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Pet friendly rural escape for couples & families

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Welcome to Omaroo
Open Plan Living Dining
Solar Heated Swimming Pool
Queen Bed 1
Omaroo Cottage Fully Equipped Kitchen

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6645.8 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking available
  • Air conditioning
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Bonnie Doon, VIC
  • Maintongoon G49 Bushland Reserve
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Goulburn Valley High Country Rail Trail
    ‪23 min drive‬
  • Maintongoon G108 Bushland Reserve
    ‪39 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Twin Beds

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Pet friendly rural escape for couples & families

Omaroo, meaning "beautiful view," offers a tranquil getaway for families and couples. The cottage is situated on 5 acres with breathtaking views of Bonnie Doon's farming region and the Strathbogie Ranges. Located near Lake Eildon, the Great Victorian Rail Trail, it's a short drive to Mount Buller, and Mansfield's dining scene. Relax and soak in nature's beauty at this serene retreat.

Omaroo High Country Retreat certainly lives up to its Indigenous name meaning beautiful view. With 5 acres of rolling hillside pastures the property includes a farmhouse together with an adjacent fully self-contained Cottage.

The quintessentially Australian corrugated-iron cottage is luxuriously appointed and features two spacious bedrooms fitted with luxe Sheridan Linen. The large family lounge/dining area also contains a day bed that converts into two King Single beds - so there's ample space to sleep six in total. The full sized kitchen is generously appointed and equipped with everything you will need to cook a sumptuous meal - and there's a BBQ so you can also dine outside on the large verandah. During your stay enjoy the comforts of the generous amenities provided. From coffee and tea, basic cooking essentials, to luxe bathroom amenities, Omaroo Cottage will satisfy your yearning for indulgence. Add the convenience of free Wi-Fi, ample car parking, acres of farmland to explore, hills to climb and even space to park the boat, Omaroo High Country Retreat is the perfect location for your next high country adventure all year round. Pet Friendly.

Guests are free to roam all the outdoor areas of the property. There is an abundance of farm and native animals to discover - see if you can see the turtles in the dam or pat Sam the neighbours deer if he happens to be visiting. Walk up the hill at the rear of the property to enjoy a 360 degree view of the surrounding region - a magnificent spot to enjoy the majestic sunrise. Make sure you take the time to view the night sky, and see what constellations you can find.

Guests have exclusive use of the Cottage and are also able to access the external laundry and in-gound pool at the adjacent Farm House.

Keren and Jon, your consummate hosts, have a passion for hosting and entertaining guests.

Keren has enjoyed a long career in 5-Star Hotels and Tourism, whist Jon has been managing hallmark events around the world for over 35 years. Both understand hospitality and have an expert awareness of how to make holiday experiences special – you are in safe hands. Keren has a passion for luxury indulgence, so if you are planning a gourmet/luxury escape Keren will happily share her knowledge of the best local restaurants, cafes, wineries and producers to set your taste buds alive.

Having grown up in the bush, Jon loves the rural environment and is completely at home in the High Country. If outdoor activities are your passion Jon will gladly share his local knowledge and help guide you to the best spots to fulfill your yearning for adventure.

For those that prefer the unique peace and serenity of the High-Country alone, Keren and Jon will fully respect your privacy and you’ll be left to relax, unwind and enjoy the area in blissful seclusion.

Bonnie Doon, Mansfield and the surrounding High Country provide a host of experiences, outdoor adventures and amazing indulgences throughout the seasons.

The High Country area is home to Victoria's traditional mountain cattlemen, and is a favourite destination for horse riding, bush walking and cycling action from mountain bike challenges to meandering rail trails. Try your hand at one of the many adventure sports such as snow and water sport, rock climbing or white water rafting. Perhaps you fancy something more sedate, taste regional wines at family-run cellar doors, or visit a local brewery where you can pick up a good drop to take to the slopes or pack into the boat esky for a day on the lake.

Local areas to explore include:-
Bonnie Doon, Lake Eildon and Lake Nillahcootie, Mt Buller and Mt Sterling, Alexandra, Eildon, Strathbogie Ranges, Mansfield and the Delatite River Valley, Sheepyard Flat and the Howqua River Valley, Jamieson, Kevington and Woods Point.

