Riversdale Retreat - country escape
House in Castlemaine
3 guests · 2 bedrooms · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
High-end valuePrice for this property is higher than average in the area
About this house rental
Surrounded by native crown bush land and set in a re-vegetated bush garden, Riversdale Retreat is an uncompromising country escape designed by award winners
Accommodation
Open-plan living area and a fully equipped kitchen ready for self-catering.
A tatami lounge area and a Japanese style bathroom provide a touch of the exotic.
Paved outdoor areas include fireplace, preparation bench, sink and shower.
In winter the wood fire heater efficiently heats entire house. Floating decks and indoor/outdoor day bed are the perfect way to catch and enjoy the winter sun.
Sleeps 2 or 3 adults with 1 queen size and 1 single bed.
The perfect private getaway for a couple!
Environmental Relationship and Location
Compact, climate and occupant adaptable located in semi bush.
Designed to sit off the land yet be immersed within, it can open and close to nature, views and sun.
The building is designed with bushfire and ESD principles, solar hot water, rainwater tank and is super insulated. In line with these principles the property does not have airconditioning.
Riversdale is located just outside of the popular town of Castlemaine, in the small town of Chewton - approximately an hour and a half drive out of Melbourne. Daylesford, Maldon and Bendigo are all within a 30 minute drive. The property also directly borders State Crown Land, with acres of secluded walking and biking tracks.
STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF RIVERSDALE RETREAT
Note: Variances can be agreed on but only by arrangement with the owner in writing.
Deposit of 50% non refundable is required to secure the booking. Payment of the rental deposit constitutes the clients acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.
Balance of the rental amount must be received a full 14 days prior to occupancy. If not the owner has the right to cancel the booking and attempt to re let it.
Cancellation if caused by the guest, money paid is not refundable unless the house is re-let for the entire period. If a refund is made due to the property being relet then HomeAway fees and a $50 cancellation fee will apply.
The owners will make every effort to ensure the property is available as booked. However the owners reserve the right to make alterations to bookings due to unforeseen circumstances.
To maintain a good standard for our guests we require certain conditions to be complied with. We appreciate most will respect our property but the occasional abuse requires that we state the following conditions.
Number of Guests should not exceed the number stated on the Confirmation Notice or subsequently agreed in writing or email. Fees will apply for excess guests not agreed with the owners in advance.
Parties and Functions are strictly prohibited. The price charged is for domestic use only and not commercial. Accordingly this rate does not allow for the extra wear associated with functions in terms of cleaning, garbage removal, wear and tear, repairs etc. Use contrary to this may result in loss of your bond and/or additional payments.
Damage, Breakages, Theft and Loss are the tenants responsibility during their stay.
In order to maintain a clean and comfortable environment we are a 'shoes off inside' property.
Departure - the property should be left in a similar state to its condition on arrival and all dishes are washed to avoid excess cleaning charge. Check-out time is 10:00 by the latest, to allow time to prepare property for next guests.
Consideration to our neighbours is required. Though the property is in a bush area excessive noise may disturb our neighbours.
Bond of $500 is payable at the same time as the balance amount. The bond will be refunded within 14 days in full subject to the above conditions being met. It is designed to cover any additional costs incurred including but not limited to, any breakage, damage or excess cleaning requirements, extra guests beyond those declared ..etc.
Linen will be supplied with the property.
Pets are not allowed unless specific arrangements have been made in writing with the owner.
No smoking is permitted in or within 10m of the house. During 'high fire risk season' there is to be no smoking on any part of the property.
Regarding the bath : heavily insulated, it only requires a maximum 20cm of water to enjoy as a facility. We ask our guests to use water in the house with consideration to a limited supply, at all times.
Loss - the owners take no responsibility for the tenant’s personal property.
Variations to these conditions may only be made by prior arrangements with the owner in writing.
Accommodation
Open-plan living area and a fully equipped kitchen ready for self-catering.
A tatami lounge area and a Japanese style bathroom provide a touch of the exotic.
Paved outdoor areas include fireplace, preparation bench, sink and shower.
In winter the wood fire heater efficiently heats entire house. Floating decks and indoor/outdoor day bed are the perfect way to catch and enjoy the winter sun.
Sleeps 2 or 3 adults with 1 queen size and 1 single bed.
The perfect private getaway for a couple!
Environmental Relationship and Location
Compact, climate and occupant adaptable located in semi bush.
Designed to sit off the land yet be immersed within, it can open and close to nature, views and sun.
