Inside is designed for comfort, with a lovely soft fabric sofa and armchair in the lounge, TV, sound system and fireplace. Wooden floorboards are covered with large colourful rugs in the lounge and dining area. A modern wooden table with designer chairs is a lovely place to dine, looking out through beautifully finished wooden French doors into the garden courtyard and beyond. A fully equipped, nicely laid out kitchen with emerald green splash back tiles, has everything you need for preparing meals during your stay. Through into the bedroom, you’ll find a queen sized bed sitting on top of another big colourful rug, with designer wardrobe space on either side of the bed and lovely soothing soft avocado green walls. The bathroom follows a simple white on white theme, with black picture windows framing the colourful garden outside. A wall length mirror above the vanity reflects light and enhances the sense of space. In the corner, surrounded by gloss white tiles, is a rejuvenating spa, with overhead shower.

Finzi Contini Hepburn Springs

armony presents a collaboration of timeless craftsmanship, elegant decor, modern facilities, and quality finishes. This extravagantly crafted property accommodates six guests in new heights of comfort and luxury, offering three uniquely styled bedrooms. Harmony boasts a backdrop of stunning bush land, with the dining options of Hepburn Springs all within easy reach, be it a short drive, or a 15-minute walk. Custom made furnishings sit comfortably amongst the walnut clad opulent interiors. The rear elevated decking is a haven for outdoor entertaining, with a treed outlook that extends over the gully and natural pond towards the seasonal creek at the base of the gully. The serene bush setting is home to an abundance of native wildlife including kookaburras and kangaroos. Bring the best of friends, or family for a memorable stay in harmony.

3 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 6 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Wood fire 131

Harmony

Hepburn Springs

he design concept of both Hepburn Spa Pavilions draw on a number of influences, from new Australian architecture to the uber–luxury spa resorts of Switzerland and Thailand. All of this is captured while incorporating sustainable building principals. There are two separate self -contained two story villas, each themed to offer a unique holiday haven. The Pavilions are located on the edge of the Wombat State Forest which is the perfect bush walking location. They are equally close to the wine bars and cafés of Hepburn Springs where you can enjoy a leisurely latte or a bite to eat. If relaxation and indulgence is on the agenda the Pavilions are ideally located to The Mineral Spa and the iconic Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa.

Enjoy either of these unique villas and a complimentary hamper of gourmet treats is provided during your stay. Pavilion 1 “Horizon” is finished with soft warm contemporary colours and elements that allow you to unwind and enjoy the expansive views of the bush and surrounds. Two luxurious bedrooms offer a king sized bed, TV, walk in shower and two person hydro spa. Retire to your bedroom with a sense of your own private world, with timber louvered windows allowing you to take in the serene bush and garden views. The bedrooms host oversized timber panelled bedheads, a heavenly pillow top mattress and cosy goose down doonas and pillows. The second floor with a high cathedral ceiling is a generous light

Hepburn Spa Pavilion Horizon & Saffron Hepburn Springs

filled space, providing an uninhibited view over the treetops and the outdoor terrace allows you to soak up the sights and sounds of the bush. The living space provides an open plan kitchen with espresso coffee machine, dining area and lounge with gas log fire, large LCD TV and DVD. Pavilion 2 “Saffron” has been newly renovated, with original art work and bespoke pieces by renowned artist Ray Pederson and Kim Hurley of L’uccello Melbourne. Relax on the large couch or enormous bean bag by the window looking out over the tree tops, or retire to luxuriously appointed bedrooms with plush velvets, faux furs, billowing organza curtains in

beautiful jewel colours and crystal lighting. Enjoy the large king sized bed and hydro spa. The living space on the second floor, with its cathedral ceilings and floor to ceiling windows creates a generous, light-filled space with access to an outdoor terrace. Take advantage of all the mod cons, including the gas log fire, espresso coffee machine, LCD TV and DVD in the open plan kitchen and dining area. Whether its relaxation, romance or just a fun time you are looking for Saffron is a truly unique place to start.

his beautifully renovated traditional minerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cottage originally built in 1921 is surrounded by immaculate, mature English style gardens and features two double sized hammocks in the backyard - a perfect spot to spend a lazy afternoon. A rather modern addition to this house is the large terrace with luxurious sunken four person jacuzzi. Inside, the style is classical with contemporary touches and lots of character. The living room has a relaxing tranquil atmosphere with dark batten and board wain-

Hepburn View Hepburn Springs

scot walls, big soft leather sofas, art deco lamps and a stone surround open fireplace, which has the feeling of an old English country lodge. A second lounge room offers another relaxation space with a leather lounge suite and 42 inch plasma. The traditional kitchen and open plan dining area has been updated with modern appliances, yet still retains a cosy country cottage style. For extra work space thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a marble top island bench that has been finished in natural wood panelling and is set on caster

wheels so its position can be adjusted. Hepburn View has four bedrooms, two with queen beds, while the others have twin singles. Bathrooms have a warm sense of luxury and nostalgia, with fittings such as vintage pedestal sinks and one of the two bathrooms has a deep classical claw foot bathtub. Every gorgeous room tells a story and retains elements of heritage, with a touch of elegance, making Hepburn View an interesting place with lots of charm.

s the name suggests, Illuminate is a light filled intimate space for couples to unwind. A stylish geometric shaped building with cladding, combining a mixture of painted and natural finished timber accents. The spacious front facing deck flows along the length of the building with a pleasant outdoor dining area and electric barbecue. If you bring your dog, the deck area can be secured with a gate and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even a little dog house for your furry friend. The interior layout is open plan, with highly polished colourful wooden floors, plus

white on white walls and ceilings. Lounge on the soft leather sofa in front of the gas log fire with wall mounted TV and home theatre sound system. There is a fully equipped stylish contemporary kitchen and designer dining table. Also in the living area is a luxurious two person spa, surrounded by beautiful tile work and a large mirror which glows with ambient light. From here you can still feel the warmth of the fire and get a good view of the TV, so slide back and relax. Living up to its name, Illuminate follows

a lighting theme throughout, with many designer lampshades and fittings, even in the bathroom there are small crystal hanging lamps. The bathroom also features a bespoke gloss black vanity with twin vessel basins and a large walk-in shower with rain fitting. The bedroom transitions from the wooden flooring in the main living area to soft carpet. In the bedroom there is elegant and comfortable bedding, modern art on the walls and a TV for watching late night movies.

Illuminate

Hepburn Springs

atherine combines a masterpiece of modern architecture with stylish interior decoration, creating a luxurious home, surrounded by a peaceful bush setting. The main concept of the building is to provide a relaxing environment for large groups, with generous spaces for socialising and dining, but it also offers more intimate areas for quiet time. At the heart of the house is the contemporary lounge with flax linen weave sofas and an oversized leather ottoman. Ambience and warmth come from a large glass front wood fire. Rather than have the television dominate the room, it is subtly set on a cabinet, inside a wall niche, next to wooden sculptures made from old posts. This room also features other sculptures and Asian art works. There is another living area on the second floor, which is a little more casual and ideal for reading or watching TV. Bedrooms also favour a slightly Asian theme, using exotic fabrics and patterns, Asian style furnishings and wall art. There are four bedrooms - two with queen size beds and two with doubles - extra single beds can be added to the 3rd and 4th bedrooms to accommodate up to 10 guests. For your dining choices, there is a large dining area indoors, with beautiful white tiled flooring and seating at the wooden table for eight, on stylish cane chairs. Through glass sliding doors is a covered outdoor area with another large table and gas barbecue. This is almost like an extra room of the house and has plenty of shelter from the elements. There are wall mounted speakers to provide mood music while dining and socialising. Katherine is a stylish and chic property with a relaxed, happy atmosphere. It is ideal for any occasion, including hens weekends, weddings, family getaways and even golfing holidays, due to its close proximity to Hepburn Golf Course.

Katherine

Hepburn Springs

his is one of Hepburn Springs’ hidden gems. Thank you is the most common entry in the Kookaburra guest book. As you turn in the front gate, you’ll feel as though you’ve entered a secret world. Set within established gardens only a stone’s throw from both Hepburn Springs and Daylesford, Kookaburra Ridge is a place you won’t want to leave. A collection of 19th century French and Australian antiques and an assortment of vintage objects and original French oil paintings adds to its uniqueness and charm. Meander through the one and half acres of established gardens filled with grape vines, a fruit orchid and your own private olive grove and you will quickly understand why it’s a hidden treasure. In the summer time you can sit on the spacious deck and enjoy a cold drink as the sun goes down, or in winter cosy up by the fire with chocolates and coffee. Pack your bags and make the trip to your home away from home as so many others have done before you.

