Woodlands rainforest retreat

Location: 137 Manby Road, Narbethong, au

Star Rating: 9.2 Stars

Property Type: Villas

About this Property

Important Information

Policies

Check-in: 04:00 PM - 12:00 AM

Check-out: 12:00 PM

Amenities & Facilities

• Offsite parking discounted rates available
• Fitness facilities (surcharge)
• Parking
• Air conditioning
• Room service
• BBQ facilities
• Express check-in/check-out
• Safety deposit box
• Soundproof rooms
• Hot tub/Jacuzzi
• Car hire
• Massage services
• Packed lunches
• Non-smoking throughout
• Private check-in/check-out
• Board games/puzzles
• Allergy-free room
• Adult only
• Outdoor furniture
• Fruits
• Pet bowls
• Staff adhere to local safety protocols
• Guest rooms disinfected between stays
• Cleaning standards that are effective against Coronavirus
• Physical distancing rules followed
• Hand sanitizer in guest room and key areas
• Cashless payment available
• Fire extinguishers
• First aid kit available
• Sanitized tableware & silverware
• Contactless check-in/check-out
• Invoice provided
• Guests can opt-out any cleaning services during stay
• Shared stationery like menus, pens are removed
• Guest room sealed after cleaning
• Property cleaned by professional cleaning companies
• Physical distancing in dining areas
• Key access
• Food delivered to guest room
• CCTV outside property
• Process in place to check health of guests
• Access to health care professionals
• Screens / Barriers between staff and guests for safety
• Face masks for guests available
• 24-hour security
• Delivered food - securely covered
• Television in common areas
• Express check-in
• Free wired internet
• Snack bar/deli
• Self parking (surcharge)
• Airport transportation - pickup (surcharge)
• Airport transportation - drop-off (surcharge)
• Beach umbrellas
• Pool sun loungers
• Offsite parking discounted rates available
• Fitness facilities (surcharge)
• Spa tub (surcharge)
• Internet access
• Private picnics
• Wine release events
• Japanese garden
• Hosted evening meal (reserve)
• Bicycle-friendly property
• Vegetarian menu options available
• Accessible train station shuttle
• No accessible train station shuttle

Rooms Available

• Romantic Cottage, 1 Bedroom, Non Smoking, Kitchen (Multi Night Getaway)

  1 King Bed

  538-sq-foot soundproofed room, furnished balcony/patio with valley views

  
  

  Layout - Bedroom, living room, and dining area

  Relax - Private hot tub and fireplace; in-room massage available

  Entertainment - 42-inch Smart TV and DVD player

  Food & Drink - Kitchen with refrigerator, stovetop, oven, and microwave

  Sleep - Tempur-Pedic bed, premium bedding, blackout drapes/curtains, and bed sheets

  Bathroom - Private bathroom, jetted bathtub, and separate shower with a rainfall showerhead

  Practical - Washer/dryer, safe, and iron/ironing board

  Comfort - Air conditioning and heating

  Need to Know - No housekeeping

  Non-Smoking

  Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Minibar
  • Safety deposit box
  • TV
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Bathrobe
  • DVD player
  • Microwave
  • Dishwasher
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Slippers
  • Kitchen
  • Fireplace
  • Electric kettle
  • Oven
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster
  • Toilet paper
  • Hypo-allergenic bedding available
  • Jetted bathtub
  • Ceiling fan
  • Designer toiletries
  • Premium bedding
  • Separate sitting area
  • Blackout drapes/curtains
  • In-room massage available
  • Separate bathtub and shower
  • Separate dining area
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Private spa tub
  • Furnished balcony or patio
  • Bedsheets provided
  • No housekeeping
  • Smart TV

• Romantic Cottage, 1 Bedroom, Non Smoking, Kitchen (One Night Getaway)

  1 King Bed

  538-sq-foot soundproofed room, furnished balcony/patio with valley views

  
  

  Layout - Bedroom, living room, and dining area

  Relax - Private hot tub and fireplace; in-room massage available

  Entertainment - 42-inch Smart TV and DVD player

  Food & Drink - Kitchen with refrigerator, stovetop, oven, and microwave

  Sleep - Tempur-Pedic bed, premium bedding, blackout drapes/curtains, and bed sheets

  Bathroom - Private bathroom, jetted bathtub, and separate shower with a rainfall showerhead