Some of the favourite local attractions include:-
Craigs Hut featured in the film The Man from Snowy River, Mansfield Zoo, Delatite Winery, Peppin Ridge Estate, Jamieson Brewery, Social Bandit Brewing Company, Kevington Historic Hotel, Howqua Hills Historic Area, Mansfield Regional Produce Store, Mansfield Coffee Merchant, Howes Creek Farm, The Scarred Tree at the Mansfield Visitors Centre, sacred to the Taungurung people

Annual Events:-
Mansfield Farmers Market fourth Saturday each month
Mt Buller Beer Festival & High Country Cycle Challenge March
Picnic on the Park, Mirrimbah Park & Merrijig Rodeo over the March Labour Day Weekend
A Day on High organised by Mansfield Winemakers held on the Sunday of Anzac Day weekend in late April
Opening of the Mt Buller Ski Season in June
High Country Festival & Spring Arts in late October
Mansfield Picnic Races in November

Providing the perfect location for exploring Victoria’s High Country, Omaroo will delight skiers & Snowboarders in Winter, Water Sports & Outdoor Adventure enthusiasts in Summer, and serve up year-round indulgences for those simply wanting a relaxing country getaway within easy reach of Melbourne.

Nestled on the edge of the Strathbogie Ranges near Lake Eildon, Omaroo is a handy 2 hours drive from Melbourne, 3 kilometres from the township of Bonnie Doon, a short 15-minute drive from Mansfield and within 45 minutes of Mt Buller.

Depending on your place of departure and whether you are keen to do some exploring on the way up from Melbourne, there are four potential routes to take. Three roads lead to Yea - via the Hume Highway through Broadford and Strath Creek, from Whittlesea through Kinglake and Flowerdale, or from Lilydale through Yarra Glen – all roads then heads from Yea to Molesworth, through Yarck, Merton and onto Bonnie Doon. The fourth route, and arguably the most scenic, is via the Maroondah Highway from Healesville over the Black Spur to Alexandra then across to Yarck and onto Bonnie Boon. No matter which route you choose there’s plenty to discover and experience on your journey to the High Country.

There is also a direct bus service from Southern Cross Coach Terminal/Spencer St to Bonnie Doon/Mansfield/Mt Buller. Services depart twice daily, and operate every day. The journey takes approximately 3 hours from Southern Cross Station to Bonnie Doon. From Bonnie Doon there is a local Crown Cabs taxi service to escort you to Omaroo.

V-Line trains do run to Euroa, Seymour and Benalla several times per day however there are no linking public transport services from any station to Bonnie Doon or Mansfield so the only option is a 1-hour taxi from the either station to Omaroo.

For the adventure lovers The Great Victorian Rail Trail runs within 300 meters of Omaroo. The trail starts in Tallarook (near Seymour) and runs through Yea, past Omaroo onto Bonnie Doon before finishing in Mansfield.

Once you have arrived in the High Country your easiest way to explore the region is by car, bike or through one of the many local tourism operators.

The Bonnie Doon area is a horse riding mecca, we have plenty of paddock space and room to park your horse float. So why not message us about bringing your horse.

Thinking of visiting the area to go boating, we are just minutes from the Lake and have ample space to park your boat.

The Victorian High Country does experience weather extremes - cold in winter and hot and dry in Summer. Be rest assured Omaroo is well equipped with reverse cycle heating and cooling to keep you comfortable all year round.
Guests must sign a renter agreement and abide with all House Rules:

The maximum number of guests permitted is 6, excluding infants under 2 years old, If the number of guests exceeds the maximum limit, additional guests will be asked to leave, and Omaroo High Country Retreat will not be responsible for their relocation costs.
Parties and events are not allowed. Entertaining a small number of additional guests while staying at Omaroo can be permitted with prior arrangement with the hosts, however they must not stay overnight.
Check-in time is at 10:00 am, and check-out time is at 3:00 pm unless otherwise arranged with the Owner. An additional fee may apply outside of these hours.
Smoking is prohibited inside the property, and a penalty of $500 will be charged if smoking occurs. When smoking outside, cigarette butts must be disposed of properly - failure to do so may result in additional cleaning fees.
Guests are responsible for disposing of all rubbish in the designated bins on the property.
Quiet hours are from 11:00 pm to 8:00 am, and guests must not create excessive noise that may disturb neighbours.
Motorbikes, ATVs and boats are permitted on the property with prior approval from the Owner. Motorbikes and ATVs are not allowed to be ridden or driven on the property. Boats must be parked in a location that does not obstruct other vehicles. Guests are responsible for any damages caused using motorbikes, ATVs, boats, on the property.
Water on the property is rainwater, collected from the roof and stored in tanks, and guests must be mindful of their water usage. If you need to wash/rinse your boat/horse float/vehicle only the dam water is to be used, Taps using Dam water are clearly marked on property map in the compendium.
The Cottage has a septic sewage system, and guests must use only environmentally friendly toiletries and cleaning products and not flush any foreign objects down the toilet.
Prior to check-out guests are required to:
o Place all rubbish into the council bins– please separate recyclables properly.
o Wash and put away all dishes and cooking utensils.
o Remove all food from cupboards and fridge.
o Leave all dirty towels etc. in the bathroom
o Clean the BBQ.
o Leave

