Located only 15 minutes from Daylesford and 20 minutes to Castlemaine, this award-winning property, Yandoit Church, can now be enjoyed by those seeking an exceptional country getaway.
Located in stunning Yandoit and built in 1884 by a Swiss-Italian settler, Yandoit church served the local community until 1993. Beautifully refurbished it is now an award winning holiday accommodation property that can be enjoyed by those looking for an exceptional country getaway only 15 minutes from Daylesford, and 20 minutes to Castlemaine. Owners Elska and Marcus have created a unique and special home and we speak with Elska about her vision for the property and love for Yandoit and surrounding areas.
“It was love at first sight for us visiting the Yandoit Church and we put in an offer immediately. It’s such a special little pocket of the world and we feel deeply blessed to call it home. We like the convenience of an hour and half drive from Melbourne and that it is so serene and relaxing, but not too far from creature comforts. Being centrally located between Daylesford and Castlemaine it offers a short drive to such a variety of destinations, and there’s an abundance of things to do no matter what the season”.
Working in the fashion industry, Elska has an incredible eye for detail and ability to create a one off unique space with edgy details, yet feels so much like home. Pops of colour and texture blend with oak floors, stone finishes and remnant paintwork in the nave. “I adore colour and pattern on pattern and really had to tone it down quite a bit at Yandoit Church in order to respect the colours of nature highlighted by the extensive windows, and the glorious church walls with their original friezes. That being said there’s still a healthy dose of colour and pattern, predominantly seen on my freelance work the ‘Sit On It Bespoke’ couches and the rugs throughout the house. We have small children, so there are touches of whimsy that I hope the big people will also enjoy.” The property is a testament to style and grace. It is a fine example of a sympathetic, yet modern, renovation of a building that has been rescued from ruin.
Some of the many aspects Elska appreciates about the location is that Yandoit Church is perfectly situated in the serenity of farmland and bushland, while still only a short drive to various destinations through gorgeous scenery. “You can choose to brunch, browse or luxuriate in Hepburn or Daylesford and be there in 15 minutes. Enjoy the scenic short drive to the Guildford General Store for supplies, lunch and a great coffee and not much further to explore Castlemaine. Spend the morning at Lavandula farm, a short 10 minutes away. Within half an hour you can be in the apple orchards of Harcourt, the historic streets of Clunes, buying woollen goods in Creswick, or sitting down to a leisurely lunch in Trentham. Go for a trek to see some falls, a bike ride through bushland, farmers markets on the weekend, or visit wineries like Passing Clouds or Captains Creek only 20 minutes away. Then bring your spoils home to Yandoit Church, relax in front of the fire and take in the spectacular view”
This was a property that was calling for a vision, and in the hands of Marcus and Elska, something quite magical has been created.
By Bianca. W | Dayget
Update: As seen on Postcards
Update: Awarded Most Unique Holiday Rental in Australia – 2017 Stayz Holiday Rental Awards
