The Chudleigh Park Experience The first time I drove past the gate into Chudleigh Park, I had a feeling this place would be special. Different to other places I have stayed in. It made me think of Burnett's 'Secret Garden'. As my car rolled up to a stop, I met Shellie. She rose up and turned to look at me, waiting in welcome. At the end of a long drive from Melbourne, this was a beautiful personal touch. An age old greeting in person from the host. The first time I laid eyes on the cabin, I remembered thinking: "My gosh, this looks like something straight out of an American film. A literal cabin in the woods." As I made my way into my cabin, I noticed thoughtful details of comfort and rustic beauty. White wash walls, mahogany shades greeted wondering eyeballs. I happen to love all things wood, so this was like walking into my personal Narnia. To keep you fed, a food basket is provided for you. While this was not new to me, I expected the usual fare of supplies at minimum quality and prices. Imagine my surprise when a hamper basket of free range eggs, fresh milk in bottle, to-die-for organic chocolate and other high quality produce was delivered to my door. This was going above and beyond. This wasn't about business anymore, this was about the owners saying: "we genuinely care about you". They didn't need to say it, but I could hear it from their actions. I was moved. The crown jewel - at least to me - was the porch. I was all Speedy Gonzales with getting the kettle boiling and taking the tea cup to meet the porch. The quiet of the forest that greeted me was shocking at first. For the first time, I realised what a loud metropolitan Melbourne I've been living in. For the first time, I realised I hadn't actually found any truly quiet place. I loved it. As I sip my tea, dreamy gaze on sun-dappled leaves, I thought to myself: "quiet place, found". Elisa Yip Melbourne Australia

This place is just like stepping into a dream! Which is why I am over ecstatic that Shellie allowed me to hold my intimate fairytale wedding, on the picturesque grounds of Chudleigh park cottages. Shellie was extremely accommodating to our every need throughout the wedding and throughout our amazing stay. There were so many romantic, serene and magical spaces amongst the property, including the gorgeous self contained cottages. My husband and I enjoyed every second of our dream wedding and the moments thereafter- relaxing in the large spa, feeding the gorgeous birdlife, enjoying the amazing mountain views from our peaceful and private balcony and warming up around the peaceful firepit. The flora and fauna that surrounds you here is just breathtaking and this is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of life. To say this place is beautiful is an absolute understatement. I don't think photographs could even have the ability to justify the dream that you step into. Thankyou endlessly to you Shellie and your team for creating such an amazing and memorable time in our lives. The compliments on the fairytale nature of our wedding are constantly pouring in, we couldn't be happier with our choice to spend this extremely important day within your gardens. So much appreciation for you and this place. Thankyou!!! ❤

After an 8 month search for a venue for my 40th Birthday celebration I was delighted to discover Chudleigh Park Cottages. Wow! What a destination. Picturesque, expansive and totally unique. As a self catered venue with on site accommodation (three authentic log cabins nestled in to the side of a hill), Chudleigh ticked all the boxes. The cottages are charming, spacious and extremely comfortable and the views from the balconies breathtaking. The grounds showcase the natural splendour of the Dandenong ranges and feature a large rotunda with power and lighting and a massive fire pit to kept guests warm late in to the night. The property has a terraced multifaceted layout screened by towering Gums and other natives with heaps of space for guests to park and camp. The only thing surpassing the perfection of the venue was the warmth, generosity and endless patience of owner Shellie. Friendly, helpful and gracious; Shellie went above and beyond and I will forever be in her debt for her assistance in making the occasion so memorable. Whether a weekend retreat with your partner, a milestone birthday or a full scale wedding; Chudleigh Park Cottages will not disappoint!

