Autumn in Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges is a season of pure enchantment.
The landscape transforms into a stunning patchwork of crimson, gold, and amber, bringing the region to life with crisp mornings, golden afternoons, and the gentle warmth of twilight. It’s a time to pause, inhale the earthy aroma of fallen leaves, and sink into the comfort of a cosy retreat.
We’ve curated twelve exceptional properties that embody the spirit of autumn. Each one offers a perfect mix of comfort and charm, some with breathtaking garden views, allowing you to fully embrace the season’s beauty. Picture yourself curled up by a crackling fire with a glass of local wine, or stepping outside to admire canopies of russet and ochre. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a tranquil escape, these properties are the ideal place to relax and immerse yourself in autumn’s splendour.
Don’t let this magical time of year pass you by. Let the vibrant colours and peaceful landscapes captivate you, and create unforgettable memories this autumn at one of these extraordinary retreats.
Bally Blonde, Daylesford
10 5 3
Bally Blonde is a luxurious hillside retreat surrounded by stunning gardens, offering breathtaking views over Wombat State Forest and Lake Daylesford. This beautifully designed five-bedroom home is perfect for relaxation, with an elevated deck providing the ideal spot to soak in autumn’s vibrant colours, magnificent sunsets, and spectacular starry skies. Inside, the open-plan living area features a gourmet kitchen, stylish décor, and a cosy gas log fire, while the lower-level garden retreat invites you to unwind with books, games, and music. Step outside to a festoon-lit pergola draped in wisteria, where you can dine alfresco and immerse yourself in the rich autumn landscape.
What guests are saying about Bally Blonde:
Overall Rating 4.9/5
Absolutely perfect in every way: better than the images and description. Cosy, luxurious, spacious. Guests’ every need and comfort has been considered. Super comfortable beds, luxurious linens, excellent bathrooms. Lovely outdoor areas and views – drinks on the deck at sunset anyone? Huge and well-stocked kitchen, bar with all accoutrements and proper wine and drinks fridge. Made a perfect base for our daughter’s wedding weekend in Daylesford. 11/10
Gabriella – June 2024
Durham Cottage, Daylesford
6 3 2
Durham Cottage is a charming retreat in the heart of Daylesford, offering an unbeatable location and an enchanting woodland garden. Thoughtfully styled with designer upholstery, unique artefacts, and soft ambient lighting, the interior is both cosy and elegant. Relax by the gas log fire, dine in the beautifully furnished dining room, or step through French doors onto the back deck to take in the stunning autumn colours. Surrounded by birch trees, hydrangeas, and seasonal blooms, the garden is a peaceful oasis, perfect for unwinding after exploring the nearby restaurants, cafés, and boutique shops.
What guests are saying about Durham Cottage
Overall Rating 4.5/5
Durham Cottage was warm and inviting – enjoyed the rear garden too. Walking distance to most things… hope to be back some time.
Christine – January 2025
Illoura, Hepburn Springs
4 2 2
Featured in the Top 10 of Dayget guest-rated properties in 2025, Illoura is a tranquil retreat in Hepburn Springs, just a short stroll from the famous Hepburn Bathhouse. Perfect for two or four guests, this beautifully appointed home blends country charm with modern comforts, featuring a cosy open fire, a fully equipped kitchen, and serene views over Doctors Gully. The expansive garden, with multiple dining and seating areas, is particularly stunning in autumn, when crimson leaves create a picturesque escape.
What guests are saying about Illoura:
Overall Rating 4.9/5
We have lost count of how many visits we have had… we love the restorative calm, connection and adventure our family finds at Illoura. Thank you.
Carla – November 2024
Kings Cottage, Daylesford
4 2 2
King’s Cottage offers the perfect blend of luxury and location, set just across from Lake Daylesford. This beautifully appointed retreat is bathed in natural light, with warm sunset hues casting a glow over the interiors each evening. Step outside to discover the fully landscaped garden, where festoon lights and multiple outdoor settings create a magical autumn atmosphere. Surrounded by rich autumn colours, the garden is the perfect place to relax and take in the season’s beauty. Whether you’re sipping wine by the open fire or enjoying the vibrant foliage, King’s Cottage is an idyllic getaway year-round.
What guests are saying about King’s Cottage:
Overall Rating 4.9/5
What a fabulous home away from home. Beautifully decorated well supplied with all amenities and a beautiful gift box. Can’t speak highly enough of Kings Cottage. Perfect in every way.
Melanie – May 2024
Montacute Pavilion & Gardens, Daylesford
4 2 2
Montacute Pavilion & Gardens is a romantic retreat nestled among ancient chestnut trees near Wombat Hill Gardens. Designed for privacy and indulgence, this unique two-storey hideaway features a treetop master suite, antique-meets-modern furnishings, and cosy gas log fires. The historic garden is especially beautiful in autumn, with golden foliage and fruit-laden trees creating a serene escape. Relax in the elegant sitting room with a glass of Passing Clouds Shiraz, or take a leisurely stroll to explore Daylesford’s charming cafés and boutiques just a few streets away.
What guests are saying about Montacute Pavilion & Gardens:
Overall Rating 5/5
A superb, unique place to stay. Perfect for those who love gardens, history, architecture, luxury, and attention to detail. We had the most extraordinary relaxing stay in this beautiful place where all of our desires seemed to have already been anticipated and fulfilled.
Una – January 2025
Wayward Cottage, Daylesford
6 3 1
With views overlooking farmland, yet located next to The Farmers Arms Hotel, opposite the Sunday market and a short stroll to town, Wayward Cottage offers the best of both worlds. This is a welcoming space for friends and families to come with or without a beloved pet and enjoy the amenities and the suburb location. A cute house in a lovely location, full of warmth and love, Wayward Cottage will be your home away from home.
