Riversdale RETREAT
Contemporary retreat in Chewton, Victoria
ABOUT
Surrounded by native crown bush land and set in a re-vegetated bush garden, Riversdale Retreat is an uncompromising country escape.
Set high upon the private ¾ acre block, gully views are enjoyed from within, as well as from several outdoor living spaces.
This is an eco-friendly innovative house with Japanese influences, ready for indoor-outdoor living.
Nearby walking tracks, bird and wildlife, including neighboring kangaroos provide a unique opportunity to commune with self, nature and the environment.
Designed by Insite, this is a unique property, immersed in nature yet walking distance to the local town and close to the Wesley Hill Farmers Market - the perfect getaway.
Shortlisted - World Architecture Festival Awards 2009
Environmental Relationship
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 environmentally sustainable design principles, solar hot water, rainwater tank and is super insulated.
Eco - Friendly (fans only - no airconditioner)
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.
Sleeps 2 or 3 adults with 1 queen size and 1 single bed.
The perfect private getaway for a couple!
Relax & Disconnect
Riversdale Retreat is designed for guests to relax, unplug, and enjoy the natural surrounds. We provide unlimited wi-fi for guests that like to stream their own entertainment (beyond basic free to air tv).
Please ensure you bring a device for this purpose as there is no Smart TV or streaming services on site.
ABOUT
Surrounded by native crown bush land and set in a re-vegetated bush garden, Riversdale Retreat is an uncompromising country escape.
Set high upon the private ¾ acre block, gully views are enjoyed from within, as well as from several outdoor living spaces.
This is an eco-friendly innovative house with Japanese influences, ready for indoor-outdoor living.
Nearby walking tracks, bird and wildlife, including neighboring kangaroos provide a unique opportunity to commune with self, nature and the environment.
Designed by Insite, this is a unique property, immersed in nature yet walking distance to the local town and close to the Wesley Hill Farmers Market - the perfect getaway.
Shortlisted - World Architecture Festival Awards 2009
Environmental Relationship
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 environmentally sustainable design principles, solar hot water, rainwater tank and is super insulated.
Eco - Friendly (fans only - no airconditioner)
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.
Sleeps 2 or 3 adults with 1 queen size and 1 single bed.
The perfect private getaway for a couple!
REVIEWS
We absolutely enjoyed our stay! It was such a lovely house to just relax, disconnect and spend some time in. All details about the stay were communicated very clearly and we loved the detailed manual that was in the house about all the amenities and features about the house. The area was just so peaceful and idyllic and very close to many towns so there’s always something to do or explore. We couldn’t recommend this house more!
Swenisha - July 2022
The architecture of this property was so unique and perfect for the landscape it’s situated in. Such an amazing property to relax and rewind and especially special in the cooler months with the wood fireplace warming the property. Perfect stay for a couple or small family and great private location, close to restaurants/pubs and things to do in Castlemaine.
Stephanie - May 2022
Such a lovely well designed home in a beautiful peaceful setting. We had such a relaxing stay, it was just what we needed for a quick weekend getaway. We enjoyed exploring the house, sitting by the cosy fire with a glass or two of wine and spotting kangaroos was definitely a highlight! It's such a great place to completely switch off, we limited our screen time and didn't once turn on the TV :) It was a chilly weekend so we were grateful for the electric blankets and of course the fireplace! Everything was spotless and well thought out and the bed was super comfy, what more could you ask for?!
Anonymous - June 2020
We needed 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.
Rich - June 2020
We had a spectacular two night stay. The house is beautiful with everything you could need for a relaxing few days out of the city. We loved sitting by the fire with dinner and a glass of wine, and waking up to the birds chirping. Everything was easy and made for a lovely weekend. Want to go back already!
Anonymous - March 2020
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!
Jacqui - July 2016
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
Phillip - July 2016
I love this place! I have stayed at Riverdale Retreat twice now. It is a truly remarkable piece of accommodation. Peaceful, clean, comfortable, clever and convenient. Easy to get to and close to town. Would recommend to friends and would stay again and again and again.
Paul - October 2015
Thank you for a wonderful stay in your amazing house!!
The fire, the verandah, big comfy bed and best of all the outdoor shower - perfect for a early crisp morning.
Loved it!!
Daryl - March 2014
We had a lovely weekend of three nights. The property is very comfortable, the environment tranquil and peaceful. The house is close to Chewton if you need the morning papers and a bicycle ride from the Wesley market and Castlemaine. Also plenty of good rides into the hinterland such as Fryerstown .The design of the house is very special and quite unique in its simplicity and respect for the environment.
Anonymous - December 2013
Thanks for a wonderful stay. The house is beautifully made and kept me warm and comfortable in a freezing cold, we had a windy week. The glass walls and little windows framed the views like art. I ate out almost every night and cooked happily in the great kitchen for all my other meals. My son loved it too, and mastered the bean bags on the tatami mats and helping me build the fire. He also liked the snug bunk and slept very well.I'm so glad I picked this place!
Jacqui - August 2012
In winter we were warm and cosy. Calm quiet peaceful location. Walking tracks out the back gate as long or as short as you want, meandering through the gold rush diggings of yesterday. Short drives to antique shops or a good hot cuppa.
Georgina - July 2012
I had a wonderful time enjoying the property and the natural bush setting surrounding the house. Loved the 3 different outdoor areas, each with a unique vista that allow you to follow the sun or shade over the day and waking up to fresh air and country bird life. Watchind the kangaroos in the morning with a coffee or at dusk with a glass of wine was the perfect way to destress and escape from ciry life. Spotlessly clean, great well equipped kitchen, comfy beds. Great opportunity to 'live-in'; if only for a day or two; a funky, contemporary architect designed home at an affordale price."
Louise - February 2010
What a slice of heaven. Compact yet spacious, cosy and intimate but not claustrophobic. Great architecture, lovely aspect and everything you could want. Bring everything you think you may want - you won't want to leave here for a second!
Kaye - May 2010
CONTACT & BOOKINGS
Feature List
Tranquil Retreat
Off-street parking
Cooking Facilities
Refrigerator
Basic provisions supplied
DVD Player
iPod jack & speakers
Bedding
Linen Supplied
Non-smoking
No pets
Slow-combustion wood heater
Deck with day bed
Eco-friendly
Secluded walking and biking tracks
Check the availability calendar
Email: reservations@riversdaleretreat.com.au Web: www.riversdaleretreat.com.au
Bookings and enquiries can be made by emailing reservations directly or online through Stayz or Airbnb.
Riversdale Retreat is designed by Insite www.insitedesign.com.au
As seen on Channel 9’s Postcards
Riversdale is located just outside of the popular town of Castlemaine, in the small town of Chewton - approximately an hour and a half’s 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.