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Blackwood Bush Retreat

Strathewen vacation home with kitchen

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Interior
Dining
Exterior
Terrace/patio
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space

Explore the area

View in a map
Strathewen, VIC
  • Place, Kinglake National Park
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Queenstown G57 Bushland Reserve
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Queenstown G58 Bushland Reserve
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Airport, Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)
    ‪48 min drive‬

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About the area

Strathewen

In Strathewen .Stay at this Strathewen vacation home and you'll be within 2 miles (3 km) of Kinglake National Park and 6 miles (10 km) of Frank Thomson Reserve. Shaws Road Winery and Queenstown G57 Bushland Reserve are also within 6 miles (10 km).
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What's nearby

  • Kinglake National Park - 7 min drive - 3.4 km
  • Queenstown G57 Bushland Reserve - 7 min drive - 9.1 km
  • Queenstown G58 Bushland Reserve - 8 min drive - 9.5 km
  • St Andrews G148 Bushland Reserve - 10 min drive - 11.4 km
  • Smiths Gully and Peter Franke Nature Conservation Reserve - 10 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
  • ‪A Local Baker - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Kinglake Pub - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪A Boy Named Sue - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Songbird Cafe & Larder - ‬16 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

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.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In the mountains

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Garden

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

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

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Children must be supervised at all times

Events

No events 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
Onsite 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 there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector in each accommodation.

Frequently asked questions

How close is Blackwood Bush Retreat to the airport?

This vacation home is 30.9 mi (61-min drive) away from the Melbourne, VIC (MEB-Essendon) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Blackwood Bush Retreat have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.

Does Blackwood Bush Retreat offer free breakfast?

This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Blackwood Bush Retreat?

No, there is no casino at this vacation home.

What time is check-in at Blackwood Bush Retreat?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Blackwood Bush Retreat?

Free parking is not available at this vacation home.

Does Blackwood Bush Retreat have a pool?

This vacation home does not have a pool.

Does Blackwood Bush Retreat have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this vacation home.

How close is Blackwood Bush Retreat to downtown Strathewen?

This vacation home is 0.6 mi away from Strathewen.

Blackwood Bush Retreat Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

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

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Isla S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Yafang P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bhaktha Khanna

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

suzette m.

Brilliant and beautiful

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nicole G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Strathewen

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

10/10 Excellent

suzette m.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

suzette m.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Ana S.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Christina G.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Darrell J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place

Peaceful and great surroundings
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie M.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

David M.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Julie-Ann H.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Anlina J.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Ruta N.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

SIDDHARDH P., Wetheril Park

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Michelle D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect for a quiet getaway

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

10/10 Excellent

Marg N.

Liked: Cleanliness

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