  Practical - Washer/dryer, safe, and iron/ironing board

  Comfort - Air conditioning and heating

  Need to Know - No housekeeping

  Non-Smoking

  Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Minibar
  • Safety deposit box
  • TV
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Bathrobe
  • DVD player
  • Microwave
  • Dishwasher
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Slippers
  • Kitchen
  • Fireplace
  • Electric kettle
  • Oven
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster
  • Toilet paper
  • Hypo-allergenic bedding available
  • Jetted bathtub
  • Ceiling fan
  • Designer toiletries
  • Premium bedding
  • Separate sitting area
  • Blackout drapes/curtains
  • In-room massage available
  • Separate bathtub and shower
  • Separate dining area
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Private spa tub
  • Furnished balcony or patio
  • Bedsheets provided
  • No housekeeping
  • Smart TV

• One-Bedroom Villa

  This villa features a hot tub, spa bath and fireplace. Guests will find a stovetop, a refrigerator, a dishwasher and kitchenware in the well-equipped kitchen. The villa also features a barbecue. The air-conditioned villa offers a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a washing machine, a private entrance, soundproof walls as well as garden views. The unit has 2 beds.

  Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Minibar
  • Shower
  • Safety deposit box
  • TV
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Kitchenette
  • Bathrobe
  • Refrigerator
  • Seating Area
  • Toilet
  • Microwave
  • Dishwasher
  • Washing machine
  • Heating
  • Slippers
  • Satellite channels
  • Kitchen
  • Fireplace
  • Additional toilet
  • Private entrance
  • Sofa
  • Tile/marble floor
  • Dining area
  • Electric kettle
  • Mosquito net
  • Oven
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster
  • Barbecue
  • Cleaning products
  • Coffee machine
  • Dining table
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Entire unit located on ground floor
  • Clothes rack
  • Drying rack for clothing
  • Toilet paper
  • Board games/puzzles
  • Books, DVDs, or music for children
  • Wine or champagne
  • Fruits
  • Wine glasses
  • Cots
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Body soap
  • Socket near the bed
  • Single-room air conditioning for guest accommodation
  • Hand sanitiser

