Family-friendly vacation rentals in Cockatoo

Vintage Caravan, Rainforest & Lyrebirds

Our 1959-vintage caravan is just 12ft long, best for a couple or two friends. At a pinch, two children could sleep in the king single bed; see the photos and description further down. Wake up to the sounds of Lyrebirds, enjoy a private walk in our rainforest gully and stroll around the garden, one of the best private gardens in the Dandenongs. Offering a minimum one-night stay for a quick getaway, or stay longer & enjoy the peace, sit by the fire - made from a beer keg, and roast marshmallows.

Laughing Kookaburra Cottage | surrounded by nature

Take a break and soak up the beauty of the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley in our cosy cottage. With two queen bedrooms, a full kitchen and plenty of parking, it’s an easy place to unwind. Wander nearby forest trails, ride Puffing Billy, visit cellar doors or enjoy good local food and coffee. Or stay in, put on some music, and relax on the verandah while kookaburras, parrots, echidnas and wombats wander by. Right next door to Avalon Castle and an easy walk to Chae. Linen and towels provided.

Menzies Cottage

Menzies Cottage is an hour east of Melbourne & set high on a mountain-side in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges. Enjoy views out to the Wellington Road farmlands & Cardinia Reservoir. On a clear day you can see Arthur’s Seat, Port Phillip & Westernport Bays. Visit nearby Puffing Billy Steam Train, go bushwalking, feed the friendly farm animals or settle-in for a lazy afternoon before watching the sun set. The cottage is fully self contained & with your own private entrance, deck & enclosed garden.

Your stay at "Whispering Trees"

Emerald is a beautiful scenic town popular for its picturesque lake and parks and Puffing Billy. Nestled in between the quaint towns of Cockatoo and Belgrave, Emerald is a frequently visited town among tourists to the Dandenong Ranges region. Whispering Trees is a beautiful modern bungalow on our 1 acre property which is completely separate from the main house and within walking distance to the township. We think our bungalow is best suited for couples and solo adventurers and small families.

Writer's Block is a peaceful and romantic retreat

Writer’s Block retreat is the perfect romantic getaway for couples or writers and artists. It was selected as 1 of 11 finalists in the 2022 Airbnb Best Nature Stay for Aus & NZ. Set on 27 acres and surrounded by gums and chestnut trees, this private rural retreat is within a 10-minute drive to cafes, restaurants, shops, picturesque walks and the famous Puffing Billy. The Yarra Valley is only a 30-minute scenic drive to local wineries and farmers' markets. Fully functional kitchen and laundry.

Lakeview on Sycamore (Lower Level 1 bedroom Apt)

Self contained apartment on lower level with own separate entrance & drive/carpark. King bed with ensuite, fully equipped kitchen with hot breakfast + sofa bed + fold down couch, meals area, lounge & laundry & w/machine. Beautiful location with lakeview, great for walks/hiking etc. Peaceful and tranquil surroundings, 3 mins to shops, restaurants and cafes. 5 mins to the famous Puffing Billy and mins to Emerald Lake. This accommodation can accommodate up to 4 adults + 1 child +1 infant.

Sunrise Cottage (at Mont du Soleil Estate)

Sunrise Cottage part of the 'Mont du Soleil' Estate, located in Emerald on 40 acres, in the heart of the beautiful Dandenongs. A truly unique property inspired by the buildings & grounds of Provence & Tuscany. You’ll love the unique design & ambience of the property, the stunning views, peace and tranquility; yet less than an hour by car from Melbourne CBD. Featured on Neighbours Xmas special December 2024. Note: We host photo shoots on the property but NOT in the Cottage.

Duck'n Hill Barn (& EV charge station!)

Watch geese on the dams & stunning sunsets across city views from rocking chairs on The Barn's private deck. Perfect for romantic getaways, family retreats, micro weddings & bridal parties. Whatever the agenda you won't want to leave! A fabulous location within minutes drive to ideal Yarra Valley attractions such as the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, Yarra Valley Dairy, Panton Hill Hotel, Coldstream Brewery, Rochford, Healesville Sanctuary & Four Pillars Gin Distillery.

Barn with free Breakfast

Nestled on 10 acres in Gembrook, this private barn is spacious & exudes rustic charm. Within an hour's drive of Melbourne, you'll stay amongst gums where the birdsong is often the only sounds you'll hear. Native wildlife is abundant and often passing through. The township of Gembrook is only a 5 minute drive & boasts fine dining at the Independent, cafes, and more. Puffing Billy is a regular visitor to the railway station. Free cooked breakfast inc in your stay.

The Cabin farm stay in Emerald Alkira Glamping

OUTDOOR BATH BLISS! Dreaming of the perfect weekend escape? This stunning, modern cabin is the kind of place that steals your heart the moment you arrive. Sink into your outdoor bath under the stars, surrounded by mountain air and serenity. With stylish interiors, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, a separate shower and bathroom area, and friendly animals, it’s the ultimate cozy retreat, just an hour from Melbourne CBD. An unforgettable getaway!

Luxurious Unique, Private Paradise-Kangaroo Manor

Kangaroo Manor is a luxurious 40 acre private paradise, offering you a truly unique Australian Experience. From the moment you drive up the magnificent drive, this architecturally designed, hexagonal glass house takes in the breathtaking views. High ceilings, glass walls, very private, huge amazing pool, we have a river walk on the property and it's close to wineries and all the Yarra Valley has to offer. Only an hour from Melbourne CBD.

Harvest Homestead Farm & Flowers in the Dandenongs

Escape to this charming farmstay cottage in Upwey, at the base of Dandenong Ranges National Park, just 45 mins from Melbourne city. Located on the property is a regenerative micro flower farm, Ferny Creek, an enclosed permaculture orchard, vegetable gardens and a few farm animals. Perfect for families and nature lovers seeking a unique experience that combines the tranquility of a countryside retreat yet so close to Melbourne.