What guests are saying about Wayward Cottage:
Overall Rating 4.7/5
Absolute gem of a place! So clean and unique, very comfortable with the gas fire as well.as a great backyard. It was roomy and beautiful and convenient walk to out favourite pub!
Nadia – April 2024
Hepburn View, Hepburn Springs
8 4 2
Hepburn View is a charming 1921 Miner’s Cottage set on half an acre of beautifully landscaped gardens, offering a peaceful escape in Hepburn Springs. Enjoy stunning autumn views from the deck’s heated jacuzzi or unwind in the garden’s double hammocks, surrounded by vibrant foliage and native wildlife. In winter, cosy up by the open fire or settle into the leather lounge for a movie night. With nature on your doorstep and Hepburn’s renowned spas, golf course, and restaurants nearby, Hepburn View is a perfect retreat for relaxation year-round.
What guests are saying about Hepburn View:
Overall Rating 4.6/5
Hepburn view was an excellent place to stay with friends or a group. The house was spacious, clean and well equipped and the jacuzzi was a lovely indulgence. The views from the property were also amazing and it was great to feel immersed in nature. Highly recommend.
Zoe – January 2025
Campari, Daylesford
4 2 1
Campari is a charming retreat just moments from Lake Daylesford and The Lake House restaurant, perfect for couples or small groups. The open-plan design extends to a country-style verandah and a tranquil garden, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor feel. Unwind in the luxurious two-person bath or enjoy a home-cooked meal in the fully equipped kitchen. In autumn, the surrounding landscape comes alive with vibrant hues, making it the perfect season to explore nearby mineral springs, scenic lakes, and Daylesford’s boutique shops and cafés.
What guests are saying about Campari:
Overall Rating 4.6/5
What a gorgeous, cozy cottage for 4. My teenage children and I loved our 2 night stay during a very wet weekend. Thank you for all the special treats left for us as well as lots of wood to keep a lovely fire going.
Jane – July 2024
Maison 24, Trentham
4 2 2
Maison 24 is a luxurious retreat in the heart of Trentham, offering a serene escape surrounded by a beautiful, expansive garden. The sophisticated open-plan design features a cosy fireplace and seamless indoor-outdoor living, perfect for soaking up the peaceful atmosphere. In autumn, the garden is awash with rich seasonal colours, creating a stunning backdrop for afternoon drinks or a stroll along the nearby walking trail. With two spacious bedrooms, a dedicated yoga room, and easy access to Trentham’s charming village, Maison 24 is an elegant and tranquil getaway year-round.
What guests are saying about Maison 24
Overall Rating 4.9/5
A beautifully presented home away from home. Everything has been considered and more. Spacious bedrooms, king beds, fireplace and laundry facilities if required. The gardens are immaculate and there is almost no need to leave. Great place for couples to get away to enjoy not only the home but also the picturesque surrounds.
Vivian – September 2024
Merinda, Porcupine Ridge
8 4 2
Merinda is a breathtaking retreat in Mount Franklin, set on 28 acres of rolling countryside with panoramic views and abundant wildlife. Designed by Pleysier and Perkins Architects, this modern country escape blends elegance with relaxation. In autumn, the Paul Bangay-designed gardens burst into seasonal colour, creating a stunning contrast against the surrounding bushland. Inside, moody interiors, a Morsø Danish wood fire, and luxurious king-sized beds provide warmth and comfort. With an expansive terrace, fire pit, and alfresco dining area, Merinda is a perfect place to unwind and soak in the beauty of the changing seasons.
What guests are saying about Merinda:
Overall Rating 4.3/5
Great property, aesthetically very attractive and super comfortable with multiple facilities. Beautiful location and great views. Would love to have been able to stay for a week rather than 2 days.
Ian – September 2024
The Nook, Daylesford
2 1 1
The Nook (circa 1861) is a charming, semi-detached miner’s cottage, rich in history and perfect for a cosy couple’s getaway. Perched high on a rise, it’s just a short stroll to Daylesford’s town centre, where tree-lined streets become awash with colour in autumn. Lake Daylesford, also within walking distance, comes alive with vibrant seasonal hues, offering a stunning backdrop for a leisurely stroll.
Originally a Provedore, The Nook retains its historic charm with an old kitchen chimney and exposed brickwork. Enjoy views towards Lake Daylesford from the lounge, glimpses of neighbouring private gardens, and a deep bath to unwind after a day of exploring.
What guests are saying about The Nook:
Overall Rating 4.8/5
The Nook is such a gorgeous & cozy retreat. Highly recommend. Location is perfect. Walking distance to the main street of Daylesford. Absolutely recommend if you want too escape the madness of the city life. We will be back.
Dianne – August 2024
Aysgarth, Daylesford
6 3 2
Aysgarth is your perfect rural retreat, set on a large, private block surrounded by lawns, hedges, and fruit trees, offering a peaceful escape from everyday life. Ideal for couples or families, and pet-friendly, Aysgarth provides a cosy haven all year round. Located just a short stroll from Daylesford’s main street and lake, you can explore local cafés, shops, or take a scenic drive through the region. At home, relax in the comfortable open-plan living and dining areas, or enjoy an alfresco barbecue on the covered deck. In autumn, the garden comes alive with warm, vibrant colours, making it the perfect backdrop for unwinding in the spa bath or enjoying the inbuilt wood-heater on cool evenings.
What guests are saying about Aysgarth:
Overall Rating 4.8/5
A beautiful quiet comfortable home amongst a lovely garden. Great location for a walk into town or around the lake. Especially love all the special treats and the doggy basket full of toys and doggy bags etc. Our border collie Nelly loved the secure back yard for her visit.
Linda – December 2024
