Journey up the long winding driveway leading to this delightful chalet-style cottage and be transported into a unique, magical world. Travel upwards along the well-formed drive and feel the constrictions of urban life melt away. Be absorbed into the sanctuary of abundant bird life, huge tree ferns, shield ferns nestling amongst moss-covered rocks, huge rhododendrons, camellias and deciduous trees.
The cottage has a European character , with its steeply pitched roof and attic-style windows, heightened by winter dustings of snow. The lush, natural environment is the essence of the dcor with every window framing a section of the garden.
The entrance opens into an efficient kitchen with electric cooking, tiled floor and unusual timber detail in the ceilings. A modern, functional bathroom/toilet and large, separate laundry, both with tiled floor, open off the kitchen. The lower level also contains a carpeted living space, separated from the kitchen by the richly-painted stairwell.
The staircase opens onto spacious living and sleeping spaces with rich timber floors boards and beautiful, timber-lined cathedral ceiling. French doors, with bevelled glass panes, open onto a timber deck among the tree-tops with a view over the Sassafras Creek valley to the forested hills of Sherbrooke.
The deciduous birches and Japanese maples overhanging the deck provide filtered shade in summer and vibrant colours in autumn. The mellow winter shines through the bare branches.
This garden of this approximately three-quarter acre property is informally divided into different sections, each with its own special ambience. Behind the house, majestic eucalypts offer habitat for kookaburras, owls and parrots. Listen carefully, and the lyrebirds of Sherbrooke Forest can be heard. A variety of indigenous trees and shrubs create a private forest environment here.
Follow the seasons with the front section of the garden. With its huge Japanese maples, silver birches and old, ‘secret’ bluestone paths, this section also has a hint of Europe. The areas around the house are efficiently surfaced with the seating provides yet another ‘outside room’.
Although only a short walk from the vibrant township of Sassafras with its school, kindergarten, cafes and specialist shops, this unique property is private and peaceful. The Dandenong Ranges National Park offers a wealth of experiences.
Holiday escape or permanent living, this property needs to be experienced in order to be fully appreciated.