My Fairytale Cottage Stories

See this binocular symbol for local birds in each destination. These are common, beautiful birds that you will be able to see easily, not some rare unusual bird, that only birders can see. I share some twitch-worthy birds in each place with you. 

In these lush forests you will see and hear the Wompoo Fruit Dove, Ptilinopus magnificus. This glorious, colourful dove is magnificent, with its purple chest and green wings. Its name is the sound that it makes - a soft rhythmical 'woomp-oo' call that beats like the earth's heart. 

The colourful flash of a Crimson Rosella  Platycercus elegansis likely to distract you from enjoying the forests and waterfalls of Springbrook if you are a twitch like me. See them at Purlingbrook Falls. There is a short loop walk here which is perfect for bird watching. One of my favourite memories of Springbrook is seeing fireflies flitter at dusk. There is magic in the air up here. 

Springbrook Mountain Chalets - Springbrook - Queensland - Australia

Choose from 1 or 2 bedroom chalets with forest privacy. Choose a hot tub or spa bath, each cabin has a full kitchen. Relax on your secluded patio or hike on the many bush paths. Located just a 10 minute drive from Springbrook National Park, part of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia. Explore jaw-dropping biodiversity along with scenic walks, water falls and wildlife. 43 km or 23 miles from the Gold Coast Airport. 

'Exceptional. The spa was awesome. Didn't see or hear another person the entire weekend. The birds and possums were delightful. Clean and comfortable.'

The Mouses House Rainforest Retreat - Springbrook - Queensland - Australia

Choose a chalet for 2 or 5 persons nestled into the rainforest. These charming forest cabins are whimsical and just right for relaxing or exploring this extraordinary region. Enjoy the spa and wellness centre, sauna, hot tub, and tennis court. Or hike in some of the best rainforest in Australia, seeing rare Gondwana species. Experience ancient forests with old growth trees. Spot lyre birds, whip birds, pademelons (a small marsupial like a wallaby) and possums. Just 5 minutes to Springbrook village and cafe. 50 km or 32 miles from Gold Coast Airport. 

'Magical get-away. The most amazing place. Highly recommend to people wanting a unique, romantic get-away. Plus super close to waterfall walks. Just a magical place and will definitely return again.'

The Eastern Whipbird (Psophodes olivaceus) with its haunting call is a vivid memory of Binna Burra and this lushious rainforest, full of life. Listen out for the male call, which sounds like a whip cracking, and the female response call. Its difficult to see them, but if you sit still in the forest, you might get lucky.

Another enchanting and elusive rainforest dweller is the Green Catbird (Ailuroedus crassirostri) but you will be sure to hear one on the Loop Track at Binna Burra. You might think there is a baby crying on the track, or a cat on the prowl. No, its the catbird. A dazzlingly beautiful bird, if you get a chance to spot one. 

Binna Burra Sky Lodges - Beechmont - Queensland - Australia

Staying at Binna Burra is special. I lived on Beechmont ridge for many years and this was my 'back garden'. This subtropical rainforest is lush and full of treasures. The UNESCO World Heritage area of Lamington National Park contains superb biodiversity, ancient forests full of fairies and secrets, ferns and fungi, currawongs and cascades, great hiking trails and simply a nurturing, calm feeling. Binna Burra Lodge was full of love, and the Sky Lodges are wonderful too. I am sure the new lodge will be a treat. One of my favourite places in the world ;)

Just 65 km or 40 miles from Gold Coast Airport and a couple of hours from Brisbane. 

Old St Johns Church Cottage - Beechmont - Queensland - Australia

This renovated old church dating from 1952 is full of character. Positioned in upper Beechmont, it is in an ideal location for visiting Binna Burra and Lamington National Park. This cosy cottage offers 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom with accommodation for 6 guests. This timber church now has a full kitchen, a balcony, air-conditioning, plenty of parking and a lovely garden. This church is near one of my favourite lookouts on Beechmont ridge, it is called Rosin's Lookout and from here you can see down the Numinbah Valley, over to Lamington and Springbrook. Stunning, lush, fertile and ancient forests of this region all around you. This charming accommodation is close to bushwalks. 55 km or 34 miles from Gold Coast Airport. 

