Within an hour's grasp of Melbourne, Ard Choille is described by the National Trust of Victoria as one of the 12 outstanding gardens of Mount Macedon. The grounds were curated for William McGregor, then Chairman of BHP, in 1890 to reflect his Scottish homeland; and now, 130 years on, the Birches, Elms, Oaks, and Firs of the garden are more established and distinct than ever. The true jewel of the garden is a rare 19th Century metal shade house classified by the National Trust; The fernery was manufactured in Britain and assembled on the gardens of Ard Choille in the 1890's and is the only one of its kind in Australia.
Perfectly situated on the northern side of Mount Macedon, the property presents glimpses over Hanging Rock and the farmland beyond. The well-appointed residence offers up to 7 bedrooms, all with ensuites and individual outlooks to the gardens. The beautiful accommodation is accompanied by multiple spacious living areas, a well-appointed kitchen featuring an AGA stove, library and formal dining room with open fireplaces and hardwood floors throughout.
Two guest cottages are a short walk from the main residence. Accessed via a separate entrance, the original buildings of the Stables and Pipers Cottage which are joined together, (albeit they are separately metered) and are rented on a short-term basis. Called the 'pipers cottage' as John Bruce (Mc Gregors piper) lived there, it's reported he would play his bag pipes for Mc Gregor whenever the mist arrived. These are perfect for an additional income stream or self-sufficient for guests staying short or long term.
This site offers the perfect blend of flat terraces for entertaining and family events, secret gardens for contemplation and picnics, boating on the various water features, and very low maintenance gardens without annuals and perennials. Furthermore, a natural spring provides ample fresh water for the main residence and surrounding garden. Set on 12.5 acres approximately (5.04 ha approx.), the gardens are of the utmost beauty.
The gardens of Ard Choille, are botanically and historically one of the best of the renowned Mount Macedon gardens, which as a group represents one of the most important and significant collections of Nineteenth Century gardens in Australia. This beautiful, peaceful lifestyle is situated a short drive to Mount Macedon village, surrounding regional attractions, Woodend railway station, and Braemar college. Melbourne's Tullamarine airport is a 45min drive.
For more information, please visit www.ardchoillegarden.com.au
Inspections by appointment.
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