Guest Reviews

• Jamie (8/5): -
• Rob (7/5): -
• Brendon (10/5): - Loved the wilderness and privacy loved the spa and the cottage itself was just spectacular Road lead to the cottage is a little confusing more signs would make it easier couldn't tell if it was 1 way or a circuit
• Sonia (9/5): - Location. Amenities. Breakfast option was very limited.
• Johnny (10/5): Excellent, secluded, relaxing amazing getaway - Extremely secluded location, as you drive into the property you drive up to and into a rainforest, it has various accommodation throughout the property, all secluded locations throughout, its not cheap, but once your there, you can see what your paying for, and im my opinion it is great value for money, host drops off the keys before your arrival and lights candles on the table, for a romantic touch on arrival, the house was amazing in its rainforest setting, was extremely clean, and relaxing, the spa was huge, bed was comfortable, we had a fantastic stay, was great value for money with what you get, we have stayed in alot of various kinds of getaways, but Woodlands Rainforest Retreat is definitely Number 1, we had an amazing time there, and would highly recommend it to anyone thats wants a secluded break away from anyone and everything Everything was above expectations, nothing i could find to complain about
• Sarah (10/5): -
• Andrew (4/5): Value for money very questionable It's the little things that count - The situation is unbelievably beautiful The forest and bird life amazing Too many little things unacceptable Kitchen utensils missing 1 champagne glass missing Door wouldn't close Dripping taps Doona was only usable in the Antarctic Insects able to freely get inside So called breakfast fit for an $85 Highway motel Bed sags -clearly needs replacing
• Ebeny (10/5): This is the second time we have stayed here and it was just as great as the first. Highly recommend - The property is always clean and tidy. It’s a quiet spot Nothing
• Darien (5/5): Lovely place but not great value for money - Loved the location and the homely feel Was told I had to buy my own wood for the fire, spa water was brown and the breakfast for 2 people and 2 nights was 2 single serve packets on oats.
• BEN (4/5): - As soon as we arrived the front door was surrounded in mud.The drainage in driveway is blocked with debris. No attention to detail on arrival and lack of maintenance. Upon entry I tried to boil the kettle for a cuppa. Kettle was broken and leaking! The stove top was also broken and the kitchen fan above stove was filthy and also not working. The toaster was also broken!!The toilet seat was broken.The door leading into the spa/bathroom was smashed in.!! So it's July , mid winter , and the fireplace was going to get a work out...so for 2 cold nights the team at Woodlands retreat supplied me with 5 wet bits of timber!? They told me to go to Coles and buy some firewood!!The cottage was fitted with speakers throughout yet there was something missing...no sound system or DVD player.The outdoor BBQ worked a treat except there were no utensils to clean or cook with. This place is gorgeous and you pay a premium to stay. Ive been here before years ago and loved my stay, that's why we returned. The premium price should obviously be backed by premium service and amenities. I won't come again. New management I guess. The area of Narbethong is breathtaking! Make sure you visit Steavensons Falls In Marysville. Give Woodlands Retreat a miss and treat yourself to accomodation elsewhere. By the way I tried to sort this out with the Woodlands Retreat team directly.....guess what...still waiting for a response. This is the first time I've ever left a poor review. .
• Andrew (6/5): - 2 nights 1 towel each With a spa, totally inadequate TV not operable Music system removed
• Bryan (10/5): - Wonderful to have accommodation in the Rainforest
• Stuart (9/5): Secluded getaway with no light or sound pollution; ability to completely switch off - Location was absolutely amazing; our own little retreat. Balcony opens up into rainforest and we had both large quantities of bird life and possum visits. Didn't realise it was a venue retreat with other villas, reception, public space, etc. but in the end this did not effect or bother us at all.
• Rackel (8/5): - Great place but a bit too expensive
• Tracey (8/5): Perfect romantic secluded weekend - Superb location private cottage Advertised hot tub outside as well as sabbath in bathroom. No hot tub
• Mark (1/5): Worst experience ever - would never come back even if it was free - The location Everything- breakfast terrible- not clean - not secure- smoke detector not working - water brown
• MarkpGeelong (2/5): Definitely not worth the money, really disappointing - we paid over $475 per night for this accommodation and we expected something really amazing. What we got was something well below average when we first arrived the overall first impression was really poor. When we entered the room there was a smell that we really couldn’t figure out what it was and it is lingered with us for our entire trip the rooms are large with a very large bathroom but there is no attention to detail. Windows and mirrors were dirty with dead flies and dust everywhere. The included breakfast is probably the worst I’ve ever had it included seven slices of stale sourdough it also included six old oranges so I could make fresh juice. This was meant to be for 2 days. The juice was actually okay. The coffee and tea was okay. We were told on arrival that the water was Brown. They advertised that it was filtered three times and treated with ultraviolet light, but when I entered the spa, there was a lot of black sediment in the bottom of the spa. We will not be drinking the water. I also reported that the lock on the balcony was not working I was told it would be fixed when we left by then read a review from one year ago on the same villa and they also said the lock to the balcony did not work. We are incredibly disappointed with this accommodation and would not advise anyone to come here.
