The Potager was just the tonic my husband and I needed after a busy few weeks at work. The house is a charming renovated 1880s miner's cottage and has kept much of its original rustic charm; the furniture an eclectic mix of antics and more moderns finds.

Four fireplaces require constant tending to keep the house warm (the only downside), but it's certainly a quaint way to wile away the hours! The main lounge area is spectacular complete with enormous fireplace, cosy couches perfect for nestling into and panoramic views of the surrounding bushland.

The owner gave us thorough instructions and promptly left for Melbourne for the weekend, leaving us with a set of keys and the opportunity to enjoy the farm for ourselves with minimal distractions! An inground pool would make this the perfect place to visit during warmer months.

Castlemaine is a 10 minute drive (by car) with a few restaurants and antique stores to chose from - perhaps not as much to do here as nearby Dayelsford and it lacks some of its polish (though some might argue it's part of the charm).

We absolutely loved our weekend away at The Potager, though it was fairly expensive. Be prepared to stock up on food prior to arrival (it's not provided) and stoke the fires yourself throughout the weekend. Otherwise you risk a very frosty and hungry weekend!