Kookaburra Ridge Hepburn Springs

The Argus Dining Room

ocated in the grounds of Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat, Hepburn Springs is The Argus Dining Room. Amongst its original 1930’s Art Deco dining room, guests can enjoy a fresh, seasonal menu in understated but sophisticated surroundings designed by interior designer Stuart Rattle. The Argus serves Modern Australian cuisine with an emphasis on regional produce. Utilising produce grown onsite in the Argus Kitchen Garden, the menu is also supplemented by rare breed beef and lamb from the owners Birch Estate farm in Smeaton. Executive Chef David Willcocks joined the Argus in 2012 arriving from the world renowned Schilo Kitchen at the 5 Star Hotel Finca Cortesin in Malaga, Spain. Buying direct from farmers is a concept David was very familiar with in Spain and although Hepburn Springs is many thousands of miles away, in many ways the two kitchens couldn’t be more similar. “At Schilo Kitchen we would have producers knocking on the door and coming to us with local produce,” said David. “We were very fortunate, they would bring along things like fresh fish, mushrooms, wildflowers or herbs, it was a great way of working. You could pick and choose what you wanted, touch and feel the ingredients; it gave us great seasonality and access to some of the best and freshest local produce around. “Here we are working in a similar way and as the orchard and vegetable plot grows so does the variety of fresh local produce on the menu from Birch Estate. “Using local ingredients to hero a dish is the focus for what we’re doing.” David says he works with other local producers such as Tuki Trout and Angelica Organic Farm to buy direct and source quality local ingredients that can be used to star on the menu. “Using food in a modern way with a focus on flavour and simplicity is what we’re all about. We want people to eat here, enjoy themselves and tell their friends about it.” The Argus is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. The Argus Dining Room 124 Main Rd Hepburn Springs 5348 4199 | theargusdiningroom.com.au

Beetroot Carpaccio with Tuki Trout

sing local ingredients to hero a dish is the focus for The Argus Dining Room Executive Chef David Willcocks. He works with local producers such as Tuki Trout and Mt Franklin Organics to buy direct and source quality local ingredients such as the trout and beetroot used in this dish.

Ingredients • 2 Beetroot (firm, dark red, tennis ball size) • 200ml rice vinegar • 200ml water • 50g sugar • 5g Salt • Crème Fraiche • Fresh horseradish (or preserved) • 1 Tuki smoked trout • Hazelnuts, Hazelnut oil Method Peel and slice beetroot across the grain around 2mm thick, place into a large non reactive bowl. Boil together the pickling liquid and pour over sliced beetroot. Cover with cling film and allow to cool. It’s best to let them pickle over night in the fridge. Whisk together Crème Fraiche with grated fresh horseradish, season with salt and pepper and allow to reset in the fridge for at least 1hour. To serve, spread the beetroot in a single layer on a plate and dress with a little of the pickling juice to keep it moist. Haphazardly place small amounts of horseradish cream and flaked Tuki trout over the beetroot. Sprinkle some toasted and chopped hazelnuts, sea salt, cracked pepper and hazel nut oil. To garnish, I suggest some or all of, as you wish; trout roe, sliced French breakfast radishes, sliced Granny Smith apple, green pea tendrils or goats curd.

ineral Spa Villas redefine contemporary architecture in rural Australia. These award-winning villas use a simple palette of materials, such as corrugated iron, concrete and timber to create a dramatic exterior and interior. Interior spaces have been designed for both form and function, with an inherent sense of luxury, warmth and comfort. Rustic, patina surfaces coexist with layers of textures from plush rugs to soft fur bed throws and deep leather sofas. This is the perfect environment to experience the gentler ways of country life.

Mineral Spa Villas have the feeling of a harmonious home. Relax on the balcony with a glass of wine, or indulge in quiet evenings basking in the glow of a cosy fire. Well appointed kitchens offer every convenience to prepare fresh produce from farmers markets. Set in amongst landscaped Australian native gardens and tucked away in the grounds of Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat, guests can take a short stroll along well-lit paths to relax in the hotel lounge and bar, enjoy sensational fine dining at The Argus Dining Room or an indulgent massage at The Mineral Spa.

Mineral Spa Villas 1 Bedroom Hepburn Springs

he luxurious two bedroom Mineral Spa Villas feature expansive floor space over two levels offering guests the privacy of a selfcontained option with all the convenience of a hotel. Upstairs, the spacious open plan bedroom and lounge features a comfortable leather couch from which to watch the large LCD TV. Cozy up in front of the wood fire and admire the original artworks adorning the walls or step out on to the balcony to enjoy the scenic views to the bushland beyond. Natural toned walls emit a golden glow, pillowtop mattresses on king sized beds, feather down duvets and throws and ambient mood lighting set a relaxing tone. Downstairs, the second bedroom also features a king size bed

which can be configured as two singles if needed, while the spacious kitchen and dining room offers all the conveniences of home with full cooking facilities and modern appliances. Set in amongst landscaped Australian native gardens and tucked away in the grounds of Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat, guests at the Mineral Spa Villas can enjoy all the conveniences of a hotel stay. With just a short stroll along well-lit paths guests can relax in the hotel lounge and bar, enjoy sensational fine dining at The Argus Dining Room or indulge in massage and spa treatments at The Mineral Spa. Using a simple palette of materials, the design of these self-contained villas is optimised for comfortable luxury.

Mineral Spa Villas 2 Bedroom Hepburn Springs

ak House and Studio is the flagship property of Spa Villas on Main - your gateway to the scenery, cuisine and famous pamperings of Hepburn Springs. This 1930â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weatherboard villa has been totally refurbished in elegance and style. It is surrounded by cottage style gardens and covered decking so you can enjoy the outdoors just as much as the indoors. The main interior colour theme is white walls and ceilings, illuminated by LED spot lights, with beige accessories and accents, such as curtains and kitchen cabinetry. Layout is open plan, combining lounge,

dining and kitchen, although each space is clearly defined. Wooden floors add to the sense of spaciousness with colour and warmth. Relax on the big soft leather sofa in front of the gas log fireplace and LCD TV with home theatre sound system. Dine at the large wooden table with high back soft leather seating for six, or have a barbecue and dine alfresco on the terrace. Oak House has three elegant bedrooms. Two featuring white painted wainscot panelling and French doors opening onto the terrace and the third with its own bathroom,

Oak House & Studio Hepburn Springs

kitchen and lounge area which also opens onto the terrace through French doors. Each bedroom has its own full bathroom with large corner spa or bathtub. All rooms have king beds which can be configured as king singles to suit your requirements. Oak Studio, which is completely self-contained, can be booked alone mid-week. It features its own living room with TV and cosy gas log fire, full kitchen and dining area plus a large corner two person spa bath. Two bedroom Oak House can also be booked alone mid-week. 2 & 1 Bedrooms | 2 & 1 Bathrooms | 4 & 2 Guests Air conditioning | BBQ | Gas log fire |Spa

blique is a stylish timber clad geometric shape building, with a spacious covered front facing deck overlooking Hepburn Springs township and Doctor’s Gully. The deck flows along the length of the building with a pleasant outdoor dining area and electric barbecue. Glass partitioned balustrades allow for uninterrupted views of the landscape and tucked in a private nook at the end of the verandah is a bubbling four person jacuzzi surrounded by wood slat screening for privacy. Interiors are white on white. The ceilings and walls brilliantly contrast with the highly polished colourful wooden floor. A natural tone modular sofa is designed for relaxing and enjoying the slower pace of life in Hepburn Springs. Light the wall mounted gas log fire for warmth and ambience and

relax in front of the large TV, with high quality home theatre sound system, or simply put a little background music on the CD player. When you’re not experiencing the delightful local eateries, Oblique’s modern kitchen has everything you need, including a full sized fridge/freezer to store the beautiful specialist produce that you will find at local farmers markets and delicatessens. The two lovely bedrooms offer flexibility for couples, families, or girls groups as they can be configured with a choice of two king beds or four singles. Each bedroom has its own en suite bathroom, with mirrored vanity doors and a glass petitioned walk in shower. A natural stone mosaic adorns the shower floor, with this detail being repeated in the stylish band around the white tiled walls.

Oblique

Hepburn Springs

hat began as a guest house and country pub, has evolved into an elegant, boutique hotel. Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat offers a number of room types including the ‘Springs’ rooms located in the original hotel building, the ‘Garden’ rooms dotted throughout the grounds, the self-contained ‘Garden Spa Villas’ and the sensational and historic Villa Parma. Located on the upper floor of the original 1930’s hotel are the 14 design-led Springs rooms in four variations, Springs rooms, Springs Spa rooms, Springs Deluxe Spa rooms and the Springs Terrace room. Each are beautifully presented with timeless country grandeur and charm. The Springs Spa rooms feature a bath style spa in the en suite, many with balconies overlooking the front or rear gardens, while the Springs Deluxe Spa rooms each have an indulgent two person spa tub. The large and luxurious Springs Terrace room, featuring a spa set into a bay window overlooking a private outdoor terrace, is often used as the honeymoon suite. The Garden rooms are sprinkled throughout the grounds intertwined with growing pencil pines, willow trees, and native fauna. Inside, they offer guests a small cottage experience, furnished with sim-

ple country charm. Light toned walls, dado wood panelling and large canvases from the owner’s farm, Birch Estate. The Garden Spa rooms also feature an intimate spa on the outdoor terrace while the Garden Deluxe Spa rooms, finished in a modern contemporary décor, feature a large two person spa tub in the bedroom. Where ever you find yourself, take time to enjoy the splendid gardens which are meticulously maintained and explore the magnificent guest lounge, library and bar in the main hotel building. During your stay, a taste of regional fine dining can be enjoyed onsite at The Argus Dining Room. Serving modern Australian cuisine with an emphasis on regional produce, The Argus menu utilises food grown onsite in the Argus Kitchen Garden, supplemented by rare breed beef and lamb from the owners nearby farm Birch Estate in Smeaton. For a spot of relaxation, head to The Mineral Spa which features the highly acclaimed mineral water bathing area The Retreat and offers a range of therapeutic treatments including massage, facials and body therapies. At Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat, you will find an entire property dedicated to comfort, relaxation and opulence.

Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat Hepburn Springs

Tipperary Ice Cream Sandwich

favourite treat that Chef David Willcocks prepares for his family is the Tipperary ice-cream sandwich. It’s really simple and delicious so give it a go! Ingredients • 225g Chocolate 53% • 85g Butter unsalted • 2 Eggs • 170g Sugar • 5g Vanilla extract • 55g Flour • 2g Salt • 5g Baking powder • 175g Walnuts (chopped) • 100g Pecans (chopped) • 150g Chocolate 70% (chopped) • 75g Cocoa • Your favourite ice cream Method Melt the 53% chocolate with the butter over a double boiler. Whisk the eggs, sugar and vanilla together and incorporate the melted chocolate and butter. Sieve in the flour and baking powder. Stir in the nuts and 70% chocolate. Form squash ball sized balls, flatten lightly and bake at 175º for 6 min. Allow to cool on a rack. To make the sandwich take a large scoop of your favourite ice cream and sandwich between two large cookies.

pon entering this petite cottage you will be enchanted by the charming blend of interiors combined with modern conveniences and above all else, comfort. Located on the edge of Hepburn Springs, ‘Piccolo’ which translates to ‘little’ in Italian lives up to the saying that good things come in small packages. Guests will be pleasantly surprised with the myriad of spaces for quiet contemplation and relaxation. Enjoy reading from the balcony or spending lazy days in the sunny courtyard. Who needs to cook when one of the region’s great restaurants is located just a stone’s throw from the front of the property. There is also a host of live entertainment on offer during the weekends.

1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests Air conditioning | BBQ | Gas log fire 149

Piccolo

Hepburn Springs

rovence Spa Villas 1 and 2 have been uniquely designed for the discerning guest who is looking for a modern lifestyle retreat. Life could hardly be better than finding yourself on the balcony of one of these gorgeous villas. Each property is a gallery of muted tones, rich natural finishes and contemporary touches. There is a high design European style kitchen and a lounge laid out with everything at your fingertips. The magnificent textured stack stone wall is a work of art in itself and in contrast to the natural materials is a modern wall mounted plasma TV. Enjoy home theatre quality sound all from the comfort of the soft leather lounge suite and during winter why not light the wood fire and relax in cosy surrounds. There is Wi-Fi internet access so you

can bring your lap top or iPad to catch up on a little extra work or check your Facebook status. Raised up a couple of steps is the bedroom with king sized bed and soft padded leather bed heads. These are perfect for propping yourself up to read a good book. Bedside the bedroom is your en suite bathroom that matches the minimal and contemplative feel, featuring his and hers vanities, a wall sized mirror, wooden floors, a spa bath and separate shower. Designed for contemporary living with clean lines, open space, natural light, muted tones, rich natural finishes, specifically framed interior and exterior views, Provence Spa Villas have the feeling of a deluxe boutique hotel.

Provence Spa Villa 1 & 2 Hepburn Springs

his property is a stunning modern weatherboard villa with entry via a wooden causeway. It features generous decking at the front and rear. The back terrace is elevated on the edge of a hillside, with tremendous views into the native bush covered gully below. Large wood framed windows and doors lead onto the terrace through the lounge and dining area enabling you to appreciate the view from many angles. In the lounge you’ll find yourself drifting away by the fire on comfortable fabric sofas. On either side of the fireplace are lovely portrait picture windows, which look spectacular on a moonlit night. There’s also a second lounge for chilling out and enjoying a bit of quiet time. Gather wonderful local produce and cook up a feast in the mod-

Replete

Hepburn Springs

ern kitchen or simply enjoy the complimentary provisions. There is a choice of dining environments with two dining areas, plus table and chairs on the terrace for barbecue and al fresco meals. The master bedroom features a king size bed and has large windows with views of the bush. A big antique style mirror hangs upon the wall, just the thing for a last minute check of your makeup and outfit. There’s also an en suite bathroom. A touch of the Hepburn Springs Swiss Italian heritage has influenced the design of the bathroom. There is not only a spa bath, but you can also enjoy your own personal sauna.

anctum is a melding of nature and future â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it sets itself apart through its creativity in planning and ingenuity in design. A chunky, rough sawn wooden fence greets you at the entrance, with a decked causeway over a stone garden, leading to the front door. Its style is based on a one bedroom townhouse, overlooking the lush landscape of Doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gully. True to its name Sanctum is all about providing you with an environment of utter calm. Everything you need has been thought of. There is a stylish, full kitchen with lots of cupboard space and large fridge. Glass panels separate the lounge and bedroom, enabling you to view the wall mounted 50 inch TV from the comfort of your king sized bed. A simple colour palette of black and white has been chosen for a fresh, clean, and unquestionably sophisticated and elegant look. This theme is sustained in each room; black wood finished cabinetry in the kitchen contrasts with white bench tops. Selected walls are painted in bold black, offset by the exquisite off white recliner leather couch in the lounge and the custom made black sideboard, featuring dancing open flames from the inset eco smart burner. Equally as dramatic is the minimalistic bathroom, with its solitary black vanity and square ceramic vessel sink. White walls sit alongside magnificent floor to ceiling earth tone, artistic, swirling marble tiles. A special private haven awaits you on the rear terrace, where an oval two person spa is set in at deck level, offering you views over the treetops or detox in the adjoining steam room. What a perfect way to spend a romantic evening or weekend.

1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Gas flame fire | Spa 153

Sanctum

Hepburn Springs

stand out property with clean lines, defined spaces and distinctive styling, offering everything you’d expect from quality accommodation and little extra features to make you feel at home. The contemporary, yet functional design has been crafted to maximise views. A raised terrace cuts into the landscape, allowing you to gaze down the valley over native bush land, with views of the original Hepburn Bakery in the distance. Schafhalle’s owners believe that everyone should have the best bathroom, so both bedrooms have identical en suites. Custom built wooden frames support a one piece designer vanity top and sink. Each bathroom features large walk in showers with Italian stone wall tiles and high pressure square rain head. Bedrooms are equally exquisite with king sized beds that are so soft, you’re bound to have many long lazy sleep ins. The kitchen has everything you’ll find at home with stunning black glass mirrored splash back and central island bench, which also doubles as a breakfast bar. The dining table is a work of art, with its single chrome pedestal supporting a glass tabletop. Behind the dining area is a large spa, set in at floor level, surrounded by windows looking out onto the terrace and valley. Stretch out on the curved brown leather sofa in the lounge, with 50 inch TV sitting on a custom made long entertainment cabinet, which has a built in eco smart flame burner.

Schafhalle Hepburn Springs

lippery Rock is a lovely modern weatherboard cottage which takes its name from the earthy paint scheme which blends perfectly with the native bush surroundings. The large open back terrace is perfect for outdoor living with barbecue and outdoor dining table. Set at different levels are ornate pebbled courtyards that are surrounded by cottage gardens, trees, ornamental hedges, roses, agapanthus and fragrant bushes of wild lavender. In one of the courtyards is a wooden park bench and an ancient penny farthing style bicycle. Indoors, modernity is blended with classical country style charm. The dining area features handmade antique style wooden dining chairs with comfortable seat cushions and a matching French oak style table. The kitchen steps up from the dining area with everything youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to prepare fabulous meals. Finished in all white, with a 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 4 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Spa | Wood fire 155

tiled bench top the kitchen also features a separate butchers block table on wheels. The rich dark hard wood floors extend throughout the house. In the lounge, the large leather sofa and armchairs are accompanied by a plush floor rug, digital TV & DVD Player and a cosy corner wood fireplace. Light enters the lounge through curtained glass sliding doors which lead onto the outdoor terrace. Windows are finished with white timber louver shutters. Beds have big soft mattresses and padded headboards covered in vintage fabric. Full length dressing mirrors and classical antique wall mirrors ensure you can look your best before venturing out to explore the local surrounds.

