FAQ

  • How many guests can the chalet accommodate?

    The chalet accommodates up to 4 guests across 2 bedrooms, each with its own private ensuite with shower-only facilities. A third bathroom with a shower is located in the spa pavilion, ideal for guests enjoying the outdoor area.

  • Who is the chalet suitable for?

    Woodlands Chalet is best suited to couples, small groups, or families with older children seeking a peaceful nature retreat. Due to the elevated decksteps, and natural bush setting, it may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility or very young children.

    We recommend the chalet for guests who are comfortable with light walking, stairs, and the occasional visit from curious wildlife—perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature in comfort and stillness.

  • How do we get to the chalet from Perth?

    The chalet is located in the Porongurup Ranges, just under 4 hours’ drive south of Perth via Albany Highway. You’ll pass through charming towns like WilliamsKojonup, and Mount Barker, before arriving in the Porongurups. Full directions are sent upon booking.

    All the journey is on tar-road and only the last 600m is the gravel driveway to the hidden chalet in the gumtrees.

  • Are there any restaurants or cafés nearby?

    Yes—local favourites include:
    • Maleeya’s Thai Café (authentic Thai in a forest garden)
    • Karribank Hotel (rustic pub dining)
    • Porongurup Tea Rooms (light meals, coffee, and cakes)

    Nearby wineries like Castle Rock EstateDuke’s Vineyard, and Ironwood Estate offer tastings—and at Ironwood, cheese platters with a view. For more options, visit Mount Barker (20 mins) or Albany (35–40 mins), which offer harbourfront dining, wine bars, and seasonal menus.

  • Is there a dam on the property?

    Yes—there is an unfenced open dam located on the property, a short distance from the chalet. While it adds to the natural beauty of the surroundings, it is important to note that the area is not suitable for swimming and may pose a risk to young children or guests with limited mobility.

  • What kind of wildlife might we see?

    The chalet is surrounded by native bushland, offering a front-row seat to the rhythms of the wild. You may see kangaroos grazing near the deck, hear boobook owls at night, and spot vibrant birdlife including wrens, robins, and black cockatoos. On quiet walks, you might even catch a glimpse of a quenda or echidna rustling through the undergrowth.

    As with any natural setting, insects, spiders, geckos, and occasionally snakes may be encountered. Snakes are generally shy and will slither away if left undisturbed, but we ask guests to take care when walking through the bush and to keep doors closed at night to minimise unexpected visitors.

  • What’s included in the kitchen?

    The kitchen is thoughtfully appointed for slow, beautiful living. You'll find a full-size fridgefan-forced gas ovenmicrowave, and elegant DeLonghi kettle and toaster, along with chef-quality cookware and knivescutlery, crockery, glassware, and cheese platters with a cheese knife.

    We also provide a selection of Australian Madura teasNespresso coffee podssugarsalt and pepper, and cooking oil—little touches to make you feel at home from the very first cup.

  • Is the wood heater available year-round?

    The chalet includes a slow-combustion wood heater, perfect for cosy winter nights. However, due to fire bans (typically November–April) and neighbouring termite-sensitive properties, we do not supply firewood. Guests are welcome to bring dry, split wood outside fire ban periods.

    For year-round comfort, each room includes electric blanketsfans, and oil heaters.

  • Is there a grocery store nearby?

    Yes. The nearest grocery stores are in Mount Barker (20 minutes away), including IGAFoodland, a bakery, and a bottle shop. Most shops close by 5–6pm, so we recommend shopping earlier in the day. Essentials such as tea, coffee, oil, salt, pepper, and sugar are already provided.

  • What outdoor spaces are available?

    The chalet features an expansive timber deck with panoramic views of the Porongurup Ranges, plus a Weber Baby Q barbecue and comfortable outdoor furnishings—perfect for alfresco meals, morning coffees, or sunset drinks surrounded by nature.

  • Is there a spa at the chalet?

    Yes—our indoor spa pavilion is a guest favourite. Heated to 38°C, it features floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the surrounding forest and granite peaks. A third bathroom with a shower is located within the pavilion for your convenience.

  • Do you have Wi-Fi or phone reception?

    Yes. The chalet is equipped with high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi, and mobile reception is available depending on your service provider.

  • Can we host an event or photoshoot at the chalet?

    Woodlands Chalet is a peaceful retreat designed for rest, connection, and appreciation of the natural surrounds.

    Parties, large gatherings, and commercial photoshoots are not permitted without prior written approval. If you’re planning something special—like an elopement, styled shoot, or small event—please contact us in advance to discuss your plans. We’re happy to consider requests that align with the spirit of the property.

  • Why aren’t glass wine glasses provided?

    To ensure the safety of our guests and protect the natural surrounds, we’ve chosen not to provide traditional glass wine glasses. With the spa paviliontimber deck, and outdoor areas, broken glass can pose a risk to both guests and wildlife.

    Instead, we provide high-quality stainless steel wine and other non-glass glasses, along with a wine cooler and an ice bucket (BYO ice)—so you can still enjoy a perfectly chilled glass in safety and style. You're welcome to bring your own glassware for indoor use if you prefer.