447 Maldon Newstead Road, Welshmans Reef, Vic 3462

On a pretty 8,045 sqm (2-acres) parcel in the picturesque hamlet of Welshmans Reef, minutes from Cairn Curran Reservoir, the aptly named Cairn Cottage is a beautiful example of early 1900s Victorian architecture and offering the very best country lifestyle combined with every contemporary amenity.

Surrounded by lovingly maintained cottage and native gardens with raised veggies and roses, a small flight of steps leads to a wide covered front verandah with decorative lacework. Open the door to an interior that retains period features including high, Baltic pine lined ceilings and floorboards plus sash windows, while providing an open plan formal lounge/study and dining room connected by the original double sided brick fireplace. The distinctly country style eat in kitchen has timber benchtops over white cabinetry plus a walk-in pantry that deliver an abundance of storage and preparation space and behind premium gas and electric appliances is a beautiful, pressed metal splash back. Opposite the kitchen, the main family area is warm and inviting, large glass French doors filling the room with natural light, garden views and access to a lovely alfresco deck. There are two bedrooms, master with walk-in robe and ensuite, while a well-proportioned laundry with built-in cabinetry and linen press also hosts a second toilet. Additional highlights include reverse-cycle heating/cooling, solar panels feeding back into the grid, single carport, 6mx12m shed/garage with concrete floor, power and workshop, perfect for the tradie, handyman and hobbyist. There’s also additional storage at the shed’s rear plus attached garden shed, mains power and rainwater tanks.

Set away from the main home, the property’s original 1860s miner’s cottage with timber lined walls and cove ceilings has been thoughtfully restored, renovated and converted into a gorgeous guest cottage with bedroom, ensuite, sitting area and pot belly stove. This beautifully presented cottage delivers the perfect teenager’s retreat, extended family accommodation or potential BnB.

Bordering farmland and with a triangular shape that delivers dual road access, the property has no direct neighbours affording a tranquil, private aspect. The block is level grassland dotted with mature eucalypts and Peppercorn tree. The close proximity to Cairn Curran Reservoir will surely delight boating and water sport lovers. Historic Maldon and Newstead with their shops, schools and services are both an easy 10 minute drive while the larger regional hubs of Castlemaine and Daylesford are 20 and 30 minutes away respectively. A gorgeous permanent home or weekend retreat, either way, Cairn Cottage is the key to the good life.