• Tarryn (10/5): - Loved the spa and the quiet atmosphere. Loved having the birds visit us on the balcony each day. Lovely place to stay.
• Nicolette (10/5): - Beautiful cabin set in the bush full of Australian animals.
• Shaun (10/5): Exceptional -
• Shannon (9/5): Superb - Quiet and secluded Nothing
• Helen (6/5): Pleasant -
• Pippa (6/5): Beautiful spot, however it is dated and overpriced for what it is. - The location is beautiful, lovely fire, bed was big and comfortable and the spa bath was great (even with the natural brown water:D). The surroundings are lovely with possums and birds visiting the deck. A great getaway place to relax and switch off. The place is really lovely - it is just perhaps not worth the price tag. Does not live up to the price tag unfortunately. It is far from 'luxury' that the price and website would indicate. The decor,etc is worn and a bit tatty. The music speakers do not work, and there is no music system (big negative for us), additionally the TV is outdated so no connection abilities. There is no wifi in the cabin, not a huge deal, but it states that there is online. Their website needs updated - it makes a lot of statements/selling points that are no longer relevant. None of these are big deal breakers for a nice getaway in the forest, and the place is still lovely - these are only big negatives because they state they have all these things and if you expect them and pay for them, it is disappointing. If the price was less, and they updated their website, these would all be excusable.
• Tigskappas (8/5): Very good -
• 839kylief (4/5): Whatever you do, please stay away from this disgusting place! - Wow is all I have to say! $900 for two nights and I wouldn’t even pay $30! The smell of their cleaning fluids while staying there was so overbearing wouldn’t go away even when keeping doors and windows open and even spraying glen20. Breakfast was a bloody joke! Two oranges which was mouldy and bread was stale, nothing else came with it. So much for breakfast included! Gym was unavailable and looked like it was closed for several months. The whole property was overgrown and needed a serious makeover. The push bikes were broken so couldn’t ride them properly. It states wifi to all rooms, that was a bloody lie! Only the reception had it, so we couldn’t use the tv to watch a movie as free air didn’t work! Please guys do not waste your time or money for this place!
• Rebecca (8/5): - Loved the location and the big spa bath. The view when u wake up looking out at the lush bushland was perfect. There were mice in the walls so could hear them all night, did mot make for a peaceful sleep.
• Claire (10/5): - Stunning property! Stayed for a couple nights in Jan. Note that cabins are serviced via tank so hot tub water was a little brown due to this. High quality locally-sourced breakfast essentials and toiletries provided. Absolutely beautiful grounds that are very well maintained. Woke up to the sound of songbirds and gentle rain pattering on luscious green fernery. Highly recommend these secluded cabins for a luxurious nature retreat!
• Jasmine (10/5): Amazing location and stunning surrounds - The room was abaolutely stunning with forest views out every window. The bed was incredibly comfortable and the spa bath was amazing. The staff were so kind. Will definitely be back! The complimentary breakfast option was very limited.
• Rabot (9/5): Great place to relax and chill - Cozy and peaceful No internet in the room
• Rosie (10/5): 100% will be back, away from city life and enjoy quiet time and relax - Location is amazing ,privacy Clean,very well presented, deep large spa for two adults, Animals ,all nature. Lovely ferns ,the hight of the gum trees are amazing, your own private out door area, quiet,heated tiles, neighbours can't see or hear you, candles on arrival. Breakfast loaf of sour dough, oranges, tea ,coffee,milk,jams couldn't ask for a better place to stay. Spa water is brown but its all natural water coming from the forest, its filtered water but natural.
• Mel (9/5): Superb -
• Georgia (10/5): Exceptional -
• Tanvi (10/5): - Lovely property, secluded stay in the forest. The water in the spa came out dirty but otherwise a wonderful getaway. Maybe put some lights up along the path so it’s easy to see at night when driving into the area.
• Melitta (8/5): Time away from city life - This is the second time we have stayed here. It is lovely and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
• Adam (9/5): Amazing. We both came home very relaxed - Beautiful setting
• Natasha (10/5): - Beautiful
• julesl741 (4/5): Very disappointing - We were really excited about our stay at Woodlands but as soon as we arrived and saw the cottage where the reception was housed, we started to have concerns. There were dead plants at the entrance, random pieces of wood on the ground, and some faded outdated notices about Covid-19 measures pinned to the windows. It was instantly clear that the retreat had seen better days - the signs indicating the direction of the cabins were faded and there were piles of leaves on the roofs of the cabins. When we opened the door to our cabin, we were met with a nauseating odour of menthol/pine scented cleaning fluid. Despite opening all the windows, the smell remained hours later. There was a large, poorly repaired crack in the bathtub and the water flowing from the tap was brown. The jar of jam in the breakfast basket provided had a broken seal, indicating that it had perhaps already been used. We decided to cut our stay short due to the aforementioned reasons and left at 8pm on our first night. The next day, our clothes smelled strongly of the cleaning fluid and we had to wash them before we could wear them again. The owners really need to improve their property urgently.
