The best forest glamping near Ballarat, Victoria

Looking for a unique camping experience in the forested wilderness near Ballarat, Victoria? Hipcamp has over 200 options for glamping in this area, each with their own special touch. Enjoy the luxury of Shacks at Kardella Park, with 328 rave reviews, or the stunning views at Toolangi Heights, with 74 happy campers. For a more adventurous getaway, check out Magic Mountain, with 62 reviewers raving about their experience. With prices starting as low as $11, you're sure to find a spot that fits your budget. These campsites offer popular amenities such as potable water, toilets, and cooking equipment, and popular activities include fishing, hiking, and whitewater paddling. Book your glamping adventure today!

97% (190)

Top-rated campgrounds

Stunning large dam for swimming and water fun!

Looking for a unique camping experience in the forested wilderness near Ballarat, Victoria? Hipcamp has over 200 options for glamping in this area, each with their own special touch. Enjoy the luxury of Shacks at Kardella Park, with 328 rave reviews, or the stunning views at Toolangi Heights, with 74 happy campers. For a more adventurous getaway, check out Magic Mountain, with 62 reviewers raving about their experience. With prices starting as low as $11, you're sure to find a spot that fits your budget. These campsites offer popular amenities such as potable water, toilets, and cooking equipment, and popular activities include fishing, hiking, and whitewater paddling. Book your glamping adventure today!

97% (190)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Lalgambook Retreat

100%

(15)

41km from Ballarat · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mount Franklin, VIC

Our property is in a peaceful hidden valley on hilly acreage surrounded by native bush. It is just near the beautiful tourist town of Daylesford in central Victoria and an hour and a half by car from Melbourne. The property features a large dam that is suitable for swimming and canoeing/kayaking. The sites have great views of the water and the undulating bush. The property teems with wildlife and you can spot kangaroos, wallabies, possums, echidnas, kookaburras, parrots, eagles, waterbirds and many other bird species on a daily basis. In spring wildflower walks on the property are a highlight but it's enjoyable to explore all year round. The property is a tranquil haven for those looking to enjoy peace and privacy whilst great coffee, food, wineries, sights and shopping are only ten minutes away. We live on the property in an off grid solar house we have built ourselves.

2. Lovely Bush Property

95%

(60)

48km from Ballarat · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lillicur, VIC

Surrounded by Lillicur State Forest, opportunities for walks, horse riding and bike riding abound Four mountain bikes are ready to roll and a solar panel will keep phones charged A holding yard will keep your horses happy and shaded. A nine hole mini golf course is ready to challenge you!! Only one booking is taken for any night. As soon as you book, the property becomes yours and is unavailable to anybody else 10 minutes down the road you'll find the quaint village of Talbot. The town retains a number of historic buildings from its prosperous gold mining days. Some of the old shops which line this street are now home to speciality businesses, including a clothing boutique, bookshop and homewares store. The restored London House building in Scandinavian Crescent operates as a cafe and visitor information centre and is surrounded by an attractive community garden. At the corner of Scandinavian Crescent and Fyfe Street is the Talbot Pioneers Memorial Playground with BBQ and picnic shelters. A farmers market operates in the town streets every 3rd Sunday of the month. The pool is great in summer months and the general store is well managed by Prue and open 8am to 7pm every day 2 hours from Melbourne, 1 hours from Ballarat.

3. Peaceful Paddock - Castlemaine

75%

(6)

63km from Ballarat · 14 sites · Lodging · Muckleford, VIC

We are on 10 acres of mostly open paddock, surrounded by a small seasonal creek on one side, a large 250m swimmable dam on the other, and 50 acres of nature reserve to explore next door. The expansive Muckleford State Forest is just beyond, great for mountain biking, bush-walking and discovering old historical relics from the gold mining days. We are just 5km from Castlemaine town centre, which is an easy cycle or a 5 min drive. You might like to spend your free time adventuring, exploring the property, swimming in the dam, enjoying a fire bath or wandering through the forest. There are tenants living in the main house. We'd like to respect the privacy of other residents living here, so please keep to the camping area on the south half of the property.

