Entire home
Tolka - a Traditional Farm Cottage near River
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Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 61 sq m
Popular amenities
Rooms & beds
3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 2
1 Double Bed
Bedroom 3
2 Single Beds
2 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Bathroom 2
Spaces
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
About this property
Tolka - a Traditional Farm Cottage near River
Tolka Cottage is a wildlife haven, located 20 minutes from Casterton, home of the famous Kelpie Festival, only 1 hour from the Coonawarra Wine Region and Mt. Gambier and 1 1/2 hours from the Great Ocean Road, Nelson and Portland on the coast & the Hamilton/Grampians Region.
The Cottage is a short walk to the Glenelg River where you can see platypus, kangaroos, wallabies, emus, koalas & over 140 species of birds including the endangered Red-tailed Black Cockatoo.
Sole occupancy facilities include a formal sitting room & sunroom, 3 bedrooms (one queen sized, one double & one with 2 single beds), bathroom with shower & toilet, fully equipped kitchen & outdoor entertaining area with barbecue.
The Cottage provides luxurious linen, towels & continental quilts, electric blankets, reverse cycle air conditioning, colour TV, DVD & stereo/CD player, books & games.
Surroded by Wilkin Flora & Fauna Reserve, famed for native orchids, abundant & rare wildlife.
You can walk, fish, canoe, bird, swim and spot platypus!
Enjoy eggs from our poultry & produce from our garden.
Your horses & dogs are invited to visit.
The Cottage has a dog proof garden and you are welcome to bring your dogs. We also have secure dog pens if you wish to avail of them. Food & water bowls can be provided, if required. Please supply a current vaccination certificate prior to arrival.
PET FRIENDLY INFORMATION
All dogs are welcome, larger dogs must remain outside only unless prior arrangements are made. Small dogs are allowed inside provided they are fully house trained.
Of course, they are not allowed on any furniture or beds.
Kennels can be provided for dogs if you wish to leave them while you explore the local area.
SURROUNDINGS
You are more than welcome to explore our beautiful surroundings but we do ask you keep your pets on a lead when walking through the paddocks and bush.
There are numerous wild kangaroos, emu and domesticated stock and we would like your pets and our animals to stay safe. There is plenty of space for your animals to enjoy the fenced in garden.
WHAT TO BRING
• Your pets bedding
• A lead
CONDITIONS
• Please pick up all droppings in a bag and deposit in the rubbish bin provided at the back of the laundry.
• Please no barking.
• Make sure your four legged friend doesn’t damage the screen doors or windows.
• Be aware that we have female unsprayed dogs on the property.
• Your dogs must be fully immunised.
PLEASE BE ADVISED
In order to avoid embarrassment or disappointment we advise in advance that additional charges will apply if:
• More cleaning than usual is required because of your dog
• Dogs have been inside our accommodation without prior agreement
• There is any damage to our property
If you wish to travel to Tolka with your horses, you are welcome to do so.
There are horse paddocks, yards and stables all available at an extra cost, during your stay.
If you wish to leave your horse here for some days before or afterwards: Horse agistment/boarding facilities can be provided for $15 per day in yards and $20 per day in stable. Horse health certificates for tetanus/strangles & worming must be currentand supplied in advance of arrival.
A Hidden Delight for those who are looking for a stop over for a couple of nights or longer
This is a secret corner of Australia, undiscovered by mass tourism. A hidden delight for the connoisseur.
It will suit those who are travelling from Melbourne to Adelaide, or those who are on the route to, or from, the Great Ocean Road and/or the Limestone Coast. The Cottage makes an ideal stop over, for a couple of nights, for a complete chill out.
It provides a retreat for those who wish to enjoy the many festivals at Mt. Gambier and Coonawarra, but who want to have the freedom to escape from the crowds, at the same time.
The Cottage has an outdoor entertaining area with a gas barbeque and, in winter and outside fire restriction periods, guests may light fires for picnics on the property.
The farm with its wild areas, left unspoilt to encourage wildlife and its billabong will enrapture the unadventurous.
Those who venture into the Wilkin Flora & Fauna Reserve which surrounds Tolka, will be treated to a botanical delight, rich in native wild flowers, orchids and fungi.