• elenamI3756YL (4/5): Not worth the high price tag - My partner and I stayed here years ago, it has since changed hands, we weren’t aware until we arrived. The place is very different from our previous experience where we were welcomed by a beautiful hamper, eggs, bacon and tomato for breakfast, fresh bread, oranges, wine and port, plenty of wood for two nights clean and tidy grounds, beautiful soft bed and everything clean, and the owners were lovely warm and welcoming. Our experience in late July of 2023 was the opposite, here are some highlights: - grounds unkempt - Leaf debris all over the roof and along driveways - enough wood for 60 minutes burning time, you have to pay extra for more - bed bowed in the middle and the pillows were comparable to Kmarts generic brand - no more bathrobes - mould in the shower, grotty walls, things just felt dirty (greasy) - the Earth Choice multi-purpose cleaner was water - that explains the greasy feel in the place - no more port - we used to really enjoy that finer detail - oranges were mouldy (thanks!) - bread partially stale - no more eggs, bacon, tomato, juice (you could buy it for $95 though or travel 25 minutes to get breakfast) - no interaction with the owners. Reason being Covid-19. Sorry but I don’t believe you. Especially given the cleanliness of the rooms. - no toiletries or anything so make sure you bring your own I’m so disappointed. My partner said he won’t go back, unfortunately I tend to agree. I beg the owners to take more pride in the beautiful opportunity that they have and actually interact with their customers, text messages are very impersonal.
• Jim (8/5): - Fantastic quiet getaway! Very clean and tidy but for the price you pay there should be a ready supply of wood for the fire at no extra cost.
• laurenaI2237KD (8/5): our honey moon - My Husband and I spent 2 nights in the cockatoo cottage, surrounded by rainforest and beautiful large ferns. completely secluded and emerged in nature. upon arrival, scented tea candles were lit unbeknownst to us by the owner as a nice little welcome for us. The cottage was clean and wel presented ( i wouldn't say complete luxury) but good enough for us. included breakfast consisted of sour dough bread, some fruit, Organic honey and jam, tea and freshly ground coffee. Due to covid or not enough staff a lot of the packages weren't available , like in house couples massage or dinner's how ever the manger or owner offered to cook us a home made pasta dish and drop it at our door. which was really nice of him. If you are wanting to go for the fire place experience call and ask first as there are restrictions around bushfires hazards that are put in place by the local council not by the owners so just check before you go. The hot tub was great, murky water due to natural discolouration, I added radox bath soak and made the water green which looked a bit more inviting. mood lighting at night and the cold breeze coming in from the open doors was magical while enjoying a hot tub, we even had a visit from 3 possum's. Bed was really comfy sheets were soft and clean. Deck is a bit slippery once it rains. FYI The gardens on the property are gorgeous this time of year with vibrant reds and yellows. got to see lots of wild life too. Over all, we had a great time, exactly what we wanted, a little pricey for what it was, but perfect for us for our honey moon
• 106rosaliek (2/5): Don't stay here! - Don't stay here its not worth it!!! The Power went out 1 hour into stay. 6pm, then didn't come on until 2am. Local power out.. there solution, Giving us 4 tea lite candles. No power. No lights. No hott water. No heat. No fire... 8degrees and very dark and cold. Not able to cook. Or use anything in stay. The owner Refused any form of refund for half a night lost. First night $800 to sit in a pitch black cold room. Got excited to ride the bicycles.. guess what flat Tyers on both of them. Placed all our dishes in the dish washer end of stay then turned it on.. then they blamed us that the dish washer didn't clean them properly and charged another $70... cheap detergent they provide wont clean dishes well (scam) . There's no gym and they said they have not bothered to open it after covid because no one uses it, the gym is just dirty and messy inside and is in an unusable state . Lock downs ended over a year ago that's just lazy poor maintenance. $1600 for 1 and a half nights. 100% not worth it. Stingy new owners. This business will run into the ground with the lack of maintenance and bad customer service. The owners holidaying in japan and couldn't care less about his customers. Nobody got back to us after they said they would in 3 days time. Save your money and just enjoy a bush walk and stay somehere else. Every top class stay has back up generator's and take the duty of care to maintain there property's and care for there customers.
