Quirky Accommodation in the Yarra Valley
From tiny houses, quirky hideaways, glamping and going off the grid, the Yarra Valley region offers some of Victoria’s most unique places to stay.
Travel is about experiencing something new and not just about the activities. Finding unique accommodation options is an easy way to add a sense of adventure to your stay and make your trip even more memorable. Here are a few ideas, all roughly an hour or less from Melbourne.
Larnook at Sherbrook
Once a shipping container, Larnook at Sherbrooke has polished up just fine. This little glam getaway is gorgeously designed with all the amenities you’d want for a self-sufficient, off-the-grid escape.
The name Larnook means nest in the Boon Wurrong language, spoken by one of the five tribes of the Kulin Nation, and this is one nest you’ll undoubtedly want to settle into. Grab a bottle of your favourite Yarra Valley wine, curl up in front of the fire, or kick back to watch the sunset from the deck. There’s an outdoor shower, panoramic views, and all the creature comforts you’d want in a solo getaway or romantic escape for two.
Nissen Hut at Glenlowren
Located in Dixons Creek amid the paddocks of the Yarra Valley, the luxury stays at Glenlowren are swoon-worthy. On this quiet 100-acre stretch of farmland, guests have three options, including the uniquely designed ‘Hut’.
This architectural treat might feel secluded, but it’s just a few minutes away from plenty of wineries and restaurants for an indulgent escape. Its distinctive arched shape and abundance of light make it the perfect spot for watching the sunset transform into a star-studded sky with the log fire burning.
Nissen Hut is ideally suited for four with two bedrooms, each with its en suite, so it’s a perfect weekend getaway for your best ‘couple- friends’; however, the property also has one-bedroom options.
The Burrow at Wombat Bend
Also located in Dixons Creek, The Burrow at Wombat Bend is an immersive, self-contained B&B-style sanctuary cottage retreat adjacent to a billabong on a five-acre property.
Here guests get plenty of privacy, quiet and relaxation, but it’s still close enough to great coffee, wineries and restaurants. Popular as a writer's or artists' retreat, The Burrow at Wombat Bend is also the perfect spot for a romantic getaway.
Allira by CABN
Ever wondered what it would be like to stay in a tiny house? Go off the grid with CABN and their Yarra Valley-based escape, Allira. For its cosy size, this architecturally-designed beauty packs a big punch with all the comforts one could want, including a small kitchen and shower with biodegradable amenities, an outdoor fire pit and barbeque and total privacy.
The perfect retreat to unwind and escape, Allira promises to replace the sounds of traffic and city life with birdsong. Well-behaved dogs are welcome to come along (on a lead) to share the serenity amid the forest.
Chum Creek Hut
Can’t decide between luxury and getting out in nature? Do both at Chum Creek Hut located in Chum Creek.
This high-country haven is on a 136-acre horse ranch that backs onto State Forrest land. From the outside, it might look like a rustic hut, but step inside and discover a country retreat with an original open stone fireplace and impressive views over the dam during the warmer months.
At this fully-renovated cattleman’s hut, you can relax in the double spa bath, go for a bushwalk, spot native wildlife or throw a line into the dam to catch yabbies. Not only is Chum Creek hut dog-friendly, but it’s also horse-friendly too. Bring your horse to ride in the State Forest or book a lesson with one of the resident horses.
*Image of the wine tasting shed; please see the website for accommodation.
Loft in the Mill
Love the charm and character of historic properties? Olinda’s Loft in the Mill is a replica of a 19th Century Bluestone English Flour Mill and Bluestone Carriage House.
This boutique luxury property offers a variety of accommodation options, including the three-bedroom, two-story house Carriage House that’s perfect for families or small groups and The Loft Suite, encompassing the entire top floor of The Mill building in true penthouse style.
The property is also less than 2km away from some of Olinda’s most loved dining locations.
Warburton Motel
It’s retro, funky, laid back and perfectly cosy for families, couples and solo travellers. Located in Warburton, the mid-century style of the Warburton Motel is loved by many travellers for its super convenient location to many of the best sights, shops, eateries and attractions in the region.
Family-owned and operated, the freshly refurbished property (in 2020) is modern, family-friendly, and a hotspot for those keen to get out and active in the region. Activities such as river tubing on the Yarra, hiking along the Warburton Lilydale Trail, into the California Redwood Forest, LaLa Falls, Mt Donna Buang and much more are all within walking distance.
Glamping at Big 4 Park Lane
Located in Healesville, the Big 4 Yarra Valley Park Lane has belle tents and glamping pods with private ensuites and nature at your front door.
Like camping but without sacrificing your home comforts, glamping comes with comfy beds, a mini-fridge, crockery, WIFI and the best part, no need to set up or pack down the tent!
Perfect for couples or families (family belle tents sleep up to four), guests are close to all of Healesville’s famous attractions, eateries and wineries.