Slippery Rock

Hepburn Springs

his contemporary villa has a unique design combined with the unmistakable characteristics of a traditional Swiss village home or farmhouse. The height of the building has been elevated around the treetops and a large glazed wall filters sunlight into the interior while allowing uninhibited views of landscaped gardens, unspoiled native bush and Doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gully. Interiors are similar to that of an urban all-equipped loft apartment, offering spa-

cious modern living. Style has been kept clean and simple, utilizing white walls, wooden floor, beautifully crafted dark wood panelling lining the high vaulted ceiling and minimalist furnishings. The main living area is made comfortable by the large fabric sofa, upholstered retro style arm chair and contemporary rug. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a free standing wood fireplace for winter warmth surrounded by a raised tiled hearth. TV, CD and DVD player, iPod, docking sta-

Swiss Mt Villa 1 Hepburn Springs

tion, books, magazines and games are all provided for your entertainment and beside the lounge is a fully equipped modern kitchen and wooden dining table, or you can take meals out on the terrace. The homely light filled bedroom has a king sized bed with luxury pillow top mattress and large windows offering morning views of bushland and birds. Experience some extra pampering in your Swiss style bathroom, which features a large spa and separate walk in shower.

s you walk down the rustic stone path towards the entrance youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be struck by the wonderful aroma from lush rosemary hedges guiding your way. Inside, the colour scheme reflects the natural surroundings, with pale greens, yellows and deep greys. Studio layout means that the lounge, bedroom and dining area is all open plan, with a galley kitchen and separate bathroom. A soft deep leather sofa awaits you by the

glass front wood fireplace with tiled hearth. A chrome retro style light arches over the sofa for ambience or illumination while reading. Following an evening of relaxing you can retreat to your queen size bed, set in a cleverly designed alcove using a wardrobe and cupboards as petitioning. Extra depth is added to this space by a dark aubergine accent wall, which makes the bed look extra inviting when lit by the by the glow of the bedside lamps.

Prepare meals in the fully equipped kitchen and gaze out the large window at the bush, while dining at the square wooden dining table. The bathroom with shower and spa bath is finished in magnificent textured jade tiles. For an extra romantic evening, pour a glass of wine and step into the hot tub on the totally private back terrace, while looking up at the evening sky and listening to the twilight sounds of the bush.

Swiss Mt Villa 2

Hepburn Springs

elax within this elegant yet rustic lodge-style home, surrounded by an expanse of private native gardens. Nestled amid rambling birch trees, this architecturally designed villa transports guests, via a raised bridge, away from their everyday lives, to a haven of tranquillity and nature. Exterior walls of corrugated iron and warmly stained wood merge the villa effortlessly into the landscape, with beautifully crafted wood panelling also carrying through to the interior ceilings, window and door architraves. Large floor to ceiling windows and outside deck capture the bush views of Doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gully, while flooding the villa with natural light. The beautiful natural scenery provides a marvellous backdrop that sets off the simple elegance of the decor inside; with furnishings throughout handpicked for their comfort, calming qualities and charm. Beautiful details are featured throughout, like the Asian antique

cabinets and side tables to the lovely wood fireplace, which is set in the wall and has a surrounding that follows up the chimney line covered in smooth tiny river stones. Swiss Mount Villa 3 comes equipped with all the essentials that will make your stay as homely as possible. The open kitchen has all the essential cutlery, crockery and cookware needed to whip up the best gourmet meals. The bedroom is a spacious retreat, with perfectly sprung king sized bed, Aerospa bath, diffused lighting, LCD TV and beautiful linen. When not enjoying the delights of picturesque Hepburn Springs, the village of Daylesford is just five minutes drive away. There can be few places more tranquil than Swiss Mount Villa 3 to curl up with a good book, glass of wine, and antipasto platter and meander through the day.

Swiss Mt Villa 3 Manarre Hepburn Springs

1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Spa | Wood fire

aison combines ultra modern contemporary design with romantic visions of Southern France and the Victorian era. Set into a hillside, the building forms a ‘V’ shape so that everything focuses out with spectacular views of Doctor’s Gully. This can be admired during barbecues or with an evening glass of wine from the large elevated deck or through extensive glass windows from indoors. An eclectic mix of antiques, artwork, decor and handcrafted soft furnishings, including several Louis XV occasional chairs, create a unique ambience to the interior. The colour scheme has been kept simple with white and soft natural tones on the walls and wooden floors in the main living area. Relax on the large golden fabric sofa, with a free standing wood fireplace crackling in the corner. A library of books, magazines, DVDs and CDs are provided, and you will be able to enjoy movies on the 42 inch plasma TV. 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 4 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Spa | Wood fire 159

A charming full kitchen and dining area combines modern features with classic country flavours; from the charming white round table and chairs, to vintage green splash back tiles. Maison has two bedrooms decorated with exquisite linen and charming French antique style furnishing. The master bedroom has beautiful large floor to ceiling windows that almost bring the outdoors in. There is also a 32 inch TV in the room for nights tucked up in bed, watching late night movies. Upstairs is a mezzanine bedroom that sits in a little tower on top of the building surrounded by large windows orientated out toward the forest views. The bathroom is wonderful, with pedestal basin standing in front of a green tiled wall and expansive vanity mirror. The most notable feature in the bathroom is the unique glass roof making it almost like a sunroom during the day and at night there’s nothing quite like soaking in the spa and gazing up at the stars.

Swiss Mt Villa 4 Maison Hepburn Springs

et on a beautiful property surrounded by landscaped gardens and native bush views of Doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gully, this purpose built contemporary villa is perfect for a relaxing break. Design is kept simple and stylish, reflecting modernist Australian rural architecture, utilising materials such as corrugated iron and timber to ensure the building remains in harmony with its environmental surroundings. Enter via a wood decked bridge which spans over the native garden. At the opposite end of the building is a raised terrace which is inverted into the corner of the structure. This is a pleasant spot for an evening glass of wine and al fresco dining. It is also a design feature which allows lots of natural light to stream into both the main living area and bedroom through large floor to ceiling windows. Interior layout has been created to allow a natural flow between

areas and maximise space. Fresh white walls contrast beautifully with wooden floors and dark timber lined vaulted ceiling. Cuddle up on the soft black leather sofa by the glass front wood fire, which is detailed with a tiled surround. In the corner is a TV and stereo and from the lounge you have access to the outside terrace. Beside the lounge is a fully equipped modern kitchen and integrated dining area with wooden table and high back cushioned leather chairs. Your bedroom segues off the main living area and is tucked behind a small partition wall. It is a light filled space, offering morning bush views from the comfort of your luxurious queen size bed. Off to the side is an exquisite en suite bathroom, featuring walk in shower and a large Aero spa bath.

Swiss Mt Villa 5 Balneo Hepburn Springs

1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Spa | Wood fire

ooraloora is a 100 year old traditional minerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cottage that has been lovingly restored with a few added luxuries and provides a real sense of life in Hepburn Springs. The outside of Tooraloora is a delight in itself; the cottage is surrounded by expansive lawns, pretty cottage gardens and mature trees. The backyard overlooks traditional terraced gardens, a peaceful pond and Doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gully. Beautifully picturesque in all seasons, this is a backyard to be lived in. The historic exterior facade is complemented with contemporary traditional furnishings. The cheerful sun-lit kitchen and dining room has whitewashed floorboards, fold-back French doors opening out to the back terrace and gardens, solid wood bench tops, square ceramic sink and an original cast iron, wood burning stove tucked in

the recessed alcove. This is a kitchen where you want to bake scones or slow cook beef bourguignon. There is an understated charm and simplicity to the decor throughout the house. Signature pieces of furniture have been fabricated by local craftsmen from reclaimed hardwood. Sheer white curtains float in front of traditional sash windows. Classical white linens dress the bed and bathroom. A heavenly spa bath is engulfed simply by natural woods and light. Whitewashed walls wrap the house with an air of serenity. Tooraloora is the perfect spot for those who seek privacy and quiet, a large garden or a cottage with charm. Recommended for a small family, couples, honeymooners, two friends or an individual seeking a peaceful haven.

