Shepherds Hill Cottage

A heritage miner’s cottage for slow stays, families and romantic escapes

Shepherds Hill Cottage is a charming original miner’s cottage set on our working alpaca farm in Lauriston, a quiet historic pocket of the Victoria’s Goldfields.

Lovingly restored over two years by your hosts, Liz and Keith, the Cottage retains many of its original features – including the original windows and doors, timber floorboards, high ceilings and rustic brick fireplace – while offering the comfort and ease of a modern country stay.

Set within its own private garden and located beside the alpaca nursery paddock, the Cottage is a peaceful retreat where days unfold slowly. In autumn, guests may even witness the arrival of crias (baby alpacas), adding a special sense of connection to life on the farm.

Two alpacas grazing in the paddock at Shepherds Hill Cottage, Lauriston
Front view of Shepherds Hill Cottage featuring white picket fence and blooming wisteria

The Space

Sleeping up to four guests, the Cottage is well suited to couples, small families or friends travelling together. There are two bedrooms – a main bedroom with king bed and a second bedroom with queen bed – each fitted with plush alpaca quilts, pillows and throws, along with electric blankets for the cooler months.

The bathroom blends old and new, featuring a deep soaking bath beneath a leadlight window, original vanity and tapware, and complimentary hair and body products for your stay.

The fully equipped farmhouse kitchen has been designed in sympathy with the Cottage’s character while offering everything you need to prepare meals with ease. It includes a Belling range cooker, Bosch appliances, ceramic farmhouse sink and De’Longhi coffee machine. A generous breakfast is supplied for your first morning, including local sourdough and preserves, home-laid eggs, milk, and butter, along with teas and freshly roasted Coffee Supreme beans.

Next to the kitchen is a dedicated dining area and sunroom with comfortable armchairs overlooking the paddocks – a quiet spot for morning coffee or an afternoon read. The lounge room centres around a Nectre wood-burning heater set within the original brick fireplace. Settle in with a glass of wine, a movie or a board game, wrapped in luxurious alpaca throws. A small library of books is also provided for slower afternoons indoors.

Step outside and explore five acres of your own country gardens. Alpacas graze nearby, while kangaroos, rabbits and abundant birdlife are regular visitors. With patience, you may also spot hares, koalas, owls, echidnas, possums or bandicoots – reminders of the rich wildlife that calls this farm home.

Address

419a Shepherds Hill Road
Lauriston VIC 3444