Warrnambool Retreat, ‘Henna’ c. 1939
Sleeps 4 | Bedrooms 2 | Bathrooms 1
If you love bold Art Deco and Moderne architecture - along with luxurious, thoughtfully-curated accommodation - ‘Henna’ at Warrnambool Retreat, in the heart of Warrnambool along the iconic Great Ocean Road, is for you. Built c. 1939, and set in an historic street lined with old Norfolk pine trees, the home - along with adjoining sister property ‘Merri’ - have been carefully restored by owner & host Alison and her family. ‘Henna’ oozes Art Deco charm, with its handsome double-brick facade, circular windows including in the original front door, brick open fireplace, glass bricks, hardwood floors, high ceilings, and detailed cornice.
There are two bedrooms, the main with comfortable king bed fitted with pure linen sheets, and deep, two person freestanding bath under the window. Bath salts, bubble bath, candles and linen bathrobes are provided for an indulgent, retreat-like experience…quiet your mind with a glass of wine by candlelight, watching the pine trees swaying in the wind. Behind a barn door, there’s also a gorgeous ensuite bathroom with terrazzo tiles, huge walk-in shower with twin shower heads, and sustainable, plant-based Zero Co body products. The second bedroom has a queen bed, also with soft linen bedding for a dreamy night’s sleep, and its own dedicated bathroom just down the hall.
The main living area was opened up to create a light-filled, spacious living, dining & kitchen space. Unwind in the lounge on the luxe green velvet sofa & two armchairs in front of the open fireplace. Paying homage to Henna’s vintage feel is a fabulous mid-century record player, with a great selection of vinyls to choose from. Make yourself a cheese platter, pour yourself a glass of wine, light the fire and pop on a record. Or if you’d prefer your own tunes, there’s a Bluetooth system and complimentary Wi-Fi. And with double-glazed windows, and ducted heating & cooling throughout, you’ll be comfortable in all seasons.
A fully self-contained kitchen has all the cookware you need to prepare your own meals, along with pantry staples. Also included as part of your stay is a bottle of wine, local Port Fairy sticky chai - and during winter, a delicious mulled wine mix for you to enjoy. There’s also a range of teas, coffee pods, plunger coffee, biscuits & milk provided. A European laundry makes longer stays easy, so you can take time to explore Victoria’s Surf Coast.
Outside, you’ll find a small private courtyard, with outdoor setting, hanging egg chair, festoon lights and potted plants, making this an inviting, peaceful space to relax with a book, or glass of wine while watching the sun set through the pines.
At Henna, start the day slow with lazy mornings curled up in soft linen sheets with a mug of tea or coffee, cooking your favourite breakfast, lighting the fire, and playing a board game while watching the world go by. Venture out for a therapeutic dip in mineral springs, or brisk coastal walk followed by a long hot bath. The perfect choice of accommodation for both reconnection and relaxation.
Special Features
Freestanding Bath
Private Courtyard
Open Fireplace
Wi-Fi
Things To Do
Warrnambool is the largest town on Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road. It’s a 3 hour drive from Melbourne, or choose to take the train - Warrnambool Retreat is an easy stroll from the train station. For great coffee & brunch, it’s a short walk to Bohemia Cafe & Bar. Come evening, visit Frolic Lane for classic cocktails & local charcuterie housed in a grand heritage-listed building, or head to The Dart & Marlin for stone-baked pizza and wine. Relax in natural mineral pools at the Deep Blue Hot Springs, a short distance from Warrnambool Retreat, as is the scenic Thunder Point walking track that leads you to Shelly Beach. Hunt for vintage & antique gems at Fletcher Jones Market, and stop in for a craft beer & lunch at Noodledoof Brewing and Distilling Co in the quaint historic township of Koroit.
