Set on an original hill-station property that was established in 1910, Folly Farm is owned by ‘mountain changers’ Belinda and Robert Rooth and home to 10 acres of gorgeous landscaped gardens, a blueberry farm and chestnut plantation. It’s also where you’ll find a sweet little cottage, which Robert built, that’s perfect for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Over the years, the Farm has played host to a number of famous visitors, including Sir Peter McCallum, Vivian Leigh, Sir Laurence Olivier and Sir Arthur Streeton. Now guests at the Retreat can enjoy its romantic atmosphere, with all the little luxuries of today. On arrival, enter through the dry stone pillars that guard the entrance and make your way along the long driveway to the bright and sunny cottage, which has everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Inside, the property features a spacious bedroom with a stunning handcrafted four-poster bed and wrought-iron chandelier, plus an opulent ensuite with a spa bath that’s just made for a long, calming soak. Th e modern kitchen is equipped with plenty of provisions, including home-baked bread, eggs from the hens, espresso coffee and more. From the deck, you can take in the spectacular views to Mt Dandenong and across the dry-stone walls to the historical gardens Belinda tends herself.
These stunning gardens were established by the Cox family and redesigned by renowned landscape designer Edna Walling in the 1930s. In Walling’s style, all the rocks for the gardens were sourced from the property, with the rockwork created by Ellis Stone and the lovely pond built by Eric Hammond. These days, the gardens, which are dotted with English ash, poplar, juniper and Walling’s signature silver birch, have been classified by the National Trust, and guests are welcome to take a stroll around their little pathways and beds full of sweet-scented anemone nemorosa, woodland cyclamen and erythronium.
The pretty perennial garden that surrounds the cottage was designed by Craig Wilson of Gentiana Nursery in Olinda to be drought tolerant and features an amazing selection of rare salvias, phlox and rugosa roses. Folly Farm Rural Retreat also has its own secret hideaway – an English shepherd’s hut designed and built by Robert that’s adorned with forged wheels crafted by a local third-generation blacksmith. Originally intended as a home for shepherds who couldn’t leave their flock for long, the hut is a lovely place to enjoy the gardens in winter or summer. Simply relax on the day bed with a book or enjoy a bottle of wine by candlelight.
To make your stay extra special, spoil yourself with some of the treats on offer, such as delicious chocolates and a bottle of wine, or a carton of organic ice-cream served with Folly Farm’s own homemade blueberry sauce. In the cooler months, curl up in front of the fire with the fi ttingly named ‘Stay in and relax platter’, a delicious selection of smoked salmon, cheeses, dips and more. Guests can also indulge in the ‘Ultimate antidote to stress’ package, which includes a one-hour massage with aromatherapy and soothing music.
Once you’ve explored Folly Farm, why not walk the few minutes to the picturesque villages of Olinda and Mt Dandenong? Known for their wonderful art galleries, antiques and craft shops, the villages are also home to cafes and restaurants, where you can sample a delicious Devonshire tea after a busy day of shopping. Th e Farm is also only a short drive to the Yarra Valley, where you can visit nearby wineries such as the Yarra Ranges Estate, take a ride on the Puffing Billy steam train across the Dandenongs, or see views of Melbourne from the SkyHigh Observatory atop Mt Dandenong.
Garden lovers will also enjoy a visit to the National Rhododendron Gardens, which are just across from Folly Farm’s front gate. Run by volunteers, these gardens are set on 110 acres, complete with lakes, walking trails and a rare plant nursery. From August to November, the Gardens host the Spring Floral Festival, which includes displays of over 15,000 rhododendrons as well as azaleas, camellias, and daff odils. Take a walk around the gardens or find a picnic spot and enjoy the views of the Yarra Valley.
Just over one hour’s drive east of Melbourne, Folly Farm Rural Retreat offers a welcome respite for couples looking to get away from it all.
Folly Farm Rural Retreat
192 Falls Rd, Olinda Victoria 3788
Phone: (03) 9751 2544
Email: follyfarm@iprimus.com.au
www.follyfarm.com.au
Story by Lauren Broomham
Photography by Mark Fergus