You honestly will not find a better weekend getaway spot better than Chudleigh Cottages. The cottages are located in a quiet pocket of Sassafras amongst the tall trees, making you feel like you are alone in nature but just a short walk to the main street of Sassafras. The cottages themselves are clean, using all ethical products, and include everything you could possibly need for a weekend away. The cottages are stocked with towels, robes, blankets, amazingly comfortable bed, great heating and great quality soaps and shampoos. Perfect for cold nights. The North Lodge features a newly renovated bathroom with spa bath and spacious shower. The best thing above all about the getaway is the host. Shellie is amazing and will look after you so much. She takes the time to get to know you whilst also striking the perfect balance with giving you enough privacy to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. She will literally do anything for you to make sure you have the best stay possible. Can't wait for the next visit!!

Imagine a 5 Star hotel room and then squeeze it into a sweet little Chalet on a mountain. This is how it feels! Shellie and John have created a wonderful environment with almost everything that you can think of. Our food basket was beyond our expectations; heaps of local yummy items. The Chalet we stay in is nestled under a canopy of tall ferns looking out to the forest. The bird life is just magical, with king parrots eating from your hand. We even saw a mother deer and her baby eating the grass just outside our balcony, so beautiful! Make sure you use the relaxing spa too! We had just a short three-minute walk to the beautiful township of Sassafras. Our 10th Anniversary will never be forgotten. This was our second time at Chudleigh Park. We'll be returning again with friends next time for the retreat in September. Another tip, book direct its cheaper!!

We stayed in the North Lodge of Chudleigh Park Cottages. On arrival we were already impressed with the beautiful surroundings and how close the park is to town. We were only further delighted upon opening the door to our cottage, which was absolutely stunning and had a lovely courtesy package waiting. The hospitality from our host Shellie was very accomodating the whole 3 night trip. If you stay make you sure you feed the rosellas and kookaburras, they truly add to the beautiful experience of staying in the park. We started each morning having breakfast on the deck surrounded by the wildlife. Not every day you can feed a kookaburra by hand! Couldn't have asked for a better stay. Spending time in the cottage, in the surrounding bush lands, by the fire and and by their little waterfall was the perfect peaceful getaway. Thank you!

Myself and my partner stayed here over the Easter break, and it was exactly what we needed - peaceful, cosy, and with all the amenties we could wish for. Set amongst beautiful wooded surroundings with plenty of nature walks/hikes on your doorstep, and with rosellas, cockatoos, kookaburras and even a king parrot hanging out on the balcony, you really feel at peace. It's only a short walk to Sassafras village, but what with the abdundant hamper of local goods given to us on arrival, we hardly needed anything else for our stay. Our vegan needs were met very thoughtfully, thank you! Was lovely meeting Shelley - very helpful and we had a great chat. Would definately stay here again, cheers!
Trip type
Vacation
Travel group
Couple
Rooms: 5
Service: 5
Location: 5

The best stay we’ve had in Victoria. This place is perfect getaway for couples or a family. Shellie and John are amazing hosts who supply everything you could possibly need and are readily available for communication. The basket supplied upon arrival is a brilliant way to allow you to relax with all the essentials you would usually have at home, milk butter and even a dessert. The property is beautiful, we will miss waking up to the birds every morning. The room itself was extremely clean, along with all amenities. Location was perfect, you are able to access everything you need within a 20 minute drive and the range is unforgettable. Thank you so much for having us Shellie and John, we will be back!

My partner and I have come here multiple times & it never disappointing! First of all the hosts Shellie and John and extremely welcoming and up for a chat, they greeted us with a massive basket of local produce that was more than enough for us for 3 breakfasts, its extremely thoughtful. Topping that is the accommodation itself, amazing self contained one bedders with a kitchen, bathroom and huge spa bath. The surroundings absolutely make this place, only 45 mins out of the city and you feel like you're deep in the forest, heaps of wildlife, beautiful trees and endless tracks for hikes. We'll be coming back time and time again.

I stayed at Chudleigh Park Cottages with my partner and had the most amazing, relaxing experience of my life. The views and surrounding are picturesque, the little cottage was cozy, welcoming and luxurious and the food basket, this little basket of delights was full to the brim with natural and nutritious delectables; far beyond anything I had been expecting. Whilst we were staying at Chudleigh Park Cottages, my partner had a full body massage and treatment from the onsite therapist and told me that it was fabulous. I could not recommend this place more. We will return, hopefully soon. Thank you so much – it was perfect.

