Bush retreat, wood fire, pizza oven & stunning dam

The perfect Summer getaway! On the edge of the extensive Muckleford forest, this cosy mudbrick cottage on a stunning 20-acre off-grid property offers an idyllic haven for a little getaway. With its beautiful dam and surrounding bushland, this property is a true sanctuary offering nature's delights of birds, wildlife and outdoor activities. Bake pizza, star gaze by the fire or challenge each other in a game of tennis. Get ready to connect, unwind and unplug. All just 12 min from Castlemaine... The space As you step inside the one-bedroom cottage, you'll find an open-plan living/kitchen with a wood heater. The warm textured walls, timber ceilings and leadlight windows add to the character of this cosy cottage. There is one bedroom which has a queen and double bed. Both beds have latex mattresses, quality doonas and linen, and a variety of pillows to choose from. The small but well-equipped kitchen includes a gas stove and oven, fridge, pots & pans, cutlery & crockery and coffee corner with a percolator and French press to meet caffeine requirements. There is no toaster and the electric grill cannot be used due to a basic off grid solar system. However, toast can be made on the bbq. We provide some basics, including: coffee, tea, milk, sugar, pepper, salt, and olive oil. The bathroom is small but super cosy and has everything you need. In keeping with our desire to offer a space that ensures guests can relax and unwind, we have refrained from installing a television and instead offer guests WIFI. Outside there is a paved verandah and an outdoor entertaining area with a gas BBQ, wok burner, wood-fired pizza oven, large picnic table, and lazy hammock. There is also a firepit at the dam to enjoy those cosy stargazing evenings whilst staying warm. Entertainment at Muckleford Forest Cottage comes in the form of books, games, a bush-style tennis and basketball court (equipment available). There is a kayak and rowing boat to paddle on the dam. Or go on adventures in the surrounding Muckleford forest with ample tracks for walking and mountain biking or check out the local historic gold mining history at the nearby Red White and Blue mine. It's a short 12-minute drive to fabulous Castlemaine which offers wonderful dining and shopping options and plenty of arts and entertainment events. From Farmers Markets to the chocolatier, bakeries and artisan delis, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to food and, if you’d like to get active, the options for walking and biking are endless. Guest access The 20-acre property is shared with the owners/host and their two boys (9 & 13) and elderly Kelpie dog. During your stay you will have exclusive, undisturbed access to the cottage, outdoor entertaining area, and dam and there is plenty of privacy between the cottage and the main house, separated by 50 meters, mature trees, and developed gardens. The dog is friendly but will be kept away from the guest areas. Other things to note The property is fully off-grid. Our solar system is basic and generally meets the needs of the cottage's power requirements, along with devices such as phone and laptop chargers. Appliances such as the iron and hair dryer can be provided on request and may require the use of the generator, which can easily be accommodated. Please refrain from bringing any electrical appliances eg toaster, kettle, heaters, electric blankets, etc as the solar system can not support those. We also can not provide electric vehicle charging. However, this is available in Castlemaine. We rely solely on rainwater and storage of water is limited; we request that guests be mindful of this and use water conservatively. We will provide sufficient firewood for the woodfire heater and the campfire as well as for the use of the pizza oven. The woodfire for the pizza oven is prepared by the host prior to your arrival and is ready to light. The natural bush setting of Muckleford Forest Cottage is home to a diversity of wildlife, such as birds, native animals and insects. Cockroaches and spiders live naturally in the bush and at times you may find them inside. Dogs are welcome and are subject to the following rules: - Maximum of 2 dogs - Dogs need to be house trained - Strictly no dogs allowed in bedroom - No dogs allowed on the furniture - Dogs can only be left unattended after prior arrangements with the host - A XL dog crate can be provided on request - Dogs need to be clean and dry before entering the cottage. (Dog towel provided) Cats are not allowed.