4. Shedquarters Bush Escape

100%

(1)

24km from Ballarat · 22 sites · Tents, Lodging · Mount Doran, VIC

Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. With the edge of the Lal Lal State Forest just outside the gate, your nature experience awaits. Bushwalking, mountain bike riding, horse riding are all available throughout the kilometers of bushland tracks. Make memories and bring your horses for some amazing trail rides, walk the peaceful trails immersing in nature with the many birds and animals or maybe just relax by the fires and enjoy the local wildlife and surroundings. Just 1.5 hours from West Melbourne or 50 minutes from Geelong. **Available weekly Friday - Sunday stays.** Things to Do. Bushwalking. Horse Riding - Doran Park Trail Rides is 1 km away and provides arranged horse trail rides, must book in advance. Or bring your own horses to the Shedquarters, there's heaps of room for them to safely and comfortably stay (we are a horse property). Paddocks and a large yard, places to park the float and hay deliveries on request. A homemade grassed arena with jumps available. On the wet days an indoor arena is available to book 5kms away, advanced bookings required. Walk or Ride to - The Shepards Daughters Grave located in the Lal Lal Forest. www.goldfieldsguide.com.au/explore-location/539/grave-of-the-shepherds-daughter/ Lal Lal Falls is 10 kilometers away with BBQ picnic facilities. Hunts Bridge is a free camp area providing fire camp stations for a lovely picnic. The Village of Buninyong is 15kms away. The Farm Gate Shop in Elaine is 7 kms away providing all local produce, and a great place to stock up on the local Meredith Dairy Goats Cheese - in buckets! Local Wineries within driving distance, Clyde Park Winery, Buninyong Winery. Great area for Gold Prospecting. Great place for wood collection, bring the trailer for some hard work (check to see if the forest wood collection is available) Bungal Dam picnic area. Ballan market is held on the second Saturday of the month 9-1pm Ballarat is a 30 minute drive.

5. Gunnadoo Rise

100%

(3)

19km from Ballarat · 1 site · Lodging · Creswick, VIC

Nestled outside Creswick in amongst native trees this quiet property boasts spectacular sunsets and peaceful nights. Wake to birds singing and kangaroos feeding. The site offers an outdoor bathroom with shower and toilet facilities. Camp with your own gear or stay in an onsite caravan or glamping tent.

6. Hidden Valley House, Anakie

100%

(24)

51km from Ballarat · 7 sites · Lodging · Anakie, VIC

Hidden Valley House is nestled in Anakie, VIC, set within the scenic Brisbane National Ranges and only a 1-hour drive from Melbourne CBD. Taking into consideration our ethos around sustainability, the cabin is “off-grid” so solar powered with a composting toilet but with all the amenities you need. The cabin has spectacular views overlooking the valley with an abundance of wildlife and has a small creek and several caves which have formed over millions of years. As well as the cabin, we offer a camping area to larger groups that need overflow accommodation if the cabin is not big enough. This makes Hidden Valley House a fantastic option for large groups wanting to have all the comfort and amenities of the cabin, but experience the back-to-basic joy of camping in nature. Set on an 18-acre property at the start of the Brisbane National Ranges, it is home to koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, sugar gliders and an abundance of birds including eagles and kookaburras. Furthermore, the land is protected by Trust for Nature and Land for Wildlife offering long-term protection for many ecosystems, species and native wildlife. The property is surrounded by national parks and is only a short drive from charming, historical towns such as Meredith and Steiglitz and only 25mins to Geelong. A number of family-owned wineries are located nearby and within Victoria’s Moorabool Valley winery. AWD/4WD recommended

7. Rustic Miner’s Cabin

98%

(86)

