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Coral Fern Retreat - bush paradise (free wifi)

Family-friendly holiday home in Forrest with a hot tub

Photo gallery for Coral Fern Retreat - bush paradise (free wifi)

Welcome to Coral Fern Retreat
cosy winter days
featuring recycled timbers
inviting dining area
a country kitchen

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Forrest Brewing Company
  • Place, Great Ocean Road Waterfront
  • Place, Apollo Bay Harbour

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Coral Fern Retreat - bush paradise (free wifi)

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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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 3–17
There are stairs and a split level.
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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
Smoking permitted outside

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 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.
Map
Forrest, VIC

What's nearby

  • Forrest Brewing Company - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
  • Great Otway National Park - 3 min drive - 2.3 km
  • Great Ocean Road Waterfront - 29 min drive - 41.0 km
  • Otway Fly Treetop Adventures - 41 min drive - 48.5 km
  • Erskine Falls - 46 min drive - 29.3 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Wonkey Donkey - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪The Corner Store - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Forrest General Store - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪The Terminus Hotel - ‬14 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.

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

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 93 out of 94 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 94 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 94 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 94 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 94 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jan v.

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

Excellent place for a few days relaxation

We had a very enjoyable stay. Everything was exactly as advertised.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cathy C.

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

Lovely weekend

The house and garden was perfect for our weekend in the Otways. Handy to the attractions we wanted to do. A lovely peaceful setting.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Wendy C.

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

Amazing home

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.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lizette F.

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

Tranquil holiday setting

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Exceptional house and gardens, well maintained and very thoughtful hosts.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Vicky D.

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

Full of Charm & Beauty

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!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Craig P.

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

Short family break

Beautiful and interesting property very close to amenities in Forrest.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Robert B.

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

Amazing Property, Amazing Location

Thank you Barbara for providing such a clean and beautifully presented home. We loved our stay and will surely be back. Highly recommended
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rohin A.

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

A real treat in this small town

We found the house a great space to stay in. Highly reccomend
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Chris M.

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

Wonderful

Fantastic place So many birds House immaculately clean Very relaxing
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Bronwyn A.

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

A stunning retreat in a quiet location.

This home was perfect for a get away with our elderly parents. It had absolutely everything necessary for a luxurious stay. The gardens perfectly stunning. Thankyou!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kim T.

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

So amazing!

This property was beautiful and had everything we needed! The bed was super comfy, the bird life was superb and my partner loved playing your grand piano! In over 20 years of staying at self contained properties, yours by far has to be the best we have stayed in! We are looking forward to coming back when it is warmer in Forrest! Thanks so much Barb and Greg! :-)
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shirley D.

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

Beautiful & Peaceful Place to Stay

Our first time staying here and we were just amazed at the beauty of this home and gardens. The area and township lovely and peaceful also. Lovingly maintained and appointed with everything you could need, provided. It is the perfect place to unwind and relax, we were sad to leave! A big Thank-you to Barb and Greg for making us feel very welcome and special with a lovely welcome package and card too. Will definitely be coming back again soon!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Melanie S.

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

Beautiful home in Forrest

We had a wonderful time at Coral Fern Retreat. There is so much beauty in the house and gardens. We loved tinkering on the piano and playing in the cubby house. The stunning mud brick design kept us cool despite it being a hot weekend. Barb is a kind and attentive host, and we were very grateful for the delicious chocolates and sparkling wine on arrival!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

MARDI C.

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

Magical

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this beautiful property. The house is homely, clean, well maintained with all the mod-cons and a great fireplace. The property sits away from other houses and is surrounded by greenery, wildlife, and very peaceful. It is in a great location in walking distance to the brewery and general store. Contact with the owners was easy, fast and friendly. Thank you for a fabulous getaway!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Veronica T.

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

Brilliant in every regard!

We totally LOVED our stay at Coral Fern Retreat. It is paradise. The house is magnificent; it feels so solid and welcoming with everything being beautifully furnished and decorated, plus super comfortable beds and all the equipment we could possibly need. The garden and the backdrop of bush really charmed our hearts. We totally relaxed! Barb and Greg are top hosts and we thoroughly enjoyed the added bonus of contact with them. Additionally, the town of Forrest is ideal - small and with the great offerings of the Brewery, Da Teta (Middle-Eastern) restaurant, the cafe/general store, bike hire and many local walks. We very much hope to come back. Thank you Barb and Greg :)
Stayed 10 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kristen D.

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

Tranquil and beautiful!

Absolutely stunning! From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the beauty of the house and it's surroundings. The house itself has a unique charm, is spacious, very beautifully decorated, quality linen and comfortable beds. The house has everything you could ask for. The garden is beautiful and very well maintained. Overlooking the enormous ferns from the window was my favourite spot in the house. Close to the General store and Brewery. Stevenson Falls is only about a 10min drive and well worth a look. The falls are gorgeous, so is the drive. Barb and Greg were incredible hosts. They went well out of their way to make sure we were catered to and well looked after. We can’t recommend this place highly enough. We will most definitely be back. Thanks so much for having us!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

jim B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely perfect, they were very generous in
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robyn N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Exceptional! Everything about the house is top notch. So well appointed and of the highest quality, we love staying here.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ross A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kellie M.

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

Gorgeous hideaway immaculately presented

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
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Zoe T.

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

Peaceful Haven

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.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ty S.

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

Beautiful Home

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.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

NARELLE B.

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

Beautiful home

So grateful that barb has opened such a beautiful home for people to enjoy.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Imogen W.

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

Outstanding 5 star comfort in bush setting

Impeccably designed and decorated mud brick house with top shelf mod cons. Owners are great communicators. So much care has gone into every detail of the garden, outdoor spaces and every part of the house. This house is so comfortable and beautiful it’s hard to leave! Thank you Barb!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Derek T.

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

Relaxed break

Very comfortable few days here surrounded by the bush and birdlife.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025

About the host

Hosted by Barbara Gear

Host profile image
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