The setting is a magical country dream: 200 acres of rolling farmland and orchards grazed by contented cows and watched over by plentiful bird life revelling in the parkland gardens. A property of this size offers something unique – each cottage sits in its own secret little valley or nook.

Apple Tree Cottage is pure English style, overlooking a peaceful lake; Lavender Fields is a stone cottage, exuding French provincial flavour; The Nest is aptly named for just one couple; and for a change of style, the very Mediterranean Villa could be your pick. If you love an Australian country feel, Gum Tree Cottage is charming. Whichever you choose, you can be sure of impeccable presentation by award-winning hosts, Mandy and Steve Adcock, who greet you professionally and then leave you to bask in the privacy of your own country retreat.

For the energetic, the McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley wine regions are easily reached and Adelaide is just 30 minutes away. But you will probably end up sleeping in, going for long walks and toasting marshmallows by your fire, perhaps being tempted out just for a special dining experience at a local restaurant.

Location: 32km or 30 minutes southeast of Adelaide. RA 60 G5. UBD 136 C16.
Facilities: Five self-contained retreats with one or two bedrooms, kitchen, dining, lounge, open fire, spa bath, AC, heating, private gardens. Full breakfast provisions provided. Visit this property's website