Writers Retreats in the Dandenong Ranges

What are your perfect writing conditions? Secluded and away from the world, surrounded by books, self contained where all your needs are met, close to takeaway coffee and surrounded by nature.

Find space to focus on your project in the Dandenong Ranges. A mid-week sojourn, or a weekend away from the demands of life could be exactly what you need to ponder the complexities of character development, complete another chapter of your grand opus, refresh your mind for new inspiration, or even get that first draft finished.

These writer’s havens will provide the perfect environment to get those keys tapping or that pen scribing.

Escape, recharge & be inspired here:

THE GALLERY - OLINDA

The Gallery Bed and Breakfast is a contemporary, romantic retreat nestled in 1 ½ acres of old Hills gardens in Olinda. Once a well-known art gallery, The Gallery has been recently transformed into a spacious, boutique self-contained cottage for two, stylishly fitted and furnished with warm interiors and clean design. It’s the perfect getaway for writerly types.

The Gallery B&B in Olinda offers:

• A private, luxury cottage set in an old Hills garden of 1.5 acres
• Roomy, light-filled spaces with beautiful garden vistas from every window
• Contemporary design and a decor that includes local art
• The perfect location for quiet inspiration and reflection, yet close to gardens, cafes and restaurants
• An abundance of breakfast provisions are included; organic, free-range eggs, home-made bread and jam, local honey, locally smoked, free-range bacon (or Tasmanian smoked salmon), organic fairtrade coffee, organic milk and much more

Where: 112 Olinda-Monbulk Rd, Olinda

Tel: 0407 522 860

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WOOLRICH RETREAT - OLINDA

Woolrich Cottage was built in the 1920s for Ted Woolrich who started the former nursery next door that is now the incredible Cloudehill Gardens. The cottage’s Art Deco features have been retained and restored to create this elegant accommodation. Fine furniture complements the period architectural features such as the Art Deco leadlight windows.

Follow the tradition of several writers who have stayed at Woolrich Retreat.

• Host, Mary, has initiated a number of writers’ festivals in the hills, involving Australian writers such as Cate Kennedy (a former guest), and children’s authors Andy Griffiths and David Walliams
• Make yourself at home in a luxury cottage or apartment with open fire
• Indulge in a hot tub or spa bath and sumptuous breakfast provisions
• Stroll through 5 acres of gardens and enjoy the tranquillity and birdlife
• Escape from the world and experience the peace, privacy and sense of history…

…while at the same time, making use of free, fast internet access.

Where: 20 Woolrich Rd, Olinda

Tel: 03 9751 0154

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THE ARTIST ON EVEREST - OLINDA

The Artist on Everest is a treehouse like no other, the ultimate mountain experience enhanced with all the luxury comforts you could ask for. A sophisticated and contemporary 2 bedroom home, with an attention to detail second to none. A house that will inspire and excite writers young and old.

• Elevated and surrounded by a lush forest of greenery
• A hidden in a serene setting that will take your breath away
• A 3 minute stroll to the heart of Olinda
• Features a stunning collection of local and international contemporary art, curated by the owner, a local artist

Tel: 1300 48 84 48

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BEECHMONT GARDEN RETREAT - OLINDA

An opportunity to experience the country home of Cherrie Miriklis-Pavlou owner of one of Australia’s leading, and sought after, event and retail florists Flowers Vasette in Fitzroy. Beechmont’s gardens are used to provide seasonal flowers and foliage for the business and to inspire the florists. Beechmont Garden Retreat is a place to take time – to talk, to dream, to enjoy the birds, smell the flowers and explore the nooks and crannies of this amazing garden.

• Beautifully and artistically interior design
• Four bedrooms, three bathrooms and two living areas for groups of writers to stay and be inspired
• 10 acres of manicured gardens to explore and find that perfect place to write

Tel: 1300 48 84 48

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RETREAT AND SURRENDER TO THE WRITING LIFE THAT IS YOUR CONSTANT COMPANION AND MAKE YOUR WORDS COUNT.

Need a little reading inspiration - Daisy Boots Book Shop in Sassafras is close at hand. And libraries are scattered throughout the region (Lilydale, Yarra Junction, Montrose, Mooroolbark) when the urge to research strikes again.