Entire home
Riversdale Retreat - country escape
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Reviews
9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 3
Popular amenities
Explore the area

Chewton, VIC
- Place, Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park15 min walk
- Place, Chewton H86 Bushland Reserve3 min drive
- Place, Bendigo Art Gallery42 min drive
- Airport, Bendigo, VIC (BXG)50 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 3)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 2
1 Twin Bed
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Spaces
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Riversdale Retreat - country escape
Surrounded by native crown bush land and set in a re-vegetated bush garden, Riversdale Retreat is an uncompromising country escape designed by award winners
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.
In winter the wood fire heater efficiently heats entire house. Floating decks and indoor/outdoor day bed are the perfect way to catch and enjoy the winter sun.
Sleeps 2 or 3 adults with 1 queen size and 1 single bed.
The perfect private getaway for a couple!
Environmental Relationship and Location
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 bushfire and ESD principles, solar hot water, rainwater tank and is super insulated. In line with these principles the property does not have airconditioning.
Riversdale is located just outside of the popular town of Castlemaine, in the small town of Chewton - approximately an hour and a half 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.
STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF RIVERSDALE RETREAT
Note: Variances can be agreed on but only by arrangement with the owner in writing.
Deposit of 50% non refundable is required to secure the booking. Payment of the rental deposit constitutes the clients acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.
Balance of the rental amount must be received a full 14 days prior to occupancy. If not the owner has the right to cancel the booking and attempt to re let it.
Cancellation if caused by the guest, money paid is not refundable unless the house is re-let for the entire period. If a refund is made due to the property being relet then HomeAway fees and a $50 cancellation fee will apply.
The owners will make every effort to ensure the property is available as booked. However the owners reserve the right to make alterations to bookings due to unforeseen circumstances.
To maintain a good standard for our guests we require certain conditions to be complied with. We appreciate most will respect our property but the occasional abuse requires that we state the following conditions.
Number of Guests should not exceed the number stated on the Confirmation Notice or subsequently agreed in writing or email. Fees will apply for excess guests not agreed with the owners in advance.
Parties and Functions are strictly prohibited. The price charged is for domestic use only and not commercial. Accordingly this rate does not allow for the extra wear associated with functions in terms of cleaning, garbage removal, wear and tear, repairs etc. Use contrary to this may result in loss of your bond and/or additional payments.
Damage, Breakages, Theft and Loss are the tenants responsibility during their stay.
In order to maintain a clean and comfortable environment we are a 'shoes off inside' property.
Departure - the property should be left in a similar state to its condition on arrival and all dishes are washed to avoid excess cleaning charge. Check-out time is 10:00 by the latest, to allow time to prepare property for next guests.
Consideration to our neighbours is required. Though the property is in a bush area excessive noise may disturb our neighbours.
Bond of $500 is payable at the same time as the balance amount. The bond will be refunded within 14 days in full subject to the above conditions being met. It is designed to cover any additional costs incurred including but not limited to, any breakage, damage or excess cleaning requirements, extra guests beyond those declared ..etc.
Linen will be supplied with the property.
Pets are not allowed unless specific arrangements have been made in writing with the owner.
No smoking is permitted in or within 10m of the house. During 'high fire risk season' there is to be no smoking on any part of the property.
Regarding the bath : heavily insulated, it only requires a maximum 20cm of water to enjoy as a facility. We ask our guests to use water in the house with consideration to a limited supply, at all times.
Loss - the owners take no responsibility for the tenant’s personal property.
Variations to these conditions may only be made by prior arrangements with the owner in writing.
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.
In winter the wood fire heater efficiently heats entire house. Floating decks and indoor/outdoor day bed are the perfect way to catch and enjoy the winter sun.
Sleeps 2 or 3 adults with 1 queen size and 1 single bed.
The perfect private getaway for a couple!
Environmental Relationship and Location
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 bushfire and ESD principles, solar hot water, rainwater tank and is super insulated. In line with these principles the property does not have airconditioning.
Riversdale is located just outside of the popular town of Castlemaine, in the small town of Chewton - approximately an hour and a half 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.
STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF RIVERSDALE RETREAT
Note: Variances can be agreed on but only by arrangement with the owner in writing.
Deposit of 50% non refundable is required to secure the booking. Payment of the rental deposit constitutes the clients acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.
Balance of the rental amount must be received a full 14 days prior to occupancy. If not the owner has the right to cancel the booking and attempt to re let it.
Cancellation if caused by the guest, money paid is not refundable unless the house is re-let for the entire period. If a refund is made due to the property being relet then HomeAway fees and a $50 cancellation fee will apply.
The owners will make every effort to ensure the property is available as booked. However the owners reserve the right to make alterations to bookings due to unforeseen circumstances.
To maintain a good standard for our guests we require certain conditions to be complied with. We appreciate most will respect our property but the occasional abuse requires that we state the following conditions.
