Trawool Shed Cottages, Cafe and Restaurant

The cottage was cute; however, it was not clean. There was dust everywhere, which meant that I was consistently sneezing and blowing my nose (allergic to dust). The place looks run down and needs some work done. The gardens need to be better maintained, and the spa looked like no one has used it for months, covered in dust and leaves which did not make it very appealing. The bed was cricking every time you moved about. The bathroom was outdated, and they were a lot of wear and tear. On-going issues with the being able to flush the toilet and the running water. Woke up on sunday morning to find we had no water and therefore could not have showers, brush our teeth etc, which was pretty disappointing.

We absolutely loved our stay at the cottages. So clean and comfortable! The surrounds were so scenic and relaxing. We loved that the restaurant was a 30 second walk from our cottage so that made a stress free one stop shop. Mel the hostess was so lovely and welcoming. We would revommend the Trawool Cottages to everyone!

Now retired and cycling Victoria’s Rail Trails, I’ve stayed in many places but Briar Rose cottage at Trawool is one of the nicest I’ve encountered. Situated just across the road from the Great Victorian Rail Trail it is ideally situated for anyone wishing to ride the western end of the GVRT. The rate ($140, incl brekky) was very reasonable (especially when compared to nearby establishments) and, given how nice the cottage was, is undoubtedly the best value place I’ve ever stayed when cycling Victoria’s bike trails. I arrived mid-afternoon to be warmly welcomed by Melissa. I had booked into Briar Rose cottage, which is one of two, both built in chalet style with high ceilings and veranda overlooking the park-like garden, which has some lovely old trees. The cottage was spacious, open plan (with en-suite bathroom), tastefully decorated and well-appointed. It was spotlessly clean. The bed was comfy, as was the lounge. The kitchen area was small but perfectly adequate and had all the utensils and equipment I needed, including a receptacle for clean recyclables (something which most places don’t have). There was a dining setting (and gas BBQ) on the veranda which has a lovely outlook, but for those wanting to be entertained the cottage also has large TV/DVD player which, I’m told, was also hooked to Netflix (watching TV isn’t for me, I prefer to watch the birds in the garden). After unpacking I set off to ride to Tallarook and back (24km). A very pleasant ride without any steep hills. The next morning, after a yummy breakfast of Eggs Florentine, cooked by Aaron, I set off to cycle to Yea and return (58km). Another pleasant ride, again without major hills. I arrived back in time for dinner which, to my surprise, was also accompanied with a little cake and a half bottle of champagne (I’d happened to mention, in passing, that it was my birthday). This was totally unexpected and a lovely touch, for which no payment was asked. Hospitality like that is rare these days. Thank you so much, Mel & Aaron, I wish you every success, you really deserve it! So, for anyone wanting to cycle the western section of the GVRT or just wanting a romantic getaway, I recommend these cottages at Trawool. The hosts are warm and friendly but leave one in peace. I’ll definitely return again.