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Cosy Country Retreat in Daylesford with wood fire and hot outdoor bath

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Zahalka House- for travellers seeking a stylish and unforgettable escape
Exterior detail
Room
Zahalka House- the perfect country retreat for lovers, friends and family!
Discover solace and rejuvenate in comfort

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • Balcony
    A rare find - enjoy views from the balcony.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Lake Daylesford
3 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub on site
  • Onsite parking available
  • Cat-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Daylesford, VIC
  • Place, Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Place, Lake Daylesford
    ‪14 min walk‬
  • Place, Convent Gallery
    ‪14 min walk‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

The Blue Room

1 King Bed

The Green Room

1 King Bed

The White Room

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Ensuite Bathroom

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

Main Bathroom

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

Powder rooom

Soap · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Cosy Country Retreat in Daylesford with wood fire and hot outdoor bath

Escape to Zahalka House, a tranquil boutique home in Daylesford. Sunlit rooms, a hot outdoor bath, wood fire and a chef-ready kitchen with coffee, tea, and fresh herbs in the garden make every stay special. Ideal for couples, friends, or families seeking a private, curated country retreat where comfort, style, and peace come together.


Zahalka House is a unique and idyllic retreat set amongst gorgeous fruit and native trees and a mediterranean inspired herb and flower garden. Nestled between Cornish Hill and babbling Smith's creek with uninterrupted views, you have found the most perfectly laid-back country home to unwind in for couples, girls' weekends, families, friends, international guests and your favourite pet.

Two bathrooms, powder room and 3 separate living spaces including a spacious cook's kitchen, the winter den with board games, leather sofa and toasty wood fire and a second lounge room with huge comfy leather club chairs, tv and stereo.

Each bedroom features original art and luxurious king beds layered with bespoke and handmade linens and textiles from Major-Minor, Manteau Noir and brocante market finds.

All linen and towels, cooking essentials, teas and real coffee are provided while the spa bath, luxury Aurora Day Spa toiletries, bench top coffee machine, BBQ, vintage record player and wood fire will make your stay the perfect getaway.

Relax in the grand rooms with high Victorian ceilings, baltic timber floors and antique french glass and panelled doors. A central hallway separates the cosy bedrooms from the stylish living spaces where antique turkish rugs adorn the floors and lush leather sofas and armchairs are layered in handmade cushions and throws.

Our cooks' kitchen for those who love to entertain offers a mix of old world french and spanish cookware and modern utensils, coffee machine, french press and stove top espresso, good knives and our favourite cooking books. Cook up a memorable feast or enjoy an intimate breakfast at the grand dining table. Take some Eames cushions out and recline on the beautiful sun drenched north facing deck or draw a bath in the old claw foot and stargaze with a glass of local wine.

You're merely a short stroll to the Sunday Market, an extravagant food platter at nearby "CLIFFY'S" deli, a picnic in the the wombat gardens or a delicious french meal experience at Bistro Terroir. Swim in the lake, relax in a rejuvenating spa and indulge your inner aesthete with a walk to the Convent Gallery. You have found the most perfect holiday accommodation in Daylesford Victoria!

Some pets are permitted, please enquire for approval. $80 pet stay tariff
Special discount rate for solo travellers. $60/room for single bed set up

Add dates for prices

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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
Bond payable in advance
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: cats (limit 1 total)
By arrangement only, bond payable in advance
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Leave our home as you found it
Wash and put away your dishes
Take your sorted rubbish out to the bins or with you
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
BBQ to be cleaned fully if used, $200 cleaning fee otherwise. Please let us know if you use the BBQ so we can make sure gas is always topped up
Children must be supervised at all times in and out of the house. All breakages must be paid for.
Prior approval. Dogs only permitted in dining room, prohibited in any other part of house. Dogs must be on a lead at all times and waste cleaned up

Important information

You need to know

Property # 9028521
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Some water is reused through a grey water recycling system
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the area

Daylesford

Located in Daylesford, this holiday home is in a rural area. Central Springs Mineral Reserve and Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Hepburn Regional Park and Wombat Bushland Reserve. Daylesford Spa Country Railway and Portal 108 are also worth visiting. Kayaking and power boating offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and mountain biking nearby.
View more Holiday homes in DaylesfordOpens in a new window
Map
Daylesford, VIC

What's nearby

  • Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • Lake Daylesford - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Convent Gallery - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Daylesford Regional Visitor Information Centre - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Daylesford Sunday Market - 17 min walk - 1.5 km

Getting around

  • Daylesford Station - 3 min drive
  • Melbourne Airport (MEL) - 82 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Wombat Hill Cafe - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Daylesford Brewing Co. - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Daylesford Royal Hotel - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Daylesford Hotel - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Jasmine Thai - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Cosy Country Retreat in Daylesford with wood fire and hot outdoor bath pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats (limit 1 total).

How much does it cost to stay at Cosy Country Retreat in Daylesford with wood fire and hot outdoor bath?