68km from Ballarat · 6 sites · Lodging · Golden Point, VIC

A little slice of heaven ! 11 Acres nestled in a valley in the beautiful Castlemaine goldfields. The property has a main house ,shed ,cottage, Glamping tent site and a dam, and is completely off the grid. Also very close to the popular Expedition pass reservoir and only a few minutes drive to Chewton and Castlemaine. Come and experience the beautiful sunset, Wildlife and tranquility. The cottage itself is furnished and has a cosy open fire place and barrel heater, a small kitchen with basic kitchenware, hot and cold water gas cooking and solar and gas lighting. There is a separate bedroom at the back with a Queen bed and a king single bed. Please note bedding is not provided so please bring a warm sleeping bags or bedding and pillows. There is a adjoining bathroom (accessible from outside) with toilet, vanity and HOT shower. (BYO towels). Please note the bathroom may be shared with my Glamping site guests. (just one other site) The cabin sleeps 3 and you can also bring a tent as well.. Please note this is rustic accommodation and the cabin doesn’t have 240v power only 12v LED lighting and an esky is also provided. Located just 5 mins to local reservoir which is a great place to swim, fish or paddle. Also the popular Red Hill Pub and gold prospecting areas are just up the road and only 10 minutes to historic Castlemaine. Firewood available $30per barrow load. Please message me though the site. Just 1.5 hours drive from Melbourne, 1 hour from Ballarat and 40 minutes from Bendigo.

8. Glamping on a budget

100%

(6)

68km from Ballarat · 1 site · Lodging · Golden Point, VIC

Stay in a very comfortable and well appointed bell tent on in a beautiful tranquil bush setting on my 12 acre property. Nestled in a little valley. Lots of wildlife, beautiful walks and swimming hole is just up the road. The site is off grid but still has all the creature comforts. Shared bathroom with one other site with hot shower etc. wood heating and gas bbq provided

9. Galahad's Animal Sanctuary and B&B

100%

(13)

65km from Ballarat · 2 sites · Lodging · Gisborne, VIC

Feel like getting away? Relax and unwind in our self contained in-house accommodation, enjoying panoramic views of Mt Macedon. Sleep in a luxurious king size four poster bed. You will have a separate entrance, bathroom & kitchenette with modern conveniences such as a coffee machine, microwave & oven. As well as filtered water, Bluetooth stereo, TV, Netflix, DVDs, WiFi, games & books. Your own fully fenced garden, shared spa, shared outdoor washing machine, dryer & undercover outdoor dining table. 30 picturesque acres in Gisborne with views to Mount Macedon. We are an animal rescue sanctuary and have rescued camels, horses, sheep, cows, donkeys, alpacas and chickens as well as dogs. Please note these are very friendly animals, the sheep are particularly friendly and curious. The sheep roam the property. The property has two dams, it is well treed with large open parts and has a beautiful view to Mount Macedon. Kangaroos, possums and echidnas also live here. You are welcome to walk the property and visit the farm animals during your stay (as long as you stay on the outside of paddocks/yards). The rate includes a small tour of our farm sanctuary. If you would like a tour with professional photography please contact us for details. Access for caravans and trailers. Gravel entrance. Can be boggy in wet weather - please check with me. No amenities so campers must have own toilet and leave no trace. Dogs permitted but must be well behaved and not chase livestock (on lead). Campfires permitted when restrictions aren't in place (gather your own).

10. The Forest Cottage- Trentham

100%

(4)

43km from Ballarat · 1 site · Lodging · Newbury, VIC

Two Bedroom miners cottage in the middle of the Wombat Forest on Dja Dja Wurrung country. Wander down animal tracks and lay under the trees.

11. Lower Widecombe Medieval Cottage

67km from Ballarat · 1 site · Lodging · Barkers Creek, VIC

Medieval Cottage Retreat on Djaara Country Escape to another realm in this medieval cottage on Djaara Country, lovingly built using traditional techniques by renowned local craftsman Rob Hadden. Set in a tranquil 2.5-acre valley among willows, oaks, and roses beside a miniature lake, the property also includes another 2.5 acres of bushland teeming with kangaroos, birdlife, and wildflowers. Let the frogs sing you to sleep and wake to the chorus of morning birdsong. This eco-retreat is furnished with natural materials, and breakfast foods of wholesome local provenance are provided. Located near Castlemaine, an area brimming with farmers markets, bars, live music, cafés, vintage shops, artisan food producers, and a landscape rich in historical significance. Mountain bike trails, galleries, and parks are also close by for you to explore. Inside, the cottage features a high vaulted cathedral ceiling with massive timber beams and a spiral staircase leading to the minstrel’s gallery and sleeping chamber with a queen size bed. The kitchen is equipped with a toaster, electric kettle, induction hotplates, and fridge, and you’ll be provided with fresh, quality local ingredients for breakfast. The bathroom includes a shower, toilet, and hand basin, with all linen provided. Outdoors, a wrought-iron table on the lawn overlooks the water — a perfect spot for morning tea or an evening glass of wine. Please note: no pets are allowed due to sensitive wildlife. Guests are required to take all rubbish home, as there is no council collection at this property. Unfortunately, the cottage is not wheelchair accessible — it is truly medieval in that regard.