Tooraloora

Hepburn Springs

uilt in 1864, this magnificent two storey, Grade 1 heritage-listed villa, has the feel of an Italian stately family home, surrounded by manicured formal Italian gardens, a lily pond, and miniature hedge maze. Arrive at the regal front door of this elegant property via a pebbled garden path. The front of Villa Parma overlooks a formal box hedged garden with flower beds that change with the seasons and a wisteria at the front gate that looks splendid in flower from spring through to end of summer. At the back of the villa is a wisteria covered, outdoor dining and entertainment area, complete with a large barbecue and

Villa Parma Hepburn Springs

adjoining sauna chalet. Around the other side is a large pagoda wrapped with grape vines, overlooking the villaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s private grass garden terrace. As is tradition with palazzo style villas of this period, the front door opens onto the dining room, with a large antique wooden table and chairs sitting under an elegant chandelier. Tucked in behind the dining room, is a compact modern kitchen, equipped with fridge, dishwasher, stove, oven, and full set of cooking essentials, utensils and crockery. Gourmet meals can be delivered from The Argus Dining Room, or eaten in-house at Peppers Mineral Springs

Retreat located just minutes away up the pebble path. Villa Parma has four double bedrooms, split over two levels. Bedrooms are furnished with high quality king sized beds, upholstered headboards, feather down duvets, fluffy throws and wall mounted 19 inch LCD TV. Each bedroom has its own private en suite bathroom, two with power showers, and two Aero spa baths. The interior dĂŠcor is chic heritage Italianinspired. At the heart of the upper floor is a spacious, yet elegantly cosy living room, with large, deep leather sofas and modern entertainment systems.

name that in Italian means small house or villa, this petite hideaway keeps its exterior design simple and understated, so as not to detract from the wonderful gardens, with an abundance of native flora and fauna. The villa is clad in corrugated iron, with an arched pagoda over a rustic wooden terrace; the perfect spot to relax in the sun and enjoy the sights and sounds of native birds. Villino is all about peaceful country living with an interior floor plan that cleverly utilises space and provides a cosy environment. The kitchen has all the modern appliances and contemporary style. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be brewing up fresh cappuccinos and lattes to take on the terrace in the morning. The dining area has a beautiful wooden and chrome table, with designer laminate moulded dining chairs. A micro stereo sits on the

Villino

Hepburn Springs

end of the table for ambient dinner music or lively background tunes while cooking. From the comfort of the three seater sofa you can look directly out the French doors into the garden. In the corner is a glass front, wood burning fire for warmth on cooler evenings. The flat screen TV is conveniently positioned so that it can be viewed from the lounge or propped up in your soft king size bed. Minimalist design touches have been added to the bathroom, with stylish sink and vanity and a glass petitioned walk-in shower, large enough for two. Brilliant mosaic tiling covers the walls and floor, transitioning from cream, to bright yellow and vibrant blue. Villino is a romantic spot for two and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing quite like sitting at the little table in the garden with a glass of wine under the magnificent shady trees. 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Pet friendly | Wood fire

esigned with great attention to detail, Zen Pavilion envelops its guests from the minute they arrive. A raised spacious deck and floor to ceiling windows ensures views over the landscaped garden to Doctor’s Gully. Layout is simple and uncluttered, making a feature of space and light. Open plan lounge, kitchen and dining is central to the house, with private bedrooms at either end. Large sliding glass doors can be opened from all rooms, to enable indoor/outdoor living during warmer months. In the winter

you can cosy up beside the glass front, wood burning fireplace. A deep red leather couch and matching over sized ottoman in the lounge is the perfect place to curl up with a book. At your feet is a soft plush rug and a kidney shaped designer glass coffee table, reminiscent of 50’s retro design. For your entertainment a 42 inch plasma TV is mounted on the wall. Bedrooms are stylish and beautifully appointed, with ceilings that follow the roof line and accent walls in warm chocolate and

latte colours. Each bedroom has an en suite bathroom with sleek white tiles, floating vanities and large walk in showers with luxurious ‘rain shower’ fittings while the master bedroom also features a round two person spa set into the bay window. As the name suggests, Zen Pavilion is all about purity, serenity and harmony. The woodland setting makes it just perfect for a romantic getaway, or for two couples to share. It’s a place to relax, unwind and nurture the body, mind and spirit.

Zen Pavilion

Hepburn Springs

Surrou Village

unding es I

t’s easy to explore the villages in Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges. Woodend, Kyneton and Trentham are all fabulous foodie towns. You can delight your tastebuds with all myriad of flavours and cuisines from biscuits to pizza, gourmet bakery fare to fine dining. Macedon and Mt Macedon is wellknown for its boutique family owned vineyards that produce exquisite wines, but you’ll also find craft and farmers markets and a myriad of delicious local produce so it’s easy to stock your picnic hamper with organic fruit, bread and small goods.

Artists who live here are inspired by the beauty of the region and create beautiful works of art and crafts including pottery, silk, painting and sculpture. The area is also home to walking trails, stunning gardens and picnic reserves. Many of the villages in the region still feature historic buildings and evidence of their gold mining past. Creswick has a broad main street reminiscent of a bygone era and the grand building architecture owes its existence to the gold rush of the 1850’s. While, Clunes, perhaps best known for its annual Booktown Festival offers a

variety of antique and collectable stores, gold prospecting adventure tours, and bushwalking in Mount Beckworth nature reserve. In Smeaton you can try your hand at catching a trout or stock up on handwoven garments at the local woollen mills which is in fact the last coloured woollen spinning mill of its kind in Australia. The choice is yours.

his petite studio presents guests with the opportunity to immerse themselves in style and luxury. The secret and sophisticated hideaway is situated in a pristine location amongst a canopy of gum trees. Proving that size isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t everything - this heavenly abode enables you to soak under

Ablac Studio Wheatsheaf

the stars with a spa bath located outside on the decking. The studio is located near the main residence, which is also on site, however your privacy has been catered for. Every comfort one would imagine is within the detailed interiors, coffee machine, decadent bedding, and a bottle of sparkling

wine. Escape from the everyday, pack a picnic and enjoy at the nearby creek, or curl up in bed with a favourite book. Be inspired by the majestic gum trees and the idyllic surrounds and unwind. You will feel a million miles away, but Ablac is only a 10 minute drive to Daylesfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s town centre. 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests Spa | Telephone

estled on 60 magnificent acres, Aghadoe is an 1860’s heritage listed homestead that has been transformed into a blend of styled interiors whilst retaining its period charm. Boasting established gardens, majestic fir trees and an abundance of open areas, Aghadoe is a haven for families, friends or girls groups seeking a tranquil escape with all the comforts of home. There is a fully fenced playground for the kids, a large gourmet kitchen perfect for cooking up a storm and the two separate living 5 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 10 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Satellite TV | Wood fire 169

areas offer space and comfort, large flat screen TV’s, cable TV, bluray player, iPod dock and home theatre system. Sun drenched bedrooms offer 14 foot ceilings and beautiful quality linen. The fifth bedroom is a separate studio. Aghadoe is located approximately 20 kilometres from Daylesford’s attractions and day spas. Explore the region’s many natural attractions or relax and take in a true country experience on the homestead’s 60 acre surrounds.

Aghadoe

Springmount

his is an immaculate lifestyle property set on 16 acres of landscaped parkland with long country views. Armley Park offers four self contained, private boutique villas, each named for one of the seasons. Elegantly designed for your comfort with high ceilings and dormer windows in the steep angled roof for plenty of light and space, while everything you need is right at your fingertips. The interior colour scheme has been kept neutral in soft creams with the exception of a chocolate brown accent wall in the main living area. This adds depth and diversity as well as highlighting such features as the combustion log fireplace and wooden wall unit, which houses the entertainment centre; including satellite TV, DVD and CD players, iPod docking station and a variety of magazines. In your modern kitchen you’ll be able to prepare your first morning’s breakfast from complimentary local provisions such as Istra bacon, Farmhouse muesli and coffee. This is best enjoyed on the sunny front verandah. Your open plan bedroom has a queen size bed with country style wooden bed ends and on the walls are colourful framed limited edition prints. An en suite bathroom leads off to the side of your room, which has a corner spa bath. From your private back terrace you have west views over rolling farmland, which is an ideal spot for barbecue and a great place to enjoy spectacular sunsets. Stroll around the grounds, and visit the resident horses and alpacas, or if you’re feeling more energetic, play a few games of tennis on the professional Modgrass tennis court (balls and rackets are provided). Armley Park is situated in Glenlyon, 10 minutes from Daylesford, renowned in the region for its annual New Year’s Sports Day and Food and Wine Fayre.