• C943MEdough (4/5): Highly disappointed. Will not return. - Highly disappointed. Will not return. The Woodlands Rainforest Retreat is a far cry from what was advertised on the website; so much so that we feel we have been scammed. Whilst the location is perfect, it is definitely not worthy of the word 'retreat' and would not even make the mark of a Superhost on Airbnb. I concur with both O N, Heath and B J on all their points so I won't repeat these. In addition, amenities were not stocked from previous guests (empty or almost empty), mould in shower, dirt under sink and broken items to name a few. The signs in the cottage indicating the fire was ready to be lit; however, on arrival, the fire was burnt out with charcoal logs from a previous fire. The finer touches you would expect staying at a $500-$600 a night 'retreat' were absent. The gym was closed (covid is no longer an excuse, gyms have been open for a long time now) and extras that we booked were cancelled. Leading up to our stay, staff would not return my enquiries and only contacted me when it was about money. I never received a warm or welcome feeling from the communication I had with them. Saw the owners once during our stay and the lack of hospitality made our encounter awkward and made us feel uncomfortable. We booked Woodlands when clearly there were previous owners and the reviews were amazing. We are disappointed we did not get to experience this place when it was at its finest. I would not waste your money. There are plenty of other gems in the area for much less money. I hope one day this place can be in the hands of those that will give it the love it deserves.
• Oxa40 (4/5): Good bye - We were guests of this Narbethong's gem on many occasions for ten years and always enjoyed our stays till the business changed hands about five years ago. On our first return under new management the place was still running smoothly, the only disappointment was how they redecorated the cottages (ugly black paint covered priceless wood here and there, beautiful wooden blinds replaced by cheap plastic roller blinds and sheer curtans in a bathroom etc). But our last visit absolutely turned us off this place forever. It is heartbreaking to see a place once so unique and special has degraded to an ordinary accommodation with NO service and poor management. Too many things went wrong - communication, check-in, cottage stocking - but I'll mention just two. For $520 per night (the cheapest middle week rate) there were no bathrobes anymore. The excuse was - COVID restrictions. So, you can still use bath towels - thank god for this - but not bathrobes. Just laughable! And secondly, fireplace use is restricted till 24th June (date is not mentioned on their website) though it's 6 degrees outside, a winter month and heavy rain for a week already. It is very unfortunate but I'm saying "Good Bye Woodlands Rainforest Retreat. We spend so many happy days and nights together, you will be part of our memories forever".The only hope left is that one day this property will be sold back into caring and professional hands.
• thamalib2022 (10/5): Best Getaway we had in two years - TOTALLY WORTH IT!! This is the ideal place if you are looking for a place to relax and heal. Spent our NYE in the middle of the forest while enjoying the beauty and serenity of nature. The management communicated with us pretty well and they were very responsive during our stay which made us feel secured though we never met them in person. We were given proper instructions for contacless check in & check out which was very thoughtful during these critical times. We were given 100% privacy which made us feel like we were in our own house in the forest. We got to see so many beautiful birds, wallabies, possums and fed them too. The cottage is euqipped with all the necessary utensils, all well cleaned and other things like medicines for insect bites. Their own range of bathroom amentities were super nice and soothing. This felt like a honeymoon we had again in two years. Definitely going back there. Wanted to stay there forever! Would recommend this place to anyone without a doubt.
• RickandMario (6/5): SOME MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS NEEDED URGENTLY - 3 days prior to our arrival we were advised by the owner that our credit card was unable to be activated by them. We followed this up with the card provider who advised this was not the case.It then appeared that the couple we were travelling with, received the same message from the owner.It was eventually agreed that we would pay the balance on arrival. Again,both credit cards were declined by the provider. The property owner then managed to sort out what was apparently an internal problem and nothing to do with our credit. The arrival was less than overwhelming. We drove through the gates along a driveway which had not seen a lawn mower for some length of time, to arrive at the Reception office. We could see a staff member in the kitchen looking out the window but he was in no rush to welcome us.It gave us time to notice the untidy state of magazines and tourist information in the office. We were given the keys with advice as to which roadway to take to the units-no offer of taking us there to show us the ropes so to speak. Outside temperature was a cool 11 degrees but once inside it felt closer to 35 degrees and the welcoming music so loud we couldn't hear ourselves speak.We phoned the office and they immediately sent someone to correct this problem. The stand alone wooden cottage was well equipped and comfortably furnished. Must say ,the King size bed was probably the most comfortable bed we had ever slept in.The only complimentary food items provided were a loaf of bread, a small jar of very good raspberry jam and small sachet of coffee and tea, butter,milk and 3 less than robust oranges.For $510 per night this would have to be a record for this type of accommodation.Greatly overpriced compared to anything else of this