12. 17pounds Country Estate & Wellness

35km from Ballarat · 1 site · Lodging · Bullarto South, VIC

17POUNDS COUNTRY ESTATE & WELLNESS RETREAT; ACCOMODATION PACKAGES available. Please make a booking enquiry. Fully S/C Cottage,10 mins Daylesford & Trentham, Fire place, proper coffee machine, full kitchen, A/C. Outdoor bath, indoor pool, private forest walking tracks, winter fire pit, E-bikes to explore & fire place in pavilion hanging over the water. Total serenity & relaxation at your doorstep. Brekky provisions, bread maker & more included. Wellness & Fitness Experiences, massages, charcuterie board & much more. 17pounds The space The Cottage & Gardens This stunning standalone Scandinavian styled Villa is a perfect couple’s romantic rural retreat. Tucked away within an oasis of rich forest foliage, this 16-acre sanctuary is located just 95 km from Melbourne CBD. Watch the sunset over the farmland and enjoy the abundance of bird & wildlife. Listen to owl’s hoot & wait patiently for wombats & kangaroos to arrive. Explore our extensive landscaped garden rooms, poly tunnels & raised vegetable gardens. Pick berries & gather produce for an evening cook up. Now, let’s elevate this property from an impressive couple’s retreat to a small private wellness resort. So, don't miss out on our little place we call paradise! Inside • Fully Equipped Kitchen • Breaky provisions supplied, including farm fresh eggs • Wake to the smell of freshly baked bread (bread maker & ingredients supplied) • Delonghi Magnifica Coffee Machine & beans • Arriving late? Ingredients supplied for you to cook a delicious cheeky pasta dish • Wrap around veranda so you can enjoy the forest close at hand • Outdoor BBQ • Enjoy the challenge of getting active by day and embracing a touch of luxury by night. • The villa boasts a large bedroom • Huge lounge / dining room • Fireplace to keep you warm during winter nights • As well as reverse cycle air conditioning so your always comfortable • Netflix, Stan & Prime Video included. Inhouse movies, music to dance to, & a few games to play • High-speed internet, Smart TV, B&W sound • Outdoor Bath, big enough for 2 The Bedroom • Comfy Queen Bed • Selection of pillows • Doona & blankets to suit • Electric blanket • Lamps & bedside table • Robes & Slippers Bathroom • Lux bath sheets • Aromatherapy Soaps, Shampoo & Conditioner • Hairdryer • Heater Over the Water Pavilion • Beautiful space to enjoy lounging on the sunbeds overlooking the water • Pot belly fireplace to enhance the experience • Romantic place to enjoy a Charcuterie board, picnic, sunset canapes or an aperitif • Sunset paddle boat ride in the “Love Boat” Forest Walks • We have around 4km of private walking tracks for you to explore at leisure (walking maps provided) • Private & intimate idyllic picnic locations Wellness Facility (by appointment only) • Fully equipped gym, heated magnesium pool, Wellness Experience Events held monthly, elevate this property from an impressive couple’s retreat to a small private wellness resort. What Else? • E Biking (e-bikes available)- Explore nature in style cycle along the rural winding forest paths (maps provided) • Spread out the yoga mat under the covered veranda • Book a massage or a Private Aqua Magnesium Wellness Experience • Head out into the sprawling undulated walking tracks • Spas, great cafes, excellent restaurants, pubs, wineries and trendy shops are all within a 10-minute drive from the property. Guest access Situated on 16 acres, here is plenty of privacy for all. Whilst we are on the property chances are you will not see us unless you want to. We respect your time away & privacy, so unless you reach out you wont be disturbed. Most areas of the property are available for you to wonder. Other things to note Please refer to our website 17pounds for additional information regarding the property Fire Pit experiences, fitness classes, magnesium pool experiences, inhouse massages, gourmet picnic hampers are available to book prior to your arrival.

