House in St Leonards VIC, VIC

Lower Bluff Hideaway. Pets welcome inside, 4 min stroll to beach & Ramsar site

Lower Bluff Hideaway. Pets welcome inside, 4 min stroll to beach & Ramsar site

Photo gallery for Lower Bluff Hideaway. Pets welcome inside, 4 min stroll to beach & Ramsar site

Beach
Looking down driveway to Ord St.
Ord St from The Hideaway with Edwards Point reserve at the end of the street
A short  stroll from the Hideaway to Millys dog social beach
Rear garden towards house

Overview of Lower Bluff Hideaway. Pets welcome inside, 4 min stroll to beach & Ramsar site

9.8 out of 10 Exceptional
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 7130 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Check out the area

St Leonards VIC, VIC
  • Popular LocationSt Leonards Beach6 min walk
  • Popular LocationQueenscliff Hotel20 min drive
  • Popular LocationQueenscliff Ferry21 min drive
  • AirportMelbourne, VIC (MEB-Essendon)103 min drive

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 7)

Bedroom 1

1 Double Bed and 1 Single Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden

About this property

Lower Bluff Hideaway. Pets welcome inside, 4 min stroll to beach & Ramsar site


Home:
Lower Bluff Hideaway has a private 1/4 acre garden setting, and well behaved pets are welcome inside. A short stroll down unmade tree lined road to Milly's dog social beach and the Edwards Point Ramsar bird sanctuary circling Swan bay at the end of our street. A perfect spot to relax and explore.
This welcoming pet friendly beach house is tucked away in the Lower Bluff, characterised by its unique unsealed ti-tree lined streets and pathways, it will suit couples, small families, friends and their pets.
Amenities include a smart TV and free Wi Fi. We have just finished major renovations and maintenance (see pics of new kitchen-lounge area .) These renovations include, custom kitchen cabinets and appliances, Induction cookware, a slightly larger kitchen/ living area, repainting, fencing repairs and a major garden makeover. Updated facilities include new Induction cooktop, Pyrolitic oven, Rangehood, Dish washer, custom recycled Messmate cabinetry with stone benchtops and a large reverse cycle Air Con. Roof plumbing and electricals have also been updated including a new electrical compliance certificate

The house is situated on a large treed/garden block; discreetly screened from the roadway; with north facing garden views; and the home is spacious, light and airy.
Fully fenced and gated this ¼ acre block provides a secure and spacious retreat for guests and their pets.
The open plan living/dining/kitchen area is the hub of the house where guests share relaxed meals, watch movies or talk late into the night on the comfy lounge seating. New reverse cycle Air con for excellent climate comfort supplemented in cooler weather by a cosy, central, slow combustion wood fire. The living /dining area is a great place for sharing meals/conversation or playing table games with family and friends.Take time out to read a book, connect, watch DVD's or movies thru SBS on demand. There is an 8 seater recycled Blackwood dining table and custom made Messmate dining chairs in the dining area. Leading from this blue room custom made French doors open to the sun deck.
The renovated kitchen is integrated into the living area so that the cook is part and parcel of house activities. Ample kitchen storage is well stocked with crockery, glassware and a wide selection of mixing/salad bowls, with a similarly large selection of kitchen utensils. All cleaning and maintenance is performed by us personally.

Pets:
As pet lovers and owners we welcome up to 2 pets per booking on our property, but require cats to be kept inside as we encourage birds into our garden. There are roofed undercover areas outside suitable for kennels, pet beds, and feed bowls. We are also amenable to house trained pets being inside on their own beds but we insist that they not be on house beds or furniture. There are numerous walks, dog off lead parkland, beaches and play areas to enjoy at either end of our street.

Location:
Lower Bluff Hideaway provides a unique peaceful bush meets sea experience away from the suburban uptown St Leonards streetscape. It is a pleasant walk/ride along the foreshore or a short drive to the main street. St Leonards township is situated on the south western edge of Port Phillip bay on the Bellarine Peninsula an area which is fast becoming a gourmet food and wine destination.
From the front gate, take a 250metres walk in either direction along pedestrian friendly nature strips and pathways to enjoy Edwards Point Ramsar Nature Reserve, uncrowded child/pet friendly beaches, off lead dog and play parkland, the Yacht club - launch ramp and cafe, and picnic tables beside the waters edge.
Holiday adventures begin with a short stroll to the beach or trek along the tree lined path through Edwards Point Reserve where bird life abounds. Picnic, swim and paddle in the many secluded foreshore spots along the unrivalled undisturbed Port Phillip bay beach that stretches all the way to Swan Bay, with views of Queenscliff in the distance. This area is particularly notable for birdwatchers and kayakers as it is a breeding ground for an abundance of native bird and aquatic life. It also provides a weather protected bay for paddling exploration.