The Casterton Horse Races take place several times a year and are a fun day out for the family and Tolka is ideally suited as a base for race goers, especially, if they wish to tap into Ivy's expert knowledge of the racing world.
Tolka Cottage is always in demand for the Casterton Kelpie Festival each June. The Kelpie breed of dog originated in this area and is celebrated with the Kelpie Muster, the Festival and Working Dog Auction. So book early.
Please note 2 nights minimum stay on weekends and public holidays. Kelpie festival minimum 3 nights stay, four adults. Remember you are in the country and telephone reception may be patchy so please check that your service provider operates in this area. There is Wifi and phone available on the property for emergencies or by special request.
The Cottage is a short walk to the Glenelg River where you can see platypus, kangaroos, wallabies, emus, koalas & over 140 species of birds including the endangered Red-tailed Black Cockatoo.
Sole occupancy facilities include a formal sitting room & sunroom, 3 bedrooms (one queen sized, one double & one with 2 single beds), bathroom with shower & toilet, fully equipped kitchen & outdoor entertaining area with barbecue.
The Cottage provides luxurious linen, towels & continental quilts, electric blankets, reverse cycle air conditioning, colour TV, DVD & stereo/CD player, books & games.
Surroded by Wilkin Flora & Fauna Reserve, famed for native orchids, abundant & rare wildlife.
You can walk, fish, canoe, bird, swim and spot platypus!
Enjoy eggs from our poultry & produce from our garden.
Your horses & dogs are invited to visit.
The Cottage has a dog proof garden and you are welcome to bring your dogs. We also have secure dog pens if you wish to avail of them. Food & water bowls can be provided, if required. Please supply a current vaccination certificate prior to arrival.
PET FRIENDLY INFORMATION
All dogs are welcome, larger dogs must remain outside only unless prior arrangements are made. Small dogs are allowed inside provided they are fully house trained.
Of course, they are not allowed on any furniture or beds.
Kennels can be provided for dogs if you wish to leave them while you explore the local area.
SURROUNDINGS
You are more than welcome to explore our beautiful surroundings but we do ask you keep your pets on a lead when walking through the paddocks and bush.
There are numerous wild kangaroos, emu and domesticated stock and we would like your pets and our animals to stay safe. There is plenty of space for your animals to enjoy the fenced in garden.
WHAT TO BRING
• Your pets bedding
• A lead
CONDITIONS
• Please pick up all droppings in a bag and deposit in the rubbish bin provided at the back of the laundry.
• Please no barking.
• Make sure your four legged friend doesn’t damage the screen doors or windows.
• Be aware that we have female unsprayed dogs on the property.
• Your dogs must be fully immunised.
PLEASE BE ADVISED
In order to avoid embarrassment or disappointment we advise in advance that additional charges will apply if:
• More cleaning than usual is required because of your dog
• Dogs have been inside our accommodation without prior agreement
• There is any damage to our property
If you wish to travel to Tolka with your horses, you are welcome to do so.
There are horse paddocks, yards and stables all available at an extra cost, during your stay.
If you wish to leave your horse here for some days before or afterwards: Horse agistment/boarding facilities can be provided for $15 per day in yards and $20 per day in stable. Horse health certificates for tetanus/strangles & worming must be currentand supplied in advance of arrival.
A Hidden Delight for those who are looking for a stop over for a couple of nights or longer
This is a secret corner of Australia, undiscovered by mass tourism. A hidden delight for the connoisseur.
It will suit those who are travelling from Melbourne to Adelaide, or those who are on the route to, or from, the Great Ocean Road and/or the Limestone Coast. The Cottage makes an ideal stop over, for a couple of nights, for a complete chill out.
It provides a retreat for those who wish to enjoy the many festivals at Mt. Gambier and Coonawarra, but who want to have the freedom to escape from the crowds, at the same time.
The Cottage has an outdoor entertaining area with a gas barbeque and, in winter and outside fire restriction periods, guests may light fires for picnics on the property.
The farm with its wild areas, left unspoilt to encourage wildlife and its billabong will enrapture the unadventurous.