Camper favorites near Ballarat

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Rustic Miner’s Cabin

98%

(86)

68km from Ballarat · 6 sites · Lodging · Golden Point, VIC

A little slice of heaven ! 11 Acres nestled in a valley in the beautiful Castlemaine goldfields. The property has a main house ,shed ,cottage, Glamping tent site and a dam, and is completely off the grid. Also very close to the popular Expedition pass reservoir and only a few minutes drive to Chewton and Castlemaine. Come and experience the beautiful sunset, Wildlife and tranquility. The cottage itself is furnished and has a cosy open fire place and barrel heater, a small kitchen with basic kitchenware, hot and cold water gas cooking and solar and gas lighting. There is a separate bedroom at the back with a Queen bed and a king single bed. Please note bedding is not provided so please bring a warm sleeping bags or bedding and pillows. There is a adjoining bathroom (accessible from outside) with toilet, vanity and HOT shower. (BYO towels). Please note the bathroom may be shared with my Glamping site guests. (just one other site) The cabin sleeps 3 and you can also bring a tent as well.. Please note this is rustic accommodation and the cabin doesn’t have 240v power only 12v LED lighting and an esky is also provided. Located just 5 mins to local reservoir which is a great place to swim, fish or paddle. Also the popular Red Hill Pub and gold prospecting areas are just up the road and only 10 minutes to historic Castlemaine. Firewood available $30per barrow load. Please message me though the site. Just 1.5 hours drive from Melbourne, 1 hour from Ballarat and 40 minutes from Bendigo.

Glamping on a budget

100%

(6)

68km from Ballarat · 1 site · Lodging · Golden Point, VIC

Stay in a very comfortable and well appointed bell tent on in a beautiful tranquil bush setting on my 12 acre property. Nestled in a little valley. Lots of wildlife, beautiful walks and swimming hole is just up the road. The site is off grid but still has all the creature comforts. Shared bathroom with one other site with hot shower etc. wood heating and gas bbq provided

Galahad's Animal Sanctuary and B&B

100%

(13)

65km from Ballarat · 2 sites · Lodging · Gisborne, VIC

Feel like getting away? Relax and unwind in our self contained in-house accommodation, enjoying panoramic views of Mt Macedon. Sleep in a luxurious king size four poster bed. You will have a separate entrance, bathroom & kitchenette with modern conveniences such as a coffee machine, microwave & oven. As well as filtered water, Bluetooth stereo, TV, Netflix, DVDs, WiFi, games & books. Your own fully fenced garden, shared spa, shared outdoor washing machine, dryer & undercover outdoor dining table. 30 picturesque acres in Gisborne with views to Mount Macedon. We are an animal rescue sanctuary and have rescued camels, horses, sheep, cows, donkeys, alpacas and chickens as well as dogs. Please note these are very friendly animals, the sheep are particularly friendly and curious. The sheep roam the property. The property has two dams, it is well treed with large open parts and has a beautiful view to Mount Macedon. Kangaroos, possums and echidnas also live here. You are welcome to walk the property and visit the farm animals during your stay (as long as you stay on the outside of paddocks/yards). The rate includes a small tour of our farm sanctuary. If you would like a tour with professional photography please contact us for details. Access for caravans and trailers. Gravel entrance. Can be boggy in wet weather - please check with me. No amenities so campers must have own toilet and leave no trace. Dogs permitted but must be well behaved and not chase livestock (on lead). Campfires permitted when restrictions aren't in place (gather your own).

The Forest Cottage- Trentham

100%

(4)

43km from Ballarat · 1 site · Lodging · Newbury, VIC

Two Bedroom miners cottage in the middle of the Wombat Forest on Dja Dja Wurrung country. Wander down animal tracks and lay under the trees.

