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Riversdale Retreat - country escape

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Terrace/patio
Private kitchen
Room
Exterior
Living room

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 3

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
Chewton, VIC
  • Wesley Hill Market
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Restorers Barn
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Old Castlemaine Gaol
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Bendigo, VIC (BXG)
    ‪49 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 3)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Riversdale Retreat - country escape

Surrounded by native crown bush land and set in a re-vegetated bush garden, Riversdale Retreat is an uncompromising country escape designed by award winners

Accommodation

Open-plan living area and a fully equipped kitchen ready for self-catering.

A tatami lounge area and a Japanese style bathroom provide a touch of the exotic.

Paved outdoor areas include fireplace, preparation bench, sink and shower.

In winter the wood fire heater efficiently heats entire house. Floating decks and indoor/outdoor day bed are the perfect way to catch and enjoy the winter sun.

Sleeps 2 or 3 adults with 1 queen size and 1 single bed.

The perfect private getaway for a couple!

Environmental Relationship and Location

Compact, climate and occupant adaptable located in semi bush.

Designed to sit off the land yet be immersed within, it can open and close to nature, views and sun.

The building is designed with bushfire and ESD principles, solar hot water, rainwater tank and is super insulated. In line with these principles the property does not have airconditioning.

Riversdale is located just outside of the popular town of Castlemaine, in the small town of Chewton - approximately an hour and a half drive out of Melbourne. Daylesford, Maldon and Bendigo are all within a 30 minute drive. The property also directly borders State Crown Land, with acres of secluded walking and biking tracks.

STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF RIVERSDALE RETREAT

Note: Variances can be agreed on but only by arrangement with the owner in writing.

Deposit of 50% non refundable is required to secure the booking. Payment of the rental deposit constitutes the clients acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.

Balance of the rental amount must be received a full 14 days prior to occupancy. If not the owner has the right to cancel the booking and attempt to re let it.

Cancellation if caused by the guest, money paid is not refundable unless the house is re-let for the entire period. If a refund is made due to the property being relet then HomeAway fees and a $50 cancellation fee will apply.

The owners will make every effort to ensure the property is available as booked. However the owners reserve the right to make alterations to bookings due to unforeseen circumstances.

To maintain a good standard for our guests we require certain conditions to be complied with. We appreciate most will respect our property but the occasional abuse requires that we state the following conditions.

Number of Guests should not exceed the number stated on the Confirmation Notice or subsequently agreed in writing or email. Fees will apply for excess guests not agreed with the owners in advance.

Parties and Functions are strictly prohibited. The price charged is for domestic use only and not commercial. Accordingly this rate does not allow for the extra wear associated with functions in terms of cleaning, garbage removal, wear and tear, repairs etc. Use contrary to this may result in loss of your bond and/or additional payments.

Damage, Breakages, Theft and Loss are the tenants responsibility during their stay.

In order to maintain a clean and comfortable environment we are a 'shoes off inside' property.

Departure - the property should be left in a similar state to its condition on arrival and all dishes are washed to avoid excess cleaning charge. Check-out time is 10:00 by the latest, to allow time to prepare property for next guests.

Consideration to our neighbours is required. Though the property is in a bush area excessive noise may disturb our neighbours.

Bond of $500 is payable at the same time as the balance amount. The bond will be refunded within 14 days in full subject to the above conditions being met. It is designed to cover any additional costs incurred including but not limited to, any breakage, damage or excess cleaning requirements, extra guests beyond those declared ..etc.

Linen will be supplied with the property.

Pets are not allowed unless specific arrangements have been made in writing with the owner.

No smoking is permitted in or within 10m of the house. During 'high fire risk season' there is to be no smoking on any part of the property.

Regarding the bath : heavily insulated, it only requires a maximum 20cm of water to enjoy as a facility. We ask our guests to use water in the house with consideration to a limited supply, at all times.

Loss - the owners take no responsibility for the tenant’s personal property.

Variations to these conditions may only be made by prior arrangements with the owner in writing.