'Wonderful hosting. We will be back. We liked the unique atmosphere. Lots of interesting old treasures. It was very clean and well positioned for Binna Burra.'

The spectacular Regent Bowerbird, Sericulus chrysocephalus, is one of my favourite Australian birds and you are pretty certain to see one or more at O'Reilly's. A magical flyer and a stunning surprising shimmering bird. PS I have seen these on our property too - it is a fairytale cottage neighbour!

I can still remember the first time I saw a Satin Bowerbird! This is Ptilonorhynchus violaceus. What a surreal creature. These are frequent at O'Reilly's and you stand a good chance of spotting one here and/or its bower lined with blue treasures. 

O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat - Lamington National Park - via Canungra - Queensland - Australia

O'Reilly's has a special place in my heart, not only because I am a self-confessed bird nut and here you can see magnificent birds, but it was part of my early life when I moved to Queensland, so many years ago. I love the remote rainforest retreat and the walks in the high forest canopy. I love the lushness, the quiet and the remote feeling of this nature-loving resort. The flash of a gold and black Regent Bowerbird or the joy of spotting the bower of the Satin Bowerbird, dotted with blue bits and bobs, is only the beginning of a love affair with this wild place. Allow the forest to calm you, the ancient trees to whisper to you. As I said to a friend recently, 'go, just go, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience'. Luckily, I have experienced it many times and it only gets better. Extraordinary hikes, blissful lodges and exotic birds. 

Sulfur-Crested Cockatoo - Cacatua galerita - one of the characters of the bird world with a loud raucous call and stunning pearly feathers, these fly high together and sit in the tall gum trees, chatting. 

The most beautiful songbird of our county - the Australian Magpie - Gymnorhina tibicen - is a striking black and white cheeky bird known for its fierce protection of its nest. But they are real sweeties - I grew up with them taking food from my hand and bringing their babies to meet us. These birds are plentiful at Mount Tamborine. 

Witches Falls Cottages - Tamborine Mountain - Queensland - Australia

Choose your cottage or suite for two in the misty rainforest with fireplace, kitchenette and air-conditioning. Close to lookouts, village, cafes and glow worm caves. 60 km or 37 miles from Gold Coast Airport. 

'Quiet, clean, cosy , comfortable, plenty of breakfast supplied BBQ or continental. Close to some great restaurants. Perfect for winter weekend getaway.'

The Bank House Cottage - Tamborine Mountain - Queensland - Australia

This historic home is completely modern and offers 4 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms in the village, with a full kitchen, and spacious living rooms, welcoming 9 guests. Relax in the garden, and on the patio and terrace. Walk to cafes and restaurants. 62 km or 40 miles from Gold Coast Airport. 

'Loved the old feel to the house, it was cosy and comfortable. Loved that you can walk around town, being central to everything.'

My Fairytale Cottage Stories - we loved living near Latrobe Terrace in Paddington amongst the rolling leafy green hills, in a historic timber 'Queenslander' cottage, full of character. The home was high up off the ground to make the most of cooling air, and the deck at the back looked over a long block to a jungly creek at the bottom of the garden. A classic Australian home. We loved the neighbouring timber cottages and the walk to the bus stop and cafes was a pleasure every day. Most definitely a fairytale cottage.

Peaceful in Paddington - Brisbane - Qld - Australia

To recreate this experience, visit Paddington in the inner city of Brisbane and be sure to find a timber historic home in the Queenslander style. See more about this style here. Visit Trammies Corner for a lovely park with a great view, and a little further up sit at the mosaic seat at Wilden Street and admire the views and Latrobe Chapel. I loved sitting here admiring the flowering trees. 

Ellena Workers' Cottage - Paddington - Brisbane - Qld - Australia

The antique market in the old theatre at the corner of Latrobe Terrace and Collingwood St is a great way to while away the morning between coffees. Cafes come and go, but there are some character-filled places with great views all along the terrace. Wandering here and discovering them is half the fun. In another lifetime, I read tarot cards at a book cafe nearby. Paddington is full of treasures. 

