Apartment

SECLUDED, QUIET, PRIVATE "FERNDALE" B&B Farm Stay 5mins to BUNDANOON or EXETER

Photo gallery for SECLUDED, QUIET, PRIVATE "FERNDALE" B&B Farm Stay 5mins to BUNDANOON or EXETER

Miscellaneous
Point of interest
Property grounds
Property grounds
Outdoor dining

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bathroomSleeps 485 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Outdoor space
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Breakfast included

Explore the area

Map
Exeter, NSW
  • St. Maur Wines
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Santi Forest Monastery
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Glow Worm Glen
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Nowra, NSW (NOA)
    ‪88 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

0 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Futon

1 bathroom

bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

SECLUDED, QUIET, PRIVATE "FERNDALE" B&B Farm Stay 5mins to BUNDANOON or EXETER

"Ferndale" is a large, private and very quiet, fully self-contained, stylish studio, appointed graciously with comfortable furniture and accessories.

Nestled on 200 acres of rural farmlands, its charm is enhanced with landscapes of rolling highland views, grazing pastures, native bush and a secret rain forest. Our farm is a genuine working cattle stud with an organic olive grove and veggie patch, handled always with a sympathetic approach towards our environment and locale.
We're ever mindful of the responsibilities and sensitive demands of farming; our animals (Wagyu cattle & miniature Shetland ponies) reside quietly as our friends, our lawn-mowers and our compost makers.

The apartment exudes warming and homely tones with electric blankets, fully insulated floors, walls & ceilings, block-out curtains and dependable gas heating, creating such an ambiance you'll want to snuggle up, feeling cosy and secure, day or night.

We are proud to consider our location a DARK SKY PRESERVE (an international protocol describing a stringent standard of no light pollution...we maintain and protect our naturally dark night skies from artificial light pollution).
Dark sky definitions quoted ~~~google/wikipedia :
"Dark Sky Reserve: A public or private area with exceptional starry skies that's protected for scientific, educational, and other purposes.
Dark skies for DarkSky International: Skies where the Milky Way is visible on a typical night.

Feel spoiled in the spacious bedroom with French provincial queen bed and furniture, crisp, ironed linen, complimentary fluffy dressing-robes, toasty duvets and electric blankets, all of which repel even the chilliest Highland frost.

The bathroom features a large shower, vanity and toilet, heated towel rail and heating lights. We promote careful consumption of water using the latest energy-saving bathroom accessories as we are fully self-sufficient, collecting only fresh rainwater for domestic use.

The modern kitchen is intended for self-catering purposes with ample cooking facilities and equipment. A convenient BBQ is also available for your use.

Continental breakfast provisions are included in the tariff. Feel relaxed upon waking as your provisions are readily available; you can please yourself when you'd like to breakfast. Our late check-out (1pm) assures a restful and unhurried meal and relaxed mood after a leisurely sleep-in.

Use the sun deck for outdoor dining and relaxing. It invites you total involvement with your country experience ~ fresh, restful & hearty country living is completely natural ~ gaze over the fields of dynamic grasses and an ancient apple orchard as you breathe in the cleanest of air.... it's nature's tonic for humanity, especially those who endure tension and anxiety during working days. Stress is eased and banished, just by gazing at happy cows munching.

The living area is large with comfortable spaces, inclusive of DVD; TV; CD, complimentary movie & reading libraries and board games. Wi-Fi is not offered but works perfectly via your personal account.

Quality curtains, a gorgeous Persian silk rug and limed, cedar-wood blinds ensure total comfort and absolute privacy.
Parking is secure with easy-access. The studio is 500mts along our private road, guaranteeing the safety of your vehicle.

Our established gardens are a fusion of mature exotic trees, untouched native bush and swathes of flowering seasonal bulbs, completely embracing the building.

The garden is a delight..... rambling and vigorously energized... lively, fresh and teeming with wild birds and animals. Over 35 species of native birds flitting about have been counted during the annual bird count ~ they are all calm in our presence In spring they bring their newly fledged offspring to show off and discover the territory !!

Challenge yourself with a hit of tennis on the full sized, synthetic grass tennis court. We provide complimentary racquets and balls; maybe an afternoon stroll along the many lane ways on the property? There's 200 acres to wander about and explore.

For those who would like to meet the ponies, chopped apples and/or carrots as well as few slices of stale bread certainly break the ice and guarantee devoted attention.
Kids are most welcome and encouraged to develop physical contact with "the girls", but only with parental supervision. Kids are also perfectly safe riding bikes or roller-blades on the driveway, tennis court and lanes.

Linked to the past history of our district and striking a unique and regal presence across the mews, are the eternal chimneys of the original 1890's "Ferndale" guesthouse ~ a genuine statement of prestige in the Exeter vicinity of the Southern Highlands.
Interestingly, aspects of the property and chimneys have been used in several TV documentaries and programmes.

