Pokolbin Cottages

Pokolbin Cottages sits on bushland just off Hermitage Road, with six self-contained cottages that sleep two to twelve guests each and can be booked one at a time or as a whole property of up to 46. Days centre on the swimming pool and the common room, with its open fire, pool table and dartboard. Evenings move to the outdoor firepits and built-in barbecues scattered through the grounds, where fruit trees and herb gardens grow.

Full kitchens and a long dining table make the four-bedroom Bushland Cottage a good base for a group gathering over breakfast before a day of cellar-door visits. It is a two-minute walk to Iron Bark Hill Brewery and Bistro, and the Hermitage Road cycleway and walking track start right at the door. There is no staffed reception: management prepares each cottage ahead of arrival and can arrange groceries or meals in the fridge, so confirm your arrival details when you book.