Tranquil Cottage - Bardon - Brisbane - Qld - Australia

If you cannot find accommodation in Paddington, visit Bardon, Rosalie or Ashgrove nearby, these areas still offer beautiful Queenslander cottages and are handy to the city. 

This restored light bright timber home offers 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom with accommodation for 4 guests, a beautiful kitchen and relaxing decks and patios. Enjoy your private leafy garden and the quintessential Brisbane lifestyle. 

'Felt a little bit fancy and homely all at the same time. Great renovation of an old Qld cottage - made for a charming stay with all the modern convenience. Easy layout, comfy beds, very well-equipped kitchen. True to the photos. Felt a little bit fancy and homely all at the same time. Will definitely stay again.'

King Parrot - Alisterus scapularis - a large parrot with a distinct high pitched bell note call. One of the most striking parrots in Australia, with brigh red and green and light green shoulder band. These birds are common neary forest edges near Maleny.

Eastern Yellow Robin - Eopsaltria australis - a small fast bird of the rainforest and fringes, commonly seen around Maleny. These feed together in family groups and habitually perch sideways on tree trunks to hunt insects on the ground. Its curious bright eyes and friendly outlook make it feel like a friend. 

The Little Queenslander 1888 - Maleny - Qld - Australia 

With 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms this immaculately restored cottage offers accommodation for 8 guests. This typical timber cottage dates from 1888. Live in a little bit of history, and explore the lush hillsides of Maleny. 

'Gorgeous location, beautiful house. So peaceful. 5 minutes into Maleny.
Highly recommended.'

Maleny Homestead & Cottage - Maleny - Qld - Australia

This classic Queenslander cottage hosts 11 guests in an immaculately presented home. The cottage sleeps 3 guests in style. A true country Queensland experience. Maleny is a farming region known for its milk and cheese, as well as an alternative community known for its art, environmental awareness and beautiful forests. 

'Amazing property, well maintained and fabulous host. The homestead was amazing, incredibly furnished, enough room for a large group/family. The grounds were exceptional, well maintained and only a short walk into town. A fabulous host and our fridge was generously stocked with essentials and a beautiful touch of homemade slices. We will definitely be back.'

'Lovely place to stay , where we could bring our dog. Recommend the cottage to anyone. Pet friendly. Lovely cottage. Easy walk into Maleny. Exceptional breakfast supplies.'

Mango Hill Farm Private Cottage - Peachester - Qld - Australia

With 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and space for 4 guests, the cottage on this farm estate is just gorgeous and offers a quintessential country Queensland experience. The countryside is lush and green, and Peachester is close to Maleny and Montville, as well as the Glass House Mountains. 80 km or 50 miles from Brisbane Airport. 

'The property is beautiful. It was a relaxing, peaceful place to stay. Surrounded by rolling lawns, mango trees and farm animals galore.'

The Postman’s Cottage - Montville - Qld - Australia

This delightful historic home dating from 1895 offers 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom for 2 guests with a full kitchen, fireplace, garden and pool.  Relax at the Montville Estate and be pampered. Set on 1.5 acres of lush gardens, yet close to the village so you can walk everywhere. A stunning accommodation in one of my favourite villages in Queensland. 

'This place is one of our favourite bnbs in Australia. Montville Estate is a beautiful piece of history that’s been restored in a respectful manner. We loved that there is no tv or wi-fi. Instead we were able to enjoy each others company by the fire, just talking.'

The Spotted Chook and Amelie's Petite Maison - Montville - Qld - Australia

Choose from five suites and cottages ideal for couples. This charming accommodation is romantic and private, located close to Montville village on the road to Kondalilla National Park. Enjoy continental breakfasts, a kitchenette, fireplace and BBQ. Relax surrounded by lush forest and farmland, or walk to Kondalilla Falls and beyond in lush rainforest. 31 km or 20 miles from Maroochydore Airport. 

'Best getaway stay, serene, romantic. We loved our breakfast basket. Very classy place Beautiful location, close to Montville shopping village, but away from the busy streets. The spacious room was tastefully decorated and warmed for us before our arrival on a chilly winter evening. The host was pleasant and helpful and promptly supplied any extras we needed.'