As of 10 Jun, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Cosy Country Retreat in Daylesford with wood fire and hot outdoor bath on 7 Sept, 2026 start from S$509, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Cosy Country Retreat in Daylesford with wood fire and hot outdoor bath?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Cosy Country Retreat in Daylesford with wood fire and hot outdoor bath?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Cosy Country Retreat in Daylesford with wood fire and hot outdoor bath?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Cosy Country Retreat in Daylesford with wood fire and hot outdoor bath located?

Situated in a rural location, this holiday home is within 1 mile (2 km) of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens and Daylesford Spa Country Railway. Lake Daylesford and Convent Gallery are also within 2 miles (3 km). Daylesford Station is 21 minutes by foot.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 26 out of 29 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 29 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 29 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 29 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 29 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Victoria W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our stay here at Zahalka House. This is exactly the type of house you think of when you want to experience a cosy weekend getaway in Daylesford. Every room is so thoughtfully detailed out and we especially loved relaxing in the den area at night. Would highly recommend and we can’t wait to come back.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ash N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute little house with a lovely rambling garden only a couple mins from Daylesford town centre. Good spot to explore the surrounds from.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nadzieja P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Staying at Zahalka House was an absolutely wonderful experience.Waking up in the huge king bed in the white bedroom with the windows open to the sounds of the forest, and the early morning Magpies was something that will stay with me forever; I will definitely be coming back with the family.The garden is a wild and beautiful space - Rachael offered a late check out and I lost a few hours in the morning sun reading out on the deck over coffee and croissants.Rachael was so accommodating with my last minute booking. I really needed to get out of the city and appreciated her flexibility in hosting me. Thank you!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jo B.

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

Classic Daylesford weekend

My girlfriends and I had a wonderful stay at Zahalka House. All the amenities u expect were there (comfy bed, beautiful linen, cosy fireplace) also with some quirky and nostalgic touches. Would highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ewan P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I needed a getaway from the city at short notice this last weekend - I was fortunate to receive a recommendation from a colleague suggesting Daylesford so I took a stab in the dark and landed on Rachael’s place. I couldn’t have made a better decision. Almost the whole property was mine for the night with only the full moon and the wind in the trees for company. A truly beautiful spot with such original decor, super comfortable beds (I slept in two different rooms, one green, one blue, because, well why not?) and an absolute cracker of a kitchen. I had so much space! Rach recommended a cracking place for breakfast just up the road (Cliffy’s) as well. I departed on Monday morning a new man. I’ll be back for more if I can find the time! Oh..and the garden!!!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bronwyn M.

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

Eclectic Style

Certainly a lot to take in and look at! Very comfortable beds and rooms. A 3pm check in I thought a little late, perhaps a 2pm one would be a little better and have a 10am checkout. But would definitely recommend for a few couples or 3 singles wanting their own room.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Mar, 2020
We do aim wherever possible to give guests an early check in (often from 9-10am on) and late check out (12-2pm) We have found that guests much prefer to sleep in and relax and check out at midday than be rushed of a morning! So occasionally with changeovers between back to back guests and our three hour set up time we do have to stick to the 3pm check in, especially over school holidays and christmas time. We trust the later check out on a sunday serves most guests well and we hope next time Bronwyn we can accommodate your arrival a bit earlier! warm regards, your host at Zahalka, Rachael
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kathy S.

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

Wonderful

Beautiful house and garden. We were lucky enough to stay while the pretty blossoms were out on the trees surrounding the deck. The outlook from the inside to out was magical. It was a cold and wet weekend but we were warm and cosy in this amazing house. If you like charming, earthy, rustic and luxurious all rolled into one you’ll love this place. Some lovely touches included fresh flowers inside, heating and soft lighting on when we arrived.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sasha R.

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

Relaxing weekend away

Our stay at Zahalka House in Daylesford was lovely. Nestled beside Smith’s Creek and surrounded by a beautiful garden amd deck. The house was just as we expected from a country cottage and enjoyed the use of the fire and the deck overlooking the garden, which was a beautifully setting for our morning coffees. The location is easily accessible and only a short drive into town. Unfortunately our experience at Hepburn springs was cancelled less then and hour before our booking, however we were able to arrange madsages and facials at a day spa in town. We made the mostbof the cafes and restaurants in town and were not disappointed, Betel Boy getting our top votes.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christine W.

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

Home Away from Home

We stayed at Zahalka House for one month and it gave us a lovely home away from home. It was quiet and very comfortable with lots of artistic and literary stimulation. The location was excellent - rural and peaceful yet within walking distance of town and Wombat Hill. Communication with Rachael was quick and very helpful. Highly recommended!
Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Vicki and Peter Logan L.

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

Paradise in Daylesford

Zakhalka house an unexpected gem set in a rural setting with rambling gardens around it. The rooms are all comfortable, great beds So many Knick knacks , art and rugs add to the overall feel of home. We had a Christmas dinner for 7 and the dining area was perfect. The kitchen had everything we needed The outside deck was well used as the weather was really nice. Playing games in the cosy lounge at night . We loved it Thank you to our host for making this place so memorable Cheers
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicola R.