The building is designed with bushfire and ESD principles, solar hot water, rainwater tank and is super insulated. In line with these principles the property does not have airconditioning.
Riversdale is located just outside of the popular town of Castlemaine, in the small town of Chewton - approximately an hour and a half drive out of Melbourne. Daylesford, Maldon and Bendigo are all within a 30 minute drive. The property also directly borders State Crown Land, with acres of secluded walking and biking tracks.
STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF RIVERSDALE RETREAT
Note: Variances can be agreed on but only by arrangement with the owner in writing.
Deposit of 50% non refundable is required to secure the booking. Payment of the rental deposit constitutes the clients acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.
Balance of the rental amount must be received a full 14 days prior to occupancy. If not the owner has the right to cancel the booking and attempt to re let it.
Cancellation if caused by the guest, money paid is not refundable unless the house is re-let for the entire period. If a refund is made due to the property being relet then HomeAway fees and a $50 cancellation fee will apply.
The owners will make every effort to ensure the property is available as booked. However the owners reserve the right to make alterations to bookings due to unforeseen circumstances.
To maintain a good standard for our guests we require certain conditions to be complied with. We appreciate most will respect our property but the occasional abuse requires that we state the following conditions.
Number of Guests should not exceed the number stated on the Confirmation Notice or subsequently agreed in writing or email. Fees will apply for excess guests not agreed with the owners in advance.
Parties and Functions are strictly prohibited. The price charged is for domestic use only and not commercial. Accordingly this rate does not allow for the extra wear associated with functions in terms of cleaning, garbage removal, wear and tear, repairs etc. Use contrary to this may result in loss of your bond and/or additional payments.
Damage, Breakages, Theft and Loss are the tenants responsibility during their stay.
In order to maintain a clean and comfortable environment we are a 'shoes off inside' property.
Departure - the property should be left in a similar state to its condition on arrival and all dishes are washed to avoid excess cleaning charge. Check-out time is 10:00 by the latest, to allow time to prepare property for next guests.
Consideration to our neighbours is required. Though the property is in a bush area excessive noise may disturb our neighbours.
Bond of $500 is payable at the same time as the balance amount. The bond will be refunded within 14 days in full subject to the above conditions being met. It is designed to cover any additional costs incurred including but not limited to, any breakage, damage or excess cleaning requirements, extra guests beyond those declared ..etc.
Linen will be supplied with the property.
Pets are not allowed unless specific arrangements have been made in writing with the owner.
No smoking is permitted in or within 10m of the house. During 'high fire risk season' there is to be no smoking on any part of the property.
Regarding the bath : heavily insulated, it only requires a maximum 20cm of water to enjoy as a facility. We ask our guests to use water in the house with consideration to a limited supply, at all times.
Loss - the owners take no responsibility for the tenant’s personal property.
Variations to these conditions may only be made by prior arrangements with the owner in writing.
Amenities
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Balcony or Patio
TV
Garden
Map of Castlemaine
$$$$
Ratings and reviews
Summary of reviews
Guests loved the unique design, cosy atmosphere, fully functional kitchen, breathtaking views, and the warmth of the fireplace at the property. They also appreciated the quiet location and the proximity to nearby attractions.
4.0 / 5.0
We had a lovely stay at Riversdale retreat.
my only concern was clambering up the uneven stone steps to the front door at 11.00 pm!!
A quirky ,well planned holiday retreat.Fire was very cosy & the bed very comfortable..
5.0 / 5.0
Great location. Very quiet and private.
Cosy interior.
Great place to get away from the crowds.
5.0 / 5.0
We had a beautiful stay at this property. The perfect country get away. We loved how isolated the location felt, yet it was only a few minutes drive to Castlemaine. The kitchen was fully functioning, the views were breathtaking and the fireplace made it cosy and warm. Would definitely come again.
5.0 / 5.0
Unique accommodation with everything we needed. Wonderful open fire and deep bathtub! Short drive to Castlemaine. Very quiet with the only sound being the wildlife. We loved it. The only thing I would say is that you need a curtain in the bedroom to keep out the light when wanting a sleep in.
5.0 / 5.0
Lovely, clean and and cosy little house for a quiet getaway !