Sleeping:
There are 2 comfortable bedrooms inside the main part of the house with a sleepout bedroom attached at the rear.
Bedroom 1: Double Bed with bedside tables and lamps. Large Antique wardrobe with plenty of clothes hanging and drawer storage. Cork tile floor.
Bedroom 2: Large room with Queen bed, generous built in storage, reading lights and insect screened french doors facing north, cork tile floor.
Bedroom 3: Sleep-out - separated from main rooms though connected under common roof. Double bed suitable for couple, plus single bed.

Sea fun and fish:
Though the beaches of the lower bluff are among the safest and best on Port Phillip bay they remain largely unpopulated. Launching small paddle/sail craft is easily accomplished along our local beachfront with ramp facilities for larger craft at the local yacht club around the corner and St Leonards boat ramp nearby. St Leonards is a premier Port Phillip bay fishing destination, noted in particular for its Whiting, Calamari, Snapper, Flathead, Gummy Shark, Snook and Garfish. Walking/cycling trails on the foreshore and adjacent to Port Phillip bay head both north and south from either end of the street.

Eat/wine/dine:
The Bellarine Peninsula is now a noted foodie Hub. Within 15klms are numerous wineries with attached restaurants and cafes. The siting of Jack Rabbit and opposite Terindah Estate winery/cafe/restaurants facing North across Corio Bay is recommended for the views,tucker and the wine.
Many delicious seafood dinners have been enjoyed at this house and you are welcome to keep up the tradition - enjoy a catch of local whiting, snapper, flathead or calamari.
The St Leonards township has cafes, coffee, fish and chips, pub, and a new IGA supermarket with bottle shop and a good selection of beers and local wines.
For those who want to further sample the local seafood, there is nothing quite like Portarlington mussels for which you will find a number of recipes in the house cookbook collection.
In the surrounding area there is plenty of speciality produce including olive oil, and wine. The Food Barn close by has meats, dairy goods, vegetables and bread in addition to Tuckerberry farm self pick blueberries and strawberries.
The cafes, cuisine and harbour of Queenscliff are 14ks away along with the surf beaches of Point Lonsdale and Ocean Grove. (Check out our housebook for more detail on local food/wine/dining).

Little extras:
A selection of leaf and bag teas provided. There is an open pantry and cupboard stocked with basic condiments, sauces, spices and sundry foodstuff for guests use on a replace as necessary basis. Kitchen / laundry cleaning products, toilet paper and cleaner all provided.

Eco-Friendly:
The East West orientation of Lower Bluff Hideaway, extensive gardens and North facing windows ensures natural light and air into the house. Furniture throughout the house is ergonomic, comfortable and includes custom designs showcasing recycled native timbers, natural oil/wax finishes and recycled plastic chair forms. The placement of window and door openings enables cross breezes in summer to aid refreshment and cooling. There is a 1000Litre fresh water rain water tank for general use and as an additional source for garden water. A selection of herbs and aromatics such as rosemary, vietnamese mint, thyme, sage, bay leaves, basil, parsley and lavender are provided seasonly in pots or grown in the garden. Inside the house low energy lighting and natural oil/wax finishes are used throughout.

What to enjoy:

Peace and quiet of the lower bluff
Ambling along unmade roads and pathways
Picnics and swimming
The noted Edwards Point Ramsar bird sanctuary.
Trekking thru Edwards Point reserve to Swan Bay.
Biking, kayaking and sailing.
Spotting the resident white-faced herons and oyster catchers on our local beach
Fishing from pier, beach, canoe or boat
Sighting seals and dolphins
Numerous opportunities for dog play and walking close by
Golf at St Leonards or Portarlington
Local food and wine
St Leonards village in the heart of the Bellarine Peninsula without the hustle and bustle of Sorrento or the Surfcoast.

What to bring:

Your own towels and linen
Your pets bed
Doona's, pillows, blankets and supplementary towels supplied

Further info:

Kindling and box of firewood supplied
Leave as found cleaning policy or $150 charge applies
Our tariffs are all inclusive for 4 people eg 4 friends or 2 adults with 2 children

Property manager

David Burke & Christine White
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Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Separate sleepout available

Events

No events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
Well behaved house trained pets welcome inside

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Outdoors only

Damage and incidentals

You will be responsible for any damage to the rental property caused by you or your party during your stay.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

St Leonards

Located in St Leonards, this holiday home is near the beach. Pilots' Cottages and Fort Queenscliff are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park and Marine and Freshwater Discovery Centre. Queenscliff Maritime Museum and Bellarine Adventure Golf are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

What's nearby

  • St Leonards Beach - 6 min walk
  • Salt Lagoon-St. Leonards Wildlife Reserve - 5 min drive
  • Portarlington Waterfront - 17 min drive
  • Queenscliff Hotel - 20 min drive
  • Queenscliff Ferry - 21 min drive

Getting around

  • Drysdale Station - 16 min drive
  • Melbourne, VIC (AVV-Avalon) - 65 min drive

Restaurants

  • Grand Hotel - 14 min drive
  • 360Q - 21 min drive
  • The Royal Queenscliff Hotel - 19 min drive
  • Shelter Shed - 20 min drive
  • Queenscliff Fish & Chip Shop - 19 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Lower Bluff Hideaway. Pets welcome inside, 4 min stroll to beach & Ramsar site pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at Lower Bluff Hideaway. Pets welcome inside, 4 min stroll to beach & Ramsar site?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Lower Bluff Hideaway. Pets welcome inside, 4 min stroll to beach & Ramsar site?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Lower Bluff Hideaway. Pets welcome inside, 4 min stroll to beach & Ramsar site located?

Situated by the sea, this holiday home is within a 10-minute walk of Swan Bay - Edwards Point Wildlife Reserve and St Leonards Beach. Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park and Salt Lagoon-St. Leonards Wildlife Reserve are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 57 out of 70 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 13 out of 70 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 70 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 70 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 70 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Shane R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great beach break
Thoughtful, helpful hosts and a lovely but relaxed home. Perfect for a family or friends and v dog friendly. Highly recommended
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melinda M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lower bluff hideaway
This is our second year staying at the hideaway and we love it. Always so clean and treats always out to welcome us. Very relaxing holiday and house
Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Clair B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
At Leonards
Nice place, close to beach and walks- excellent for being able to unwind and relax. Everything is super clean and the place is well stocked with everything you need. Christine and David were easy to deal with and excellent communicators.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Renee M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect family stay
We enjoyed a lovely Christmas stay here in St Leonard’s. The house is fully equipped with everything you could possibly need. The bedrooms are well sized and very comfortable. The location was perfect for us, and had a wonderful costal feel and was also excellent for taking our dogs down to the nearby beach. We couldn’t have asked for a better yard to keep our 4 legged friends. It is large and secure and allowed our dogs to explored the garden for hours every day. The host provides very helpful and clear communication for a perfect hassle free stay. Can’t wait to return in the future. This is the perfect house for a family vacation.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023

8/10 Good

Stuart B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Step back in time
Like visiting your grandmother at her beach shack. Just as it should be, full of lovely quirks.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023

About the host

Hosted by David Burke & Christine White

Host profile image
We were both born in Melbourne, we have lived in country Victoria, Adelaide and in Europe.

Why they chose this property

Christine came to this area for holidays as a child, and David grew up in the country West of Geelong so we both have long connections with the Bellerine Peninsula. This property continues to be our retreat for family, friends and their pets. We enjoy the quiet location with walking access to Edwards Point reserve and undeveloped bay beaches stretching south to Swan Bay. David is also an avid fisherman and it is no coincidence that St Leonards is a premier bay fishing destination.

What makes this property unique

The Hideaway consists of a large private garden block in short walking distance from safe bay beaches, Yacht club and Ramsar reserve at the end of our street. The house is north facing, and is sited in a unique quiet tree lined area. The Bellerine is a prime holiday, winery and seafood destination.
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