Lower Widecombe Medieval Cottage

67km from Ballarat · 1 site · Lodging · Barkers Creek, VIC

Medieval Cottage Retreat on Djaara Country Escape to another realm in this medieval cottage on Djaara Country, lovingly built using traditional techniques by renowned local craftsman Rob Hadden. Set in a tranquil 2.5-acre valley among willows, oaks, and roses beside a miniature lake, the property also includes another 2.5 acres of bushland teeming with kangaroos, birdlife, and wildflowers. Let the frogs sing you to sleep and wake to the chorus of morning birdsong. This eco-retreat is furnished with natural materials, and breakfast foods of wholesome local provenance are provided. Located near Castlemaine, an area brimming with farmers markets, bars, live music, cafés, vintage shops, artisan food producers, and a landscape rich in historical significance. Mountain bike trails, galleries, and parks are also close by for you to explore. Inside, the cottage features a high vaulted cathedral ceiling with massive timber beams and a spiral staircase leading to the minstrel’s gallery and sleeping chamber with a queen size bed. The kitchen is equipped with a toaster, electric kettle, induction hotplates, and fridge, and you’ll be provided with fresh, quality local ingredients for breakfast. The bathroom includes a shower, toilet, and hand basin, with all linen provided. Outdoors, a wrought-iron table on the lawn overlooks the water — a perfect spot for morning tea or an evening glass of wine. Please note: no pets are allowed due to sensitive wildlife. Guests are required to take all rubbish home, as there is no council collection at this property. Unfortunately, the cottage is not wheelchair accessible — it is truly medieval in that regard.

17pounds Country Estate & Wellness

35km from Ballarat · 1 site · Lodging · Bullarto South, VIC

17POUNDS COUNTRY ESTATE & WELLNESS RETREAT; ACCOMODATION PACKAGES available. Please make a booking enquiry. Fully S/C Cottage,10 mins Daylesford & Trentham, Fire place, proper coffee machine, full kitchen, A/C. Outdoor bath, indoor pool, private forest walking tracks, winter fire pit, E-bikes to explore & fire place in pavilion hanging over the water. Total serenity & relaxation at your doorstep. Brekky provisions, bread maker & more included. Wellness & Fitness Experiences, massages, charcuterie board & much more. 17pounds The space The Cottage & Gardens This stunning standalone Scandinavian styled Villa is a perfect couple’s romantic rural retreat. Tucked away within an oasis of rich forest foliage, this 16-acre sanctuary is located just 95 km from Melbourne CBD. Watch the sunset over the farmland and enjoy the abundance of bird & wildlife. Listen to owl’s hoot & wait patiently for wombats & kangaroos to arrive. Explore our extensive landscaped garden rooms, poly tunnels & raised vegetable gardens. Pick berries & gather produce for an evening cook up. Now, let’s elevate this property from an impressive couple’s retreat to a small private wellness resort. So, don't miss out on our little place we call paradise! Inside • Fully Equipped Kitchen • Breaky provisions supplied, including farm fresh eggs • Wake to the smell of freshly baked bread (bread maker & ingredients supplied) • Delonghi Magnifica Coffee Machine & beans • Arriving late? Ingredients supplied for you to cook a delicious cheeky pasta dish • Wrap around veranda so you can enjoy the forest close at hand • Outdoor BBQ • Enjoy the challenge of getting active by day and embracing a touch of luxury by night. • The villa boasts a large bedroom • Huge lounge / dining room • Fireplace to keep you warm during winter nights • As well as reverse cycle air conditioning so your always comfortable • Netflix, Stan & Prime Video included. Inhouse movies, music to dance to, & a few games to play • High-speed internet, Smart TV, B&W sound • Outdoor Bath, big enough for 2 The Bedroom • Comfy Queen Bed • Selection of pillows • Doona & blankets to suit • Electric blanket • Lamps & bedside table • Robes & Slippers Bathroom • Lux bath sheets • Aromatherapy Soaps, Shampoo & Conditioner • Hairdryer • Heater Over the Water Pavilion • Beautiful space to enjoy lounging on the sunbeds overlooking the water • Pot belly fireplace to enhance the experience • Romantic place to enjoy a Charcuterie board, picnic, sunset canapes or an aperitif • Sunset paddle boat ride in the “Love Boat” Forest Walks • We have around 4km of private walking tracks for you to explore at leisure (walking maps provided) • Private & intimate idyllic picnic locations Wellness Facility (by appointment only) • Fully equipped gym, heated magnesium pool, Wellness Experience Events held monthly, elevate this property from an impressive couple’s retreat to a small private wellness resort. What Else? • E Biking (e-bikes available)- Explore nature in style cycle along the rural winding forest paths (maps provided) • Spread out the yoga mat under the covered veranda • Book a massage or a Private Aqua Magnesium Wellness Experience • Head out into the sprawling undulated walking tracks • Spas, great cafes, excellent restaurants, pubs, wineries and trendy shops are all within a 10-minute drive from the property. Guest access Situated on 16 acres, here is plenty of privacy for all. Whilst we are on the property chances are you will not see us unless you want to. We respect your time away & privacy, so unless you reach out you wont be disturbed. Most areas of the property are available for you to wonder. Other things to note Please refer to our website 17pounds for additional information regarding the property Fire Pit experiences, fitness classes, magnesium pool experiences, inhouse massages, gourmet picnic hampers are available to book prior to your arrival.

