Devon Park
710 Robinsons Road, Langwarrin
Melbourne Victoria
Close to the city but with the feeling of the bush.
Overall rating?
Outstanding
What makes Devon Park different?
This is a B&B with a difference; it offers the option of usual B&B accommodation along with continental breakfast provisions or a self-contained cottage, with cooked breakfast provisions. It is well illuminated for those arriving at night and has a welcoming ambience. The owners are quick to show where everything is and how it works, and then leave you to relax. The property was built for the author Neville Shute and he wrote some of his most famous novels here, including “On the Beach”.
Accommodation overview
The cottage was originally built for Neville Shute’s daughters and has one room with a queen bed and a single, there is an ensuite with a large spa bath and shower and a comfortable lounge area. The bathroom has a stone rather than tiled floor, which looks great and feels terrific on the feet! The B&B has one room with a queen-size bed and also has a double and single futon. There is a bathroom with shower.
Facilities overview
The cottage has internet facilities and there is a grassed area with swings and trampoline for children. While in lovely bush surrounds, this 10-acre property is well located for those wishing to enjoy all Melbourne has to offer. We didn’t have a car and the owners were quick to offer us lifts into town. The breakfast supplies were plentiful and included bacon, eggs, cereal, milk, juice, tea and (real!) coffee and bread.
Location
We were travelling by public transport and the property is one hour from the Melbourne CBD (Southern Cross Station to Frankston) by train for a fare of $5.50 and then a 20 minute/$20 taxi ride from Frankstown to Devon Park. By car, it is about 1 hour from Melbourne in non-peak traffic. It is ideally located to make the most of all the wonderful Mornington Peninsula has to offer.
Suitable for children?
Yes
Suitable for pets?
Yes, the owners have a very friendly dog, cats and ponies. There is a great running area for dogs and a cage. Pets must stay outdoors. Please make arrangements when booking.
Wheelchair access?
Yes, but check with the property to see if it is suitable for your needs.
Perfect for?
Smaller families, singles, couples who are looking for a romantic getaway out of the city and business stop overs. The cottage has a lovely feeling and there is a compendium in the room with great ideas of things to do in the area. Also ideal for people needing fully furnished long-term accommodation, such as those from overseas, or working in the area from interstate, or those waiting to move into their new home.
Why stay longer?
Devon Park feels like a home away from home, with the owners providing all the assistance you could wish for, without being in the way. It is close enough to Melbourne to enjoy all the shopping and dining opportunities, but also has the feel of being away from it all. There is plenty to do in the local area, including sailing, horse-riding and sight-seeing.
Why you wouldn’t stay longer?
The only reason to cut your stay short is if you were reliant on public transport and taxis to get around, as the cost becomes prohibitive. If you were staying for more than two days you would really need a car.
Pricing
$260 per couple per 2 nights in the cottage, with a minimum two-night stay. Check the listing for pricing details.
Sally Hobson wrote
this article in
May 2008