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Blackwood Bush Retreat

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Relax by the inside fire and enjoy watching your private garden
Open plan kitchen, dining room and lounge room.
Cozy wood-burning fireplace with soft glow, perfect for relaxing afternoons
Blackwood bush retreat is tucked away in the forest
Master bedroom

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden

About this property

Blackwood Bush Retreat

This idyllic country home is situated on a beautiful 100-acre bush property. The home includes 3 bedrooms with queen size beds, an ensuite and a main bathroom including toilet, shower & bathtub. The hexagonal living area includes a country-style kitchen, dining room & stunning views of the surrounding garden & bushland from a cosy lounge room. Enjoy bush walks on the property, visit local attractions or just relax & enjoy the peace & quiet!

Blackwood Bush Retreat is situated in a valley of natural bushland which you are welcome to explore at your leisure. Visit the creek that flows through the property, go for bushwalks and keep an eye out for the many varieties of wildlife that call this place home – wallabies, echidnas, wombats, kangaroos, goannas, possums and over 50 species of birds just to name a few.
There are several acres of privately fenced garden and a wood fired BBQ with outdoor seating – perfect for a daytime picnic or spending an evening stargazing with a glass of wine!
If you'd prefer to have a relaxing night inside, you can sit and relax by the fire or watch a movie on one of the streaming services.
All bedrooms, lounge room, dining room and kitchen have air-conditioning, so you can be sure to sleep comfortably on hot nights!

Aaron and Jess’s homes are located in close proximity to Blackwood Bush Retreat, so they can be called upon in short notice if you need assistance with anything. Guests often comment on how quiet and peaceful it is in the valley, but of course family life continues for us whilst you’re staying at the property. All windows in Blackwood Bush Retreat are double-glazed, so you can be sure to go about your business in the privacy of your accommodation.

Although this listing is new or Vrbo and Stayz, it has been listed on other platforms with over 40 stays and a 5-star rating.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Children must be supervised at all times
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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
Please respect the home, garden and wildlife
Please keep noise to a minimum after 11pm
Hosts live on property. Please let Aaron know if you have any questions or need help during your stay

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
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the area

Strathewen

Located in Strathewen, this holiday home is in a rural area and in the mountains. Shaws Road Winery and Yarrambat Park Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Funfields. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Holiday homes in MelbourneOpens in a new window
Map
Strathewen, VIC

What's nearby

  • Kinglake National Park - 6 min drive - 3.1 km
  • Queenstown G57 Bushland Reserve - 8 min drive - 9.1 km
  • Queenstown G58 Bushland Reserve - 8 min drive - 9.5 km
  • St Andrews Nature Conservation Reserve - 9 min drive - 11.0 km
  • Smiths Gully and Peter Franke Nature Conservation Reserve - 11 min drive - 12.1 km

Getting around

  • Donnybrook Station - 32 min drive
  • Melbourne, VIC (MEB-Essendon) - 61 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Flying Tarts Bakery & Cafe - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Kinglake Pub - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪A Local Baker - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Cafe M - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪A Boy Named Sue - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Blackwood Bush Retreat pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Blackwood Bush Retreat?

As of 27 March 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Blackwood Bush Retreat on 8 June 2026 start from NZ$359, 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 Blackwood Bush Retreat?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Blackwood Bush Retreat?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Blackwood Bush Retreat?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Blackwood Bush Retreat located?

Situated in the mountains, this holiday home is 1.6 mi (2.5 km) from Kinglake National Park and within 6 miles (10 km) of Frank Thomson Reserve and Shaws Road Winery. Queenstown G57 Bushland Reserve and Queenstown G58 Bushland Reserve 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. 18 out of 18 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 18 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Darrell J.

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

Great place

Peaceful and great surroundings
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christina G.

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

Perfect place for relaxation

Perfect place i should stay more than a weekend!i love the fire place inside and outside i totally visit again!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ruta N.

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

Lovely stay

We stayed here for a wedding in kinglake. The house and back yard are beautiful. Perfect for a quiet weekend away,
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicole G.

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

Strathewen

Beautiful bush retreat. Tranquil. Bird life amazing. Lovely new year stay!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ana S.

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

Comfortable and peaceful

We had a wonderful stay at the Blackland's Bush Retreat. The house was lovely and comfortable and the surrounds were so peaceful and soothing. Aaron was welcoming and his service was wonderful.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

suzette m.

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

Fantastic, so relaxing, serene

This is our favorite spot in the world. We came back for the second time and will book again soon. It is just what we need- quite, beautiful, clean. Aaron is fabulous, we couldn't ask for more
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie-Ann H.

