16 Dieckmanns Lane

Maldon VIC 3463

If the challenges of the past two years have you hankering for a simpler life where you can commune with nature and forget the outside world permanently, or maybe just on weekends, this delightful property is the antidote you're looking for. Surrounded by Crown Land and a nature reserve, your 9,990 sqm (2.4 acres) is supremely private yet still within walking distance to historic Maldon's vibrant township. With it's wide, covered, vine fringed stone verandahs and constructed of organic materials, the home is very much the rustic, country retreat. Featuring mud brick walls, timber-lined cove ceilings and stone paved flooring, beautiful timber French doors, bay windows and leadlight features. The cottage comprises an open-plan kitchen/dining/living warmed by an open fire, and the three bedrooms share a charming bathroom with a unique tile-lined mud brick shower. A barn style single carport and stone garden shed with verandah complete the amenities.

In keeping with its natural setting, the property is totally off grid; a series of battery-operated lights illuminate the cottage's interior, and a generator provides energy as required. The gabled iron roof would be perfect for the installation of solar panels should you choose. Connected to mains water, a solar hot water service with instant gas back up unit ensures a plentiful supply of hot water for all your domestic and garden needs. The gardens are filled with eucalypts, native shrubs and a variety of flowering plants. There's also plenty of cleared space for alfresco dining. Wicking vegetable gardens and a boutique orchard with pear, fig, orange, apricot, lemon, lime, nectarine and apple trees delivers a bounty for your table. From its high point, the gentle slope of the land affords beautiful views across to Mt Tarrengower, while the crown land and reserve setting means that just over the boundary are walking trails to Rock of Ages and the Nuggety Range.

This is a blissful property, one where you can leave the hustle and bustle of urban life behind and enjoy unrivalled peace and tranquility. But if you must leave, it's only moments to Maldon's cafs and facilities, 15 minutes to Castlemaine, 25 minutes to Bendigo and Melbourne is an easy 90 minutes down the Calder. Nourish your soul.