We get it, spring has sprung and you’re itching to get out and see what the world has to offer. To help, we’ve put together a list of venues in the Yass Valley where you can pop your head down at night after a big day of exploring.
From country cottages to lakeside accommodation, from couple’s retreats to family-friendly getaways, there’s something for everyone’s tastes! Yass Valley has plenty of accommodation on offer, with these options in Lake George, Murrumbateman, Gundaroo, Wee Jasper, Bookham and Wallaroo the perfect place to start your search.
Wallaroo Estate
Location: Within Wallaroo Estate, 196 Brooklands Road, Wallaroo
How to book: Email wallaroowines@gmail.com to book directly, or through Airbnb.
This is your chance to feel like you’re in Bridgerton. Completed in 1995, this beautiful home reflects the best of Georgian architecture within its build while featuring Japanese antiques. The property has four bedrooms and three bathrooms, along with a fifth bedroom option available on the ground floor for an extra cost, allowing you plenty of space to enjoy. And the sprawling 300-acre property means you can take a step back in time, forget about your work deadlines and take in the views to the Brindabella Mountains or Wallaroo Estate in complete seclusion.
Warroo Homestead
Location: 15 minutes from Yass and an hour from Canberra (exact location given after booking)
How to book: Bookings can be made online through Airbnb.
This renovated 1930s farmhouse is calling anyone who wants to relax in the best of country style. Keep an eye out for the sheep on this working farm! It has many original features, but also some more modern creature comforts, such as a 14-metre pool. This homestead is located 15 minutes from Yass and about an hour from Canberra, making it the perfect country escape.
The Old Bookham Church
Location: 20 Fagan Drive, Bookham
How to book: Bookings can be made online.
Formerly known as St Columba’s Catholic Church, this lovingly restored building has plenty of room with two bedrooms and two double sofa beds. There is also a full kitchen and barbecue for the chefs in the family. Alternatively, leave all the food preparation to someone else and order an oven-ready meal from the dinner menu. And yes, the dog-friendly nature of this option means your furry friends are able to come along for a holiday of their own!
Tallagandra Hill Winery
Location: Within Tallagandra Hill Winery, 1692 Murrumbateman Road, Gundaroo
How to book: E-mail wine@tallagandrahill.com.au or call 0434 041 915 to book directly, or use the Airbnb link for your choice of the three options.
These self-contained one-bedroom cottages are the perfect retreat for couples. The cottages do not house children under 17, so it is the perfect excuse for mum and dad seeking a few nights away from the littlies. Each cottage comes with a kitchen (four-burner gas stove, microwave and fridge – sorry no oven) giving you everything you need to prepare a quick breakfast before a busy day exploring the region, or an easy dinner. Why not pair that with one of Tallagandra Hill’s wines while sitting on your private covered deck watching the sun go down?
Eagle Park Tiny Abode
Location: Lake George (location provided after booking)
How to book: Bookings can be made online through Airbnb.
One of three accommodation options located by Lake George, this tiny house has everything you’d expect from traditional accommodation. There’s parking at the gate, and the property has a microwave, barbecue and small kitchenette. This cosy accommodation with glorious views of nearby Lake George will make you feel like you’re on top of the world.
Redbrow Garden Guest House
Location: 1143 Nanima Road, Murrumbateman
How to book: Bookings can be made online.
Located amongst the brightly coloured flowers, this is the perfect place to book with some friends or the family. There are four ensuite rooms, as well as three breakaway rooms. A shared walkway gives access to other facilities, including a lounge and kitchenette. Spend an afternoon walking through the established gardens at the property, before retiring to a room full of rustic country charm.
Wee Jasper Cottage
Location: 70 Caves Road, Wee Jasper
How to book: Bookings can be made by e-mailing david@swan.com.au with preferred dates.
This could be your home away from home. The property, which has four bedrooms and two bathrooms, is located on a 40-acre rural property on the edge of the Goodradigbee River. The wrap-around verandah gives you the perfect spot to relax with a cup of coffee in the mornings (or a sip of a gin from the local distillery later in the day) while looking out at the beautiful view.
The Nest at Gundaroo
Location: 56 Cork Street, Gundaroo
How to book: Bookings can be made online.
The Nest at Gundaroo can become your home base as you explore the Yass Valley. Located 30 minutes from Canberra’s CBD (and of course, even closer to the rural village of Gundaroo), your hardest decision will be what attractions to see first. As for your accommodation, take your pick from three villas and a heritage-listed cottage that looks like something from a storybook.
Werong Cottage
Location: Yass Valley (exact location given after booking)
How to book: Bookings can be made online through Airbnb.
If you’re a city slicker that’s never been to a working farm, this is your chance to get a taste of that lifestyle (after organising a time with the host). Werong Cottage is located just 15 minutes from Yass, and the cottage contains five bedrooms and two bathrooms.