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

Beautiful retreat

Zahalka house was exactly what we wanted and needed and the photos on Stayz certainly did it justice. Once inside, you breathe in the calm, colour and space. Just wonderful for our much needed week away and amazing quality bedding, heating, bathrooms and kitchenware. I don't want to rave about it too much because I want it to be all mine!!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

AVALEE W.

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

A true escape

Lovely characterful house providing a great base for our stay in Daylesford. It’s a short drive or long walk to the main attractions - but that’s part of its appeal. You may not want to leave the house!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jul, 2021
Thanks Avalee, so good to hear you enjoyed your stay with us!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lara B.

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

Artistic abode with stunning garden setting

This house felt like the quintasential Daylesford experience. The house was gorgeous boho with an artistic vibe. The beds were gloriously comfortable and we could have sat in the garden for days drinking champagne and eating cheese! A wonderful break from city life.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen P.

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

Absolute perfection!

Everything about this property was absolute perfection. Every room and the outdoor deck were absolutely gorgeous! The beds were like sleeping on a cloud. It was eclectic and homely and so comfortable and clean. The food recommendations were also amazing! Will definitely be trying for annual return visits. Loved every minute of our stay xx
Verified

8/10 Good

Annalene D.

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

Absolutely fabulous. Quiet and close enough to the town and restaurants. Lovely weather 🌞 on Saturd

Very easy and clear instructions. Easy payment process. Clear communication all through.b
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Yvette S.

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

Soulful home

We had a very relaxing stay. The small details in the decor where delightful. Gorgeous home. We were warm and snug and had everything we needed. Thank you, Rachel.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pauline G.

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

Amazing House

Very cosy and comfortable. The beds were very comfortable and the bathrooms were modern and very stylish. Loved the bath tub.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Poppy G.

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

Zahalka vintage extraordinaire

Absolutely magnificent home full of personality and character. Bags of it actually The attention to detail and a nod to everything vintage makes you feel like a walk back in time. We took the opportunity to play board games, make puzzles and listen to the vinyl, all with a glass of wine at hand of course We look forward to returning again sooner rather than later. Highly recommended Regards Poppy
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marisa B.

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

Fantastic weekend away

Everything about this house is great. The decor, comfort, kitchen. Had everything we needed - plus more. Highly recommend it. Thank you Rachael. Had a great time.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019
Verified

8/10 Good

Paul S.

Beautiful home in a tranquil setting but still close to town

We loved our short stay at Zahalka house. The setting was so peaceful and the house was quirky and interesting and very comfortable. Lovely gardens, goats in the back yard and had a good yarn with the locals in the café down the road and just a short 15 min walk to the centre of Daylesford. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2019
Verified

8/10 Good

caroline s.

Lovely home, very cosy

House was cosy, garden was beautiful. Lovely quiet spot for a bit of R&R.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John R.

Excellent home near daylesford

very comfortable and welcoming house to stay im n. Good location too.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Terri D.

Great getaway

Absolutely fantastic!! Beautifully decorated cottage with everything you could possibly need at your fingertips. The beds were comfortable and warm and the house is spacious. Thanks Rachael we will definitely be back.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2018
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Leonie C.

Lovely retreat

We had the best four night stay at Zahalka Houe - we loved the decor, the house was lovely and warm even on the zero degree nights, the setting was lovely and the bed was so comfortable - thankyou to Rachel for making the arrangements easy and for leaving welcome gifts for us.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

RUSSELL A.

How's the serenity!

Peaceful, quiet, warm, homely! Still need to come up with the best name of the second living room at the back of the house...I say The Snug! And I still can't do the Rubik's cube...but thanks Rachael for providing the opportunity to try! Enjoy!

About the host

Hosted by rachael

Host profile image
Photographic stylist, musician and cat mum, I like to walk the cats, ski, and hang out with family and friends eating good food and listening to good music. I travel the world when I can... love lives here.....

Why they chose this property


My home is a cosy, stylish retreat, designed to feel considered and grounded. Overlooking Smith's Creek, Zahalka House is where we come to escape from the world, slow down, breath deeper and switch off. The whisper of the ancient pines and morning bird song make our home a special place to reset in a serene and private setting. We can walk to Wombat Botanic gardens or Cliffy's for breakfast and enjoy the Sunday market and train rides while remaining secluded and tucked away from the hustle of town.

What makes this property unique

Considered country-style home with tranquil views to Smiths Creek, with two beautiful north facing light filled lounge rooms and an expansive dining room, Zahalka House is an entertainers dream. The winter den has a fabulous wood fire to cosy in front of with a book from the library or a favourite board game with your family or friends. Luxurious linen on all king beds that can be split into 2 singles (tariff applies) making for flexible sleeping arrangements that can cater to a variety of group stays.
Plenty of outdoor seating on the north facing deck with a garden full of fruit and blossom trees.
Zahalka house offers the quintessential Daylesford getaway, blending countryside serenity with utmost comfort.
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