4.0 / 5.0
The place is really beautiful. We saw many kangaroos around the house. The design is unique. However, there was no curtain so felt a bit uncomfortable. 😅
5.0 / 5.0
Romantic bush block getaway
The property has been very cleverly designed in terms of space, storage, sliding walls doors and levels and blends well into the natural environment . The decorating is incredibly thoughtful, Japanese influenced and minimalist, and yet still cosy. As a curious aside, we’d LOVE to know the meaning behind the random collection of large letters displayed in the kitchen and bedroom! It amused us for hours! We really enjoyed the fire and feeling of being amongst the trees - while settled into the couch opposite the fire as windows on three sides were filled w trees and sky! While the property’s reliance on rainwater makes the request to be sparing with baths and amount of water used if they are taken (a few inches) - it’d be good to know if/when baths are an option - ie. there’s enough in the tank! ! As the pic on the website was an enticing reason we chose the property - but we’d assumed for a soak! And didn’t feel comfortable using it in this way given the instructions. The location is great - as when in it you feel remote, but it’s close to Chewton and a quick drive into Castlemaine and all the region has to enjoy. Would definitely recommend.
5.0 / 5.0
Weekend Bliss
We had a wonderful long weekend at Chewton, highlighted by drinking wine by the firepit at sunset as the stars started to light up the sky. With a large mob of kangaroos in the paddock next to the property. A delightful degustation dinner at Bar Midland was delicious, and we took the steam train to Maldon for brunch and then rode back (17km) on the bikes we hired. Lovely place. Lovely experiences.
5.0 / 5.0
Japanese inspired design in the Australian bush
A beautifully designed snd furnished house wonderfully sited in the Central Victorian bush.
Perfect for our relaxing 2 day stay.
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful place to wind down
Great experience. Lots of interesting design features and an overall atmosphere of calm and solitude.
Kitchen is well decked out and the outdoor areas are great.
Had a couple of gnarly run ins with huntsman spiders, but that’s part and parcel of staying in the bush.
5.0 / 5.0
Country mini-retreat
Spent three days here on a girls mini-break and it was beautiful. I will be back again, it was really lovely.
5.0 / 5.0
Awesome get away
Awesome house and fantastic location - a great way to unwind - didn't turn the TV on once - just walked, read and relaxed in front of the fire.
5.0 / 5.0
Great Regional Getaway
Riversdale Retreat is an excellent getaway for two.
The house has a full kitchen, lounge room with wood heater, bedroom with electric blankets, all within the victoria bush.
We found our stay at the retreat very enjoyable. Others have mentioned that it can see that road, and while that's true the road gets about 1 car every 3 hours down it, so its not a big deal.
The hosts have placed appropriate signage around to ensure that the place stays clean as well as letting you know the tips and tricks with the house.
We had plenty of firewood for the fire (needed in the middle of victoria's winter) and once the fire gets going it heats the lounge room, the spare room, and the bedroom.
Both the toilet and shower room have a wall heater in them and had fresh towels.
While we cooked basic meals on the Monday and Tuesday (note its a country area and finding restaurants open on Monday and Tuesday night is very hard) and the kitchen had everything we needed (except for a whisky glass, but we made do :p)
Over all a very enjoyable experience. Would highly recommend and will return.
4.0 / 5.0
Lovely location
Shame about the huntsman's, however, this is expected in the country side. Very warm and relaxing stay away from the city. Thank you Sharon.
4.0 / 5.0
Lovely property
Lovely property, great weekend getaway.
5.0 / 5.0
Perfect getaway
What a lovely property to spend a few days in peace & quiet. A very comfortable place to stay, with easy access to Castlemaine. The management team were responsive to requests and communicated clearly. The house was also very clean upon arrival
5.0 / 5.0
Brilliant little getaway
We need a post COVID break, and found this gem. Perfectly located in a quiet bush block (you feel like you're in the trees), with a proper kitchen and lovely wood fire - just what we needed. Found some great walks in the nearby old goldfields and at Mt Alexander - so we know we earned those beers and wines! Loved it.
5.0 / 5.0
Loved it!
Beautiful location, wonderful place to stay. Perfect, thank you!!
5.0 / 5.0
Great property in a perfectly peaceful and scenic location. Short drive to Castlemaine. Fab.
Interesting property has everything you need. Great place to recharge.
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful peaceful space
Experience was great
5.0 / 5.0
Gorgeous country retreat
A perfect little house, nice and cosy and set in a beautiful location. Fully equipped and everything you'll need to relax and recharge. The check in process was simple and there was plenty of information on local activities. I can't recommend it enough, had a wonderful time and can't wait to come back.
5.0 / 5.0
Lovely Stay!