Galah -  Eolophus roseicapilla - these friendly and slightly crazy birds are regulars at Forest Cottage. They bring us joy with their antics and drink water from cavities in the high gum trees, or dance and hang upside down on the wires near the street. Galahs can be seen all over Australia. 

Blue-faced Honeyeater - Entomyzon cyanotis - is a regular in our garden, in Noosa and in the hinterland. They live in noisy family groups and love nectar on the grevillea flowers, here you can see it on the colourful Golden Penda bush. These birds are really stunning, with a rich olive colour on their back and wings. 

Cabin in Garden Forest - Doonan - Noosa Hinterland - Qld - Australia

This cabin in perfect for a writer's retreat or a couple's getaway. I loved waking up here looking out the large windows to the uninterrupted forest views. This place is full of good energy and I did lots of writing here. The host is friendly but not intrusive. Doonan is the perfect hinterland location to stay while visiting Noosa, because you get the green behind the beaches and you are half way to Eumundi Village, with its vibrant arty market every Wednesday and Saturday. This one-bedroom cabin is perfect for a couple, with two decks, the kitchen is downstairs and the toilet is a separate, composting one a few metres from the cabin. Private, leafy, a delightful morning chorus and light bright decor make this a stylish Noosa stay. 30 km or 20 miles from Sunshine Coast Airport. 

Cabin & Gardens - Eumuni - Noosa Hinterland - Qld - Australia

This old style bush cabin is a delight. There is wood everywhere and historical details, antiques and curios. The most delightful gardens, created by the host, a celebrated landscape designer, are open for you to explore, ramble and relax in. These gardens are just a wonder, full of whimsy and charm which gladdened my heart. No doubt there are fairies here. I was inspired to write here and appreciated the privacy and quiet. Yet this location is very close to both Eumundi and Noosa. Again, a perfect Noosa hinterland escape. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, ideal for 2 guests. 27 km or 17 miles from Sunshine Coast Airport. 

Flannel Flowers - Actinotus helianthi - these native flowers are velvety to the touch, their soft eggshell-white contrasts with their grey-green tips and foliage. These enchanting flowers inspired May Gibbs to create 'Snugglepot and Cuddlepie' in her artist studio in Neutral Bay in 1918. The celebration of Australian flora became very popular, and gum nuts, banksias and wildlife like goannas and koalas, all became household names. 

Boronia and Bush Peas - spring in the sandstone valleys and ridges of Sydney's north shore produces an exuberant colourful dance of flowers. Explore Lane Cove National Park and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, to get away from the hustle and bustle. Or walk the 'Great North Walk'. 

Barrenjoey House - Palm Beach - Sydney - NSW - Australia

Having stayed here and eaten here many times over many years, I can recommend the magic of this historic cafe, dating from 1923, now one of Palm Beach's most adored restaurants. Looking out across the road to the park and Pittwater, or catching the ferry across to The Basin and the national park, is sublime. We enjoyed special anniversary weekends here with breakfast, lunch and dinner in walking distance, and hiked to the light house, walked along Palm Beach and lazed on Pittwater. Not-so-shabby beach chic. Romantic, oozing charm and one of the best ways to experience Sydney beach culture. Be sure to book a table at the front of the restaurant, elevated, with a view. 

'Very enjoyable stay, lovely staff & excellent restaurant food. The location was good, handy for the ferry and buses. It was walkable to Palm beach and the lighthouse. The breakfast was good, fresh fruit, yogurt & granola. Tea, coffee and juice. The restaurant food was absolutely excellent.'

Q Station - Manly - Sydney - NSW - Australia

Rumoured to be haunted, this restored quarantine station has such a squeamish history that only the strong of stomach should stay here. You will be rewarded with magnificent harbour side accommodation with a fascinating history. I wanted to see ghosts, but alas I cannot report any, just a good night's sleep and a wonderful stay. 

