Castella Country Retreat

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Entire home

Front Porch - lovely for breakfast and wine o'clock

Front garden - one of many places to sit and relax or enjoy a meal

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

Parking available

Washer

Barbecue grill

Kitchen

Air conditioning

Fireplace

Explore the area

Castella, VIC

Kinglake G134 Bushland Reserve
3 min drive
Sutherland Estate Winery
8 min drive
De Bortoli - Yarra Valley
11 min drive

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

2 Single Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Ensuite

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Garden

Dining Area

About this property

Castella Country Retreat - Mudbrick

A peaceful retreat, set on 7 acres of land adjoining Kinglake National Park. It is located in a secluded valley in the heart of the Yarra Valley, just a little over an hours drive from Melbourne's CBD.

Our 40 year old mud brick holiday house (which has been recently updated) is full of character and charm and comfortably furnished for groups of up to 8. Four bedrooms, two spacious living areas on 7 acres provides plenty of space for 8 guests both inside and out. A well equipped kitchen and dining table for 8 means you don't even need to go out if a lazy weekend away is what you are after.

Wake to the laugh of the kookaburras (and a kangaroo or two feeding in the paddocks if your early enough) and enjoy an array of birdlife which fill the stringybark gums throughout the day. You will be able to hand feed Nathan, the resident magpie, if you bring a little ham with you and Harry and Apu, the alpacas, love a snack of lucerne (provided). Staying at the Castella Country Retreat is a fabulous way to enjoy the Yarra Valley and the great Australian Bush.

Linen is provided, however you do NEED TO BRING YOUR OWN TOWELS.

Sorry, pets and parties are NOT allowed.
Smoking is NOT permitted inside.
The property is not considered suitable for young children.

There is a lot to do and see in the area, local attractions include:

Wineries & Restaurants
Bush walking in the National Parks
Yerring Station (with farmers market)
Yarra Valley Dairy
Four Pillars Gin Distillery
Tarra Warra Art Museum & Winery
Yara Glen & Healesville Races
St Andrews weekly Saturday market
Brunos Garden Art & Sculpture in Marysville
RACV Country Golf Club
Quaint local towns
Antique shops of Yarra Glen

Otherwise the 7 acres of land provides with you with lots of nature and space to wonder and enjoy.

Property manager

Niki Glynn

Premier Host

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

Parking available

Barbecue grill

Similar properties

Pool

Hot tub

Kitchen

Washer

House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM

Check out before 12:00 PM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Parties or gatherings of any sort are not allowed either inside or outside of the property.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Castella

Located in Castella, this holiday home is in a rural area. Sutherland Estate Winery and Shantell Vineyard are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Kinglake National Park and Kinglake G134 Bushland Reserve. Alowyn Gardens and Yarra Valley Chocolaterie are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Castella, VIC

What's nearby

De Bortoli - Yarra Valley - 11 min drive
Fergusson Winery & Restaurant - 13 min drive
Yarra Valley Chocolaterie - 14 min drive
Healesville Sanctuary - 25 min drive
Rochford Wines Yarra Valley - 27 min drive

Restaurants

‪Sutherland Estate - ‬8 min drive
‪De Bortoli Winery - ‬13 min drive
‪Cappa Rossi's - ‬10 min drive
‪Shantell Vineyard Cellar Door - ‬8 min drive
‪De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate - ‬13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Castella Country Retreat - Mudbrick pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Castella Country Retreat - Mudbrick?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Castella Country Retreat - Mudbrick?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Castella Country Retreat - Mudbrick located?

Situated in a rural location, this holiday home is steps from Kinglake National Park and 1.5 mi (2.5 km) from Kinglake G134 Bushland Reserve. Sutherland Estate Winery and Shantell Vineyard are also within 6 miles (10 km).

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Clifford T.

4 Aug 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful, very comfortable.

Loved our time at the property. Everything we needed was provided and its a very lovely environment.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

S S.

8 July 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cosy, comfortable, spacious and impeccably clean!

Thanks Niki, such a lovely rustic home in great condition. It was a great cosy winter long weekend, the fireplace was so efficient at keeping us all warm, enormous double glazed windows over looking the garden, comfortable beds with great quality doonas. Well appointed kitchen, we were grateful for the spices and oil provided. We brought our own coffee machine! We were grateful for the big 8 seater dining table. Huge property for the kids to roam over. Highly recommended!!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

Liz S.