standard in Australia and for that matter the rest of the world.If the owners, who it appears have only been there for a month, wish to compete they need to greatly lower their nightly rate and at least provide a supply of breakfast goodies. We went for a walk around the extensive if overgrown lawns and had a game of bocce on a little used court guarded over by the skeleton of a long departed cockatoo.There is a decent gymnasium on the premises with a good array of equipment. For $510 a night I felt we should have at least had our beds made on the second night and had the room attended to.If you are not prepared to offer this service the rate for the 2nd and or subsequent nights should be lowered. It appears the previous owners provided dressing robes but no longer. Now its just the diagram of the items included. Perhaps we were supposed to fashion them out of the bedspread with the help of the diagrams. A few Rosellas flew onto the verandah in the hope of getting free seed but this was not made available in the rooms. However it was at least provided by the owner when asked. Although we did not use the barbecue it looked very good and would be great on a summers evening. After looking at the website and reading uniformly excellent reviews(all provided in the time of the previous owners) we were extremely disappointed in what we received for our money. I would be very hesitant to recommend Woodlands until things have considerably improved.If this does not happen it would perhaps be acceptable at $250 per night. Incidentally you are not allowed to light the fire outside the winter months. Pity as the December nights here are more like winter nights in Melbourne. We still managed to enjoy ourselves but would be most unlikely to return here.
• singap0resue57 (10/5): total relaxation - we have previously stayed here 2 years ago and could not wait to arrive again. Did not disappoint. Such a relaxing stay the minute you drive into the grounds as my husband Neil says "it is like a computer data dump" the worries and stress just falls away. Sitting in the lounge room with the fire going and calming music was wonderful
• Kristin266 (10/5): Secluded getaway - Fantastic secluded getaway that is close to Melbourne definitely going back there. Lovely complimentary hamper on arrival, fresh oranges and orange press, lovely little cocktail set up near the mini bar. A home away from home.
• RaejMartens (10/5): Absolutely perfect in every way - Nothing fills the senses more than being immersed in natural rainforest. A perfect cabin with everything one could want, surrounded by nature's beauty. The sunken spa topped off the relaxation and pure bliss. We can't wait to get back there!
• Dannybou123 (10/5): Great weekend away - hidden gem - Spent the weekend at woodlands rainforest retreat. From the nice hidden location to the beautiful views you really can't top listening to the birds chirping and coming to eating bird seeds on the balcony. Room was perfect and comfortable, cosy and extremely clean and well presented. Highly recommended and will definitely be back. Easy communication with staff even with covid restrictions and remote checking in.
• Whirlpool34 (10/5): Relaxting, pampering and revitalising - Wow - wow - wow. What a wonderful two days away from the hustle and bustle of a busy life. As soon as we walked in the door, our senses are buzzing. The beautiful signature scent is embracing, the music choice was perfectly matched to the magnificent sounds and views of nature. We spent hours on the balcony in the filtered sun, breathing fresh air, sipping on bubbles, eating local cheeses, and the bird seed provided hours of entertainment with visits from so many bird varieties, it was amazing. The fresh food hamper was delicious, as was the local produce in the BBQ hamper. My husband cooked a delicious dinner! The cottage presented immaculately, perfectly secluded, extremely private, and equipped with everything you could possibly need. The massage was soothing and relaxing and set us up for a lovely day exploring the region. It was perfect coming back for night two in the cottage, and a perfect spa to end the day. Thank you Woodlands, we had a fantastic weekend away!
• hardlyatraveller (10/5): Anniversary break away - What a fantastic place to really unwind and enjoy each other’s company even after 36 years Peaceful and serene just what we desired Location and cabin was magnificent The food hampers were plentiful and scrumptious The couples massages were pleasant and relaxing
• Kmdext (10/5): Private, romantic and exceptional - We had the most wonderfully relaxing time at Woodlands rainforest retreat. The only place we have ever stayed that is truly secluded and private, surrounded by the most beautiful bushland but feeling completely safe and relaxed. The wildlife was fun to watch, the spa with the incredible open plan out to the scenery was divine. The BBQ platter and gourmet breakfast was yum and the most delicious cakes that we weren’t expecting. Jane and Anneke from Yarra Valley massage just ended the last day beautifully. For 2 people that don’t often get massages we absolutely loved it. Overall the most relaxed we have been in a long time. Thank you so much. We felt like the only 2 people on the planet.
• jemmak2021 (10/5): Romantic, relaxing, reviving - Our stay was wonderful. Beautiful, secluded, surrounded by stunning nature. Attention to details like the hamper, aromatherapy products, bikes, gum boots.made the stay very enjoyable. Friendly staff who gave us space but were attentive when we needed something.
