Willowdell is a peaceful cottage retreat on a boutique rural horse property, halfway between the historic townships of Kilmore and Lancefield. Surrounded by scenic farmland at the base of the McHarg Ranges, it's the perfect base to explore the delights of the Macedon Ranges to the west, or Tallarook, Tooboorac and the Heathcote wine region to the North. Ideal if you are temporarily working or visiting friends in the area, or as a relaxed get away from a hectic city schedule.
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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
This property uses a grey water recycling system
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 fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Willowmavin
Located in Willowmavin, this cottage is in a rural area. Kilmore Minature Railway and Kilmore Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Goldie Flora Reserve and Moranding I22 Bushland Reserve. Discover the area's water adventures with nearby swimming, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling.
Moranding I22 Bushland Reserve - 11 min drive - 13.6 km
Kilmore Minature Railway - 11 min drive - 13.3 km
The Kilmore International School - 12 min drive - 13.6 km
Kilmore Racecourse - 12 min drive - 12.9 km
Kilmore Golf Club - 12 min drive - 13.3 km
Getting around
Kilmore East Station - 14 min drive
Melbourne Airport (MEL) - 64 min drive
Restaurants
The Rose Cafe - 11 min drive
Royal Oak Hotel - 10 min drive
Harvest Door Cafe & Larder - 10 min drive
Ferguson Plarre Kilmore - 10 min drive
Ah Raffaele - 10 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Peaceful cottage retreat an hour from Melbourne pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Peaceful cottage retreat an hour from Melbourne?
As of 1 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Peaceful cottage retreat an hour from Melbourne on 31 July 2026 start from AU$198, 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 Peaceful cottage retreat an hour from Melbourne?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Peaceful cottage retreat an hour from Melbourne?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Peaceful cottage retreat an hour from Melbourne?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Peaceful cottage retreat an hour from Melbourne located?
Situated in a rural location, this cottage is 2.8 mi (4.4 km) from Goldie Flora Reserve and within 9 miles (15 km) of Kilmore Leisure Centre and Kilmore Minature Railway. Kilmore Racecourse and Kilmore Golf Club are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
This property is a nice place to stay. It is clean and surrounded by beautiful country properties where horses are grazing. A couple of points to note, however. The advertisement should clearly indicate, but does not, that bed sheets and towels are not provided, except for an extra fee of $40 per bed. So bring your own or pay. Also, a relatively minor matter is that the washer and dryer are located in the car park. The washer worked well but the dryer worked once but on second wash, was dysfunctional (hopefully this has been fixed). Also, the property owner requires dishes to be washed and put away upon leaving the property. The owner provided a minimal amount of dishwashing liquid - she could have been more generous (a small matter but annoying nonetheless). Finally, be very aware there is no Wi-Fi link provided.
Lorraine N.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Jan 2023
Lorraine and her family were lovely guests. I would like to respond to the points in this review. The bring your own linen or pay extra requirement IS advised within the listing notes in the advertisement. It is up to potential guests to read the notes to ensure they know this. On this occasion, as I saw that the guests were from overseas, I double checked in a message to Lorraine BEFORE accepting the booking that she was aware of this requirement in case hse preferred to book elsewhere. Several messages were exchanged and Lorraine decided to continue with the booking and bring her own linen. Within those messages and also in the listing, the lack of Wifi was and is noted. The washer and dryer are indeed located out of the weather in the undercover carport as the cottage does not have a laundry as such. I live on the same property as the cottage and the very first thing I said to Lorraine and her family when they arrived was to please advise me if there were any issues so that I could address them. At no time did Lorraine mention any problems. I would have been only too happy to provide more dishwashing liquid had she asked. I was actually walking past the dryer at a time when Lorraine and her husband were both standing in front of it and, as they appeared to be puzzling over the controls I asked if they needed any assistance. They both replied 'No thank you we are fine,' and nothing else was said. As to requiring dishes to be washed and put away, Willowdell is a short term rental, not a hotel, and this is a common requirement not exclusive to my cottage. I take pride in ensuring that my guests are comfortable and go out of my way to ensure I am available and approachable. It is disappointing to read Lorraine's comments, especially as we exchanged several friendly conversations during her visit.
Highly recommend this quirky cottage getaway. Set in a beautiful location with views in all directions, the tranquility is second to none. It’s such a relaxing environment and a stone throw to the regions attractions. Host Bernadette was fantastic to deal with, our comfort was her priority. We shall return!
Paul T.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 24 May 2021
Paul, Bec and Molly you were wonderful guests to host. I'm so pleased you enjoyed your stay at Willowdell and I shall look forward to seeing you here again in the future!
About the host
Hosted by Bernadette
A long time local to the area, I'm an animal lover, especially my horses and my dog. I really love where I live and love seeing the way my guests appreciate and enjoy the Willowdell property and surroundings as much as I do.
Why they chose this property
The peaceful rural farmland setting is easy on the ears and eyes. I never tire of the way the surrounding hills are ever changing throughout the seasons. I feel so fortunate and grateful for the opportunity to live in such a delightful setting.
What makes this property unique
The peace of the area is broken only by the vast variety of birdlife, along with the odd echidna or kangaroo. Peaceful, safe and secure, once you're settled inside the gates you can leave the rest of the world behind and simply relax and breathe in the pure country air, all within an easy hour's drive from Melbourne.