Property manager

Keren Southgate

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses solar energy, plus eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock

We should mention

A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property

About the neighborhood

Bonnie Doon

Located in Bonnie Doon, this cottage is in a rural area and on a lake. Mansfield Golf Club and Nillahcootie Estate are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Maintongoon G49 Bushland Reserve and Merton G104 Bushland Reserve. Traveling with kids? Consider Mansfield Racecourse and Mansfield Zoo. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Bonnie Doon, VIC

What's nearby

  • Maintongoon G49 Bushland Reserve - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
  • Tallangallook Bushland Reserve - 23 min drive - 15.5 km
  • Goulburn Valley High Country Rail Trail - 23 min drive - 29.5 km
  • Maintongoon G108 Bushland Reserve - 39 min drive - 23.3 km
  • Snobs Creek Freshwater Discovery Centre - 67 min drive - 44.8 km

Restaurants

  • ‪BONNIE DOON CENTRAL ROADHOUSE Licensed SuperMart/Newsagency/The Castle Ski Hire - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Bottlemart Express - Bonnie Doon Central - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Les Amis - Boulangerie & Brasserie - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Melz Eatery - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Bonnie Doon Hotel Motel Lakeland Resort Conference Centre - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Pet friendly rural escape for couples & families pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Pet friendly rural escape for couples & families?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Pet friendly rural escape for couples & families?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Pet friendly rural escape for couples & families located?

This family-friendly Bonnie Doon cottage is located on a lake, 0.9 mi (1.4 km) from Maintongoon G49 Bushland Reserve, and within 12 mi (20 km) of Merton G104 Bushland Reserve and Tallangallook Bushland Reserve. The Paps Natural Features and Scenic Reserve and Lake Eildon National Park are also within 12 mi (20 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 14 out of 14 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 14 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 14 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 14 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 14 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mark B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect snow weekend

What a beautiful weekend stay to have my young children experience the snow for the first time. Check in was simple, the accommodation was very comfortable and clean, and the surrounding flora and fauna topped off a great weekend away!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

prakash n.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent

Very peaceful stay
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sarah S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing

What an amazing place to stay. We were able to take our dog with us. Keren is a wonderful host that provides the right amount of service and privacy. Highly recommend. The bed was so comfy, clean with beautiful linen. Everything was spotless. Great kitchen and BBQ for meals. The pool was a great addition. Just sorry we hadn't booked for longer. Definitely will next time.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tanya S., Melbourne, Australia

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

How's the serenity!!

No, serious. This property is amazing and just so relaxing. The verandah is lovely and cool and just nice to sit back and enjoy the views. The cottage itself is gorgeous, so equipt with everything you need and very clean. The bonus was the pool. Our family and dog all loved our time at Omaroo and were quite sad our time had come to an end. Book it, you won't regret it. Keren and Jon are perfect hosts.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Elise C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful, peaceful cottage for the family and pet

We were well looked after by the owners who encouraged us to raid the kitchen garden, have a swim in the pool, and explore the surroundings. Both Keren and Jon were friendly and responsive to any questions. Our dog had plenty of space to roam, however we did keep her on a lead. There was a secure shaded space underneath the cubby house to keep her whilst we were out exploring the rail trail. The kitchen was well equipt and furnishings comfortable. We had a delightful Easter and would love to go back!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Joe T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property in relaxing location. Great weekend getaway.

Really enjoyable experience at Omaroo Country Retreat. Keren the host was easy to communicate with and answered all questions prior to arrival. The property is the perfect example of a country getaway with its beautiful surroundings.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Victoria H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Luxury short break

My family enjoyed exceptional hospitality in a newly renovated property with excellent amenities and stunning views. The pool was a stand out feature for us and the hosts made the stay extra special.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Hengvy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️stars cottage !!!!!

In short, money well spent and just special mentioned about the set up inside is absolutely delightful !!!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Susie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautifully relaxing country retreat!

A wonderfully appointed farmhouse cottage with all the amenities you need. I love to cook and I had access to everything I needed. Luxury bed linen and towels were fab, and additional trundle bed in the living area was great for extra guests. The swimming pool was a real highlight and where we spent a lot of our time. On rainy days there is a spacious cubby house for the kids to play and plenty of board games to keep the family occupied. The hosts are a warm friendly couple who are extremely responsive to all queries and are genuinely invested in you enjoying your stay. We would certainly recommend to others and hope to get back for another break soon.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Graham Smith

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent pool, great hosts

We had a great time at the property. The pool was even nicer than expected and the cottage was really well presented, clean and full of games etc. We even made friends with a little deer that sometimes roams the grounds outside. The hosts were very friendly but also allowed us the privacy and space to enjoy the holiday. Don't hesitate to book!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jess M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beyond expectation!

