The setting for these charming rammed limestone and cedar cottages is magical. Each cottage sits on a rise, facing Big Brook Forest – a perfect vantage point from which to sit back and watch the varied bird life that thrives in the area.

Inside these well-appointed cottages, the style is country with a contemporary overtone, which will suit all those who want their country without froufrou lace. Hosts Judy and Chris Goldfinch are justly proud of the cottages' limestone rammed earth, which stays cool in summer and retains the log fire's warmth in winter. The feel is cosy and homey, with a full kitchen for cooking up country feasts. The properties are new, with the quality evident in every appointment, including the spacious bathrooms.

Big Brook Cottages opened their brand new Bed & Breakfast wing in December 2006. Finished to the same high standard as their cottages, there are two ensuite bedrooms available, one with a two-person corner spa bath. So whether you are looking for self-contained cottage accommodation or B&B style rooms in their own private wing, Big Brook Retreat offers a choice.

This is the perfect base to explore Pemberton, including the famous karri forests. But the karri is just the backdrop to a diverse region, which offers food and wine experiences, canoeing, bushwalks (including in the forest right in front of your cottage), swimming at Big Brook Dam, golfing and tennis. And if you want to walk the Bibbulmun Track (the longest walking trail in Australia), this is an ideal spot to be based.

Location: 330km or 41/2 hours south of Perth. RA 82 J3. CR UBD 6 F3.
Facilities: Two one-bedroom spa cottages and two two-bedroom cottages, each with queen beds (one with two singles). Lounge (fire, TV, DVD, CD), dining, full kitchen, BBQ. Self-catering. Visit this property's website