Those who venture into the Wilkin Flora & Fauna Reserve which surrounds Tolka, will be treated to a botanical delight, rich in native wild flowers, orchids and fungi.
The Casterton Horse Races take place several times a year and are a fun day out for the family and Tolka is ideally suited as a base for race goers, especially, if they wish to tap into Ivy's expert knowledge of the racing world.
Tolka Cottage is always in demand for the Casterton Kelpie Festival each June. The Kelpie breed of dog originated in this area and is celebrated with the Kelpie Muster, the Festival and Working Dog Auction. So book early.
Please note 2 nights minimum stay on weekends and public holidays. Kelpie festival minimum 3 nights stay, four adults. Remember you are in the country and telephone reception may be patchy so please check that your service provider operates in this area. There is Wifi and phone available on the property for emergencies or by special request.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
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House Rules
Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
Children
Adults only
Events
No events allowed
Pets
Pets allowed
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 not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
About the area
Strathdownie
Located in Strathdownie, this cottage is next to a golf course. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Wilkin Flora and Fauna Reserve and Pieracle Swamp Wildlife Reserve. Take the opportunity to explore the area for water adventures such as fishing.

Strathdownie, VIC
What's nearby
- Wilkin Flora and Fauna Reserve - 4 min drive - 1.9 km
- Umpherston Sinkhole - 55 min drive - 74.0 km
- Mount Gambier Central - 57 min drive - 78.1 km
- Blue Lake - 57 min drive - 80.7 km
- Blue Lake Reserve - 57 min drive - 81.1 km
Getting around
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
10/10
Location
9.8/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
29 Dec 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer H.
4 Jan 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Jennifer H.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
10/10 Excellent
LEIGH C.
9 June 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
LEIGH C.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Tiani M.
18 Oct 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Love Tolka Cottage
Tiani M.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
8/10 Good
David B.
7 Feb 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing Farm stay
David B.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020
10/10 Excellent
Jane B.
11 Sept 2018
Warm welcoming and off the beaten track
Jane B.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2018
10/10 Excellent
Pamela M.
2 Jan 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to disconnect!
Pamela M.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Karen R.
28 Nov 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Karen R.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
10/10 Excellent
Rys M.
17 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Farm House
Rys M.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Tamara R.
2 Nov 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A slice of rural paradise
Tamara R.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
10/10 Excellent
Jodi W.
31 Oct 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location
Beautiful bush cottage
Jodi W.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
10/10 Excellent
Cheryl C.
26 Oct 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved the cottage, very secluded a great chill out
Cheryl C.
Stayed 9 nights in Oct 2022
10/10 Excellent
Tony G.
26 Sept 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful country atmosphere, relaxing listening to the chooks, pheasants and bird life.
Tony G.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
10/10 Excellent
Karen & Ian F.
15 Sept 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A warm and inviting old world charm
Karen & Ian F.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
10/10 Excellent
Natalie B.
23 Apr 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely relaxing space
Natalie B.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2022
10/10 Excellent
Shivi B.
22 Apr 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful place and lovely host
Shivi B.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022
10/10 Excellent
Annie & Paul m.
22 Mar 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect country escape
Annie & Paul m.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022
10/10 Excellent
Cathy G.
14 Mar 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Remote indulgence
Cathy G.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022
10/10 Excellent
Eric K.
7 Dec 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very good everything provided
Eric K.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2021
10/10 Excellent
Rohan N.
27 June 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect in every way
Rohan N.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021
10/10 Excellent
Judy M.
20 May 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved it!
Judy M.
Stayed 1 night in May 2021
10/10 Excellent
Timothy R.
4 May 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Gem you’ll never find anywhere else
Timothy R.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2021
10/10 Excellent
Alison P.
25 Jan 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful house, perfect location!
Alison P.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2021
10/10 Excellent
Rose F.
8 Jan 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely old cottage in peaceful and remote location
Rose F.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2021
10/10 Excellent
Pauline G.
11 Oct 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Secluded and welcoming cottage
Pauline G.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020
About the host
Hosted by Ivy Hawkes
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