The place was well above our expectation! Highly recommoned this place! The host were lovely and very welcoming! Will sure to be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Anoop Idichandy A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Omaroo indeed.....

A much deserved break for the family post COVID and what a one at that! Keren is an amazing host and responds to any issue ASAP Spectacular views, great safe pool, lots of exploring by our four legged family member...five stars all the way!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Simon O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing location, beautiful property and fantastic hosts! Highly recommend for family breaks!

Arriving at the property it was clear we made a great decision. Beautiful location, wonderful property, amazing views and awesome hosts. Our whole stay Jon & Karen couldn’t do anything more to make sure our stay was perfect.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Helena N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great, spacious getaway

My husband and I and three dogs stayed at this property in September. As we needed to study/work, we were looking for something with good internet connection, and with 3 dogs we were looking for a spacious property so the dogs could run around. This cottage provided us with everything we needed. Upon arrival we were welcomed with some lovely refreshments - fresh milk and eggs in the fridge and home baked cookies. Keren showed us around and was very friendly, but also gave us enough privacy during the rest of our stay. The house is spacious and immaculate (has recently been renovated). Kitchen was more than complete, with everything you can wish for. Beds comfortable. Outside area with heater and freedom to explore the entire property and a good walk up the hill with our dogs. We enjoyed several picnics with our dogs in the paddock. 20 min drive to Mansfield, right next to the rail trail. Absolutely recommended!
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2020

About the host

Hosted by Keren Southgate

Host profile image
Keren and Jon are your consummate hosts, they have a passion for hosting and entertaining guests. Keren has enjoyed a long career in 5-Star Hotels and Tourism, whist Jon has been managing hallmark events around the world for over 35 years. Both understand hospitality and have an expert awareness of how to make holiday experiences special – you are in safe hands. Keren has a passion for luxury indulgence, so if you are planning a gourmet/luxury escape Keren will happily share her knowledge of the best local restaurants, cafes, wineries, and producers to set your taste buds alive. Having grown up in the bush, Jon loves the rural environment and is completely at home in the High Country. If outdoor activities are your passion Jon will gladly share his local knowledge and help guide you to the best spots to fulfil your yearning for adventure. For those that prefer the unique peace and serenity of the High-Country alone, Keren and Jon will fully respect your privacy and you’ll be left to relax, unwind, and enjoy the area in blissful seclusion.

Why they chose this property

Omaroo Retreat certainly lives up to its indigenous name meaning beautiful view. With 5 acres of rolling hillside pastures the property includes a farmhouse together with an adjacent fully self-contained Cottage.

The quintessentially Australian corrugated-iron cottage is luxuriously appointed and features two spacious bedrooms fitted with luxe Sheridan Linen. The large family lounge/dining area also contains a day bed that converts into twin King Single beds - so there's ample space to sleep six in total.

The full sized kitchen is generously stocked with everything you will need to cook a sumptuous meal - and there's a BBQ so you can also dine outside on the large verandah.
During your stay enjoy the comforts of the generous amenities provided. From coffee and tea, and basic cooking essentials, to luxe bathroom amenities, Omaroo Cottage will satisfy your yearning for indulgence.

Add the convenience of free Wi-Fi, ample car parking, acres of farmland to explore, hills to climb and even space to park the boat, Omaroo High Country Retreat is the perfect location for your next high country adventure all year round.

What makes this property unique

The Cottage @ Omaroo High Country Retreat is situated on five acres enjoying spectacular views of the Strathbogie Ranges & the High-Country farming region of Bonnie Doon. Set in the heart of Mansfield Shire it’s just minutes from Lake Eildon, the Great Victorian Rail Trail and within easy reach of Mount Buller. Head into Mansfield only 15 minutes away to enjoy the best of local produce at the many great restaurants and cafes, or simply relax to the sounds of the native birds & frogs serenading.Omaroo Retreat certainly lives up to its indigenous name meaning beautiful view. With 5 acres of rolling hillside pastures. The quintessentially Australian corrugated-iron cottage is luxuriously appointed and features two spacious bedrooms fitted with luxe Sheridan Linen. The large family lounge/dining area also contains a day bed that converts into twin King Single beds - so there's ample space to sleep six in total. Add the convenience of free Wi-Fi, ample car parking, acres of farmland to explore, hills to climb, solar heated saltwater in-ground pool and even space to park the boat, Omaroo High Country Retreat is the perfect location for your next high-country adventure all year round. You are free to roam all the outdoor areas of the property. There is an abundance of farm and native animals to discover - see if you can see the turtles in the dam or pat Sam the neighbour’s deer if she happens to be visiting. Walk up the hill at the rear of the property to enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding region - a magnificent spot to enjoy the majestic sunrise. Make sure you take the time to view the night sky and see what constellations you can find.

Languages:

English