Cottage escape in a quiet town

VINTAGE House is one of the nicest getaway cottages I’ve stayed in, with the benefits of both an attractive setting and a handy location.

The weatherboard house is located on a street in the town of Healesville, in the Yarra Valley east of Melbourne. However, despite its proximity to neighbours, it feels distinctly secluded, thanks to the trees surrounding the residence and the pleasant garden which steps down from the back yard over two levels. 

The views from the verandah at the rear of the cottage reinforce this impression – my field of view is full of greenery and nearby hills, with little hint of the township below. Handily, however, the main street with its shops and restaurants is only a block away.

The house has a spacious interior containing three bedrooms, which can accommodate up to six people. Each is simply appointed with white duvets and contemporary furniture, an attractive contrast to the lead-light window panes.

The living room is a sizeable space, with sofas, armchairs, and a log fire for winter. At the other end is a long dining table, which receives plenty of natural light from the verandah. Adjoining this room is the kitchen, which has full facilities for self-catering.

Thankfully Vintage House has none of the lace or other froufrou often associated with such cottages; instead it’s a tasteful mix of classic and contemporary decor, including the prints in each room featuring elements of the region’s noted winemaking industry.

An easy drive from the house is the popular Healesville Sanctuary, a zoo featuring Australian animals. 

Other attractions of the area centre are its wineries, which offer cellar door sales and dining. On Sundays the Yarra Valley Railway runs tourist trains from Healesville to the Tarrawarra Winery and return.

The info

Vintage House

41 Symons Street, Healesville, Vic 3777

Phone: 0438 652 456

Web: www.vintagehouse.com.au

Email: unwind@vintagehouse.com.au

Rates: From $180 per night midweek.