Number of Guests should not exceed the number stated on the Confirmation Notice or subsequently agreed in writing or email. Fees will apply for excess guests not agreed with the owners in advance.
Parties and Functions are strictly prohibited. The price charged is for domestic use only and not commercial. Accordingly this rate does not allow for the extra wear associated with functions in terms of cleaning, garbage removal, wear and tear, repairs etc. Use contrary to this may result in loss of your bond and/or additional payments.
Damage, Breakages, Theft and Loss are the tenants responsibility during their stay.
In order to maintain a clean and comfortable environment we are a 'shoes off inside' property.
Departure - the property should be left in a similar state to its condition on arrival and all dishes are washed to avoid excess cleaning charge. Check-out time is 10:00 by the latest, to allow time to prepare property for next guests.
Consideration to our neighbours is required. Though the property is in a bush area excessive noise may disturb our neighbours.
Bond of $500 is payable at the same time as the balance amount. The bond will be refunded within 14 days in full subject to the above conditions being met. It is designed to cover any additional costs incurred including but not limited to, any breakage, damage or excess cleaning requirements, extra guests beyond those declared ..etc.
Linen will be supplied with the property.
Pets are not allowed unless specific arrangements have been made in writing with the owner.
No smoking is permitted in or within 10m of the house. During 'high fire risk season' there is to be no smoking on any part of the property.
Regarding the bath : heavily insulated, it only requires a maximum 20cm of water to enjoy as a facility. We ask our guests to use water in the house with consideration to a limited supply, at all times.
Loss - the owners take no responsibility for the tenant’s personal property.
Variations to these conditions may only be made by prior arrangements with the owner in writing.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
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House Rules
Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
Children
Adults only
Events
No events allowed
Pets
No pets allowed
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
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
About the neighborhood
Chewton
Chewton is home to this vacation home. Boomtown and Bress Winery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit Wesley Hill Market and The Mill Castlemaine. Buda Historic Home & Garden and Victorian Goldfields Railway - Castlemain Station are also worth visiting.

Chewton, VIC
What's nearby
- Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
- Chewton H86 Bushland Reserve - 3 min drive - 1.9 km
- Lake Daylesford - 41 min drive - 61.1 km
- Bendigo Art Gallery - 42 min drive - 48.3 km
- Bendigo Racecourse - 49 min drive - 55.5 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Love Shack Brewing - 5 min drive
- Five Flags Hotel - 10 min drive
- Shedshaker Taproom - 7 min drive
- Doveton Corner Store - 7 min drive
- Bridge Hotel Castlemaine - 7 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window9.6/10
Cleanliness
9.8/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
9.8/10
Location
9.8/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
Nov 9, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
10/10 Excellent
Alan M.
Aug 1, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Alan M.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Phil P.
May 18, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a relaxing stay
Phil P.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Rawle W.
Jun 15, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful hideaway
Rawle W.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
8/10 Good
Sara C.
Aug 11, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sara C.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
8/10 Good
mary b.
May 4, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
bush house
mary b.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023
8/10 Good
Barbara M.
Nov 12, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
art escape
Barbara M.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Samantha D.
Dec 12, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Tranquility
Samantha D.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Niesha H.
Nov 19, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Anniversary get away
Niesha H.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022
10/10 Excellent
Maryann S.
Oct 16, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing in a perfect country setting
Maryann S.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
10/10 Excellent
Simon B.
Oct 5, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy
Modern escape
Simon B.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
8/10 Good
Pattarawadee J.
Jul 30, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice and Peaceful
Pattarawadee J.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Cathryn M.
May 17, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Romantic bush block getaway
Cathryn M.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
10/10 Excellent
Chris J.
Mar 31, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Weekend Bliss
Chris J.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022
10/10 Excellent
John H.
Mar 20, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Japanese inspired design in the Australian bush
John H.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022
10/10 Excellent
Theodore C.
Feb 28, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful place to wind down
Theodore C.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022
10/10 Excellent
Elliott E.
Jul 14, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Country mini-retreat
Elliott E.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
Jane S.
Jul 12, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome get away
Jane S.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
David B.
Jul 4, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Regional Getaway
David B.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2021
8/10 Good
Josephine C.
Apr 15, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely location
Josephine C.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021
8/10 Good
Isabelle Z.
Mar 17, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely property
Isabelle Z.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021
10/10 Excellent
Rupesh K.
Jul 6, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect getaway
Rupesh K.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
10/10 Excellent
Richard J.
Jun 20, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Brilliant little getaway
Richard J.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
10/10 Excellent
Andy W.
Mar 10, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved it!
Andy W.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020
10/10 Excellent
Doug F.
Oct 8, 2019
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great property in a perfectly peaceful and scenic location. Short drive to Castlemaine. Fab.
Doug F.
About the host
Hosted by Sharon
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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