Armley Park Autumn, Spring, Summer & Winter Glenlyon

171

ella Vita is situated on 76 acres of land which is used solely by guests. It is located approximately 10 minutes drive from Daylesford and bordered by the Wombat State forest. This idyllic country property is perfect for friends and families and is fully equipped with modern appliances throughout including a state of the art Bose entertainment system, blu-ray and high definition 51 inch television complete with Austar, plus a range of DVDs and CDs. Enjoy an outdoor shower under the stars or the alfresco barbecue area with the bushland as your backdrop. Release your inner gourmand by trying your hand at the onsite pizza oven. You can even

Bella Vita Langdons Hill

pick your own herbs to top your pizza from the herb and vegetable patch. There are split system units (heating and cooling) in the main living room and each of the three king size bedrooms which offer peaceful country views. The en suite bathroom features a heated floor, perfect for those chilly mornings and there is also a sauna adjacent to the main bathroom. Curl up with a book by the fire place, nibble on the complimentary hamper goodies, enjoy the sound of nature, spectacular sunsets, or a spot of stargazing at Bella Vita, it has your every relaxation need covered. 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 6 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Internet | Spa | Telephone | Wood fire

Discover the region’s wines

here are more than 45 wineries and cellar doors in the region. Winding through the countryside you will find a thriving community of dedicated winemakers producing a variety of high quality wines. There are small boutique family-owned vineyards and a handful of larger labels. Many offer lunch and tasting plates so you can view the vines sipping wine and enjoy fresh local produce. Some offer cooking classes, like pizza making, while others have entertainment and a calendar of events to keep visitors and locals entertained year round. Cellar doors can be found in surrounding villages only a few minutes’ drive from Hepburn Springs and Daylesford, including Blampied (Captains Creek Organic Wines), Glenlyon (Ellender Estate, Big Shed Wines, Fontanella Wines), Musk (Passing Clouds, Barcaldine House), Malmsbury (Birthday Villa, Zig Zag Road) Tylden (Chanters Ridge) and Guildford (Limestone Track, Guildford Vineyard). The region has produced wine since the mid 1800’s with the first vineyard of more than 15,000 burgundy and hermitage vines planted around historic Villa Parma in Hepburn Springs. By the turn of the century there were 30 grape growers in the area and these early Swiss-Italian pioneers have influenced the passion in modern-day winemakers who embrace their carefully nurtured cool climate wine varieties. Today, the region is renowned for its sparkling wine ‘Macedon’ and the high altitude cool climate provides perfect conditions for wines like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. But, the diversity of climate also allows production of a wide variety of grapes and wine styles including Nebiollo, Lagrein, Tempranillo, Gewürztraminer besides the traditional bordeaux varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and peppery cold climate Shiraz. A visit to the wineries in Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges will be a journey of discovery that will unearth some hidden gems and truly magnificent wines. For a full list of local wineries, their whereabouts and offerings, pick up a copy of the Daylesford and Macedon Ranges wine touring guide to discover the rich heritage of the region’s wines. Winery touring guides can be found at the local Visitor Information Centre located at 98 Vincent St Daylesford 173

ullarto 124 has been created as a romantic country getaway and embodies both luxury and old world charm. From the outside youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll still be able to appreciate the original facade of this cottage that was built in 1891. Expansive rural countryside views lie beyond the quaint cottage garden that is filled with flowers and fresh fragrances all year round. An enchanting rustic garden shed adds to the propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s authenticity. Interiors are truly refined, with so much comfort you almost feel separated from the real world. Calm and serene colours set the tone for romance. Sit up in your queen sized leather sleigh bed watching movies from the DVD library on the 40 inch LCD TV under the light of the vintage chandelier, or from the soft glow of the bedside lamps. Wake up to sunlight twinkling through antique patterned glass

Bullarto 124 Bullarto

windows. Cuddle up on the soft sofas by the gas log fire in the lounge that is purposely uncluttered with just a few simple Asian artworks and fresh cut flowers. Enjoy a romantic fireside dinner, or dine at the table in the modern kitchen. The back verandah is the perfect spot to enjoy stunning sunsets with a glass of wine, and even when enclosed during the cooler months, guests can still enjoy uninterrupted views. The bathroom is simple and elegant with a contemporary style, featuring a generous two person aero spa and spacious shower all finished with natural earth toned tiles and mosaics. Bullarto 124 gives holidaying couples a memorable experience. If you can drag yourselves away, a leisurely scenic walk through Wombat Forest is bound to fuel your appetite for romance. 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Gas log fire | Spa

unker is a stunning example of sustainable modular architecture. Nestled in the native bush surrounds, a lightly treed setting provides an ambient backdrop to the contemporary interiors. You could be forgiven for thinking that you are miles away from any township as 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 4 Guests Spa | Wood fire 175

Bunker offers seclusion and tranquillity all within a few minutes drive from the Daylesford township. The design concept lends itself to the ideal bush hideaway with large glass sliding doors providing panoramic views of the native bush surrounds.

The main structure comprises of kitchen living and dining area with main bedroom and bathroom. The main structure is linked to a separate en suited bedroom pod via a walkway, offering two couples space and privacy.

Bunker

Outer Daylesford

his property offers guests a unique opportunity to stay within the grounds of one of Australia’s oldest hill stations dating back to 1886. Built by William Cameron during a time when Melbourne’s wealthy social elite were attracted to the beauty and cool climate of Mount Macedon, Cameron Lodge was established with over ten acres of private ornamental gardens. It is tucked away in a private corner of these magnificent gardens and shaded by large trees, that you will find the delightful Cameron Lodge Cottage. With three bedrooms and three bathrooms, Cameron Lodge Cottage can accommodate up to six guests. An additional single bed is also available. Rustic furniture in natural finishes, all sourced locally and collected over the years by owners Steve and Ann, reflect a simple country style. Neutral colours of soft beige and white and the use of natural materials throughout the cottage create an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity. In the lounge, a large comfy sofa with plush throw rugs and soft cushions invites you to sit and stay a while in front of the cosy wood fire. Relax and unwind while reading one of the many gardening and country style books found in the recycled timber chest. The well equipped kitchen has everything you need to prepare delightful meals which can then be enjoyed around the custom made oak dining table seating up to eight guests. Step through French doors to the outside deck area where you can enjoy your own private view of the surrounding gardens and for those looking for something a little more active, guests are welcome to use the onsite tennis court. Out in the garden guests are free to explore the extensive grounds. Early 1900’s stonework terraces, extensive box hedging and topiary are just some of the highlights. Discover the 19th century ‘Temple of the Winds’ pavilion, stroll beneath the wisteria laden arbour and experience the full glory of the changing seasons amongst significant trees, some of which are over 100 years old.

Cameron Lodge Cottage Mount Macedon

astern Banjo was once the Frog Hollow Estate workshop and has now been lovingly converted into a cosy studio with a nostalgic feel. Soft carpets mix with the textured mud brick walls and a rustic steep wood ceiling, made from recycled timber. Sliding antique barn doors, hanging on roller wheels, lead off the bedroom and lounge to outer courtyards. Soft sofas and armchairs position you perfectly in front of the entertainment centre and cosy gas log fire. Light spills through windows detailed with wood frames and chapel arches. Through a short hallway is the dreamy bedroom with a white painted French country style bedroom suite. At night the bedside lamps project a stunning warm glow upon the textured walls. In the corner is a two person spa bath beside the en suite bathroom. Frog Hollow Estate is renowned for its spectacular established trees and gardens, so make sure to leave plenty of time during your stay for exploring the grounds and feeding the ducks. For a special gathering of family and friends Frog Hollow Estate accommodates 10 guests in total.

Frog Hollow Estate Eastern Banjo Outer Daylesford

ana is the Latin word for frog and you may spot the odd frog or tadpole in the duck pond on the property. Rana Retreat is designed for two, but don’t expect to be cramped, as the feeling inside is like a gallery. Walls are lined with texture finished stone work with recycled doors and church windows which complete this unique space. The ceiling has been left exposed so that you can admire the exquisite rustic timber work of wood panelling, beams and trusses. Through the centre are two giant red gum posts. Layout is kept simple, as kitchenette, lounge, dining, and bedroom are all in the one large room, with a deep two person corner spa by the bed. Dotted around are artefacts from the owner’s travels through Asia. Guarding the doorway is a life-sized replica of an ancient Chinese Terracotta Warrior, made in the Shaanxi Provence of China, where the famous Terracotta Army was originally discovered. The lounge has a large highly patterned sofa curving around the wood burning fireplace with stone hearth. Outside is a charming pebble and brick courtyard, with a lovely cottage garden. It’s an ideal spot to soak up the morning sun with a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Through the wooden fence and rusty iron gate you can stroll off and explore the beautiful grounds, with old apple trees, English and Australian natives and a Scottish inspired spiritual circle of stones. For a special gathering of family and friends Frog Hollow Estate accommodates 10 guests in total.

Frog Hollow Estate Rana Retreat

Outer Daylesford

he seed of Frog Hollow Estate grew out of an old apple orchard, when an eccentric English Gentleman took up residency on this two and a half acre property and began constructing buildings from mud brick, timber and stone. Today, many of the original apple trees still stand, alongside a unique assortment of both English and Australian natives. Frog Hollow’s current owners bought the property for themselves and friends to enjoy as they love to soak up the creative energy of the area every time they visit. Some of their friends have had such a good time, they’ve never gone home and moved permanently to Daylesford. The villa is filled with both wide open spaces and intimate private areas, such as the separate sitting room with cane chairs, fireplace, lovely painted wood panel walls and a small chapel arched window. A high gable timber lined roof in the dining and lounge areas adds an extra dimension to these already large rooms. Heat radiates through the lounge due to a uniquely designed triangular shaped stone chimney with Ned Kelly fireplace. Another notable feature is the large covered atrium with lots of glass panes, slate floors and its own fireplace. A perfect area to enjoy a lazy lunch, looking out into the gardens. Wander through the property and you’ll discover evidence of gold miner’s tailings, a mysterious spiritual circle of stones and the large pond is a pleasant spot to sit watching the ducks, native bird life or visiting kangaroos. With three charming bedrooms, the villa can cater for up to six guests. There is also two one bedroom cottages on the property if extra accommodation is required.

