Romancing the Rails

The Carriages is a unique and inspiring property nestled in lush greenery and birdcalls. Surrounded by nature yet only a short walk from the cafes’ of Emerald, The Carriages is ideally located.

From romantic beginnings as the artist studio of renowned sculptor Hanns Knor, and later the Emerald Gallery and Tea Rooms and famous Choo-Choos restaurant, this historic property has now been lovingly transformed into a premium short stay destination. Of generous proportions the emphasis is on elegance and immersive experience, and as such the property will exclusively host a maximum of 6 guests at any one stay.


The Carriages is a marriage of old and new. Woven into the architecture are three retired railway carriages (Melbourne’s Red-Rattlers). The carriages are around 100 years old and last travel the rails in 1986. Many of the original features, including the gorgeous brass light fittings and ornate pressed metal ceilings have been preserved. Naturally you can expect the best of modern creature comforts. Reverse cycle heating and cooling for convenience accompanies the ambiance of the wood fires. Quality carpet, curtains and furniture throughout will enhance your stay.

The Dandenong Ranges are renowned for great restaurants but eating in is a favoured option for many guests. The kitchen is appointed with two ovens, dishwasher, and large fridge so you may choose to shut the world out, snuggle up and stay in!

The lounge room has the persona of a grand station waiting room, with its polished floors, large open fire, ornate Victorian cornices, arched windows and ceiling to floor curtains.

History whispers from the walls, if the carriages could speak what secrets would they tell? The Von Trapp family singers (of Sound of Music fame) stayed at the property at the invitation of Hanns and his wife and author, Hilde Knorr. The Baroness Von Trapp was reported to be the ‘first outsider’ to be admitted into Hann’s studio. You can read about their love story in our coffee table reading: Journey with a Stranger, the love story of an artist and a writer’

Books have been written here, splendid works of art created, marriage proposals accepted, and countless memories made. The impressive Spirit of Progress lithograph, which hangs by the dining table was commissioned by the Victorian Railways in 1937 and once hung in Spencer Street Station.

The Carriages - Three Bedrooms / Two Bathrooms / & Quiet Carriage.

Carriage 248 T, the ‘quiet carriage

This is a place for guests to relax and chill . Fitted with a slow combustions stove, reverse cycle heating and cooling and easy access to the two-level deck, this is the ideal place to reconnect without competition from electronic distraction.

Carriage 448 M - Bed One

Couples booking with us will sleep in 448. The bedroom has a queen size bed and spacious ensuite with large walk-in shower and double vanity. A private passage leads guests from their bedroom to the rear of the carriage into the sitting room with its chesterfield couch, 75 inch T.V, and kitchenette.

Carriage 241 T - Bed Two and Three

Groups of 3 to 6 will have access to 241. This carriage has two queen sized bedrooms, separated by walk in robes and a common bathroom with toilet, double vanity, and shower. Each bedroom has its own entrance, reverse cycle heating and cooling and block-out curtains.

Couples Experience

Couples staying will have access to all rooms and areas except for carriage 241 and the adjunct passageway.

Internet- Spoiler Alert!

Free to air T.V is available but slow speed internet prevents us from offering Netflix and the like. We’ve explored every option!

It should go without saying but only those guests who have booked to stay at the property are permitted to be at the property. Should you require any assistance during your stay our property caretaker is (usually!) close handy and has most of the answers!

Local Attractions

There’s too much to mention! Here’s a couple of starting suggestions.

The Carriages is a couple of minutes’ drive from Emerald Lake park. If you love a walk in any season of the year, this park is for you. The Puffing Billy Visitor’s Centre for food and exhibitions is free and well worth a look.

The craft shops of Olinda, the Mount Dandenong Observatory and Sky High Restaurant are a pleasant 20 minutes drive. Thirty-five minutes drive and you’re in the Yarra Valley and some of Victoria’s finest wineries.