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Castella Country Retreat- Rustic Charm in the Heart of Yarra Valley Wine Country

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Outdoor dining - Castella Country Retreat- Rustic Charm in the Heart of Yarra Valley Wine Country (Castella)
Property grounds - Castella Country Retreat- Rustic Charm in the Heart of Yarra Valley Wine Country (Castella)
Dining - Castella Country Retreat- Rustic Charm in the Heart of Yarra Valley Wine Country (Castella)
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop - Castella Country Retreat- Rustic Charm in the Heart of Yarra Valley Wine Country (Castella)
4 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, WiFi, bed sheets - Castella Country Retreat- Rustic Charm in the Heart of Yarra Valley Wine Country (Castella)
Experience the serene beauty of Castella Country Retreat, nestled in a secluded valley within the Yarra Valley. Hand-feed Nathan, the resident magpie, and Harry and Apu, the alpacas; wake up to kookaburras' laughter amidst an array of birdlife. With four spacious bedrooms and two living areas on 7 acres of land there's ample space for groups to unwind.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill

Add dates for prices

About this property

Castella Country Retreat- Rustic Charm in the Heart of Yarra Valley Wine Country

  • A peaceful retreat, set on 7 acres of land adjoining Kinglake National Park. It is located in a secluded valley in the heart of the Yarra Valley, just a little over an hours drive from Melbourne's CBD.

    Our 40 year old mud brick holiday house (which has been recently updated) is full of character and charm and comfortably furnished for groups of up to 8. Four bedrooms, two spacious living areas on 7 acres provides plenty of space for 8 guests both inside and out. A well equipped kitchen and dining table for 8 means you don't even need to go out if a lazy weekend away is what you are after.

    Wake to the laugh of the kookaburras (and a kangaroo or two feeding in the paddocks if your early enough) and enjoy an array of birdlife which fill the stringybark gums throughout the day. You will be able to hand feed Nathan, the resident magpie, if you bring a little ham with you and Harry and Apu, the alpacas, love a snack of lucerne (provided). Staying at the Castella Country Retreat is a fabulous way to enjoy the Yarra Valley and the great Australian Bush.

    Linen is provided, however you do NEED TO BRING YOUR OWN TOWELS.

    Sorry, pets and parties are NOT allowed.
    Smoking is NOT permitted inside.
    The property is not considered suitable for young children.

    There is a lot to do and see in the area, local attractions include:

    Wineries & Restaurants
    Bush walking in the National Parks
    Yerring Station (with farmers market)
    Yarra Valley Dairy
    Four Pillars Gin Distillery
    Tarra Warra Art Museum & Winery
    Yara Glen & Healesville Races
    St Andrews weekly Saturday market
    Brunos Garden Art & Sculpture in Marysville
    RACV Country Golf Club
    Quaint local towns
    Antique shops of Yarra Glen

    Otherwise the 7 acres of land provides with you with lots of nature and space to wonder and enjoy.

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Games
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • In-room accessibility
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • No carbon monoxide detector or gas appliances (host has indicated there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)

General

  • Garden

Similar properties

Terrace/patio
Yarra Valley Lodge
Chirnside Park
  • Parking included
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Restaurant
  • Air-conditioning
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, 1,002 reviews
The price is £113
includes taxes & fees
24 May - 25 May
Yarra Valley Lodge
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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available

Check-out

Check-out before 12:00 PM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

Parties or gatherings of any sort are not allowed either inside or outside of the property.

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

Frequently asked questions

Is Castella Country Retreat- Rustic Charm in the Heart of Yarra Valley Wine Country pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Castella Country Retreat- Rustic Charm in the Heart of Yarra Valley Wine Country?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Castella Country Retreat- Rustic Charm in the Heart of Yarra Valley Wine Country?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Castella Country Retreat- Rustic Charm in the Heart of Yarra Valley Wine Country?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Castella Country Retreat- Rustic Charm in the Heart of Yarra Valley Wine Country located?

Situated in a rural location, this holiday home is steps from Kinglake National Park and 1.5 mi (2.5 km) from Kinglake G134 Bushland Reserve. Sutherland Estate Winery and Shantell Vineyard are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 69 out of 77 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 77 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 77 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 77 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 77 reviews

9.8

Cleanliness

9.8

Location

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sally S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place to stay

Lovely location and great house for family to stay. Beautiful peaceful grounds, thanks for having us :)
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Varinia H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely house. Very clean and comfortable, Gorgeous peaceful location. We had a very restful and relaxing stay.The house is large and spacious and was well equipped.Host was friendly and provided helpful clear instructions on where to find things / how to use appliances.
House
Outdoor dining area (under cover, plus has BBQ)
Kitchen
Main bedroom (also has ensuite)
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Clifford T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful, very comfortable.

Loved our time at the property. Everything we needed was provided and its a very lovely environment.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joanna S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Christmas

Perfect stay for an extended family Christmas- so many lovely extra touches as the home - the games box, sports equipment and of course feeding the alpacas. Gorgeous!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect spot for a relaxing weekend with extended family

Could not fault this beautiful property! Has everything you need and more! Plenty to do for the kids indoors & outdoors. Fireplace creates a cosy atmosphere and warms the whole house. Close to King Lake & Healesville for outings, but far enough away to feel like you have escaped the hustle & bustle. Niki was a great communicator & quick to respond with any info we needed. Will definitely stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Liz S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Castella country retreat

Enjoyed a wonderful winter girls weekend escape here - cosy and comfortable and in beautiful surroundings. The fireplace and plentiful firewood was very much appreciated as it was freezing inside when we arrived. Take a torch is you’re arriving after dark to locate the keys etc. Note that the main bathroom is the ensuite , with a shower toilet and basin in the laundry. We loved our stay and exploring all the sights of neighbouring Kinglake.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

S S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cosy, comfortable, spacious and impeccably clean!

