SLOW STAYS

Almost every angle of The Lakehouse Cottages in Montville offers a little vignette – a window of sorts – letting you peer out of your busyness into the calm of life in the hills. Perched high on 10 acres overlooking the still waters of Lake Baroon, the Pool House and Retro Ranch are light and airy cottages channeling a breezy, boho aesthetic. Filled with vintage, secondhand decor and furniture (Retro Ranch), the cottages are at once cosy and spacious – perfect for family getaways. Spend mornings raiding the chicken coop for fresh eggs, collecting nuts from the orchard (for a batch of macadamia and choc chip cookies!) and saying howdy to resident donkey’s Duffy and Charlie. Sans TV, screen time gives way to actual face time in the comfy lounge, reconnecting over a board game or book. The refreshing pool calls too, and a generous yard with ample space for lawn games and aperitivo hour. Little (and big) artists can follow wherever their inspiration leads painting, drawing or reading on swinging chairs. Then, once the day’s busy bassline slows into the half-pace drumbeat of evening, spin a vinyl on the record player and relax as you roast marshmallows around the fire pit. Worthy diversions lay beyond the boundaries so you can explore Montville village, the Sunshine Coast’s best wineries and rainforests if you so desire.