australian PLACES...great weekends away in Victoria
accommodation review
WOMBAT HILLS COTTAGES
near MANSFIELD
The long, winding bush track to Stringybark Creek was one that Ned Kelly took before his deadly meeting with the police – and his eventual capture, conviction and demise back in 1880. A journey today along the Old Tolmie Road leads to Wombat Hills Cottages, where a log fire crackles in the hearth and homemade cake and fragrant East Timor coffee await. I have stayed here several times and know this is true!
Helen and Norm Hookey’s cottages are built high on the brow of the Wombat Hills, just to the north of Mansfield, and they take advantage of a vast panorama of green-tinged valleys and, in winter, snow-capped ranges around Mount Buller.
Built from stone quarried on site, the two studio style cottages are built as relaxing, luxurious retreats for two. They’re furnished with comfort in mind – double spa, queen bed, comfy sofa by the fire, stone floors covered by Persian rugs, dining table, biscuits and other nibbles in the kitchen, and a choice of breakfast goodies. Though they’re self-contained and have all requisites for cooking, Helen has developed a dinner menu for guests; selected meals are pre-cooked and left in the fridge with simple heating instructions - a great idea for those arriving late in the day. A good selection of regional wines means venturing ten minutes to a Mansfield pub is unnecessary.
Apart from a picturesque lake with over-water gazebo, the property has several hectares of pretty gardens alongside natural bushland where kangaroos, echidnas and wombats roam freely. Bird life includes the rarely seen satin bowerbird; guests are invited to visit the wildlife rescue centre located near the cottages.
WHERE: 55 Lochiel Road, Barwite, north-east of Mansfield, about three hours drive from Melbourne via Maroondah Hwy.
HOW MUCH: from $165/night midweek, two night minimum, cottage only. Breakfast hamper extra. Mention Australian Places when you book and you'll receive a complimentary bottle of local wine on arrival.
CONTACT: Phone (03)5776 9507