See all properties
Entire home

On the Forrest Mt Bike trail, 5min walk to Brewery & easy to explore the Otways

Photo gallery for On the Forrest Mt Bike trail, 5min walk to Brewery & easy to explore the Otways

Exterior
Living area
Room
Private kitchen
Living area

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 415 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View map
Forrest, VIC
  • Place, Forrest Brewing Company
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Great Otway National Park
    ‪19 min walk‬
  • Place, Great Ocean Road Waterfront
    ‪28 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

On the Forrest Mt Bike trail, 5min walk to Brewery & easy to explore the Otways

The Riders Palace is a classic 'Old Mill Cottage' nestled in Victoria's Mountain Biking Mecca of Forrest. Freshly painted and restyled the property is located at the start of the Forrest Mt Bike Trailhead.
Nestled in a large garden the Riders Palace is an idyllic hideaway in the Otway’s boasting large north facing deck, large open space lawn and garden surrounded by large eucalyptus tree - and home to numerous local koala's.

The cottage has a very relaxed feel with polished timber floors, a light and airy kitchen / dining; the separate lounge with open fire place opens on to the veranda overlooking peaceful gardens.

If you open the gate at the bottom of the garden and follow the path to the Barwon River you will discover a parkland and trail to the West Barwon Dam.

The self contained cottage can sleep 4 people


Bedroom 1 Sleeps 2 - King Bed
Bedroom 2 Sleeps 2 - King Bed

Location

- 2 hours from Melbourne
- 1 hour from Geelong & the Surf Coast
- 30 mins from Lorne or Apollo Bay
- 7 min to the Forrest Brewery, General Store, Corner Store, Bespoke Harvest and the Forrest Hotel

Mountain Biking - Forrest is surrounded by over 60 km of sign posted single track specifically designed with real mountain bikers in mind. The trails offer experiences for all rider levels with trail grading from Easiest to Extremely Difficult.

The Riders Palace is a 7 minute walk to the famous Forrest Brewing Company. This casual dining hall offers delicious meals from local produce, great beer and local wines.

The breathtaking Lake Elizabeth is a 10 minute drive. Nestled deep in the Otway Ranges this beautiful mountain Lake was created when record rainfalls sent thousands of tonnes of rock and earth into the East Barwon River, creating a dam that went on to form the lake. Lake Elizabeth is now home and habitat for wild Platypus, and other wildlife.

The owners can link you up with their property in Torquay (the home of the famous Bells Beach and surfing capital of Australia) and put together a truly adventurous Great Ocean Road and Otway experience.

We request that guest do not cook strong smelling, aromatic or fried foods in the kitchen as it is very unpleasant for following guests. An airing fee of $150 will apply.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

Living area
Wattle Hill Holiday House - perfect for hikers, bikers, rest and relaxation
  • Kitchen
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (37 reviews)
Wattle Hill Holiday House - perfect for hikers, bikers, rest and relaxation

House Rules

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

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

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 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
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Forrest

Located in Forrest, this holiday home is on a river. Forrest Brewing Company and Gosling Creek Winery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Great Otway National Park and Barwon Downs Bushland Reserve. Discover the area's water adventures with scuba diving and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling and hiking.
View more Holiday homes in ForrestOpens in a new window
Map
Forrest, VIC

What's nearby

  • Forrest Brewing Company - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Great Otway National Park - 19 min walk - 1.6 km
  • Great Ocean Road Waterfront - 28 min drive - 40.6 km
  • Apollo Bay Harbour - 31 min drive - 42.1 km
  • Otway Fly Treetop Adventures - 40 min drive - 48.1 km

Getting around

  • Birregurra Station - 28 min drive
  • Melbourne, VIC (AVV-Avalon) - 86 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Forrest Brewing Company - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Dar Teta - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Wonkey Donkey - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Dar Tèta - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Bespoke Harvest - ‬8 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is On the Forrest Mt Bike trail, 5min walk to Brewery & easy to explore the Otways pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at On the Forrest Mt Bike trail, 5min walk to Brewery & easy to explore the Otways?

As of 29 March 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at On the Forrest Mt Bike trail, 5min walk to Brewery & easy to explore the Otways on 11 April 2026 start from NZ$255, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at On the Forrest Mt Bike trail, 5min walk to Brewery & easy to explore the Otways?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at On the Forrest Mt Bike trail, 5min walk to Brewery & easy to explore the Otways?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at On the Forrest Mt Bike trail, 5min walk to Brewery & easy to explore the Otways?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is On the Forrest Mt Bike trail, 5min walk to Brewery & easy to explore the Otways located?

Situated on a river, this holiday home is within 1 mile (2 km) of Forrest Brewing Company and Great Otway National Park. Barwon Downs Bushland Reserve and Murroon Bushland Reserve are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

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. 14 out of 20 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 20 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 20 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 20 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 20 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

8/10 Good

Janice H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice quiet stay. Some local experiences available.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Andrew B.