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

Relaxing bush retreat

Beautiful views, good wifi for the bush. Very nice house. Everything provided that we could want.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bhaktha Khanna

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

Falling for Fall: A Perfect Autumn Getaway

We had an absolutely wonderful stay at this charming autumn retreat! The location is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of fall, with an exceptional array of vibrant autumn colors everywhere you look. The walk around the area was serene and peaceful, with the crisp air and gorgeous weather making every step feel like a mini adventure.The living room was a true highlight, with its unique hexagon glass window offering stunning views of the surrounding nature. It was such a peaceful spot to relax, sip a warm drink, and simply take it all in. We also loved the presence of the parrots – their vibrant colors and cheerful chatter added such a lively touch to the atmosphere.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie M.

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

Magical getaway for a tired family

Absolutely amazing! The location, the cleanliness and facilities, the host - everything! First, it was a retreat with character, history and welcome. Tranquil and serene, our stay was magical from the moment we arrived to the moment we left. The bird watching was entertaining, the trail walks and outdoor fire were peaceful, and the host was friendly, helpful and down for a chat. All in all, just what we needed!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

suzette m.

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

best retreat

So relaxing, took my autistic child and such a chilled retreat, the views through the glass windows, the tree in the centre, such thoughtful and stunning design. Watching the birds was relaxing, so quite, just a complete pleasure. definitely going back for a longer stay, we do these trips every six months to places within 2 hours from melbourne, this was only 30 minutes from home but felt like the country and from about 10 places we have stayed, we now wont stay anywhere else
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David M.

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

Birdwatchers Paradise

Words will not do Blackwood Bush Retreat justice. We didn't realise the history of the property until meeting Aaron, and didn't expect to form an emotional bond with a place so quickly. From the incredible wildlife, the isolation from humanity, the luxury of the property (but not so luxurious you feel uncomfortable), the thoughtfulness of the host to the cosy and plush homestead, it's impossible not to immediately feel at ease. It's a truly incredible place and a testament to the human spirit. I couldn't recommend it any higher to people looking to immerse themselves in the great Australian bush and relax.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Anlina J.

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

Relaxing bird watching

Our family stayed for three nights over Easter. It was a wet weekend which was a great excuse to stay indoors and bird watch. Floor to ceiling windows frame the hilly outlook and the landscaped pond attracts many birds to the native planting. We have multiple visits from crimson rosellas, galahs, grey shrikes and many tiny wren and honey eaters. There is seed to place out on the bird table too. The house is well designed with modern bathrooms and kitchen and the fireplace really cranks out the heat. We explored some of the property in between showers and heard wombats but they were tricky to spot! Aaron is a great host, relaxed and approachable with great tips and communication. We'd love to visit again.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

SIDDHARDH P.

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

Dont judge a book by its cover

Images do not do justice to the property. Undersold in a way but hits the spot once you enter. Emaculate, tidy and well thought with all the requirements for a self service stay. Cozy and beautiful. Checked in late which was hassle free. Woke up to a beautiful view and birds chirping. Had the best relaxing 4 days in a very long time. Conviniently located 45min from Melbourne CBD. Loved the bbq. Benches all around to sit and relax. Aaron is a wonderful host. Would definetly come back soon.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle D.

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

Perfect for a quiet getaway

Beautiful house, excellent location, lovely and quiet
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marg N.

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

Serenity on your doorstep

The fact that it is less than an hour from Melbourne makes BBR incredibly attractive.....when you need a break you don't want to drive halfway across the state to have it. The winding track off the main road through the bush feels like entering a portal into a quieter space. The property is beautiful; a small creek, green spaces, bush all around and a variety of walks. The accommodation is wonderful. A well appointed cooking and dining space, comfortable couches and a fabulous fireplace are at the heart of the building. Three comfortable bedrooms and great bathrooms. The quiet of the property is only broken by the wind in the trees and the sounds of abundant birdlife which congregates right outside your window to wrestle each other for the supply of available seeds. - bring a camera Aaron, your host is available on site to assist, but equally comfortable with being your 'absent landlord' if you want to be left alone . He had a beautiful fire going and a warm house when we arrived and was up for a conversation about the property, the bush and what was available to do in the local area. I would recommend this property without hesitation. Bernie
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Isla S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Yafang P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

suzette m.

Brilliant and beautiful

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

About the host

Hosted by Aaron

Host profile image
I’m Aaron and I live on my property with my sister, Jess and her daughter, Alia. We spent our childhood growing up here, and have lots of information to share about our surroundings, including the birdlife and native animals, so please feel free to ask. We’re looking forward to meeting you and showing you around

Languages:

English

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