In April 2013, with a back-drop of bagpipes, surrounded by autumnal rampant leaf colourings, we delighted in witnessing the marriage of Ross & Heather, staged among the ruins of these genial giants; true reminders a yester-year lifestyle that was gracious and rich.

**SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES ... UPON PERSONAL DISCUSSION with the OWNER, WE MAY ACCEPT PETS.
We can offer a large, secure outdoor cat cage or smaller dog compound, HOWEVER we do not allow pets inside the apartment. The animals must sleep outside in the enclosure but it is covered with tarps, so a safe and warm environment is assured.
If pets are accepted, the owner must provide bedding and food.
If accepted, an extra small fee is due, payable direct to owner upon arrival.

A visit to "Ferndale" will re-acquaint anyone with how quality of life was meant to be enjoyed.

ALL THIS !!!
YET only 5 minutes to BUNDANOON, EXETER or SUTTON FOREST for shops, cafes, supermarkets and local cold-climate vineyards and cellar doors.

MOSS VALE, BERRIMA - approximately 12 minutes
BOWRAL, ROBERTSON - approximately 35 minutes.
CANBERRA - approximately 1.25 hours

***PLEASE NOTE.....One-night bookings are generally accepted, HOWEVER, during the BRIGADOON HIGHLAND GATHERING FESTIVAL weekend in April, ONLY a two-night reservation will be accepted.

This property is an ideal hide-away; a delightful retreat from modernity, city noise and with that personal touch from owners who care.

Property manager

Helene Jessep

Languages

English, German

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Breakfast included
Kitchen
Washer
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 1:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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
Parties and events are allowed on site
Host has indicated that there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property, but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a deadlock
Property Registration Number PID-STRA-20990

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Exeter

Located in Exeter, this apartment is in a rural area. St. Maur Wines and Eling Forest Vineyard and Winery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Red Cow Farm Garden and Leighton Gardens. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Exeter, NSW

What's nearby

  • St. Maur Wines - 4 min drive - 3.3 km
  • Eling Forest Vineyard and Winery - 12 min drive - 13.4 km
  • Santi Forest Monastery - 15 min drive - 7.6 km
  • Glow Worm Glen - 15 min drive - 8.4 km
  • Bendooley Estate Book Barn - 26 min drive - 29.1 km

Getting around

  • Exeter Station - 9 min drive
  • Shellharbour, NSW (WOL) - 59 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Heatherbrae's Pies - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪The Terrace Tea Shop - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Coolabah Tree Cafe Sutton Forest - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is SECLUDED, QUIET, PRIVATE "FERNDALE" B&B Farm Stay 5mins to BUNDANOON or EXETER pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at SECLUDED, QUIET, PRIVATE "FERNDALE" B&B Farm Stay 5mins to BUNDANOON or EXETER?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at SECLUDED, QUIET, PRIVATE "FERNDALE" B&B Farm Stay 5mins to BUNDANOON or EXETER?

Checkout is at 1:00 PM.

Where is SECLUDED, QUIET, PRIVATE "FERNDALE" B&B Farm Stay 5mins to BUNDANOON or EXETER located?

This family-friendly Exeter apartment building is located in a rural location, within 3 mi (5 km) of St. Maur Wines and Morton National Park. Red Cow Farm Garden and Penrose Park are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 56 out of 59 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 59 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 59 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 59 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 59 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

jasmine d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

John S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautifully appointed
This property is perfect for an escape from the hustle and bustle, set on a lush country property. The self contained apartment is beautifully appointed with extra little touches to make the stay that little bit more special, and Helene is the perfect host
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sarah L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful & tranquility
If you’re looking for an out of town yet close to everything location this is it. I found myself feeling at home. It had everything I needed, clean, wonderful hosts and beautiful scenery. I couldn’t have asked for more. I will be choosing Ferndale again whenever I am in the area. 5/5 👌👌👌
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Max M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely
Was fun
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

6/10 Okay

Ruth C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect farm stay in the Highlands
Perfect accommodation for our family of 4 (kids aged 3 and 6). We will be back! The kids loved feeding the ponies, riding bikes in the tennis court and seeing all the wonderful plants and animals. The grown ups loved waking up to bird sounds and stunning views over the fields and getting into that country slowness vs busy city life. The owner Helene is a lovely host and it was nice to learn about all the beautiful things she has planted over the years. She even gave us cuttings for our garden! Large and well appointed accommodation with everything you need in the kitchen, bathroom etc.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Katherine W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Farm stay
Great experience, family friendly and very comfortable
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

david b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice
Very nice and clean
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely apartment in the country
My husband and our 3 year old daughter stayed for a couple of nights while visiting elderly relatives in Bundanoon. For us, this apartment was perfect. It is spacious, comfortable and homely, with every comfort you could need. The kitchen was great and well stocked, breakfast was delicious, the bed was really comfortable. Our 3 year old adored the ponies and walks on the farm. A wonderful quiet place to stay and we will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

annmaree l.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
farmstay
Helene was the most perfect hostess and everything about the property was fantastic. Hot shower, clean as could be, everything you could possibly want right down to a welcoming sherry!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2024