3 June 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Enjoyed a wonderful winter girls weekend escape here - cosy and comfortable and in beautiful surroundings. The fireplace and plentiful firewood was very much appreciated as it was freezing inside when we arrived. Take a torch is you’re arriving after dark to locate the keys etc. Note that the main bathroom is the ensuite , with a shower toilet and basin in the laundry. We loved our stay and exploring all the sights of neighbouring Kinglake.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tracey S.

12 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend Getaway

Property was a great size and met the needs of 2 families. Fully equipped kitchen & laumdry. Feeding resident alpacas was a bonus for the kids. Thanks for supplying ample firewood, & matches to keep us warm all weekend.. Highly recommend this as a family escape.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ayme W.

27 Apr 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous home

We absolutely loved our time! From the moment we pulled in the drive the kids were so relaxed and just loved the outdoor space. We can’t wait to head back.

Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ian C., Australia

5 Jan 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

With the Yarra Valley and Kinglake National Park, literally on your back doorstep. Pure heaven!!

The location, amenities, eco awareness and overall fit of the property are second to none! With a National Park literally at your back doorstep and the wonders of the Yarra Valley but 10 minutes away, this place is truly beautiful and amazing. Nature is your neighbour and Nicki an amazing host. You can do nothing but surrender to relaxation at its best. I would return in a heartbeat and highly recommend this as a must do family chill out session. 6 out of 5 ✨ if it is possible. Congratulations on your beautiful property and what you and your partner have created.

Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ashleigh B.

8 Oct 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful Paradise

We really enjoyed our stay, such a great property, experience and atmosphere. The wildlife and alpacas were a great little bonus. Staying at such a comfy and relaxing house made our weekend even better. Many games of hide and seek, spot the ducks and exploring through the gardens were had, with the special experience of meeting a horse along the road as a neighbour went for a ride. Was a great stay.

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

John V.

9 Sept 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great weekend away!

Booked this property for a quiet weekend away. Comfortably accommodated two families consisting of 4 adults and 4 children. Property was lovely and well maintained. Comfy beds, couches and warm wood fire heater. If i was being picky, the only cons were there was no food to feed the alpacas and there was a small leak from the kitchen skylight. This only lasted about 10 mins during a heavy hail storm on the second day. Other than these minor things we all enjoyed our time here and hope to stay again in the future.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sally W.

1 Sept 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect weekend retreat

Honestly cannot fault this property - from the house itself, to the location, and beyond! We had such a wonderful stay and we cannot wait to come back again. Thank you Niki for being such a wonderful host and letting us stay at your property.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Carin L.

7 Aug 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming home full of character and comfort

We had a wonderful four night stay, and rest at this lovely home, within easy reach of Melbourne. The fire is superb and Niki and Anthony generously make their wood available for a constant supply. For one day we simply sat by it and read, bliss. The home itself is spacious, full of character and charm, with a lovely aspect front and back and all necessities at hand. We had great fun feeding Apu and Harry, the alpacas, and met Nathan the magpie on our last day. We could easily have stayed longer, thank you Niki and Anthony for making your lovely holiday home available to us. We hope to be back one day.

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

ILIA F.

15 July 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice and cozy house in a beautiful location

Only an hour and a half drive from Melbourne, it's a very well-maintained and comfortable house. Even though we stayed during winter, I think it will be even better during summer time. I highly recommend this place if you need some quiet time away from the city. The owners are friendly and easy to deal with as well.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Natasha G.

20 Apr 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolute perfection

We are sad to leave this beautiful property today. We honestly had the best time. It was the perfect place to spend our Easter with 3 young boys. The attention to detail of this property was second to none. The gardens and landscaping is incredible. The cleanliness was exceptional. Location wise, it was the perfect distance to Melbourne, the Yarravalley chocolatier and many other fantastic family friendly places. We will definitely be rebooking in the future.

Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tony M.