Thanks Niki, such a lovely rustic home in great condition. It was a great cosy winter long weekend, the fireplace was so efficient at keeping us all warm, enormous double glazed windows over looking the garden, comfortable beds with great quality doonas. Well appointed kitchen, we were grateful for the spices and oil provided. We brought our own coffee machine! We were grateful for the big 8 seater dining table. Huge property for the kids to roam over. Highly recommended!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Claire H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect place to relax

Lovely accommodation
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ayme W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous home

We absolutely loved our time! From the moment we pulled in the drive the kids were so relaxed and just loved the outdoor space. We can’t wait to head back.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracey S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend Getaway

Property was a great size and met the needs of 2 families. Fully equipped kitchen & laumdry. Feeding resident alpacas was a bonus for the kids. Thanks for supplying ample firewood, & matches to keep us warm all weekend.. Highly recommend this as a family escape.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Natasha G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolute perfection

We are sad to leave this beautiful property today. We honestly had the best time. It was the perfect place to spend our Easter with 3 young boys. The attention to detail of this property was second to none. The gardens and landscaping is incredible. The cleanliness was exceptional. Location wise, it was the perfect distance to Melbourne, the Yarravalley chocolatier and many other fantastic family friendly places. We will definitely be rebooking in the future.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ian C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

With the Yarra Valley and Kinglake National Park, literally on your back doorstep. Pure heaven!!

The location, amenities, eco awareness and overall fit of the property are second to none! With a National Park literally at your back doorstep and the wonders of the Yarra Valley but 10 minutes away, this place is truly beautiful and amazing. Nature is your neighbour and Nicki an amazing host. You can do nothing but surrender to relaxation at its best. I would return in a heartbeat and highly recommend this as a must do family chill out session. 6 out of 5 ✨ if it is possible. Congratulations on your beautiful property and what you and your partner have created.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ashleigh B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful Paradise

We really enjoyed our stay, such a great property, experience and atmosphere. The wildlife and alpacas were a great little bonus. Staying at such a comfy and relaxing house made our weekend even better. Many games of hide and seek, spot the ducks and exploring through the gardens were had, with the special experience of meeting a horse along the road as a neighbour went for a ride. Was a great stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great weekend away!

Booked this property for a quiet weekend away. Comfortably accommodated two families consisting of 4 adults and 4 children. Property was lovely and well maintained. Comfy beds, couches and warm wood fire heater. If i was being picky, the only cons were there was no food to feed the alpacas and there was a small leak from the kitchen skylight. This only lasted about 10 mins during a heavy hail storm on the second day. Other than these minor things we all enjoyed our time here and hope to stay again in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sally W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect weekend retreat

Honestly cannot fault this property - from the house itself, to the location, and beyond! We had such a wonderful stay and we cannot wait to come back again. Thank you Niki for being such a wonderful host and letting us stay at your property.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carin L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming home full of character and comfort

We had a wonderful four night stay, and rest at this lovely home, within easy reach of Melbourne. The fire is superb and Niki and Anthony generously make their wood available for a constant supply. For one day we simply sat by it and read, bliss. The home itself is spacious, full of character and charm, with a lovely aspect front and back and all necessities at hand. We had great fun feeding Apu and Harry, the alpacas, and met Nathan the magpie on our last day. We could easily have stayed longer, thank you Niki and Anthony for making your lovely holiday home available to us. We hope to be back one day.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

ILIA F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice and cozy house in a beautiful location

Only an hour and a half drive from Melbourne, it's a very well-maintained and comfortable house. Even though we stayed during winter, I think it will be even better during summer time. I highly recommend this place if you need some quiet time away from the city. The owners are friendly and easy to deal with as well.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tony M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful place

Fantastic place to stay, even better than the photos, we enjoyed the fireplace, the beautiful garden and feeding the alpacas. There are also many great places to explore nearby. Got lost on the Tanglefoot track (beautiful track - but confusingly marked) and a neighbour helped my in-laws find us, so great neighbours as well!! Memorable trip!!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Vivienne M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thank you for the wonderful stay.

We stayed with friends whilst attending a wedding and had a wonderful time at this lovely property. Great communication with owner too. Thank you
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Thomas M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Niki was lovely and we enjoyed our stay

The house was nice. Kids loved the animals. Very relaxing
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Deb P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful secluded property

We had a lovely time here with the family over Christmas. The house is welcoming, spacious and well equipped. Loved the outdoor dining options, the gardens and the wildlife. Looking forward to coming back!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous getaway - Nov 2021

We had a lovely relaxing stay at Castella - the property is absolutely perfect with everything you need for a relaxing weekend away - lovely gardens and we were able to feed the king parrots and alpacas - not far from some great wineries and our hosts were on hand with help when we locked ourselves out. Would highly recommend and will stay again
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nadia A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property

We loved our stay with the beautiful surrounds; and wonderful home for children and adults alike.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

DANIEL S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great!

Wonderful place and so very relaxing. My daughter LOVED the alpacas! Thanks for having us!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dan G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Long weekend escape w kids & friends.

The Castella country retreat was a perfect getaway location for our young family of 4 and another family of 4 (friends of ours). It’s just above Dixon’s creek in the Yarra Valley. The nearest winery is Sutherland Estate, which is also worth a visit for the Tempranillo and the views! The accommodation in Castella was perfect for the 8 of us. The house was warm and beds were very comfy. Plenty of birds, a couple of alpacas and the occasional duck and kangaroo all live on and around the property. We will likely return if & when the opportunity presents itself again. A relaxing and homely vibe in the forest. 🍷
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021