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Want an unfettered farmstay experience? Bluestone Ridge is the real deal, this 800-acre cattle farm is tucked away in Victoria's High Country and is the serene escape you're after.
The boutique, adults-only retreat is set in the heart of the King Valley and features two cabins, aptly named The Cow and The Goat, because that's what you'll see a lot of while you're there. They're in the home paddock, as you drive into the property and have stunning views straight out onto Mount Buffalo, Feathertop and Hotham where you can enjoy all the perks of farm life but without those early morning wake-ups.
Farmer Marty Schoner left the life of a property developer and tradie in Melbourne to head up the Whitfield and take over his parent’s farm. The cabins themselves are thoughftully designed, with gorgeous little touches like inclining beds and a stargazing window above, as well as a storage and a fully functioning kitchen. He'll even drop a loaf of fresh baked bread down for your breaky, you can't get much better than that.
Between the two cabins there's a communal building was formerly a camping hut used by his parents, but it’s had a little TLC since then and is now complete with a huge fireplace, bunk beds, a stack of games and a pour-your-own keg with King Valley Brewing’s best gear. Outside you'll also find an outdoor bath to continue your stargazing, or unwind when it's not too chilly.
If you’re keen for an insight into how the farm works Marty can whip you up and down the bluestone ridge (you know, the property’s namesake) and point out local landmarks and introduce you to his angus cattle, as well as his pet goats, sheep and alpacas. And before you ask, yes, the critters do stop for selfies.
The property also has 20km of walking and mountain biking trails, all through native bushland and across the property if you're the active sort, otherwise you can unwind on the cabins' expansive decks, have a barbie and enjoy a local drop or two from the King Valley.
Nearby you can find La Cantina, known for their authentic Italian reds, and of course your big makers like Pizzini and Dal Zotto, as well as the Mountain View Hotel for a hearty bite.
To book your escape from the city, head over here.
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