Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Mystique Forest Retreat hides up a winding mountain road. Driving up to the property we were overwhelmed by the immense beauty of the fern and mountain ash trees that engulfed our surroundings. We settled down in perfect time for the evening light to flood through the doors, filling the lovely wooden interior with an abundance of natural light.

The off-grid property made for the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, surrounded by the striking Mount Toolebewong, numerous Yarra Valley wineries, and local cafes. Mornings and evenings were spent on the expansive back deck enjoying the forest, drinking everything from coffee to wine. After a day of adventure, we were excited to come home with some farmer's market delicacies to throw on the BBQ, cooked to perfection while looking up at the sunset filtering through the tall Manna Gums between bites and sips of wine. The house was very cozy and we found ourselves going to bed early after the last light disappeared from the treetops, tired from a full day of sightseeing and eating delicious food.