Harbour Rocks Hotel - The Rocks - Sydney - NSW - Australia

My Fairytale Cottage Stories - yes, it is haunted. Yes, it used to be a brothel. Yes, it has been restored, revamped and re-energised. Yes, it is is a wonderful location in 'The Rocks' which is the most fascinating historic quarter of Sydney, close to the 'coathanger' and the Sydney Opera House, just a skip to the ferries that whizz you across the harbour for beach visits, or to the train station with connections to the airport, central train station and all over town. To explore Sydney, start in The Rocks, and let it all unfold from there. One of my favourite old places in 'The Rocks' where I did detect some supernatural suspicious suggestions of susurrations and sighs in the quiet of the night. Dating from 1887, this is fascinating a piece of Rocks history. Take the 'Rocks Ghost Tour' for more magical myths, rumours and facts. 

Tricklebeck Spa Cottage - Blackheath - Blue Mountains - NSW - Australia

Romance, romance, romance. This secluded 1-bedroom 1-bathroom home is perfect for couples. Set just 5 km or 3 miles away from the village of Blackheath in tranquil Australian bushland, this private retreat offers a double bath and wood fire, kitchenette and BBQ. Feel the serenity. 4.8 km or 3 miles from Blackheath Station.

'Superb. Beautiful, snug little cottage, amazing shower and bath, and super toasty fireplace. Perfect Getaway Place! I loved the location. Nature all around. Beautiful interior with all the necessities I required. The spa bath was fantastic too. Bush walks all around. Privacy. Would love to stay again!'

Chalets at Blackheath - Blue Mountains - NSW - Australia

Set in gum forest at  the top of the majestic, ancient Grand Canyon, affording magical views of the deep forested sandstone gorge and direct access to walking trails, these chalets sit right into the forest. Each chalet is a sanctuary of calm and tranquility, inviting you to escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature. Built sustainably with attention to every detail.

'The location and the chalets are magic. Respectfully embedded in the middle of nature.'

Luna Cottage - Jervis Bay - NSW - Australia

Right in Huskisson on the bay, this stunning Australian bush cottage has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and welcomes 4 guests. Enjoy modern comforts, a full kitchen, terrace and balcony. Enjoy the outdoor fire pit and BBQ. Walk everywhere. 180 km or 112 miles from Sydney Airport. 

'Superb. Short walk to shops and restaurants. Nice quiet setting backing onto bushland.'

Studio Cantamar - Guesthouse in Huskisson - Jervis Bay - NSW - Australia

This guesthouse hits the g-spot. Just gorgeous, with soulful, welcoming hosts. Private and welcoming, perfectly romantic for couples. Mexican stucco made by a Mexican artist, beautiful render and colours, now surrounded by lush gardens. Located just across the road from the beach, we loved walking along the beach to get into town. Very central on the bay. 180 km or 112 miles from Sydney Airport. 

'The Studio Cantamar is an absolute gem in a lovely green and leafy garden oasis. Beautifully and colourfully decorated and the bed was a dream to sleep in. Everything we could possibly need was provided. After lovely walks along the beach we came back to this cosy, warm and comfortable hideaway. Bliss. having our morning coffee on the secluded terrace was the perfect start to the day.'

The Cottage - Snowy Wilderness - Ingebirah - NSW - Australia

This magnificent horse riding property is located close to Jindabyne but miles from anywhere. Get away from it all onto a high country station on 7,500 acres. The cottage is hidden away in the bush, offers 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, a full kitchen, fireplace and tranquility. Choose from two or four bedroom lodges or homestead on the station. Spot wildlife, kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and brumbies. Part and full day horse rides available, or get out on a 2-7 day trek. 45 km or 28 miles from the Snowy Mountains ski resorts. 40 km or 25 miles from Jindabyne. 

'Great location, awesome secluded property, very cosy cabin with a fireplace.'

Stone Cottage at Wollondibby - Crackenback NSW Alps - Australia

This renovated heritage listed stone cottage from around 1855 is divine. 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom for 2 guests. Floor heating ensures comfort during winter, and ceiling fans provide a breeze in warmer months. Relax with fire and kitchenette, washing machine, free parking and endless space, peace and quiet. The location cannot be surpassed. Hidden away near Crackenback in the picturesque Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, set in open eucalypt forest and grassland. Spot kangaroos, wallabies and eagles on the wing. Yet close to restaurants and 10 km or 6 miles to town.

