The Estate Trentham, 1902
Sleeps 6 | Bedrooms 3 | Bathrooms 2
History
For thousands of years, the Trentham area and adjoining districts were inhabited by the Dja Dja Wurrung People. Trentham is surrounded by expansive native forests, sitting high atop the Great Dividing Range. A special part of Australia, the Dja Dja Wurrung People continue to have an ongoing cultural and spiritual connection to this land.
The township itself was first settled during the gold rush of the early 1850s, but it was timber from the nearby forests that shaped the town’s development, along with farming - especially potato growing. By the late 1860s, Trentham had a thriving business community, with hotels, court house, brewery, churches and stores, followed by the first train line opening in 1880.
The Estate Trentham is an original c. 1902 Federation home set amongst beautiful gardens in the heart of town. It’s likely that the original owners were potato farmers, as evidenced by the original separate potato picking shed just next to the main house.
Lynda Gardener, one of Australia’s most celebrated interior designers, came across the property when it was in need of rescuing. Immediately seeing its potential and captivated by its country surrounds, Lynda set to work renovating the the cottage and its outbuildings, weaving her magic to create a magical country escape with her acclaimed style that’s loved by many, both here and around the world.
Accommodation
The Estate Trentham’s romantic cottage accommodation is surrounded by rambling cottage gardens that are also yours to enjoy during your stay. The main house features two spacious bedrooms, and the original potato pickers shed, just a few steps from the main house has been artfully converted into the third bedroom, overlooking the herb gardens and mini orchard.
Each room is layered with one off collections, textiles, art, old and new hand selected pieces. Inspired by Scandinavian interiors, there’s a light and airy feel throughout, with high ceilings, crisp white walls, and dark floorboards. Each room is uniquely beautiful and elegantly furnished without clutter, with natural wood furniture, a mix of old and new curated collections from European flea markets, and local country finds. Beds are layered with bespoke, luxurious linens and natural fabrics with earthy, neutral tones.
Bathrooms have been designed for romance and pure relaxation. The property’s main bathroom features a luxurious bath spacious enough for two, with a bespoke custom-made concrete fireplace and complimentary bathing products by local Melbourne company Salus. The third bedroom has its own private bathroom with original clawfoot bath and garden views.
The kitchen features concrete bench tops, a nectar oven, poured concrete floors, and houses a large personal collection of vintage crockery, wooden utensils and chopping boards, all to be used and enjoyed. Unwind in the light-filled living area, with wall-to-wall sofas to curl up on in front of the wood fire. And in the warmer months, throw open the French doors to the north-facing summer garden and vine-covered verandah, with 10 seat table for sunset drinks and al fresco dining.
Outside is equally as inviting! A small harvest garden provides something delicious to use while cooking in every season - pick herbs, salad leaves, vegetables, and fruit from the mini orchard, including pears, apples & quinces. Local gardener Tim Pilgrim tends to the garden weekly, ensuring fresh produce year round. Surrounding the vegetable patch is a Mediterranean garden, as well as strawberries, blackberries and raspberries to enjoy during summertime. The garden also has many shady nooks to rest, read and relax.
Special Features
Romantic
Fully Equipped Kitchen
Cottage Gardens
Vintage Decor
Things To Do
In Victoria’s Macedon Ranges, nestled between Daylesford and Woodend, Trentham is a picturesque township with heritage main street lined with attractive 19th century buildings. Take a slow stroll and discover boutique shops, one of Victoria’s best regional cafes, Trentham General, and Red Beard Bakery which bake unmissable handmade sourdough, pastries and pies in the original wood-fired Scotch oven. Annie Smithers’ hatted restaurant Du Fermier will need to be booked in advance.
It’s just a short drive to Spa Country in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, where you can further relax with spa treatments and hot springs bathing. A visit to Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm just outside Daylesford, with its rows of French lavender, will transport you to Provnce. And if you’re keen bushwalker, Trentham is on the edge of Wombat State Forest, with many picturesque trails to choose from.
All images by Marnie Hawson