Stories from the community

Rebecca

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Forest Cottage- Trentham

A great little private cottage located on the rear of the property with easy access to the forest walking trails. We enjoyed 3 nights of peace, serenity and the laughter of kookaburras. Our 4yo loved exploring and discovering native animals and bee hives nearby while our older teens loved the nightly outdoor and indoor fires and accompanying roasts and marshmallow s'mores. Kitchen was well equipped to handle family meal time and the indoor wood heater kept the cottage toasty all night. Recommended for anyone requiring the connection that stems from the disconnect of technology.

H

Hayley

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Forest Cottage- Trentham

Absolutely loved our stay at The Forest Cottage. It was so tranquil and private, it just felt like we were all by ourselves in the woods which was exactly what we were looking for. Kelly was a great host, responsive and friendly. Hope to be back soon!

C

Chris

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Gunnadoo Rise

We had a great stay in the glamping tent. The bed was comfy, the property is awesome and Greg was really helpful. Would be happy to stay again

S

Simon

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Forest Cottage- Trentham

We had a lovely two days at this hut. We walked directly from the hut to Lyonville and Trentham with lunch at Trentham, an excellent day out. The hut was clean, dry with plenty of wood, we were very warm. The indoors composting toilet was easy to use and odour free.

Zdenka

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rustic Miner’s Cabin

Our second stay at Paul's cabin, this time winter time. Cabin is cosy and we loved the fire place. We were allowed to take our little puppy that enjoyed stay in nature too. Beautiful and serenity.. place offer lot of to do - we walked some trails with historical values from Gold rush mining times. Cabin has everything that our family needed - beds, kitchen, bathroom with toilet and warm water.. 100% recommended for people who are looking for serenity, calmness and nature stay..

G

Georgia

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Forest Cottage- Trentham

We loved our time at The Forrest Cottage. It was bigger than it looked in the pictures, and had everything we needed. Our kids loved sitting by the fireplace, and watching the wallabys and kangaroos jump across the property. It felt very private - the hosts Kelly and Erin were lovely and welcoming! I would highly recommend staying here!

T

July 2025

With kids

2 nights at Gunnadoo Rise

We were very impressed with the set up and had a relaxing stay. Inside the tent was very cosy and spacious and we had everything we needed for a lovely campfire. So good to have the camp kitchen and cute little bathroom. Sally and greg had thought of everything. Thanks for having us :)

J

James

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Rustic Miner’s Cabin

Our second stay was as good as the first. Cabin, bush, wildlife, peace and relaxation. Never disappoints. So close to Castlemaine. Can’t wait for our third stay!

