There are many parts of this amazing continent that call themselves “God’s own country” – and here is one more! The Strath Valley is known as “Valley of a Thousand Hills” and once you gaze upon the horizon of seemingly endless hills, you will agree that the area is right to make such a boast.
Located just an hour’s drive away from Melbourne, you quickly feel that the cares and worries of an urban life are far away, just as owners Melissa and Rob Donegan did when they moved to the area with their two children for a ‘tree change’. Now they are proud to welcome guests to this new property that already feels a natural part of its beautiful environment.
Strath Valley View B&B is a spacious red cedar cottage with floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the glorious view inside. This is a country cottage in the modern style, featuring floorboards, lovely furnishings and loads of personality. Picture yourself unwinding in the gorgeous claw-foot bath while you sip your complimentary port … this is what a break from the everyday is all about.
The cottage has two bedrooms, the main has a queen bed and French doors that open onto the balcony. The second bedroom offers sleeping options, with a double bed and bunk bed.
Visit in winter and you can luxuriate in the warmth of the wood fire, while you relax with a book, watch a DVD or listen to music. However the cottage is just as comfortable in the warmer months, with reverse cycle air-conditioning. The deck offers panoramic views of the Strath Creek area, yet is completely private, being located on the hillside of the Donegan’s 50-acre property.
The kitchen is stocked with an assortment of fresh local goodies so you can enjoy the heartiest of breakfasts, and all the appliances you need to whip up a gourmet dinner are on hand. However if a holiday for you means no cooking, there are a number of excellent restaurants nearby.
The area abounds in things to do, such as the Valley View Golf Coaching Centre, wineries such as Mitchelton and Tahbilk, the Tranquil Rise Fishing Centre in the heart of the Flowerdale Valley, which offers the choice of fishing in the stocked dams or the beautiful King Parrot Creek. Or take a wander through the Yea Wetlands, with its reserves, picnic area and suspension bridge. Train fanciers will love the Kerrisdale Mountain Railway in the Tallarook Ranges, which offers a zig-zag rail ride up the summit to a magical picnic spot.
Rolling hills surround Strath Creek and the many beautiful state forests offer a diverse landscape of nature walks, bike riding trails, waterfalls, spectacular lookouts and four wheel driving.
So your only real choices when you stay at Strath Valley View B&B are good ones … a day in by the fire, a day spent exploring the countryside or the shops in Yea (about 30 kms away) … or a longer stay that allows you to experience all the wonders that the “Valley of a Thousand Hills” has to offer.
Bookings:
Make an enquiry for your holiday at
Strath Valley View B & B
through TakeABreak and the property operator will get back to you directly to confirm
pricing and availability. Visit their listing for more pictures, further information
on rates, the availability calendar and guest reviews.
Lisa is a professional editor for Holiday Inspirations.