Frog Hollow Estate Villa Outer Daylesford

3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 6 Guests BBQ | Spa | Wood fire

Weather

aylesford’s modest elevation (it’s 616m, 2021ft above sea level) makes it cooler than other parts of the state and average temperatures tend to be around 3 to 4 degrees lower. Winter In winter, it is quite cold with the occasional dusting of snow. Between June and August, minimum temperatures range between 3.7ºC and 4.6ºC overnight, with day time maximums between 9.2ºC and 10.5ºC. Spring In the first weeks of spring temperatures can be just as cold as winter, with average minimums between September and November ranging between 5.5ºC and 8.6C overnight, with day time maximums between 10.5ºC and 16.3ºC Summer In summer, average minimums for December to February range between 10.4ºC and 12.1ºC overnight, with day time maximums ranging anywhere up to 40ºC.

Autumn Autumn offers the best balance of sunshine, long days and temperate conditions. Average minimums between March and May range from 6.4ºC to 11ºC overnight, with day time maximums between 13.3ºC and 22ºC.

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ith a name like McGinty in the family, it is easy to spot some Irish heritage in this captivating cottage made from local Castlemaine stone. Yet design influences are also quite Mediterranean. This becomes apparent as you sit at the rustic metal table on the terrace, sipping coffee and gazing out over the treetops and sweeping countryside, with Mount Franklin looming in the distance. It is almost reminiscent of sitting at a little café in a medieval French hilltop village. Like many French and Italian provincial homes, the verandah is not just a place with an outdoor table and chairs; it is more like another room of the house. McGinty’s ‘L’ shaped verandah is just that, you can follow the sun or shade, enjoy any meal of the day in different settings, or simply relax with a good book or glass of wine in one of the big, soft outdoor armchairs. For that true spa country experience, there’s a large outdoor two person designer bath, which can be enjoyed during the day taking in the views, watching and listening to all the native bird life, or on a clear night staring up at the stars. Interiors have been kept simple and classical with antique white walls and ceilings. Entertain at the wooden dining table with high back

cane chairs in front of the glow of the wood fire set in a local stone hearth, or simply lounge on the plush leather sofas watching TV. Large floor tiles in natural stone colour feature throughout, with soft rugs defining areas and adding another layer of texture. Because of the neutral colour scheme, splashes of colour are added with bedroom doonas, throw pillows and cushions in the lounge. These are regularly changed to reflect the colours of the season. All rooms have large double glazed wood framed windows to make the most of the outlook and walls feature original works by local artists. McGinty’s Stone Cottage is set on 10 acres, so there’s lots of room to explore, whether it’s wandering through gum trees and bush, or visiting the old orchard. Kangaroos are regular visitors, along with plenty of other local wildlife. Should you be tempted to venture beyond the property, there are many historical places and scenic drives nearby. Yandoit is only 15 minutes from Daylesford and 20 minutes away from Castlemaine. McGinty’s Stone Cottage is suitable for all guests including couples, friends, families and groups and is ideal for short stays or long breaks.

McGinty’s Stone Cottage Yandoit

ituated on 1000 acres, this grand rural retreat welcomes you in style with a majestic tree-lined entrance and uninterrupted views of the idyllic countryside. Modern comforts and pared back opulence breathe new life into this historic homestead. Light filled interiors seamlessly bring the outdoors in, capturing the lush established and manicured garden surrounds. The original building has been extended over time to create the ideal country estate home, generous with space and comfortable in style. It offers an open plan living area, dining room, kitchen, two bathrooms, entertainment area and full laundry facilities. There are five modern and stylish bedrooms, including master bedroom with en suite. Find Mingela at Drummond, mid-way between the foodie destination of Kyneton and the spa capital of Hepburn Springs. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect choice for a rural getaway. Be captivated by the wide open spaces, fresh country air, tranquil gardens, and star filled skies that await you in the company of friends and family.

Mingela Homestead Drummond

organti’s offers guests a memorable escape in the relaxed surrounds of its quaint rural setting. The heritage façade of the property is reminiscent of Daylesford’s early settlers, drawn to the region during the gold rush in 1860. Beyond the original architecture however, are more recent additions including a relaxed living and dining space that comfortably caters for eight guests. The adjoining sunroom, infused with light is prime position for a morning coffee, or lazy afternoons. A tranquil country setting provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor entertaining by the ornamental lake. Head outdoors for a game of Bocce, try your luck gold panning by the nearby creek, or cook up a storm in the great outdoors by the pizza oven. Set over two levels, the upper level features three bedrooms, including master with en suite and panoramic views over the countryside. The main bathroom and laundry along with two additional bedrooms are also located on this level and one bedroom offers the option of a king bed or two single beds. Downstairs, a fourth bedroom with en suite, off the main living area, also offers flexible bedding with the option of king bed or two singles.

Morganti’s Eganstown

4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 8 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Wood fire

his property is an architecturally designed, mod con masterpiece which offers a funky retro interior, groovy garden art and boasts an array of sustainable credentials. Its name is derived from the aboriginal term meaning â&#x20AC;&#x153;beautiful viewâ&#x20AC;?. Based on sustainable design principles that minimise environmental impact, max-

imise year round comfort and reduce running costs, Omaroo has been built with sustainability and comfort in mind. Internally, the open plan living, dining and kitchen area enjoy picturesque countryside vistas and separate the two bedroom wings. Opening onto expansive decking and garden areas, the peaceful interior flows seamlessly through to the ambient outdoors.

2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 4 Guests | Air conditioning BBQ | Wood fire 185

The property is ideal for longer stays, with a fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities. Omaroo is located in the cute hamlet of Glenlyon, 10 minutes from Daylesford. The Glenlyon General Store, which serves breakfast, lunch and great coffee, is only a five minute walk away.

Omaroo

Glenlyon

Lemon, Lime and Bitters Argus Style

he legendary lemon, lime and bitters has some competition with this deliciously refreshing taste sensation designed by Chef David Willcocks from The Argus Dining Room. The revitalising beverage does take a bit of preparation, but it’s worth it! Ingredients • 1Lt Mineral water • 100g Sugar • Peel and pith of 1 orange • 1 Lemongrass • 5 Kafir lime leaves • 50ml Lime juice • 20ml Lemon Juice • 40ml Gin • 15ml Campari Method In a pot place together mineral water, sugar, orange peel with its pith, lemon grass and lime leaves. Over a medium heat bring it to a boil and then turn it off. Allow the liquid to cool with the aromats. Once cooled you can strain and add the juices and the alcohol. Serve in a chilled glass, garnish with a slice of orange.

wigs is a small jewel nestled amongst the quaint rural streetscape of local provedores and shops on the high street of the charming village of Trentham. Trentham used to be a well kept secret, but not any more. Just an hour from Melbourne, this idyllic village is situated in the famous triangle of Kyneton, Woodend and Daylesford and it is only a 20 minute drive to each town. If you are looking for a destination that is an experience in its own right, this is the perfect house. From the moment you walk in the front door you know it will be a special experience staying here. After perusing the library and choosing your weapon of choice - architecture, art, or perhaps cooking - you can completely relax in the expansively inviting couches in front of the fire. With many different areas to cosy up or dine in, you may be inspired to do your own master chef experience and cook up a storm in the superb kitchen. If you venture out the front door of Twigs you will find many famous foodies ready to tempt you within short walking distance. Retail therapy may be hard to resist when you delight in discovering the unique and eclectic shops on offer. There is everything you might need at Twigs including picnic rugs and blankets so you can wander down to the lake and count the ducks, and gumboots and a brolly for those rainy days. All you need to do, is enjoy.

1 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 2 Guests | Air conditioning Eco smart fire 187

Twigs on High Trentham

Directions From Melbourne via the Western Freeway

From Melbourne via the Calder Highway

From Melbourne Airport (MEL) via the Calder Highway

113km • 85 minutes Take the Westgate Freeway (M1) towards Geelong, and then join the Western Ring Road (M80). Take the Western Freeway (M8) towards Ballarat, and follow this road until you see the turnoff towards Daylesford (C141). Continue straight through Daylesford.

118km • 95 minutes Take Citylink (M2) north towards Melbourne Airport. Take the Calder Highway turnoff towards Bendigo (M79). Follow this road until you see the turnoff towards Daylesford (C792). Follow the signage to Daylesford. Take this road to Woodend and then Tylden, where you will be directed to turn towards Daylesford and Trentham (C318). At Trentham turn right (C317) and follow to Daylesford.

93km • 90 minutes Exit from the airport following signs for the Tullamarine Freeway (M2) heading north towards Sunbury. This becomes Sunbury Road (C743). In Sunbury turn left at the Horne St roundabout, then turn right at the Gap Rd roundabout. Follow Gap Rd and join the Calder Highway (M79) and drive north towards Bendigo, then follow directions for Calder Highway. Follow this road until you see the turnoff towards Daylesford (C792). Follow the signage to Daylesford. Take this road to Woodend and then Tylden, where you will be directed to turn towards Daylesford and Trentham (C318). At Trentham turn right (C317) and follow to Daylesford.