13 Apr 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful place

Fantastic place to stay, even better than the photos, we enjoyed the fireplace, the beautiful garden and feeding the alpacas. There are also many great places to explore nearby. Got lost on the Tanglefoot track (beautiful track - but confusingly marked) and a neighbour helped my in-laws find us, so great neighbours as well!! Memorable trip!!

Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Vivienne M.

25 Mar 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thank you for the wonderful stay.

We stayed with friends whilst attending a wedding and had a wonderful time at this lovely property. Great communication with owner too. Thank you

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

8/10 Good

Thomas M.

9 Jan 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Niki was lovely and we enjoyed our stay

The house was nice. Kids loved the animals. Very relaxing

Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Deb P.

30 Dec 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful secluded property

We had a lovely time here with the family over Christmas. The house is welcoming, spacious and well equipped. Loved the outdoor dining options, the gardens and the wildlife. Looking forward to coming back!

Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Michelle D.

15 Nov 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous getaway - Nov 2021

We had a lovely relaxing stay at Castella - the property is absolutely perfect with everything you need for a relaxing weekend away - lovely gardens and we were able to feed the king parrots and alpacas - not far from some great wineries and our hosts were on hand with help when we locked ourselves out. Would highly recommend and will stay again

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Nadia A.

24 Apr 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property

We loved our stay with the beautiful surrounds; and wonderful home for children and adults alike.

10/10 Excellent

DANIEL S.

14 Apr 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great!

Wonderful place and so very relaxing. My daughter LOVED the alpacas! Thanks for having us!

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Dan G.

10 Mar 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Long weekend escape w kids & friends.

The Castella country retreat was a perfect getaway location for our young family of 4 and another family of 4 (friends of ours). It’s just above Dixon’s creek in the Yarra Valley. The nearest winery is Sutherland Estate, which is also worth a visit for the Tempranillo and the views! The accommodation in Castella was perfect for the 8 of us. The house was warm and beds were very comfy. Plenty of birds, a couple of alpacas and the occasional duck and kangaroo all live on and around the property. We will likely return if & when the opportunity presents itself again. A relaxing and homely vibe in the forest. 🍷

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

QC N.

3 Feb 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing getaway with alpacas

We stayed for a long weekend and had a wonderful time! The house was clean and spacious, 8 adults fit very comfortably. The kitchen had everything we needed, and we had a great time feeding the shy but friendly alpacas! We saw plenty of birds and bunnies, and the house was in a great location to visit nearby venues. Niki was a joy to deal with, she was always super quick to reply and very detailed with anything we needed! We'd love to stay again.

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Azeem T.

2 Jan 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A STAY CLOSE TO NATURE

Absolutely loved this place.... so serene and close to nature especially in the morning when the only thing you hear is birds singing. Can’t think of a better way to wake up in the morning. Perfect place to unwind. The house was very neat and cosy. If you’re looking for some quietness away from the daily rush and stress this is the place for you....

Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Mark L.

2 Jan 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Another great stay at Castella

This is our second time at this property and we love it. Great property with some renovations that have been completed since our first stay that made it even better. We love the location of this property and provides plenty of space to enjoy the house and the bush setting. NIki has been fantastic with her communications to us and has been a delight to deal with. We will be staying again. Thanks, Mark and Sally

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Ann S.

10 Mar 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic house with everything you could ever need.

Great place, well equipped lovely and clean. Perfect for what we needed for attending a wedding.

10/10 Excellent

ELLEN B.

10 Mar 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous house and stay

We stayed here for a family wedding at Dixons Creek. There were seven of us so Castella Country Retreat suited us perfectly. Communication with Niki was easy and we were able to check in earlier so we could get ready for the wedding. The house is huge with 4 good size bedrooms, plenty of sitting room, and a beautiful coonara all ready to be lit for those cooler nights. Breakfast in the morning out the back was beautiful, with a resident magpie always eager to accompany us whenever we went outside. Magnus and Harry (the two alpacas) are so gorgeous, albeit a tad shy, but got used to us if we fed them a bit of hay. The grounds are superb and well looked after, we were so lucky with the weather, we were able to lounge outside on Saturday arvo under the beautiful trees. I cannot rate this property highly enough and will be recommending it to anyone that wants to stay up that way. Thank you Niki.