Coral Fern Retreat is a unique mudbrick home located in a quiet part of the mountain township of Forrest nestled in a tree-ferned gully. The retreat is inviting with a beautiful, peaceful and restful atmosphere featuring old recycled timbers that give it a rustic feel.
It is a comfortable house with a spacious open planned kitchen/dining room and a sunken lounge room with a loft floor above. There are 3 unique and charmingly decorated bedrooms, 2 with queen-sized beds, 1 double and a queen sofa bed in the loft.
The timber kitchen is well equipped and contains a gas cooktop, electric oven, dishwasher, microwave and a coffee machine with any number of pots, pans and utensils to enable the preparation of gourmet meals for avid foodies.
Relax in the cosy lounge with enticing vistas out into the garden. There is a TV, DVD's, books and a grand piano for any pianists and a Bluetooth compatible stereo. The woodheater is perfect to unwind in front of on cold winter days.
The bathroom has a freestanding cast iron bath to soak away your troubles in, along with a shower, ceiling fitted heat lamp and towel drying rails. The laundry provides a frontloader washing machine and dryer along with a trough and toilet.
With views into the surrounding bush, the outdoor deck is ideal for enjoying meals and entertaining. A Weber is provided for BBQ's along with shade umbrellas for comfort on hot days.
The rambling garden is a mixture of exotics and natives with private areas to sit and enjoy the surroundings. Kangaroos regularly make their morning hop through the backyard and the occasional Koala can be spotted. Night time residents include the cute Ring-Tailed and Brush-Tailed Possums.
A feature of the Coral Fern Retreat is the abundance of birdlife that inhabit the bushland along the creek, the dawn call is an absolute highlight and the beautiful call of the Golden Whistler, Blue Wrens, Yellow Robins, King Parrots and the many Honeyeaters make for a bird watchers paradise.
The township of Forrest and the surrounding area has much to offer visitors with the boutique craft beer Brewery and Restaurant, Jewellery Shop and Bric a Brac shop, all within a short walk. The town is a hub for mountain bikers with many riding trails that cater for all abilities and beautiful walking tracks. Lake Elizabeth is a short drive where Platypus tours are offered and the majestic Stevensons Falls are nearby.
A 30 minute drive through lush cool temperate rainforest and you arrive at the best beaches that the world has to offer along the Great Ocean Road. Beach towels, bag and beach umbrella are provided during those warm summer months. The world class Brae Restaurant near the historic township of Birregurra and the renown Chris's Restaurant near Skenes Creek are a must!
For a place to take a break that is ideal for artists, writers, musicians or thinkers looking to feel inspired, or for those who love to feel close and connect with nature you have found the ideal, magical place.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
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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
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
About the area
Forrest
Located in Forrest, this holiday home is in a rural area. 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. With surfing/body boarding and fishing nearby, you'll find plenty of adventures in the water.
Great Ocean Road Waterfront - 29 min drive - 41.0 km
Apollo Bay Harbour - 32 min drive - 42.5 km
Otway Fly Treetop Adventures - 41 min drive - 48.5 km
Getting around
Colac Station - 28 min drive
Melbourne, VIC (AVV-Avalon) - 86 min drive
Restaurants
Forrest Brewing Company - 8 min walk
Dar Teta - 9 min walk
Wonkey Donkey - 14 min walk
Dar Tèta - 9 min walk
Bespoke Harvest - 9 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Coral Fern Retreat - bush paradise (free wifi) pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Coral Fern Retreat - bush paradise (free wifi)?
As of 3 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Coral Fern Retreat - bush paradise (free wifi) on 20 April 2026 start from NZ$337, 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 Coral Fern Retreat - bush paradise (free wifi)?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Coral Fern Retreat - bush paradise (free wifi)?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Coral Fern Retreat - bush paradise (free wifi)?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Coral Fern Retreat - bush paradise (free wifi) located?
This family-friendly Forrest holiday home is located in a rural location, within 2 mi (3 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
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
The house was large and beautifully furnished. The cottage garden was lovely and sitting at the table on the back deck we enjoyed the many birds that came to drink the nectar from the adjacent trees. We also enjoyed the fis and chips at the lical brewery. In all, it was a fabulous stay.