Daylesford Melbourne Airport

Melbourne

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It all began with a search for a weekend retreat...

ayget is part of Spa Country - operated by co-owners Chris Malden and Wayne Cross. The business started from humble beginnings 14 years ago when Chris and Wayne visited the region in search of a weekend retreat in Daylesford. Just over an hours drive from Melbourne, the pair saw Daylesford as an escape from their busy city lives. Their search for a peaceful haven led them to a rundown Tudor style reception centre/café in Hepburn Springs which they purchased and began to restore. By the mid 90’s, Chris and Wayne were creating more weekend getaway properties in the region, in what was the beginnings of their first business venture in Daylesford. They realised their contemporary, architectural-based style was just what the region needed as savvy city dwellers were looking for elegant and contemporary properties for weekends away. As the business grew, Wayne’s parents Brian and Heather Cross were recruited as property managers and Dayget, then Daylesford Getaways, was officially launched, providing guests with Australia’s first complete online accommodation booking and payment system. With a rapidly growing portfolio of holiday rental property owners, Chris and Wayne moved permanently to the area and took the opportunity to improve accommodation options in the region further with the purchase of the historic 1930’s icon, The Mineral Springs Hotel (now Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat). A few years later, they then acquired the adjacent heritage listed ‘Villa Parma’. Chris and Wayne have since added farming to their repertoire, running Birch Estate, a 400 acre farm in nearby Smeaton The vision was to supply homegrown produce to their restaurant and hotel in Hepburn Springs. Today, with over 100 head of rare breed cattle and sheep, over 400 fruit tees, citrus trees and a large vegetable plot producing seasonal favourites, they are able to offer their guests a true ‘paddock to plate’ experience with quality, homegrown produce used throughout the menus at The Argus Dining Room and Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat.

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Property A to Z

Ablac Studio Wheatsheaf Absolute Daylesford Aghadoe Springmount Airlie Daylesford Allspice Daylesford All Views Daylesford Alofi Hepburn Springs Alvie Daylesford Alyonah Daylesford Amaris Daylesford Amici Daylesford Amphoria Hepburn Springs Arcturus Star Hepburn Springs Argyle Daylesford Armley Park Autumn, Spring, Summer & Winter Glenlyon Artisan Hepburn Springs Ashling Hepburn Springs Bella Springs Hepburn Springs Bella Vita Langdons Hill Belle Maison Daylesford Boatshed House Daylesford Boatshed Villas Green Door & Yellow Door Daylesford Breakneck Gorge Retreat Hepburn Springs Bullarto 124 Bullarto Bunker Outer Daylesford Cabrito Daylesford Cameron Lodge Cottage Mount Macedon Casa Mia Daylesford Charlies Daylesford Circa 1, 2 & 3 Daylesford Courbe Daylesford Courthouse Kimberley Daylesford Courthouse Merindah Daylesford Courthouse Orchid Villa Daylesford Courthouse Zen Suite 10 Daylesford Daruma Ryokan Hepburn Springs Daylesford Lake Villa 1 Daylesford Daylesford Lake Villa 2 Daylesford Daylesford Spa Villa 1 Daylesford Daylesford Spa Villa 2 Daylesford Daylesford Spa Villa 3 Daylesford Daylesford Spa Villa 4 Daylesford

168 10 169 11 13 12 116 14 15 16 18 117 118 19 171 119 120 121 172 20 23 24 122 174 175 26 176 27 28 30 32 33 34 35 36 123 37 38 39 40 41 42

Daylesford Spa Villa 5 Daylesford Daylesford Spa Villa 6 Daylesford Deckhaus Hepburn Springs Dee Jay’s Studio Hepburn Springs Duck’s Bay Daylesford Dukes Cottage Daylesford Eastern View Retreat Daylesford Eastern View Studio Daylesford Eastern View Villa Daylesford Elira 1 & 2 Daylesford Finzi Contini Hepburn Springs French Doors Daylesford Frog Hollow Estate Eastern Banjo Outer Daylesford Frog Hollow Estate Rana Retreat Outer Daylesford Frog Hollow Estate Villa Outer Daylesford Gables Bend Apartment Daylesford Gables Bend Studio Daylesford Gables Bend Villa Daylesford Harlequin Daylesford Harmony Hepburn Springs Harts Lane House Daylesford Harts Lane Studio Daylesford Hazelnut Chalet Daylesford Hepburn Spa Pavilion Horizon & Saffron Hepburn Springs Hepburn View Hepburn Springs Hill House Daylesford Hisha Daylesford Holly Lodge Daylesford Illuminate Hepburn Springs Interlude Daylesford Katherine Hepburn Springs Kilcoan Cottage Daylesford Kookaburra Ridge Hepburn Springs Kuca Slate Daylesford Kuca Stone Daylesford Lake Daylesford Country House Daylesford Lake Daylesford Lodge 2 Daylesford Lake Daylesford Lodge 3 Daylesford Lake Daylesford Lodge 4 Daylesford Lake Daylesford Lodge 5 Daylesford Lake Daylesford Lodge 6 Daylesford Lake Daylesford Lodge 7 Daylesford

43 44 126 128 45 46 47 48 49 50 130 52 178 179 180 53 54 55 56 131 58 59 60 132 134 61 62 64 135 67 136 68 137 69 71 72 74 75 76 77 78 79

Lakefront Daylesford Lakeleigh Daylesford Lakeside Villa 1 Daylesford Lakeside Villa 2 Daylesford Lakeview Daylesford Lakevista Daylesford Lakewood Daylesford Langdon House & Studio Daylesford Luxe on Queensberry Daylesford McGinty’s Stone Cottage Yandoit Milk & Honey Daylesford Millar Daylesford Mineral Spa Villas 1 Bedroom Hepburn Springs Mineral Spa Villas 2 Bedroom Hepburn Springs Mingela Homestead Drummond Morganti’s Eganstown Mount Olive Daylesford Oak House & Studio Hepburn Springs Oblique Hepburn Springs Omaroo Glenlyon Peppercorn Daylesford Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat Hepburn Springs Piccadilly House Daylesford Piccolo Hepburn Springs Plonk Daylesford Provence Spa Villa 1 & 2 Hepburn Springs Queensberry Heights Daylesford Red Earth Clay Daylesford Red Earth Rock Daylesford Replete Hepburn Springs Ruby’s Amethyst Cottage Daylesford Ruby’s Garden Cottage Daylesford Sadiki Spa Villa Daylesford Sanctum Hepburn Springs Schafhalle Hepburn Springs Slippery Rock Hepburn Springs Sonoma House & Stables Daylesford Summer Haven Cottage Daylesford Swiss Mt Villa 1 Hepburn Springs

80 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 91 182 92 93 140 142 183 184 94 144 145 185 96 146 97 149 98 150 99 100 101 152 102 103 104 153 154 155 105 106 156

Swiss Mt Villa 2 Hepburn Springs Swiss Mt Villa 3 Manarre Hepburn Springs Swiss Mt Villa 4 Maison Hepburn Springs

157 158 159

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Swiss Mt Villa 5 Balneo Hepburn Springs 160 The Acorn Daylesford 107 108 The Garden House Daylesford Tooraloora Hepburn Springs 161 Twigs on High Trentham 187 Villa Parma Hepburn Springs 162 Villino Hepburn Springs 164 Walnut Chalet 4 Daylesford 110 Wattleglen Daylesford 111 Wombat Barn Daylesford 112 York House Daylesford 113 Zen Pavilion Hepburn Springs 165

STYLE SPACES Acknowledgements Creating Style Spaces would not be possible without the hard work and inspiration the property owners put into creating their beautiful homes away from home in the Dayget portfolio. The region is all the more amazing because of them. Thank you to the team that brought Style Spaces to life in the first edition, and the patience of all involved in bringing together this edition. Special thanks go to Chris Malden and Wayne Cross for their tireless vision for Dayget to provide the highest quality service and accommodation, and the Dayget staff. Tim Loft for his commitment to photographing the Dayget properties. Ingrid Sanders for editing, writing and proofing, Jennifer Anderson for project coordination, writing, editing and the occasional photography, Digby Banks for design and production coordination. Thank you’s are also extended to Michael Bain for proof reading, Donna Todd for photography, the Visions of Victoria image library and to the unknown photographers for your images that property owners have provided to us. Front cover: Hepburn Spa Pavilions. Back cover: Cabrito

© 2013 Spa Country, Daylesford. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any other information storage and retrieval system, without prior permission in writing from the copyright owners, Spa Country. Any copy of this book made available for sale, subject to the condition that it shall not by way of trade or otherwise be lent, resold, hired out or otherwise circulated without the copyright owners’ prior consent in any form of binding or cover other than that in which is published and without a similar condition including these words being imposed on a subsequent purchaser.