The Botanist's Retreat-Large 3 b/rm. Central Castlemaine.Near The Mill & Gardens

We look forward to welcoming you at The Botanist's Retreat (formerly named Harper's Cottage) Castlemaine! Ours is a renovated, period home, thoughtfully and colourfully styled to look beautiful and still be extremely comfortable, with all you need for a short or long stay.

Centrally located, you can walk to The Mill or Botanical Gardens in 5 minutes or to the town centre - with cafes, pubs, restaurants and entertainment - in 15 minutes. The bedrooms, a huge bathroom with soaking tub, shower and double sinks, large lounge, kitchen and dining, with an office area, separate laundry and outdoor deck. Central heating and air conditioning make this ideal for all seasons.

Ideal for three couples, a girl’s weekend or a family - we've hosted many of both kinds of guests and all have loved it. The home has off street, under cover parking and a fenced yard, with a lovely garden that we've been adding too to make it even more lovely.

It is on a main (60km/hr) road so there is some road noise during the day, but it's quiet overnight. The outdoor deck and BBQ area is under cover and at the rear of the property, so is a great spot for relaxing with a coffee or wine, or enjoying a meal from inside or the (provided) BBQ.

Some recent 5 star guest reviews from the other accomodation platform (where I'm a Superhost) - over 85 five star reviews!


Shande - April 2025 - Five stars

Charming house with everything we needed and close to town. Thanks would book again!

Josie - Feb 2025 - Five stars

Beautiful comfortable relaxing home in a great location. Awesome host, would stay again. Highly recommended.

Shivonne - January 2025 - Five stars

Our stay was wonderful!! Kimberly and co were amazing to deal with from the very beginning. Everything you can possibly need or want is already thought of prior to your arrival inclusive of special treats and essentials. The house is beautifully presented, clean, tidy and smells divine. I would most definitely stay again in future.

Kerry - August 2024 - Five stars

Our family had a great time. The house was furnished comfortably, well-suiting three couples & a 1yr old. We were close to a range of activities & it was a short & easy drive to towns such as Maldon & Chewton. There were lovely touches including a stocked pantry & coffee maker, bathroom toiletries, a record turntable & quality linen.
The outdoor area & recently planted front garden added to the experience.
We ran a masterchef competition each night so the range of kitchen appliances, utensils & servingware made our efforts very presentable.
We happily recommend staying here.

Karyn - July 2024- Five Stars

Harpers cottage was outstanding. Couldnt have asked for a better stay. The decor was lovely and all the extra small touches were appreciated. Great location in Castlemaine. Very cosy little cottage. Would 10/10 recommend.

Marisa - July 2024 - Five stars

It is the most lovely cottage in a perfect location - easy walk into town. We had absolutely everything we needed, the heating was so effective - it wasn’t needed overnight (with average min. temps <3degs!) Kimberley is a delightful host - extremely responsive & friendly. Could not recommend staying at Harper Cottage more. We had an absolutely lovely weekend.