“Fernbank” Circa 1886 – Historical Homestead from Yesteryear

Built in 1886 by one of the four families said to have been Somerville’s original settlers, this grand historical homestead will provoke an emotional response upon first sight. Situated in one of the Mornington Peninsula’s most popular and prestigious pockets, this traditional beauty is a testament to classic design with its enchanting age-old gardens, authentic period fittings, and all on a sprawling one acre.

Rich in character and elegance it features a classic floor plan with the magnificent entrance hall featuring ruby etched windows typical of the Victoria era, formal dining and living areas are of grand proportions both with feature fire places and ceiling roses. Soaring 11 foot ceilings are adorned by complementary period light fittings that emphasise timeless beauty. An expanse of French doors open to an extensive traditional verandah that provides numerous spots to sit and enjoy the enchanting surrounds creating a relaxed and balanced floor plan that encourages unrestricted indoor/outdoor living and even the option of B&B accommodation (STCA).

At the heart of the home lies a vast country kitchen, encouraging family gatherings and entertaining with an open layout and casual dining area. This classic kitchen is completed by expansive benches, antique style five burner cook top with double oven and breakfast bar, all overlooking the gardens with access out to the verandah.

There are five bedrooms and three bathrooms, all of which offer privacy and space. This includes a decadent master suite with ensuite, guest room with its own secluded verandah allowing tranquil views of the green surrounds and feature fireplace in one of the bedrooms while the family bathroom with claw foot bath with have believing you have travelled back in time. You will be comfortable all year round with evaporative cooling for those warm summer months and hydronic heating to keep you warm on those chilly days.

Once part of a 40 acre orchard, the property also includes electric front gates and a huge garage plus workshop that was once a packing shed transported here long ago from Kings Creek cattle station. In addition, the front yard comprises a genuine cast iron two tier 1930′s water fountain imported from France.

This classic homestead will endure the passing of time, providing the ideal environment for the family to grow and mature. It is situated just minutes from the centre of Somerville and a short distance to all the restaurants, wineries and antique centres that the Mornington Peninsula is so famous for, plus exceptional freeway access to the CBD via peninsula link. When position is paramount, and character is a prerequisite, this property constitutes essential viewing.