What a stunning house! We loved our stay, the fireplace was a definite highlight - ahh-mazing. FYI - lovely surrounds for a run! Sharon was also fabulous - easily contactable and very accommodating. Would definitely recommend!
5.0 / 5.0
Great stay
Lovely place. Very comfortable. Fireplace for enjoying in the evening.
4.0 / 5.0
Happy Campers
This is my idea of camping! Great weekend escape from the city for us and our daughter. Woke up to kangaroos, roaring fire and double glazed windows. Just what you need in country Victoria this time of year. Great location and so close to Castlemaine and Maldon.
5.0 / 5.0
Cosy and relaxing
I bought my partner a weekend at Riversdale Retreat for his birthday. Both he and I absolutely loved it. Amazing customer service and just a beautiful spot. The design of the place makes so much use out of a small space. Thanks so much for having us
5.0 / 5.0
Relaxation retreat
Loved our two night stay here. Two nights was more then enough time to relax and explore Castlemaine. Everything you needed was provided, so peaceful 24/7.
The only thing i could fault was how there were no curtains. I just found it slightly creepy in the middle of the bush, but thats just me being a scaredy cat! But of course in the daytime it pays off having no curtains. (I'm just a huge sook)
Apart from that highly recommend to anyone!! Loved the architecture of the house. Awesome set up.
3.0 / 5.0
Taps off. Shoes off.
Riversdale has all the elements to make for a relaxing weekend away, open fire, self contained, tranquil bush setting. There's something really romantic about weekends away, the best of them have you imagine what like would be like if you owned such a stunning property. Unfortunately Riversdale feels more like your staying with a nagging great Aunt. Signs all throughout the house, sometimes more than one sign in each room, reminding you of this and that. Take your shoes off, check the taps are off, don't eat on the tatami, don't fill the bath (why install the bath at all?) be sure your shoes are off and really and go check that tap again. I'm quite fond of having my shoes off inside, but I expect the floor to be at least clean if I'm going to do so. These persistent nagging reminders really detract from the tranquility of the stay and it's for this reason we won't be back.
5.0 / 5.0
Just Lovey!
Beautifully designed and comfortable unique house; perfect for a few nights down time!
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful and Calming
We strayed at Riversdale for 2 nights, absolutely loved the cosy feel, Japanese influence and alternate spaces for retreating and reading, sleeping or just reflecting. We'll be back.
5.0 / 5.0
Peaceful retreat
We had a great time at riversdale. It was a super cosy place to relax in the cold weather by the fire in beautiful bush surroundings.
5.0 / 5.0
Love this place!
We've stayed at the Riversdale Retreat for the third time this year, and are already looking forward to returning. It is such a great space, cosy for two and great for the winter. We loved the indoor fireplace this time around, where we could get nice and warm and eat. We'd definitely recommend this stay, all year around!
5.0 / 5.0
Relaxing retreat
Enjoyed a lovely 2 night stay at the Riversdale retreat, we walked in and the atmeouphere was amazing. Relaxing and comforting place to stay. Very clean and well kept would recommend anyone to stay there! Great location as we explored into Castlemaine, Daylesford and maldon. Gorgeous little towns. Will most definitely be back, thanks again! Luke and Bianca xx
5.0 / 5.0
Wonderful Property
An architectural delight set in quiet bush lands with picturesque views from every angle. We enjoyed sitting on the verandah taking in the scene of the valley below and rising to see kangaroos from the kitchen windows grazing there in the morning. Well positioned to all amenities, quiet walks and historical ruins. All these factors contributed to a very enjoyable stay. We look forward to returning.
5.0 / 5.0
Design gem in peaceful bushland
This is my third year at Riversdale, and it's the design details that make it special. Windows cunningly pointing at bush and sky, perfectly built doors, walls and windows that keep the house sun and warm, smooth calm Japanese interiors, cosy daybed nook to watch the sun set over the hills. Perfect place to read, reflect and walk. And only a $15 cab fare from Castlemaine's restaurants!
5.0 / 5.0
Well appointed property
A wonderful architecturally designed house, great to get out of Melbourne and relax in this retreat. So quiet. Loved the fire pit out the back
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Castlemaine?
The average price for a rental in Castlemaine is $191 per night. This rental is $143 above the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Riversdale Retreat - country escape. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Riversdale Retreat - country escape pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this house is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Riversdale Retreat - country escape?
We found 7 amenities for this rental. This includes kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, fireplace, parking, and balcony or patio.
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