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

Quiet getaway

A quiet getaway full of charm. Great to get away from Melbourne and enjoy the Otways area from this beautiful cottage.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Mandy N.

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

Great Location

We love Forrest and this is a great place to stay. Quiet, cosy and close to MTB trail access and Main Street . Would definitely stay again :)
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patrick F.

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

Picturesque but close to all the fun stuff!

Clean property, beautiful surrounds and a lovely warm fireplace. Thanks for sharing your lovely house.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark and Jayne C.

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

Bikers Palace

A charming cottage with everything you for a weekend riding the fantastic Forrest MTB trails.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

andrea a.

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

Peaceful

Lovely, comfy cottage with a great deck for watching the birds and koalas!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sue m.

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

Lovely cottage

Comfortable, relaxing, great for mountain biking. Relaxing on the deck ❤️
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

MATT N.

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

Great for Mt Biking

Great for Mt Biking! Literally right out the front door. A bit chilly in cold weather.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jack F.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for waterfall chasing

The property is located walking distance to all the amenities that Forrest has to offer and is short drive to wonderful waterfalls, Redwood Forest and Lakes. There did seem to be a small issue with excessive amounts or dead blow flies on arrival.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Lize B.

Authentic Mill Cottage In Gorgeous Town

We are giving Riders Palace 5/5 without question, not because its is a 5 star hotel but because it is, as described and completely lived up to what it claimed to be. Its unique, cozy, peaceful and just near a trail head (mountain biking). The key things for us in a getaway are; comfy beds, nice bathroom, well cleaned and efficient management. Delivered in spades. The house is a mill cottage from a different era, exactly what attracted us to it. Suited to those who appreciate character.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ruth K.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A charming cottage in the heart of Forrest

Rider Palace is simply a delight! The charm of the cottage and the sounds of the birds and the beautiful environment make for a very special stay. So many places to sit and drinking it all in. Bindy was a wonderful host, quick to respond and very accomodating. The cottage is full of the most wonderful ecletic array of everything you need. The water is hot. The kitchen if a treat to prepare meals from local providers, and the beds are heavenly! Lots of aircons, heaters, and an open fire to match the weather. I highly recommend this delightful cottage in one of Victoria's most treasured destinations - The Otways. The local produce (stock up from the Forrest General Store and check out the Otways Harvest Trail), MTB tracks, bush walks (Lake Elizabeth is a must) and the Forrest Brewery are simply wonderful! Thank you.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Alex K.

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

Nice place

Very nice.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maria D.

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

Sweet & Comfortable

A lovely place to stay surrounded by lots of great options to do. Would stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elena H.

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

Family getaway

Great location, close to mountain biking trails and town. Comfortable stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bronwyn C.

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

Well located ambient cottage

Great for small family or couple. Really best to say it sleeps 4 rather than 5 is the only thing as the back room with the 5th bed is very cold but we were a party of 3 so it was perfect. Bathroom is small and didn’t have towel rack...but honestly the rest of the features made up for it. Bindy was very quick and responsive to my questions.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2020
Archival

2/10 Terrible

GEOFF H.

Quaint, tired not acceptable

Booked sight unseen, back door held closed by cabin hook with gap underneath that could allow snake access to house, Space under inner back door and or front door also allows access to creapie crawlies. Limited fire wood, smoke filled house, windows did not open to allow smoke to clear. Clothes smelt of smoke. Toilette septic system had started to overflow at the front steps, contacted managing agent who got local plumber to attend, he could not sort so covered with dirt to dry overflow. Stench made use of front or side verandah impossible. Tried several times to get resolve from managing agent, nothing heard. I was embaressed as other guests had travelled from Townsville. Not a quality stay. Advised at Forrest Festival Briefing that snakes could be encountered during the Festival, we encountered one within some meters of the house. a degree of unease in the house existed.
Archival

6/10 Okay

Kate W.

Rustic Charm

The house was ok. The washing machine came in handy, the beds were comfortable & there was plenty of hot water. However we felt that it was over-priced. The weather was cold and there wasn't any fire wood. There is no dining area, with four adult guests this made breakfast a little cramped. The lounge area was a little small as well. It was a little below what we expected for the cost. The big positive is that everything is within walking distance.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Kelly E.

Great place to stay!

A nice old comfortable house. Great location, loved the easy walk to the brewery or pub. Excellent facilities for cooking your own too. And very close to the mountain bike trails. Bindy the owner was most helpful over the phone. Will be back asap.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Emma A.

Perfect

All the boys were very happy with the accomodation
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lauren M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

About the host

Hosted by Bindy Sheehan

Host profile image

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback