Best Farm Stays Near Melbourne for a Country Weekend

Swap tram bells for kookaburras, city lights for starry skies, and inbox alerts for the blissful rhythm of country life. If you have been dreaming of a slow, stylish escape that puts you close to animals, farm-fresh produce, and wide-open paddocks, you are in luck. Victoria is sprinkled with charming farm stays less than a few hours from Melbourne, ranging from luxe vineyard retreats to hands-on, kid-friendly properties. This guide rounds up the best farm stays near Melbourne for a country weekend, with picks to suit couples, families, friends, and solo travellers who want nature without the long haul.

Whether you crave a romantic cottage among the vines, a pet-friendly stay where your dog can run free, or a working farm with daily feeding rounds, you will find it here. Expect practical tips, drive times, and nearby experiences that turn a simple weekend into a memory-maker.

How to Choose Your Farm Stay Near Melbourne

Farm stays come in many flavours. Use these pointers to match your escape to your style.

• Location and drive time: For a weekend, aim for 40 minutes to 2.5 hours from the CBD. Yarra Valley and Macedon Ranges are closest, Phillip Island and Gippsland are a comfortable two hours or so, and the Otways or High Country sit around three hours.
• Farm vibe: Do you want a working farm with daily chores and animal feeding, a quiet rural property with wildlife and orchard views, or a vineyard estate with cellar door access?
• Comfort level: Options range from self-contained cottages to boutique farm B&Bs and full-service estate hotels. Decide between rustic character and luxury extras like bathtubs, fireplaces, and on-site dining.
• Who is coming: Some properties are perfect for kids with paddock-to-plate activities. Others skew romantic and private. Many farm stays are either pet-friendly or strictly no pets due to livestock, so check the policy before you book.
• Seasonality: Winter brings cracking fires and misty mornings. Autumn delivers harvest festivals and stunning foliage. Spring is lambs, blossoms, and baby animals. Summer is long evenings and farm gate abundance.
• Activities: If you plan to tour wineries, book near Healesville, Coldstream, or Macedon. For beaches and wildlife, head toward Phillip Island or the Bellarine. For waterfalls and tall forests, the Black Spur and Gippsland are idyllic.

Top Farm Stays Near Melbourne

Below you will find a curated collection of farm stays that are easy to reach from Melbourne and big on rural charm. Drive times are approximate and depend on traffic.

Olinda Yarra Boutique Farmstay, Yering, Yarra Valley

• Drive time from Melbourne: about 60 minutes
• Style: Heritage homestead B&B and farm cottages on a historic property

Why book it:

• A classic Yarra Valley farm experience with beautiful grounds and a pastoral outlook
• Easy access to wineries, distilleries, and Healesville attractions
• Country-chic rooms that feel special for a weekend away

Good to know:

• Some rooms are part of the main homestead and others are in separate cottages
• Check pet and child policies for your chosen room type
• Breakfast provisions often feature local produce

Nearby highlights:

• Wine tasting in Coldstream and Yering
• Healesville Sanctuary for native wildlife
• Yarra Valley Dairy and Four Pillars Distillery

Best for: Couples and friends who want a scenic rural base with classic Yarra Valley appeal

Wiggley Bottom Farm, Healesville, Yarra Valley

• Drive time from Melbourne: about 75 minutes
• Style: Dog-friendly farm stay with cottages and a laid-back, boutique atmosphere

Why book it:

• A rare farm stay that genuinely welcomes dogs
• Small-scale, stylish, and relaxed with friendly farm animals and vineyard views
• Proximity to Healesville eateries and cellar doors

Good to know:

• Choose from cottage or apartment-style options
• Book ahead on peak weekends and holiday periods
• Pets should be supervised near livestock

Nearby highlights:

• Healesville’s cafes and distilleries
• Redwood Forest in Warburton and Maroondah Reservoir Park
• Local farm gates and seasonal produce markets

Best for: Couples or small groups who want to bring the dog and keep it chic

The Farmhouse at Meletos, Coldstream, Yarra Valley

• Drive time from Melbourne: about 60 minutes
• Style: Boutique hotel on a celebrated vineyard and orchard estate

Why book it:

• Luxe rooms with views across vines and gardens
• On-site dining at Meletos and easy access to Stones of the Yarra Valley
• Photogenic architecture and interiors that feel like a northern Italian country escape

Good to know:

• This is an agritourism stay on a vineyard rather than a hands-on animal farm
• Book well in advance for weekends and event seasons
• Ask about packages that combine dining, tasting, and accommodation

Nearby highlights:

• Cellar doors in Coldstream and Yarra Glen
• Hot air balloon flights over the valley
• Cycling between wineries and farm gates

Best for: Romantic weekends and special-occasion escapes with culinary focus

Glenlowren, Dixons Creek, Yarra Valley

• Drive time from Melbourne: about 75 minutes
• Style: Luxury B&B and self-contained accommodation on a working farm

Why book it:

• Secluded setting on a large rural property with dam, gardens, and grazing cattle
• Self-contained options for privacy, space, and lazy breakfasts
• Tranquil walking on-site and easy access to Dixons Creek wineries

Good to know:

• Options vary from suites to full houses, ideal for couples or small groups
• Breakfast provisions often spotlight local produce
• Very peaceful after dark, so bring what you need for evenings in

Nearby highlights:

• Wineries along Melba Highway
• Toolangi State Forest walks
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie for a sweet stop

Best for: Quiet-seeking couples and friends who value space, views, and farm calm

Chestnut Glade, Narbethong, Black Spur Region

• Drive time from Melbourne: about 90 to 110 minutes
• Style: Self-contained cottages set in a chestnut orchard

Why book it:

• Enchanting orchard setting with seasonal chestnut harvest
• Close to towering mountain ash forests along the Black Spur
• Private cottages with wood fires for a snug, woodland vibe

Good to know:

• Not a traditional animal farm, but a rural orchard with serene grounds
• Best in autumn for chestnut season and in winter for misty forest walks
• Marysville and Lake Mountain are short drives away

Nearby highlights:

• The Black Spur scenic drive
• Steavenson Falls and Marysville
• Snow play at Lake Mountain in winter

Best for: Nature lovers and couples who want forest walks and orchard serenity

The Cottage at Bolobek, Macedon Ranges

• Drive time from Melbourne: about 60 to 75 minutes
• Style: High-end cottage on a historic working property with renowned gardens

Why book it:

• A rare chance to stay on one of the region’s most storied rural estates
• Exquisite gardens and a refined country interior
• Close to Hanging Rock and top Macedon wineries

Good to know:

• Suits design and garden enthusiasts who value privacy and polish
• Garden access and seasonal openings vary, check ahead
• Limited capacity, book early for peak foliage seasons

Nearby highlights:

• Hanging Rock walks and picnic grounds
• Kyneton’s Piper Street dining
• Trentham Falls and cool-climate wineries

Best for: Elegant country weekends with a focus on gardens, wine, and design

Flowerdale Estate, Strath Creek and Valley of a Thousand Hills

• Drive time from Melbourne: about 80 to 90 minutes
• Style: Historic homestead hotel on a large rural estate

Why book it:

• Traditional country hospitality with sweeping lawns and hills
• On-site dining, gardens, and tranquil pastoral views
• A gentle farm feel without roughing it

Good to know:

• Good for groups and events as well as couples’ weekends
• Not a hands-on farm experience, more a classic country estate
• Bring walking shoes for on-property strolls

Nearby highlights:

• Kinglake National Park trails
• Fly fishing and scenic drives
• Country pubs and produce in nearby towns

Best for: Relaxed getaways with easy comforts and countryside views

Marnong Estate, Mickleham

• Drive time from Melbourne: about 35 to 45 minutes
• Style: Vineyard and farm estate with contemporary accommodation

Why book it:

• The closest rural estate experience to the CBD and airport
• Wine, dining, and rolling paddocks in one easy stop
• Ideal for short stays where you want maximum country feel with minimal drive

Good to know:

• Rooms range from homestead suites to contemporary accommodations
• This is a vineyard and farm blend, perfect for food and wine lovers
• Great for a spontaneous Friday night check-in and Sunday check-out

Nearby highlights:

• Touring the Macedon Ranges and Sunbury wine regions
• Woodlands Historic Park and plane spotting near the airport
• Spa and golf options within an easy drive

Best for: Time-poor travellers who still want a real country weekend

Bimbadeen Farm Retreat, Phillip Island

• Drive time from Melbourne: about 120 to 140 minutes
• Style: Eco-friendly cottages on a working beef farm

Why book it:

• Genuine farm activities and open paddocks on Phillip Island
• Combine farm life with beaches, penguin parades, and seaside dining
• Cottages are private with country views and sunset light

Good to know:

• Book farm tours or experiences when available
• Family-friendly, but also peaceful for couples out of school holidays
• Bring layers for coastal breezes

Nearby highlights:

• Penguin Parade and Koala Conservation Reserve
• Surf beaches and coastal walks
• Farm gates and local produce on the island

Best for: Families and nature lovers who want wildlife plus a farm setting

Rivendell Farm Cottages, Tarra Valley, Gippsland

• Drive time from Melbourne: about 150 minutes
• Style: Self-contained cottages on a rural property with animals and river access

Why book it:

• Old-school country charm with forested valleys and abundant birdlife
• Close to Tarra-Bulga National Park’s fern gullies and suspension bridge
• Space to disconnect, roam, and reset

Good to know:

• Ideal for those who want to cook and settle in for the weekend
• Simple, comfortable stays with fresh air and starry skies
• Best for travellers who love nature walks and quiet

Nearby highlights:

• Tarra-Bulga National Park
• Ninety Mile Beach day trips
• Gippsland farm gates and cheesemakers

Best for: Slow travellers, families, and walkers who want nature first

Johanna River Farm and Cottages, Great Ocean Road Hinterland

• Drive time from Melbourne: about 210 to 240 minutes
• Style: Working farm with cottages overlooking paddocks and the Southern Ocean

Why book it:

• Classic Australian farm experience with sheep, cattle, and expansive views
• Combine a farm stay with the Great Ocean Road’s beaches and rainforest
• Wonderful stargazing and remote tranquility

Good to know:

• A longer drive, but perfect for a long weekend or if you can leave early Friday
• Self-catering is the go, with farm gates in nearby towns
• Weather shifts quickly along the coast, pack for all conditions

Nearby highlights:

• Great Otway National Park walks and waterfalls
• Johanna Beach and the Great Ocean Walk segments
• Timboon’s distillery and dairies

Best for: Scenic seekers and couples who love remote coastal country

Cosy Tents, Daylesford Region

• Drive time from Melbourne: about 90 minutes
• Style: Glamping on rural land with a boutique camping vibe

Why book it:

• Romantic, fuss-free glamping with proper beds, luxe linen, and fire pits
• Close to Daylesford’s spa culture and foodie scene
• Starry skies, simple pleasures, and a gentle farm-adjacent feel

Good to know:

• Not an animal farm, but a rural glamping property among paddocks
• Facilities are elevated but still camping in spirit
• Book early for weekend dates and bring warm layers for nights

Nearby highlights:

• Hepburn Bathhouse and Mineral Springs
• Lake Daylesford walks
• Trentham and Kyneton for country dining

Best for: Couples who want outdoorsy ambience with creature comforts

Best Regions for Farm Stays Near Melbourne

If you prefer to choose your destination first, here are the top regions and what they deliver.

Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

• Distance: about 1 to 1.5 hours
• Why go: Victoria’s premier wine region with boutique farm stays, cellar doors, and abundant produce. Think rolling vines, resident roos, and country lanes.
• Who it suits: Food and wine lovers, couples, and families wanting shorter drives.
• Don’t miss: Healesville Sanctuary, Four Pillars Distillery, scenic forest drives on the Black Spur.

Top stay styles:

• Boutique vineyard hotels like The Farmhouse at Meletos
• Pet-friendly farm stays such as Wiggley Bottom Farm
• Heritage homestead B&Bs like Olinda Yarra
• Secluded rural retreats like Glenlowren

Macedon Ranges and Daylesford

• Distance: about 1 to 1.5 hours
• Why go: Cool-climate wines, mineral springs, and autumn foliage. It is a region made for slow dining, long walks, and antiques hunting.
• Who it suits: Couples and friends seeking style, spas, and refined country living.
• Don’t miss: Hanging Rock, Piper Street in Kyneton, Hepburn mineral baths.

Top stay styles:

• Polished garden estates like The Cottage at Bolobek
• Rural glamping experiences near Daylesford
• Country estates with on-site dining such as Flowerdale Estate

Phillip Island and Western Port

• Distance: about 2 to 2.5 hours
• Why go: Wildlife wonders and ocean breezes paired with family-friendly farms.
• Who it suits: Families, surfers, and anyone who wants both paddocks and penguins.
• Don’t miss: Penguin Parade, coastal boardwalks, and koala reserves.

Top stay styles:

• Working beef farms with eco cottages like Bimbadeen
• Coastal farm retreats with sea views in surrounding districts

Gippsland and Tarra Valley

• Distance: about 2 to 3 hours
• Why go: Fern gullies, mountain rivers, and a slower, simpler rhythm.
• Who it suits: Nature lovers and walkers who love national parks and quiet nights.
• Don’t miss: Tarra-Bulga National Park and long empty beaches of the Ninety Mile.

Top stay styles:

• Classic farm cottages on rivers and forest edges
• Self-contained stays ideal for DIY meals and long hikes

Great Ocean Road Hinterland

• Distance: about 3 to 3.5 hours
• Why go: The drama of the coast with the stillness of countryside just inland.
• Who it suits: Road-trippers, photographers, and couples who want big views.
• Don’t miss: Waterfalls in the Otways, Great Ocean Walk segments, Timboon’s produce trail.

Top stay styles:

• Working farms with ocean vistas and cozy cottages
• Remote retreats that reward early bookings and longer stays

Themed Picks: Find Your Perfect Match

Short on time or very specific about what you want? Start here.

• Closest country-feel escape to Melbourne: Marnong Estate
• Best for wine lovers: The Farmhouse at Meletos or Olinda Yarra with cellar doors nearby
• Best for dog owners: Wiggley Bottom Farm
• Best for garden lovers: The Cottage at Bolobek
• Best for kids and wildlife combo: Bimbadeen on Phillip Island
• Best for forest vibes: Chestnut Glade near the Black Spur
• Best for complete peace: Glenlowren or Rivendell Farm Cottages
• Best for seaside and farm: Johanna River Farm and Cottages

What to Do on a Farm Weekend

You can make your farm stay as active or as laid-back as you like. Here are ideas to build your itinerary.

• Taste the region: Follow a self-guided farm gate trail to pick up cheeses, olives, seasonal fruit, honey, and small-batch ciders. Many cellar doors offer platters sourced from nearby farms.
• Farm experiences: Ask about animal feeding, egg collecting, orchard walks, or farm tours. Some stays offer seasonal activities like chestnut picking or lamb feeding.
• Walks and wildlife: Plan an early morning wander to spot kangaroos, wombats, and birdlife. Nearby national parks and forest reserves often have beginner-friendly tracks.
• Fireside evenings: Bring a great book, a bottle of local wine, and a small cheese haul. If your cottage has a wood fire, arrive before sunset to get it going.
• Wellness time: In Daylesford, book mineral spa sessions. In the Yarra, try sunrise ballooning. On Phillip Island, unwind with beach walks and salt air.
• Market mornings: Country farmers markets often run on Saturdays or Sundays. It is the tastiest way to meet producers and sample the region.

Practical Tips for Booking and Planning

A little preparation helps you trade city stress for country ease.

• Book ahead for weekends: Popular farm stays book out quickly, especially during school holidays and vintage season. Two to six weeks notice is wise, more for long weekends.
• Check what is included: Breakfast provisions, firewood, and farm experiences vary. Confirm if you need to bring basics like milk, oil, salt, and coffee.
• Pet policies: Never assume pets are allowed. Working farms often have livestock and resident dogs. If pets are permitted, expect rules about leashes and areas.
• Respect the land: Stick to marked areas, close gates, and follow host guidance. Drones, campfires, and foraging are often restricted.
• Pack for changeable weather: Rural regions cool quickly at night, even in summer. Layers, sturdy shoes, and a rain jacket are smart choices.
• Consider travel timings: Leave Friday afternoon to arrive before dark. Rural roads can be unlit and wildlife is more active at dusk.
• Bring cash or card for farm gate honesty boxes: Many farm stalls are moving to tap-and-go, but a few remain cash-only.

Sample Weekend Itineraries

Use these ready-made outlines to get the most out of your country weekend.

Romantic Yarra Valley Weekend

• Friday: Drive up after work and check into The Farmhouse at Meletos or Olinda Yarra. Sunset walk through the vines or along the river flats. Dinner on-site or at a nearby bistro.
• Saturday: Leisurely breakfast, then cellar door hopping. Stop at Yarra Valley Dairy and Four Pillars. Late afternoon cheese platter back at your stay, then soak up the stars.
• Sunday: Healesville Sanctuary for a wildlife fix, then a scenic route home via the Black Spur or Warburton.

Family Farm and Penguins, Phillip Island

• Friday: Arrive at Bimbadeen Farm Retreat and settle into your eco cottage. Evening wildlife spotting on the property.
• Saturday: Morning farm tour if available. Afternoon beach time, then Penguin Parade. Fish and chips for a relaxed dinner.
• Sunday: Koala Conservation Reserve, then a farm gate stop for local produce on the way home.

Forest and Falls, Black Spur and Marysville

• Friday: Check into Chestnut Glade for a fireside night in.
• Saturday: Drive the Black Spur, then hike to Steavenson Falls. Coffee in Marysville. Back to your cottage for a quiet evening among the trees.
• Sunday: Optional Lake Mountain nature walks in warmer months. Scenic drive home with a bakery stop.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How far are most farm stays from Melbourne?

  • Many are between 45 minutes and 2 hours, with a handful of special stays around 3 hours that suit a long weekend.

• Are farm stays suitable for young kids?

  • Many are. Choose places that advertise animal feeding and family facilities. Always supervise kids around animals, dams, and farm equipment.

• What is the best time of year to go?

  • Every season shines. Autumn brings harvest and colour, winter offers roaring fires and low crowds, spring is lambs and blossoms, and summer is markets and long evenings.

• Do I need a 4WD?

  • No, most farm stays have sealed access or well-maintained gravel. Check if your chosen property recommends any special vehicle considerations.

• Can I visit wineries without a designated driver?

  • Many companies offer Yarra Valley and Macedon Ranges wine tours with pick-up from accommodations. Book in advance.

Responsible and Respectful Farm Travel

Farm stays are often family homes and working properties. A few simple habits keep hosts and guests happy.

• Close gates and follow farm signage
• Keep noise low after dark
• Dispose of rubbish properly and recycle where possible
• Do not feed animals without permission
• Leave the property as you found it and report any accidental damage

Booking Checklist

Before you hit confirm, run through this quick list.

1. Drive time fits your weekend and arrival before dark
2. Pet and child policies match your group
3. Heating or cooling for the season
4. Breakfast provisions or local cafes noted
5. Cooking facilities checked, plus BBQ or fire pit if you plan to grill
6. Activities and nearby sights mapped, with one or two meal bookings
7. Farm experiences reserved where offered

Final Thoughts

A farm stay near Melbourne gives you the best of both worlds. In a single weekend you can wake to magpies and mist, wander vineyards and forest tracks, gather picnic supplies from farm gates, and head home feeling like you have been away for a week. From the orchard charm of Chestnut Glade to the luxe vineyard suites of Meletos, the pet-friendly paddocks of Wiggley Bottom Farm, and the hands-on fun at Bimbadeen, each of these stays offers a different door into Victorian country life.

Pick the region that calls to you, book early for weekends, and pack a relaxed pace. With a little planning and a lot of fresh air, your next country weekend will be the reset you have been craving.