Ann K.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 December 2025
Thank you for your kind words Ann. It was a pleasure hosting such wonderful guests.
Absolutely stunning stay. The house is a fantastic size, beautifully presented with top quality linen, kitchenware, furnishings with every small detail considered. Very well equipped with thoughtful touches throughout. Impeccably clean, comfortable beds, peaceful location on the most stunning property. The photos don’t do it justice, great value for our family, we will definitely be back
Kellie M.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 April 2025
It was such a pleasure hosting you and your family Kellie. We are so pleased you enjoyed your stay. Thank you for booking with us.
This is the second time staying, this time with children and their partners. It is the most amazing and lovely home and honestly could not be more clean or better equipped. Highly recommend it.
This gorgeous retreat has been crafted & styled with care. A tranquil & beautiful place to relax, unwind & enjoy the scenery through picture book windows to delightful surrounding gardens. And rooms styled with extra flair to help you feel the serenity. Extremely clean & well appointed we had the best stay!
Vicky D.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 27 February 2025
Thankyou for your review Vicky and for being wonderful guests! So pleased you enjoyed your stay and found the retreat tranquil and relaxing.
We couldn't have asked for a nicer house to spend so time away with the family over school holidays. Would highly recommend for anyone looking for a quiet getaway to a lovely spot!
Matt A.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 11 July 2023
Thanks for your review Matt, it was a pleasure hosting such a wonderful guests. Glad you enjoyed your stay.
Coral Fern is an absolute delight. A stunning home set in beautiful bushland. Spotlessly clean with every amenity carefully considered. The owners have created an inspiring place where you are able to be one with naturee. Communication and check-in was fantastic. Thank you for the most superb stay.
Zoe T.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 March 2025
Thank you for your review and booking with us Zoe. We are so pleased to hear you enjoyed your stay and appreciate your feedback.
Fantastic winter break. Fire for the parents whilst drinking wine and doing a jigsaw and the kids watched some Netflix or did drawing, all between some nice walks and adventures out and about. Lovely garden, if a bit cold and wet to truely enjoy. Forrest also looks like a nice place to bring a mountain bike (when less wet or cold). Wish I had the skills to enjoy the resident piano.Hosts provided excellent communication and a lovely well appointed house.
Ross A.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 18 July 2025
Thank you for your review Ross. It was a pleasure hosting you and your family. Hope you can visit again in warmer months and enjoy the garden and some mountain bike riding!
We were absolutely delighted with the home we stayed in. It was beautifully and lovingly built with a great country feel. Impeccably clean and very comfortable! Barb was great to deal with. We only wish we had stayed longer. Many Thanks.
Ty S.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 9 March 2025
Thank you for your review and wonderful feedback Ty. It was a pleasure hosting you and your family and we welcome you back anytime.
We enjoyed a lovely stay at Barb’s house. The place is gorgeous, spotlessly clean and surrounded by a lovely garden and bush land.
The house is so well set up and has everything you could possibly need. We will definitely be back!
Robyn N.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 September 2024
Thanks for your kind words Robyn. It was a pleasure hosting you.
What an absolute gem of a location and property! Everything we needed was provided along with a few unexpected extras which really show how willing the owners are to go the extra mile. We will be back, thank you for making our birthday holiday so wonderdul 😊
Elissa J.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 13 December 2024
Thank you for your review and for being wonderful guests. So pleased you enjoyed your stay.
We had a wonderful stay. It is a beautiful house and gardens. Owners could not be more helpful and accommodating. Loved it.
Vikki H.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 24 October 2023
Thanks for booking with us Vikki. It was a pleasure hosting you and your family, you were wonderful guests! So happy you enjoyed your stay.
About the host
Hosted by Barbara Gear
25 years ago my husband Greg and I moved to Forrest to pursue the dream of building our own home. After many years of our labor of love we created a beautiful home, full of charm and inspiration. Having enjoyed living in Forrest whilst bringing up a family, we now would like to offer the experience to others. We hope you too may feel inspired and enjoy some time at the Coral Fern Retreat. Cheers, Barb
Why they chose this property
Coral Fern Retreat is surrounded by rainforest and a short walk into the township.
What makes this property unique
Grand Piano.
Languages:
English, German
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests