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For many of us, a time comes where we simply need a quick weekend getaway – some time away from the office and out in nature, amongst the eucalyptus trees, fresh air, wildlife and stars.
If you’re anything like me, spending time in nature and with wildlife is one of the purest wants to fill your cup up and rejuvenate your soul.
And, nothing beats a beautiful weekend away than a charming and rustic farm stay in Victoria with animals. If you’re looking for a really cool and unique experience, staying in farm accommodation with animals on site can be a perfect option.
Whether you plan to travel on your own, as a couple or with kids, farm accommodation can offer a great form of adventure and entertainment that you just can’t get in other types of accommodation.
The Benefits of Farm Stays / Farm Accommodation for All Types of Travellers
Staying in farm stay or farmhouse accommodation in Victoria, especially accommodation with animals on site, has become increasingly popular amongst Aussie’s looking for a rejuvenating weekend getaway.
Some of the obvious benefits of this type of accommodation is that you:
- Get away from the hustle and bustle of the work week
- Can rest your feet, let your hair down, get some fresh air and slow down
- Get to take time out to rejuvenate amongst nature, which has been scientifically proven to boost our mental health by reducing stress and promoting healing.
- Feel encouraged to get outdoors and get physical which is so important given many of us spend too much time sitting at desks during our work week.
- Can get up close to animals which has also been scientifically proven to reduce stress and improve mood
- Get to to explore somewhere new, and some of the most beautiful country destinations in Victoria
No matter your reason for needing a getaway, there are many personal benefits associated with staying at a farmstay in Victoria with animals – alongside supporting your local community post-covid.
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Our Top 11 Picks for Farm Stay Accommodation in Victoria (With Animals)
I’ve done some digging on the best farm accommodation with animals in Victoria, and here are some of my TOP picks!
1. Farm Accommodation with a Variety of Farm Animals
1. Olinda Yarra Cottage – Yering, Victoria
- Less than 1 hour north-east of Melbourne CBD
- Great for families
If you’re craving some time in the Yarra Valley wine region, Olinda Yarra Cottage offers a great farmhouse stay in Victoria – especially for families wanting to get up close to animals and breathe in that fresh country air.
Olinda Farm is a family owned and managed heritage cattle farm in Yering. Being farm accommodation with animals, during your stay you can expect to see ducks, miniature horses, alpacas and chickens.
You’re also located extremely close to many of the main Yarra Valley attractions including the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, Yarra Valley Dairy, Coombes Dame Melba Estate and a wide range of wineries, including Victoria’s first winery – Yering Station.
It is also just a short drive from Healesville Animal Sanctuary and the famous Four Pillars Gin Distillery.
For adventure junkies, you can also enjoy the nearby bike trails along the Yarra Valley Trail, go skydiving, hot air ballooning, cycling, fishing, golfing, or even enjoy a scenic small plane flight of the area.
On-site facilities include:
- Two-bedroom house (1 large double bed, 2 bunk beds)
- Free private parking available
- Spa bath
- Fire place
- Free wifi on site
- Air conditioning and heating
- Complete kitchen with fridge, kettle, toaster and microwave
- Laundry facilities
- TV
- 24-hour staff on site (front desk)
- Outdoor dining and BBQ facilities
- Board games/puzzles
2. Shearer’s Cottage – Cambus Glen Highlands
- Located 3 hours west of Melbourne CBD
- Great for solo travellers and couples
The Shearers’ Cottage is a fully renovated sheep shearers accommodation located on 140 acres of stunning farmland.
At around 3 hours from Melbourne CBD, this remote farm stay accommodation within the Victoria’s high country is a perfect place to unwind and chill out – away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
For animal fans, there’s a number of highland cattle located on site, and if you’re lucky, you may even be able to get up close and give them a pat. There are also a number of cheeky chickens located on site for some added company and entertainment.
If you’d like to explore some of the nearby attractions and landscapes, you take a scenic 30 minute drive to the rugged South-West Victorian coast.
You can drive to the Shipwreck coast between Port Fairy and Cape Otway, see the rock formations of the Port Campbell National Park or even visit Warrnambool for the great walking tracks.
On-site facilities include:
- 140-acre farm and garden
- Studio apartment (1 Bedroom)
- Complete kitchen with fridge, kettle, toaster and microwave
- Outdoor dining and BBQ facilities
- Free wifi on site
- Bathtub
- Air conditioning and heating
- Fire place
- Free private parking available
- 24-hour staff on site (front desk)
3. Mancuso Country Cottage Retreat – Metcalfe, Victoria
- Less than 1.5 hours north-west from Melbourne CBD
- Great for solo travellers and couples
If you’re wanting to get away from it all and immerse yourself in pure farm tranquillity, this beautiful 150 year old rustic miner’s cottage could do the trick.
Located on 200 acres of private land in the Metcalfe Valley, this remote farm stay accommodation is perfect if you want to ditch the “tech” and experience what it’s like living back in time for a night or two.
On the farm, you will be surrounded by a plethora of animals including cows, dogs, alpacas, chooks, ducks and pigs. Pets are also welcome on the farm. So, if you want to bring your own doggo companion, you’re more than welcome to.
Nearby you can explore the local vineyards including Coliban Valley Wines as well as The Cascades picnic ground, which is great for hiking and nature trails. If nature is your jam, you can also drive to the Metcalfe Nature Conservation Reserve.
Daylesford, Castlemaine and the Macedon Ranges are about a 30-40 minute drive away so you can always do a day trip to either of these destinations for a taste of civilisation.
On-site facilities include:
- Double bed (1 bedroom)
- Free private parking available
- Complete kitchen with fridge, kettle, toaster and microwave
- Spa bath
- Fireplace
- TV
- Outdoor dining and BBQ facilities
- Heating and Air-conditioning
- 1 extra bed available on request
NOTE: There is NO internet on site.
2. Farm Accommodation with Chickens / Ducks / Geese
1. Edessa Lodge – Glenlyon, Victoria (Daylesford)
- 1.5 hours north-west off Melbourne CBD
- Great for families
Surrounded by trees and located in the heart of the Glenlyon forest, this rustic and beautifully furnished country house is the ideal escape for those seeking a farmhouse stay in Victoria that’s close to Daylesford and away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Located only a 10 minute drive from Daylesford and the Hepburn Springs, you’ll get the best of both worlds – able to enjoy the quiet charm of the farm or head into town for a rejuvenating massage, the mineral spas, a walk around Lake Daylesford, to indulge in the local cafes or even explore the boutique shops.
For adventurous souls, you can even take a road trip out to Sailor’s Falls or hike along the Great Dividing Trail.
A perfect example of farm accommodation with animals, there is a dam on the property that you can walk down to to feed the ducks.
On-site facilities include:
- 2 x double beds (2 bedrooms)
- Free wi-fi
- Kitchenette with microwave, toaster and kettle
- 1 extra bed is available on request
- Fireplace
- TV
- Garden
- Outdoor dining and BBQ facilities
- Heating and air-conditioning
View this post on Instagram
2. Shady Brook Cottages – Harrietville, Victoria
- 4 hours north-east from Melbourne CBD
- Great for skiers, solo travellers, couples and families
Only 20 mins from Bright and 45 min from Hotham and Mount Beauty, Shady Brook’s Alpine Cottages offer a beautiful farmhouse stay in Victoria.
These cottages are located on 14 acres of land, with 8 acres dedicated to stunning landscaped gardens. Although the furnishings appear quite basic, the scenery is breathtaking and the gardens so marvellous they have even featured on ABC Gardening.
Surrounded by protected state forest, you’ll be sure to get your much needed dose of nature, able to wander amongst the garden, enjoy magnificent views of Mount Feathertop and watch the sun as it sets over the mountain ridges.
The garden and associated forest and river provide a habitat for over 60 species of birds. There are also chickens and fowl on site frollicking around freely for 1-2 hours every day.
For adventurous travellers, you can explore two iconic walking trails by bike or foot from Harrietville to Mount Feathertop and into the Alpine National Park. You can even go 4-wheel-driving or take off-road bikes along the many tracks that start from within the village.
You can also visit the local wineries, take a day trip to Beechworth or Mt. Buffalo National Park, or go fishing at the local Trout Farm if that tickles your fancy.
For skiers, ski hire and mountain buses are available to access the best snow trails.
On-site facilities include:
- Free wifi on site
- Garden views
- Air-conditioning and heating
- TV
- Free private parking available
- Outdoor dining and BBQ facilities
- 24-hour staff on site
- Complete kitchen with fridge, kettle, toaster and microwave
- Continental breakfast can be ordered onsite
- Ski storage space
3. Farm Accommodation with Alpacas / Deer
1. Gracefield Estate – Neerim South, Victoria
- 1.5 hours east from Melbourne CBD
- Great for families
Set within 100 acres of beautiful countryside within the Gippsland region and grazing farm animals including deer, Gracefield Estate offers an escape to a beautiful mountain retreat, less than an hour’s drive to Mt. Baw Baw.
It is also just a 5-minute drive from the local township of Neerim South and 30 minutes from Warragul.
With a cosy fireplace inside and an outdoor spa and sauna nearby, this is a perfect place to detach, let your hair down and immerse yourself in the charm of true Australian country. There’s also lots to do for families seeking an outdoorsy weekend away.
If you love adventure or want to try something new, there are a variety of activities you can enjoy in the local area. Some of the most popular include horse riding, bushwalking within Neerim State Forest or to Toorongo Falls, and exploring the local wineries.
On-site facilities include:
- A 2-bedroom cottage or the 3-bedroom luxury farmhouse. A selection of different rooms and villas are available with a combination of single and double beds
- Free private parking available
- Garden and lake view
- Outdoor dining and BBQ facilities
- Complete kitchen with fridge, kettle, toaster and microwave
- Spa / hot tub facilities and sauna
- Fireplace
- Air conditioning and heating
- TV
- Wired internet is available
- Laundry
- Board games/puzzles
View this post on Instagram
2. Valley Farm Vineyard Villas – Healesville, Victoria
- 1.5 hours north-east from Melbourne CBD
- Great for solo travellers, couples, friends and adventurous souls
If you’re a “foodie”, “winie”, animal lover or someone who simply loves adventures outdoors, Valley Farm Vineyard Villas could provide the perfect farm stay in Victoria with animals.
Valley Farm is located in a quiet, secluded valley just minutes from the Yarra Valley’s best restaurants, wineries and cellar doors. If you’re craving a carb overload as part of your stay, the hosts can definitely recommend some great pizza and tapas places nearby.
There is also an abundant number of bush walks and animals on site including alpacas, kangaroos, wombats and birdlife.
You have a choice to stay in one of their 1,2 or 3 bedroom villas, however do keep in mind that a 2-night minimum stay applies and there is no internet available at the property.
Therefore, this farm stay accommodation is best for people wanting a weekend away from it all – including their phones and tech devices.
Some of the nearby activities that you can enjoy include bike tours, horse riding, cycling, hiking, fishing and golf.
On-site facilities include:
- 1-2 bedroom villas
- On-site Bar / Winery
- Free private parking available
- Garden and lake view
- Outdoor dining and BBQ facilities
- Complete kitchen with fridge, kettle, toaster and microwave
- Wood heater / Coonara (within the 2 & 3 bedroom villas only)
- Air conditioning and heating
- TV
4. Farm Accommodation with Cows / Sheep
1. The Rocks Studio – Pyalong, Victoria
- 1-1.5 hours north from Melbourne CBD
- Great for solo travellers, couples, photographers and artists
The Rocks Studio is the perfect country escape from the city grind.
The studio is completely off-grid and perched high amongst giant, granite boulders on a one hundred acre, working sheep property. Lots and lots of sheep!
You will experience spectacular landscape views from this property across the Great Dividing Range. And, once the sun goes down, you can witness an incredible star-lit sky, far away from any intrusive city lights.
On-site facilities include:
- 1 bedroom studio
- Fireplace
- Complete kitchen with fridge, kettle, toaster and microwave
- TV
- Outdoor dining and BBQ facilities
- Terrace Garden
- Portable fans and heating
- Free wi-fi
- Free private parking available
- Breakfast is provided
- Farm views
2. Fellcroft Farmstay – Macedon Ranges, Victoria
- 1 hour north of Melbourne CBD
- Great for solo travellers, couples and friends
Fellcroft farmstay is a working farm located in rural Victoria.
The Crozier family who own the farmstay have been farming in the Macedon Ranges region since 1862, over 6 generations. They also have a selection of sheep, cows and dogs roaming around on the property.
This stunning farmhouse stay provides a great country escape with unique, purpose built and exclusive bed and breakfasts that are suited for couples or friends who want to enjoy the serenity of country life.
Complimentary local wine and cheese is provided on arrival as well as a breakfast hamper containing juice, cereal and home grown produce including Fellcroft eggs, honey and homemade jam. Bacon, bread, milk, tea and coffee is also provided.
Yum! What an incredible way to start the day.
If you do want to venture off the property, the nearest town is around 8km away and contains a number of cafes, restaurants and shops to enjoy.
On-site facilities include:
- 1 bedroom
- TV with Netflix and bluetooth sound system
- Free wi-fi
- 2-person spa bath
- Outdoor fire pit
- Free private parking available
- Mountain and valley views
- Outdoor balcony and dining facilities
- Laundry
- Board games/books
- Air conditioning and heating
- Complete kitchen with fridge, kettle, toaster and microwave
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
5. Farm Accommodation with Horses
1. ‘Koolkuna’: A place of safety Horse rescue property – Harkaway, Victoria
- 1 hour south-east from Melbourne CBD
- Great for horse lovers, couples and families
This stunning horse rescue property is nestled on 35 acres of farmland and bush overlooking the Yarra Valley and offers visitors a significant dose of peace, tranquillity and serenity.
This stunning farm stay in Victoria with animals contains 15 friendly horses, 3 dogs, 4 cats, 3 roosters & 8 chickens.
And if you’re a horse rider with your own horse, you can bring it along too. They have an arena on site that you can use as well as a number of equestrian trails around the property and through the bush that you can explore at leisure.
On-site facilities include:
- 1-2 bedrooms within the host’s home
- Complete kitchen with fridge, kettle, toaster and microwave
- Bathtub
- Indoor fireplace
- Air conditioning and heating
- TV
- Free wi-fi
- Free private parking available
- Outdoor dining and BBQ facilities
2. Heartland Suite at South Serenity Arabians – Forbes, Victoria
- 1+ hours north of Melbourne CBD
- Great for horse lovers and couples
The Heartland suite at South Serenity Arabians is a tastefully decorated, peaceful and private escape for two in a garden setting on an operational horse farm.
The suite is located on the far side of the main homestead, however is kept completely separate and private. On the farm, you can wander the paddocks, tour the barn and meet their stunning Arabian horses.
(Honestly, one of my favourite horse breeds. I actually used to own an Arabian X horse myself).
They also have provisions for you to bring your own horse too which is pretty awesome!
The homestead is just a short 2km from the main township of Kilmore, and if you’d like to organise some day trips, there are many locations nearby that you can drive to including Bendigo, the Macedon Ranges, the Yarra Valley and Shepparton.
On-site facilities include:
- 1 bedroom suite
- Free private parking available
- EV charger for electric vehicles
- Laundry facilities
- TV
- Fireplace
- Air conditioning and heating
- Free wi-fi
- Complete kitchen with fridge, kettle, toaster and microwave
- Views of the valley
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In Summary:
5 Best Farm Accommodation with Animals to Stay in Victoria
Whether you’re looking for a complete country escape away from the hustle and bustle of the city or your busy work week, you are truly spoilt for choice when it comes to incredible farm stay accommodation in Victoria with animals.
There are stunning farm stays in the high country or near some of Victoria’s most iconic country destinations including:
- The Macedon Ranges
- The Yarra Valley
- Daylesford
- Bright
- The Gippsland Region
- And even down near the great ocean road
No matter where you go, booking \a couple of nights away in the country is sure to help you relax, let your hair down and ground you back down to earth.
As always, happy travelling!
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