Property manager

Sharon

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill
Fireplace

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No 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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Chewton

Chewton is home to this holiday home. Boomtown and Bress Winery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit Wesley Hill Market and The Mill Castlemaine. Buda Historic Home & Garden and Victorian Goldfields Railway - Castlemain Station are also worth visiting.
Map
Chewton, VIC

What's nearby

  • Wesley Hill Market - 3 min drive - 2.9 km
  • Restorers Barn - 5 min drive - 5.1 km
  • Buda Historic Home & Garden - 7 min drive - 5.8 km
  • Castlemaine Botanical Gardens - 7 min drive - 7.0 km
  • Old Castlemaine Gaol - 8 min drive - 6.4 km

Getting around

  • Castlemaine Station - 6 min drive
  • Bendigo, VIC (BXG) - 49 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Bridge Hotel - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪The Mill Castlemaine - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Johnny Baker Downtown - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Shedshaker Brewing Company - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Riversdale Retreat - country escape pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Riversdale Retreat - country escape?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Riversdale Retreat - country escape?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Riversdale Retreat - country escape located?

Situated in Chewton, this holiday home is within 2 miles (3 km) of Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park, Chewton H86 Bushland Reserve and Wesley Hill Market. Chewton Bushland Reserve and Chewton H8A Bushland Reserve are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 50 out of 63 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 12 out of 63 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 63 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 63 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 63 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

8/10 Good

mary b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
bush house
We had a lovely stay at Riversdale retreat. my only concern was clambering up the uneven stone steps to the front door at 11.00 pm!! A quirky ,well planned holiday retreat.Fire was very cosy & the bed very comfortable..
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

8/10 Good

Barbara M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
art escape
Long weekend to soak up ambience an dabble in some artistic pursuits. Lovely secluded setting but not too far from Castlemaine and Chewton. Second bedroom a bit small. Probably better for couples.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Samantha D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Tranquility
Great location. Very quiet and private. Cosy interior. Great place to get away from the crowds.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Niesha H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Anniversary get away
We had a beautiful stay at this property. The perfect country get away. We loved how isolated the location felt, yet it was only a few minutes drive to Castlemaine. The kitchen was fully functioning, the views were breathtaking and the fireplace made it cosy and warm. Would definitely come again.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Maryann S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing in a perfect country setting
Unique accommodation with everything we needed. Wonderful open fire and deep bathtub! Short drive to Castlemaine. Very quiet with the only sound being the wildlife. We loved it. The only thing I would say is that you need a curtain in the bedroom to keep out the light when wanting a sleep in.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Simon B.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy
Modern escape
Lovely, clean and and cosy little house for a quiet getaway !
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

8/10 Good

Pattarawadee J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice and Peaceful
The place is really beautiful. We saw many kangaroos around the house. The design is unique. However, there was no curtain so felt a bit uncomfortable. 😅
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Cathryn M., Melbourne, Australia

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Romantic bush block getaway
The property has been very cleverly designed in terms of space, storage, sliding walls doors and levels and blends well into the natural environment . The decorating is incredibly thoughtful, Japanese influenced and minimalist, and yet still cosy. As a curious aside, we’d LOVE to know the meaning behind the random collection of large letters displayed in the kitchen and bedroom! It amused us for hours! We really enjoyed the fire and feeling of being amongst the trees - while settled into the couch opposite the fire as windows on three sides were filled w trees and sky! While the property’s reliance on rainwater makes the request to be sparing with baths and amount of water used if they are taken (a few inches) - it’d be good to know if/when baths are an option - ie. there’s enough in the tank! ! As the pic on the website was an enticing reason we chose the property - but we’d assumed for a soak! And didn’t feel comfortable using it in this way given the instructions. The location is great - as when in it you feel remote, but it’s close to Chewton and a quick drive into Castlemaine and all the region has to enjoy. Would definitely recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Chris J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Weekend Bliss
We had a wonderful long weekend at Chewton, highlighted by drinking wine by the firepit at sunset as the stars started to light up the sky. With a large mob of kangaroos in the paddock next to the property. A delightful degustation dinner at Bar Midland was delicious, and we took the steam train to Maldon for brunch and then rode back (17km) on the bikes we hired. Lovely place. Lovely experiences.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