8/10 Good

Joanna W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great farmstay in the Southern Highlands
We stayed at Ferndale for 1 night with our 16 month old daughter and really enjoyed our stay. The house is fully equipped with everything you need including a continental breakfast and was very clean. Our daughter also enjoyed meeting the ponies and cows. We wished we stayed longer!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Teri W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fabulous!
We loved Ferndale - such a comfortable, quiet, lovely place to stay. Helene was an amazing hostess, providing everything we could need. The house is bigger than it appears - lots of room for a family. Hope to get back again soon!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gayl H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Tranquil and surrounded by history
The 1 bed house was very clean and well appointed - it had everything you would need for either an overnight stay, or if you stayed a week or more. There was a full size fridge in the kitchen, which was stocked with everything you need. There was a washing machine and tennis court. There was also a heater and electric blankets. The Shetland ponies were happy for an apple, or just a pat. David and Helene were lovely hosts - friendly, welcoming and available, but not intrusive. The light breakfast provided was delicious - bread, butter, jam, cereal, fruit and a special treat. The bird life was amazing and there were always wrens or finches flitting about in the garden. The history of the original Ferndale has all the hallmarks of a great whodunnit. There is a fascinating article available to read. The road leading to the property is unsealed. Not having a 4WD, there were section we slowed to 10kph. Fortunately, the road was very quiet and we were back onto a sealed road fairly soon.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rhonda L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean, relaxing and lovely host.
Roomy, everything you need, lovely outlook.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kate H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Night away for a 50th
I was only there for the night but the place was lovely. Clean, comfy bed, great shower, easy to use coffee machine and all in a super quiet location. Helene was lovely too.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Craig F., Wollongong

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Short winter getaway
We had a one night stay to enjoy the peace and quiet of the highlands. This stay was all that! Nice and clean and very hospitable owners who reside in a residence that is semi detached. They kept a very low profile and we didn't see them between check in and departure which we were happy they respected our privacy. Beautiful property and lovely to experience in Winter.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robynn H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect place to stay
We had such a lovely time staying at Ferndale Farm Stay. Accommodation and surroundings were spectacular. If you wanted too you could of just stayed at the place, beautiful walk, gorgeous animals to see. Very refreshing. We were greeted with some sherry and chocolate and the accommodation was beautifully set out. Will definitely come again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy
Enjoyable night away
Some problems on arrival as our booking confirmation and payment didn't seem to go through to Helene initially, but we then had a lovely stay!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Seiko F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great farm stay!
Beautiful and peaceful place to stay. Very specious, clean, comfortable accommodation and lovely owners. We stayed at Ferndale for our daughter’s 6th birthday and there was a birthday card waiting for her upon our arrival! Lovely personal touch. Our daughter had a great time feeding and grooming the ponies. The ponies were a highlight and we will definitely go back for another stay!!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shirshendu N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful farm stay
We throughly enjoyed our stay at Ferndale. It was also lovely to read about the history of the place in a rainy day. The owners were really nice and it was so kind of them to thought about organising an extra footon for our little one. We would love to come back someday.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Janelle H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet and peaceful
A beautiful area, quiet and peaceful, late checkout fantastic, a good spot for a sleep in and casual breakfast
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Alastair W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property
The owner was amazing, letting us have an early check in to watch the AFL grand final. The property was beautiful, clean, and peaceful. Thank you for a perfect holiday!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Natalie F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful Getaway
We just got back from a lovely 2 nights here. It was perfect for my 4 year-old and 20 month-old who had a ball running around and feeding the ponies. The ponies were a highlight! The accommodation was very comfortable and cosy. We enjoyed some wine and a picnic in the afternoon sun in the yard, we barely left the farm as it was so peaceful. Just what we needed!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nathan S., Berowra, Australia

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fabulous Farm Stay
We were in the Southern Highlands for a wedding and stayed for the long weekend. Ferndale is an oasis of peace and quiet, and was just what we needed. Good old-fashioned country hospitality in a historically interesting property. Ponies an added bonus for inquisitive children taking a break from city life. I can recommend this property highly!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Daniel S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful farm stay with lovely host
We only stayed one night but Helene treated us with kindness, even showing us the ponies and letting us explore the farm. The property was very clean and well managed.
Stayed 1 night in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Martin O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Farm Stay!
The apartment is very spacious, comfortable and peaceful. The kitchen has pretty much everything you might need including great coffee! Helene was very helpful with any of our requests, she is a great host.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2022

About the host

Hosted by Helene Jessep

Host profile image

Languages:

English, German