• MorsalB4 (10/5): Amazing, secluded stay! - My husband and I stayed at Woodlands Rainforest Retreat as part of our honeymoon and had the most amazing stay! The cabin we stayed in was absolutely gorgeous and cosy and the indoor spa with the forest views is a gorgeous touch! The cabin had everything we needed and you can tell the team have put in a lot of effort to make those thoughtful touches, such as the bikes, gumboots, picnic baskets, warm blankets etc. It truly felt like they’d thought of everything! We loved sitting out on the deck and taking in the gorgeous views while listening to the birds and were even lucky enough to have a wallaby right out front one evening! We loved everything about our stay and can’t wait to come back!
• Amberk161993 (10/5): Couples retreat - Absolutely sensational and perfectly presented. The sensess team made us feel like we were the only ones there the entire time. Beautiful designed and with no feature untouched to be made the absolute best it could of been. Will be making many more trips there in the future.
• Verified traveler (10/5): - A perfect getaway with all you need to relax and enjoy your time of relaxation.
• Verified traveler (10/5): Secluded, romantic, lush and relaxing! - Great for a private, romantic and relaxing stay. It was raining during our stay but it was actually the perfect setting to stay indoors, relax by the fireplace, have a bubble bath and listen to the rain in the comfort of an amazing rainforest setting. If you're looking for anything more, this is not the place for you!
• Verified traveler (8/5): - Lovely place to stay very sucluded Great views and senery friendly staff and lots to do and see in the area. awesome welcoming pack to get you started!
• Paul (8/5): Good for one night but not longer - It was lovely, however there was no Information package available, No pressure in the shower and an out dated BBQ. The door to the bathroom wouldn't open but the manager did come and fix it for us. All in all it was a nice stay but not worth the money.
• Leo (10/5): -
• Rochelle (8/5): -
• Julie (6/5): - No matter what we tried couldn't rid the strong smoke smell throughout
• Linda (10/5): - Cleanliness: Beautiful;
• Sara (10/5): - Facilities: Home away from home; Service: Go the extra mile; Cleanliness: Spotless; fantastic location and very private
• Andrew (10/5): - Facilities: Top of the line; Value: Top end but worth it; Service: Professional, Friendly; Cleanliness: Beautiful; Access to the wonders of the Yarra Ranges are a plus
• Andrew (10/5): - Facilities: Outstanding; Value: Great deal; Service: Remarkable; Cleanliness: Spotless, Immaculate;
• Lulu (8/5): - Facilities: Nice ; Value: Accommodation expensive ; Service: Professional, Friendly; Cleanliness: Lovely; Owners of hotel were wonderful and friendly.
• Kellie (10/5): - Facilities: State of the art, Home away from home; Value: Great deal, Amazing; Service: Flawless, Remarkable; Cleanliness: Immaculate;
• John (10/5): - Facilities: Top of the line; Value: Fantastic; Service: Go the extra mile; Cleanliness: Immaculate; The place lived up to its reputation.
• miki (10/5): - Facilities: Above average; Cleanliness: Beautiful;
• Cameron (10/5): - Facilities: Home away from home; Value: Amazing; Service: Flawless; Cleanliness: Immaculate; Daily drives throughout the Yarra were an excellent way to spend a couple of hours each day. The scenery throughout was perfect.
• Simone (10/5): - Facilities: Outstanding; Value: Great deal; Service: Respectful, Friendly; Cleanliness: Beautiful;
• Lynda (10/5): - Facilities: Outstanding; Value: Reasonable; Service: Flawless; Cleanliness: Spotless; The drive through the Yarra Valley was gorgeous.
• David (10/5): - Value: Great deal; Really helpful staff
• Tracey (10/5): - Facilities: Home away from home; Value: Affordable; Service: Courteous; Cleanliness: Beautiful; Loved it and will return
• Paul (10/5): - Facilities: Above average; Value: Acceptable price; Service: Professional; Cleanliness: Immaculate; Yarra Valley Is only 30 minutes drive!
• Carli (10/5): - Facilities: Home away from home, Outstanding; Value: Affordable; Service: Flawless, Go the extra mile, Outstanding; Cleanliness: Immaculate, Pristine, Beautiful; Black Spur Inn restaurant is lovely - great food & atmosphere.
• Andrew (6/5): - Facilities: Distinctive, needed upgrading; Value: Excessive, over priced; Service: Polite; Cleanliness: Tidy; the meals were bought in from outside and we had to heat them ourselves
• Amy (8/5): - Facilities: Good; Value: Fair price; Service: Respectful, Friendly; Cleanliness: Pleasant; The local towns are wonderful with some great walking tracks and places to visit. The driving around here was also stunning.
• Robyn (10/5): - Facilities: Home away from home; Service: Go the extra mile; Cleanliness: Beautiful; Would definitely go again!
• Danielle (10/5): -
• Lynnette (8/5): - Facilities: Everyday, Unpretentious, Thought of everything; Value: Affordable, The privacy alone worthy; Service: Go the extra mile, Outstanding, Very thoughtful/ friendly; Cleanliness: Spotless, Spa was spotless!; Would definitely try the bbq pack for the warmer months, try sitting out on the deck for breakfast as it is lovely :)
• Sue (10/5): - Facilities: Home away from home; Value: Great deal; Service: Flawless; Cleanliness: Spotless; If you need to recharge the batteries and completely relax then this is the place to go, beautiful location, great service, lots of local bush walks.
• brian (8/5): -
• Lianne (10/5): -
• Marlena (10/5): - Service: Respectful; Cleanliness: Immaculate; Great romantic get away for two. Staff were great at organizing everything from hampers to massages for the weekend, we didn't have to leave our cabin

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