John H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Japanese inspired design in the Australian bush
A beautifully designed snd furnished house wonderfully sited in the Central Victorian bush. Perfect for our relaxing 2 day stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Theodore C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful place to wind down
Great experience. Lots of interesting design features and an overall atmosphere of calm and solitude. Kitchen is well decked out and the outdoor areas are great. Had a couple of gnarly run ins with huntsman spiders, but that’s part and parcel of staying in the bush.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Elliott E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Country mini-retreat
Spent three days here on a girls mini-break and it was beautiful. I will be back again, it was really lovely.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jane S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome get away
Awesome house and fantastic location - a great way to unwind - didn't turn the TV on once - just walked, read and relaxed in front of the fire.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

David B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Regional Getaway
Riversdale Retreat is an excellent getaway for two. The house has a full kitchen, lounge room with wood heater, bedroom with electric blankets, all within the victoria bush. We found our stay at the retreat very enjoyable. Others have mentioned that it can see that road, and while that's true the road gets about 1 car every 3 hours down it, so its not a big deal. The hosts have placed appropriate signage around to ensure that the place stays clean as well as letting you know the tips and tricks with the house. We had plenty of firewood for the fire (needed in the middle of victoria's winter) and once the fire gets going it heats the lounge room, the spare room, and the bedroom. Both the toilet and shower room have a wall heater in them and had fresh towels. While we cooked basic meals on the Monday and Tuesday (note its a country area and finding restaurants open on Monday and Tuesday night is very hard) and the kitchen had everything we needed (except for a whisky glass, but we made do :p) Over all a very enjoyable experience. Would highly recommend and will return.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2021

8/10 Good

Josephine C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely location
Shame about the huntsman's, however, this is expected in the country side. Very warm and relaxing stay away from the city. Thank you Sharon.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021

8/10 Good

Isabelle Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely property
Lovely property, great weekend getaway.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Rupesh K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect getaway
What a lovely property to spend a few days in peace & quiet. A very comfortable place to stay, with easy access to Castlemaine. The management team were responsive to requests and communicated clearly. The house was also very clean upon arrival
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Richard J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Brilliant little getaway
We need a post COVID break, and found this gem. Perfectly located in a quiet bush block (you feel like you're in the trees), with a proper kitchen and lovely wood fire - just what we needed. Found some great walks in the nearby old goldfields and at Mt Alexander - so we know we earned those beers and wines! Loved it.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Andy W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved it!
Beautiful location, wonderful place to stay. Perfect, thank you!!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Doug F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great property in a perfectly peaceful and scenic location. Short drive to Castlemaine. Fab.
Interesting property has everything you need. Great place to recharge.

10/10 Excellent

Jodi A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful peaceful space
Experience was great
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Haden D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Gorgeous country retreat
A perfect little house, nice and cosy and set in a beautiful location. Fully equipped and everything you'll need to relax and recharge. The check in process was simple and there was plenty of information on local activities. I can't recommend it enough, had a wonderful time and can't wait to come back.

10/10 Excellent

Emily C.

Lovely Stay!
What a stunning house! We loved our stay, the fireplace was a definite highlight - ahh-mazing. FYI - lovely surrounds for a run! Sharon was also fabulous - easily contactable and very accommodating. Would definitely recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Simon C.

Great stay
Lovely place. Very comfortable. Fireplace for enjoying in the evening.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2019

8/10 Good

hayley c.

Happy Campers
This is my idea of camping! Great weekend escape from the city for us and our daughter. Woke up to kangaroos, roaring fire and double glazed windows. Just what you need in country Victoria this time of year. Great location and so close to Castlemaine and Maldon.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2018

About the host

Hosted by Sharon

Host profile image