Acre of Roses, 1860

Enchanting, spellbinding, captivating – words often used by guests to describe Acre of Roses, a five-star wellness retreat that was voted one of Good Weekend’s best weekends away in Australia. Nestled on a working micro-flower farm of heritage roses and flowers in the pretty township of Trentham, escape to this restorative sanctuary and stay in historic, luxury accommodation.

The 1860s timber miner’s cottage, originally owned by foundry worker Ernie Elliot – who also maintained a beautiful garden on the property – was faithfully restored in 2018 by co-host and local builder Rob, to highlight its period beauty while adding all modern conveniences needed for a luxurious getaway. Sandy, Rob’s partner, host and the creative mind behind Acre of Roses, worked alongside interior stylist Belle Hemming to give the cottage its character, curated with great attention to detail.

Acre of Roses is now an internationally-renowned destination, featured in Country Style Magazine, Country Homes & Interiors UK, Delicious Magazine, and The Design Files, among many others. Unique and magical, it’s a peaceful haven, and sheer delight for the senses.

The ‘Chinoiserie’ room, named for its delicate furnishings and Asian influences, features a queen bed and French doors that open to a private sitting area on the verandah. The ‘Fornasetti’ room, named after its Piero Fornasetti mural, has a king bed, with French doors opening to a verandah and swing chair. Beds are dressed with Cultiver linen, Bemboka blankets, and feather down duvets. If further accommodation is required, there’s also a cosy snug with sofa that converts to a comfortable queen bed.

Pure indulgence awaits in the cottage’s bathroom. A cast iron, claw foot bath sits under a long bay window, with views of the landscaped Silver Garden. Enjoy a therapeutic soak with luxury bath salts, and shower tablets with essential oils provide an aromatherapy steam experience. Afterwards, wrap yourself in one of the thick fluffy bathrobes provided, slip on your complimentary slippers, and relax.

The cottage’s kitchen features professional cooking equipment, a commercial coffee machine, and Acre of Roses’ in-house chef provides complimentary ingredients for you to use – including organic spices, baking basics and cooking essentials. Whip up a simple omelette, or create more masterful gourmet delights using seasonal produce and herbs from the kitchen potager gardens.

Original rustic elements compliment vintage wing chairs, gorgeous floral fabrics and textured linens, pot belly stove, artworks and vintage decor, also styled by Belle Hemming. Despite its simpler feel, all luxury creature comforts can be found, and the bathroom features a gentle copper rainwater shower. Open up the French doors and relax outside, overlooking the kitchen potager garden. A complimentary continental breakfast is included; and your furry friend is also welcome to stay with you in The Potting Shed.

Guests will delight in the additional amenities that make Acre of Roses an extra special place to stay. There’s an open-air theatre room, and spa pavilion with authentic cedar hot tub, filled with heated pure rainwater and mineral salts. Complimentary spa refreshments of herbal tea and probiotic kefir are provided, along with speakers to enjoy listening to Acre of Roses’ customised Spotify playlists.

Of course, the highlight is the rose farm, heady with the scent of more than 1,500 organically and sustainably-grown heritage rose bushes, and you’re free to wander through this incredible sensory garden. It’s no wonder couples choose to elope here, with hosts Sandy and Rob having witnessed many special unions.