'We absolutely loved our stay in this beautiful heritage stone house. What a surprise when we stepped inside this tiny picture perfect cottage You can see it has been renovated with love and no expense spared. The finishes are stunning. The timber pitched roof, the fireplace and the lighting creates a wonderful alpine atmosphere. All the modern conveniences make it a joy to stay in. Dishwasher, heated floors and drying cupboard as well as a luxurious bathroom and queen sized bed.'

Indi Chalet - Woodridge - Thredbo Village - Snowy Mountains - NSW - Australia

This storybook cottage offers 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom sleeping 5 guests with a fireplace, lovely open plan living, a full kitchen, decks, peace and quiet among the snow gums. Ideally located in Woodridge near chair lifts. 800 metres to the centre of Thredbo.

'Fantastic chalet getaway! Warm comfortable and absolutely stunning views surrounding this place. Close to all the activities Thredbo can offer.'

Mundarlu Ski Chalet - Thredbo Village - Snowy Mountains - NSW - Australia

This charming chalet has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms accommodating 5 guests. Cook in your full kitchen, relax by the fire or on the deck surrounded by nature. Located in Woodridge, next to Friday Flat ideal for beginner skiers and close to chair lifts. A 5 minute walk to the centre of Thredbo Village.

'Great accommodation in a great location. Very comfortable accommodation in a great location just a short walk or one bus stop to the ski lifts. Across the road from the leisure centre also. Enjoyed the warm fireplace and lounge area after each day's skiing.'

Forest Retreat - Upwey - Dandenongs - Victoria - Australia

This 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, newly renovated home comes with an outdoor shower, massage room, entertainment area and wood fire sauna. Set amongst the trees in a lovely peaceful hideaway. Step out into the National Park. Close to villages and the Puffing Billy Railway.

'Hidden gem so close to Melbourne. One of the best retreats I've been to. Truly a hidden gem close to Melbourne. The views were amazing, the beds were comfy and a special treat with the outdoor sauna. I will definitely be there again!'

Botanica Retreat - Olinda - Dandenong Ranges - Victoria - Australia

A cosy, romantic retreat for 2 guests in 1 bedroom with 1 bathroom, double spa bath, fireplace, outdoor seating, fire pit and forested outlook. Stroll in the gardens or walk to the village. Bed and breakfast, comfort and charm.

'A gem in the bush. Great location, quiet and surround by trees.'

My Fairytale Cottage Stories - Daylesford, in Victoria is surrounded by vineyards, famous for its mineral waters, historic cottages and rolling green hills. Enjoy bushwalking in the Macedon Ranges or at the infamous Hanging Rock. Find your very own charming cottage in Daylesford for a wellness weekend.

Main Cottage at Poets Lodge - Daylesford - Victoria - Australia

This classic dreamy country cottage has 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom and is ideal for couples. This original Colonial home dates from 1852, and was converted to a guest house in the 1920’s. Feel the history here and enjoy the gorgeous historic spa town of Daylesford. Walk everywhere from this centrally located cottage. 5 km or 3 miles to Hepburn Bathhouse and mineral springs.

'Old fashioned charm. The main house has character and an old fashioned charm that will immediately make you fall in love with it. It felt like staying over at a close family friend's place. Everything is well stocked including the kitchen. We loved how close the house was to restaurants and shops. We also loved the fire place. There was plenty of wood stored ready for several nights! Everything was very clean.'

Durham Cottage - Daylesford - VIC - Australia

A 3-bedroom home with 2 bathrooms, full kitchen, air conditioning located just walking distance to the centre of this pretty town. Such a charming and fairy-like cosy haven with a private garden. Magical.

'Exceptional. We had the most gorgeous Easter stay at this charming little cottage, it was honestly perfect. From the moment we arrived, we felt so welcomed with a thoughtful little hamper waiting for us, filled with local goodies. The cottage was beautifully styled with cozy, autumn vibes and the sweetest Easter touches throughout. The furnishings were warm and inviting, and every detail in the decor felt carefully curated. The garden was just stunning, golden leaves, homegrown herbs, and the perfect spot for a slow morning coffee or an afternoon wander. A peaceful, luxurious little escape we’ll definitely return to. Highly recommend for anyone after that magical blend of comfort, style, and fabulous location that is walking distance to the centre.'

Cradle Highlander - Cradle Mountain - Tasmania - Australia

Deliciously cosy cabins at Cradle Mountain with a good variety to choose from. Just about as close as you can get to one of Tasmania's most beautiful national parks with awe-inspiring bush walks and stunning scenery. A five minute walk from your cabin to the park entrance. Choose from small cabins, those with spa or family cabins.

'Cosy mountain cabins. Wonderful location, comfortable cabin and great staff. Ideally placed for the visitor centre and Devils@Cradle. Enjoyed meeting the resident wombat, and bird watching around the grounds.'

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge - Cradle Mountain - Tasmania - Australia

The location of this lodge allows you to step directly into the national park to hike in extraordinary alpine country. The resort offers a gorgeous cosy lodge and private cabins. Choose a Pencil Pine Balcony cabin for views across the lake and alpine wilderness. Romantic and ideal for couples. The resort has an on-site spa and has been chosen as one of Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Most Extraordinary Places To Stay. Look out for wombats, wallabies, quolls, Tasmanian devils, echidnas, platypus, and possums on your hikes.

'Great location with the national park on the door step. Lovely staff and friendly, unbelievable walking tracks and well looked after.'

Shepherd’s Cottage at Lisdillon Estate - Little Swanport - Tasmania - Australia

The Shepherd's Cottage at Lisdillon Vineyard in Little Swanport has 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom welcoming 2 guests. This holiday home has direct beachfront access with a private beach area. Relax on the beach or enjoy sea views from the garden. This coastal winery, established in 2009, produces Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. Learn the story of this sheep and salt farm dating back to the 1830's. Choose from a variety of historic cottages. A dream location easy driving distance from Hobart airport on the magical east coast of Tasmania.

'Superb. We had a lovely stay at the Shepherd's Cottage, had plenty of room with everything we needed. A very peaceful location overlooking the river and handy to the beach. Wished we were able to stay longer.'

Freycinet Lodge - Freycinet National Park - Tasmania - Australia

With the unique feature of being set within a national park, this lodge is ideally situated within the bush and next to the sea. Choose a cabin for complete privacy. Experience all the comforts of a luxury lodge, two restaurants and a bar, a fireplace, optional spa cabins and massage. Enjoy guided walks, snorkelling or kayaking. 2.2 km from Coles Bay village. 

'Highly recommended lodge experience. Absolutely sensational stay. Staff were exceptionally friendly and welcoming. Room superb - warm & comfortable and very clean. Restaurant and bar facilities were excellent and top notch service. We were fully recharged after our stay here.'

• To visit most of the places mentioned in Queensland, fly into Brisbane Airport BNE.
• To visit Springbrook, Binna Burra, Beechmont, O'Reilly's and Tamborine, fly into Gold Coast Airport OOL.
• To visit Maleny, Montville and the Noosa Hinterland fly into Sunshine Coast Airport MCY.
• To visit New South Wales, fly into Sydney Airport SYD.
• To visit The Blue Mountains, drive 100 km or 62 miles west from Sydney or take the train to Leura, Katoomba, Medlow Bath or Blackheath Station
• To get to Jervis Bay, drive south from Sydney for 180 km or 112 miles.
• To get the the Australian High Country, fly to Canberra Airport CBR and drive to Adaminaby 110 km or 70 miles or Thredbo 210 km or 130 miles.
• To get to Victoria, fly into Melbourne Airport MEL
• From Melbourne drive 50 km or 30 miles to Sassafras in the Dandenongs.
• From Melbourne drive 112 km or 70 miles to Daylesford
• To get to Cradle Mountain in Tasmania, fly into Devonport Airport DVO, then drive 87 km or 54 miles
• To visit Freycinet in Tasmania, fly into Hobart Airport HBA then drive 180 km or 110 miles

By Katia Luz, sharing my fairytale bush cottage, discovering enchanting, charming, whimsical cottages, cabins and cosy little places to inspire your dreams. Contact Me. About Me.

I trust you have enjoyed the magic of My Fairytale Cottage. Bon Voyage!