Each of our four architecturally designed cottages and two retreats are self catering, spacious and have large floor to ceiling windows that showcase the surrounding gardens and rainforest.
Cheryl's interior design reflects a stylish country theme décor.

Garden surrounds

A harmonious natural forest setting sets the mood for the Monreale experience. A special haven with cascading waterfalls, ponds filled with rainbow trout, creeks, bridges, tree fern grottos, all create a natural screen effect that ensures guests enjoy their privacy while being able to enjoy the natural environment at their door. As the sun sets you begin to hear a chorus of bird calls.

Ambiance

Relax in a luxury spa bath filled with warm spring water from Monreale's natural spring.
Feel the rich fluffy bath robes, luxuriant thick towels, comfortable slippers, glowing warmth of the fire crackling in the background, cosy sofa to snuggle up on, the king bed with crisp damask linen or enjoy the balcony view with a glass of quality wine produced in our neighboring premier wine region "The Yarra Valley".

Intro to Monreale

As we drive to our eagerly awaited weekend getaway located in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges our anticipation and excitement builds as we discover that The Crescent in Sassafras is one of the most striking streetscapes in the hills.

The many beautiful manicured gardens with ornate driveways suggest majestic homes and gardens all around us. Suddenly, the scenery changes, the made road narrows and we are surrounded by tree ferns in a rain forest setting that unfurls the mystique of the Dandenong Rangers.

We are elated when we see the welcoming Monreale Estate sign that directs us to the three acres of gardens.

On alighting from our car we are overwhelmed by the manicured jungle all around us.

"Wow" secret paths covered in moss, antique bridges, aged timber walkways, creeks and tree ferns compel us to explore this very special place. At reception, Cheryl welcomed us with her warm smile and encouraged us to ask for anything that we may need to make our stay more enjoyable.

Cheryl and Karl, our resident hosts, proudly explained that their property began as a renowned guesthouse some ninety years ago. Karl informed us about the many local attractions available in the area such as Puffing Billy, William Ricketts Sanctuary and the many quaint villages that are only a short distance away.

It is about now that we start to leave all our stresses behind, as we experience the calm, serenity and seclusion this romantic hideaway offers.

We can't wait to explore more of the gardens. Feeding the chooks and trout will all have to wait until the morning. Truly magical, we surrender to the amenity and features of our self-contained cottage.

Everything has been thought of: luxury spa, wood fire, comfortable inviting sofas and large picture windows.

As the mist settles in the valley and the firelight begins to flicker, our first evening is made perfect when our sumptuous dinner hamper is delivered to our front door.

We can't believe there is still the luxury of a weekend ahead.