Ask my dog if he had wonderful stay at Kar-Din-Yaa Cottage and you’ll get a resounding woof of approval. As for the humans, this was a most welcome weekend retreat. So close to Melbourne, yet so far. The property was on the edge of suburbia, but a few turns and a short drive down a gravel road revealed a little garden oasis and a charming cedar cottage imbued with a bohemian spirit and adorned with Balinese-style décor. Just being in amongst such tall trees was good for the soul. Whether it was sitting on the comfy couch reading a book, soaking in the humble ’70s tub with flicking candles creating moody shadows on the wall or having a glass of wine and canapes in the yard, the place was conducive with relaxation.
If you have children, there are boardgames and lovely open spaces in which to play. The dog had to be on lead outside, but he didn’t mind. He took him a good 15 minutes to walk around the property because there were many smells to investigate. We also explored the area, with the highlight being the discovery of the dog-friendly Mathias Track, which took us past RJ Hamer Arboretum, resplendent with exotic trees, and through native bushland. It was the short break we both needed, with our much-loved canine by our side, and the comfortable bed ensured we both slept well.