Just up the road from the centre of Woodend, tucked behind a white picket fence you’ll find The Barn Woodend – a darling, spacious, light-filled barn with soaring cathedral ceilings and French doors leading to a sunny private courtyard. Believed to be dating back to the mid 20th century, The Barn has been lovingly renovated to include everything you need for a relaxing mini break at the base of Mount Macedon, the perfect base for exploring all the region has to offer.

What we love about The Barn, Woodend: Opposite the toasty wood heater in the open plan lounge room, above the comfy, loungy, couches, the central wall of The Barn features some stunning art by one of my favourite local artists – Tia Alysse. You can book in to do a painting class with Tia which she runs from her Malmsbury studio on weekends – just a 20 minute drive from The Barn.

Snuggle up in a beautifully Restored Train Caboose overlooking one of the most picturesque vineyards in the Daylesford / Macedon Ranges region. Just 5 minutes from the quaint little town of Malmsbury and a scenic 25 minute drive from Daylesford, this original 1950s “red rattler” guardsman’s carriage has been lovingly renovated with everything you need for a cosy weekend away, including a toasty indoor wood heater and a sunny north-facing deck overlooking the vineyard and undulating “Belltoper” forest beyond.

What we love about The Caboose: It’s a caboose! And it’s at our absolute favourite local vineyard.  Whenever we guests stay, we head to Zig Zag for a wine tasting, then sit on the deck with a couple of bottles under the vines and enjoy a long and lazy Daylesford Picnic Box lunch as the sun sets over the vineyard.

Set on the grounds of the beautiful Lauriston Hills Estate; a 104 acre working farm & vineyard, the Cottage at Honeysuckle Farm is a peaceful escape just over an hour from Melbourne. Tastefully restored while retaining it’s historic charm, this early 1900’s cottage sleeps up to guests.

What we love about Honeysuckle Cottage: Relaxing by the fire-pit in the twilight overlooking the windmill field or bathe under the stars in the antique claw foot bath & rain shower!

Dolly’s Lyonville is a beautifully renovated and stylish 2-bedroom mid century cottage located in the centre of Lyonville, perfectly positioned between Daylesford & Trentham (and just a short stroll away from one of the best country pubs in Australia – The Radio Springs Hotel (one of our favourite local gems!)

What we love about Dolly’s: Sitting out on the deck over-looking the lovely mountain view or keeping cosy in the fresh air in front of the outdoor fire.

Briars Cottage and Briars Loft are two beautifully appointed 2-bedroom cottages maximising privacy and perfect for a romantic weekend, or a mid-week escape. The cottages ooze style and charm, with magnificent bush views of Doctors Gully.

What we love about Briars Cottage: Briars Cottage has a hot tub on the deck overlooking the bush – the perfect way to end a busy day exploring the local region.

Omaroo offers a rural escape with suberb vistas, pink sunsets and star-lit night. This stunning, architecturally designed 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom retreat in Glenlyon is surrounded by peaceful countryside, where kangaroos graze in the next door paddock.

What we love about Omaroo: The central double-sided fireplace warms both the kitchen and the lounge area, and the famous Glenlyon General Store is just a 5-minute walk away!

Celebrating the rich heritage of South Africa, Zulu Land Studio is an enchanting studio getaway that conjures African cultures, rich palates, and ancient artefacts. Perfect for an intimate getaway or solo retreat, Zulu Land has a large deck with views over the valley – a secluded oasis depicting the African Savanna (except often with kangaroos!)

What we love about Zulu Land: A percentage of your stay at Zulu Land will be gifted to 500 Elephants, an organisation dedicated to the health and protection of African elephants in Malawi.

As soon as you step inside the rustic façade of Wilde Cherry Music House, you’re immediately transported into a music-lover’s dream! Accommodating up to 4 guests across 3 bedrooms, the eclectic collection of Jazz and Rock memorabilia, records and CDs spanning the 60s, 70s and 80s, will engross you in a weekend of rock-star prestige and stardom!

What we love about Wilde Cherry: A percentage of your stay at Wilde Cherry is donated to Support Act – an Australian charity supporting musicians and their families, particularly after the recent COVID hardships.

17Pounds Country Estate is situated on the forest edge between Daylesford and Trentham and features the beautifully appointed Shillings & Pence Cottage. Surrounded by old trees and ferns, you will be enchanted by the sounds and perfumes of nature. The estate grounds has a private creek and four walking trails, so all you have to do is step outside of your luxury accommodation to experience your own private piece of the Wombat State Forest.

What we love about 17Pounds: The Pavilion by the waters edge is the perfect place to enjoy an intimate, private picnic in style and comfort!

Acre of Roses in Trentham has been described as ‘a spellbinding flower-filled retreat’, and is one of Australian Traveller magazine’s Unique Hidden Gems in their coveted list of 100 unique stays. Situated in the middle of a whimsical rose garden, you’ll find The Potting Shed, an old working garden shed turned cosy adults-only studio that honours its horticultural heritage. Also on site is the luxurious wellness escape – The Miner’s Cottage’, a ‘Hamptons-meets-country’ 2-bedroom 1860s Miners Cottage, fully restored with all the mod cons.

What we love about Acre of Roses: Your dog can stay with you in The Potting Shed, and when you stay in the The Miner’s Cottage you can relax in a rainwater filled cedar hot tub!

Lawson Lodge Country Estate in the stunning Macedon Ranges is the ultimate retreat destination. With beautiful group accommodation nestled in a quiet bush setting, it is one of Victoria’s premier mountain lodges. Offering an outstanding range of features, including a private golf course, cinema, fire pit, outdoor dining spaces, private sports bar, fishing lakes with water sports and panoramic views. Whether you are looking for a golf weekend, relaxing family holiday, large group accommodation, boutique conference venue, or a base to explore this beautiful region, it’s all here in one place.

What we love about Lawson Lodge Country Estate: You can stay in a gorgeous Moroccan style glamping tent where you can really take in the distinct sounds and scents of the Australian bush.

Daylesford Country Retreats is an exciting mix of over 90 properties showcasing the variety of accommodation available in the Daylesford/Hepburn Springs region. Their properties range from spectacular examples of mid-century style architecture; complete with polished concrete floors, soaring ceilings and natural light, to rustic miners’ cottages with wood fires burning.

What we love about Daylesford Country Retreats: Their website makes it easy for you to search for properties with spas and hot tubs, fireplaces, and dog-friendly properties!

Discover Daylesford is your one stop shop to stay, explore, relax and indulge in and around Daylesford. Whether you’re a day tripper, weekender or holidaymaker, Discover Daylesford can help you plan your trip to Spa country. Explore their carefully curated property portfolio designed for every type of traveller and budget.

What we love about Discover Daylesford: In addition to booking one of their gorgeous properties, via their website you can easily plan all other areas of your Daylesford trip, including food & shopping, things to do, spa & wellness, weddings & events, and more!