Review: Lochiel
The website for this forest accommodation east of Melbourne announces “No Olde World, No Lace”.
This makes clear its difference from traditional Dandenong Ranges B&Bs, often situated in quaint old cottages with old-fashioned decor.
The “treetops cottage” we're placed in is a purpose-built modern timber building with the accommodation spread over three levels.
The decor follows simple contemporary lines, with none of the pokiness or fussiness often found in older guest houses.
On the base level is a sizeable living room with parquet flooring, a leather sofa, a glass-topped table and chairs, and an enclosed wood-fired heater for winter warmth. There's also central heating for when the fire is too much bother.
Along one wall is a kitchen, a bit low on utensils but equipped well enough for cooking basic meals. On the next level up is the bathroom, featuring a spa bath, with the bedroom on the level above that.
The king-sized bed is placed beneath a high pointed ceiling into which are set large windowed sections, giving glimpses of the forest surrounding the property.
There's an even leafier view from the two balconies, as Lochiel has been built facing lush, dense greenery while actually being placed just off Olinda's main road and within walking distance to its shops and eateries.
The tariff includes breakfast each day at a local cafe, and a discount on restaurants.
Not far away are attractions such as bushwalking tracks, the William Ricketts Sanctuary with its curious statues, the tea rooms of Sassafras, and the Puffing Billy tourist railway.
For more details on attractions, dining and other accommodation in this area, download my Melbourne Getaways mobile app.
Just the Facts:
Lochiel
1590 Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd, Olinda VIC 3788, Australia
Phone: 03 9751 2300 (International
Web: www.lochielaccommodation.com
Rates: From $279 per night
Disclosure time... I received discounted accommodation at this property.
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