Ange

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Rustic Miner’s Cabin

We absolutely adored our stay at Paul’s miners cabin, would have happily stayed there indefinitely. It’s very charming and cute, we spend all weekend by the fire outside enjoying the bird sound and the stars, or inside in front of the fire with a wine. Would absolutely stay again in a heartbeat.

A

Andrew

June 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Lovely Bush Property

Peaceful bush setting, plenty of flat ground for tents. Ian popped by and chopped up some for us. Close to Talbot, nice little town with a pub 10 mins down the road.

Susan

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Lovely Bush Property

Beautiful quiet place with land to explore and heaps of room for kids to play.

L

Linda

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Lalgambook Retreat

We recently stayed in Vanessa the Vintage Van at the beautiful Lalgambook Retreat over a long weekend, and while it turned out to be the wettest weekend imaginable, we had a truly memorable experience. Perched on a picturesque property overlooking a serene dam, the van itself is absolutely charming—originally styled, incredibly comfortable, and had everything you could possibly need for a cozy stay. Despite the unexpected cold snap, our experience was warm and welcoming thanks to the wonderful hosts, who went above and beyond by providing extra blankets and a heater to keep us comfortable. Although the rain kept us indoors for most of the time - when we weren’t navigating Daylesford - we genuinely enjoyed the peaceful, snug atmosphere and left already planning our return. Next time, we’re looking forward to making the most of the property, hosting a fire pit, taking nature walks, and spotting the local wildlife. Vanessa is a little gem in a truly special setting. Highly recommend for anyone after a unique, restful retreat—rain or shine!

S

Sylwia

June 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rustic Miner’s Cabin

Awesome place, very rustic. We were there on the coldest and rainiest days so it wa great sitting in front of fire relaxing!! Thank you Paul!!

P

Phillip

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Lovely Bush Property

The site has many personal touches. They make camping easy. Lots of trees and plenty of space. Cheers

A

Abhishek

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Lovely Bush Property

If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature, Echidna Retreat Cabin is the perfect choice. Tucked away in the woods, it’s an ideal spot for a small group of 2–3 people to relax and unwind. The cozy retreat is made even better with a mini golf course on-site and breathtaking views of the Milky Way at night, truly the cherry on top of an already wonderful experience! It’s a great budget-friendly escape, and we’re incredibly grateful to Ian for sharing his beautiful property with us.

E

Ella

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Glamping on a budget

It was such a beautiful stay, everything you forgot to think about packing was sorted. we enjoyed the environment around us and gave us so much peace. Would highly recommend staying here

Caroline

January 2025

Weekend Trip to Rustic Miner’s Cabin

Beautiful peice of land very peaceful alot of wildlife to hear and see in the day and at night. You are close to Castlemaine and a Reservoir which is so good on a hot day to swim or kayak in. The miners hut itself has alot of history and is well kept we were surprised how cool it was despite hot temps. It would be very cosy in the winter I'm sure. Bathroom is clean and every detail considered You do share the bathroom with other campers guests in the Glamping tent, at the time these guest were very quiet so all good. Communication with Paul was excellent we enjoyed meeting his friendly black lab.

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lee

January 2025

With kids

2 nights at Rustic Miner’s Cabin

Cabin was fantastic. A real time capsule and it was so good to be able to stay there. There was lots of wildlife all around and it was very peaceful.

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Eliza

December 2024

2 nights at Glamping on a budget

Amazing spot! Really helpful host and amazing set up, has everything you could need and more. Very hot weekend to glamp so wish we had’ve brought our own ice, but Paul was kind enough to supply an esky along with heaps of other helpful amenities! Beware if you’re bringing a small car to the area as well as lots of potholes/dirt roads but we survived haha!! Heaps of wildlife including a very friendly resident labrador 🐶 Also note, If you have any appliances to bring that plug into a powerpoint then there are none, but there are both USB and USB-C cord holes for charging phones etc. We had a really nice time, definitely recommend to others! 🥰

Rachel

December 2024

1 night at Gunnadoo Rise

Absolutely gorgeous glamping site! All the little touches were so thoughtful, from the cute lamps tied with ribbon, iced water left out for us, everything we needed to cook with and the bathroom facilities were really clean and comfortable