My partner and I recently stayed out Chudleigh Park Cottages and were so impressed with everything - our only regret is that we didn't plan to stay longer. The accommodation itself is generously large, with a large double shower, a huge hot tub, a small kitchen, a dining area and a lounge. Situated a convenient walk from the Sassafras main street, yet surrounded with views of dense forest from every vantage, this getaway offered the best of both worlds. We'll certainly be returning on our next visit to the area. Thanks!

Stayed here for three nights in July with my girlfriend. The perfect winter getaway with all the amenities you need to escape city life; it was a long time since we felt so relaxed. Cabin faces the national forest and walking trail, you couldn't wake up much closer to nature. Property was clean, comfortable and well thought out. Hosts John and Shellie very friendly and provided all that you could need (fantastic breakfast hamper). Highly recommend if you want a peaceful and refreshing break.

What a magical wonderland this was! It was a drizzly day and I came into this beautiful and immaculately clean room with the fireplace already on, candles lit, and an aroma of relaxation and happiness. I then spent the following sunny day on the walking track that starts right outside the door! Shellie kindly provided a generous basket of goodies and delightful conversation. Can't wait to come back.
Travel group
Solo
Rooms: 5
Service: 5
Location: 5

I recently stayed here with my girlfriend for a 40th. The place is just amazing, beautiful surroundings. We just loved it! Also the accomodation and the balcony's looking out to the forest were just magical. We are looking in to having our wedding here next year as it's perfect for us. I couldn't recommend it highly enough enough! Scott.

My girlfriend and I really enjoyed our stay at the cosy and warmed roomed cottages, We loved the surroundings and peaceful atmosphere. The food was amazing very happy to enjoy the complementary bottle of local port. Went down a treat! Shelley the host was very welcoming and helpful. Highly recommended. Will be back soon.

It was the perfect getaway. The hosts were so warm and welcoming and provided above and beyond all we could want. The cottages with their great facilities, beautiful views of the forest and kookaburras who let us pat them and king parrots eating off our hand were just stunning. Highly recommended.

This place is MAGICAL! The gardens, the wild life, the peace and positive vibrations are so healing. Best of all are the hosts, Shellie and John. They always leave a basket of goodies in the room on arrival, and are respondent to any needs I have. Absolute 11/10! Love it - go 1-2 every year.

We had a fabulous weekend at Chudleigh Park Cottages! Everything you need (and more!) has been thought of and supplied. It was such a cozy private spot to spend a wet weekend. Heaps of beautiful birds came to visit, including the three generations of Kookaburras in the photo. Pure magic!

Shellie and John were amazing hosts and we thoroughly enjoyed our three night stay at Chudleigh Park. The food basket was amazing! Even for a cold weekend the fireplace was delightful and we highly recommend it to anyone else wanting to escape the city for a break

One of my favourite Victorian getaways! Incredible service and wonderful location. Nature right at your doorstep!
Trip type
Vacation
Travel group
Couple
Rooms: 5
Service: 5
Location: 5

What a beautiful spot to get away to. Lovely private little cabin surrounded by trees, nature and birds. The hosts Shelly and John go above and beyond and the hamper provided was excellent. Definetely keen to go back

Awesome Place! Amazing hosts! Peaceful and beautiful little cottage up in the mountains. Perfect for a short grt-away. Complimentary basket was delicious. Loved it and will definitely come back

Chudleigh Park was a lovely spot for a weekend away - the spa and heater made it a cosy weekend in winter, and the hamper of local and handmade foods was delicious!

So cosy my friend! Like my Nans place, in the best way. Plus, free delicious breads and conserves to put a smile on your dial

Absolutely beautiful! Tranquil and peaceful, the cottages are gorgeous and the breakfast hamper was a lovely touch!

Great accommodation for a trip to the Dandenong Ranges. So cozy and nestled in a good chunk of nature.

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay. What a great place for a few nights.

Great little getaway. Highly recommend!

Living with nature beautiful relaxing