Casa Cucina and River House at Peace Farm
WELCOME to Casa Cucina, River House or River Cucina… all the same wonderous environment supporting numerous names… could it be that it is so special, ONE name merely isn’t enough!
Our lovely sanctuary of Peace is just 1 hour East of Melbourne along the M1, (and then only a couple of kms off the M1). Situated in West Gippsland, Casa Cucina is a feast for the senses from the alpine majesty of the Baw Baw Plateau, the Bunyip State Forest, the lush green valleys, to the rivers and streams… there is always something to do in West Gippsland for the curious. The Tarago River backs onto our small yet spacious, open yet shaded space we would welcome you to. The river is ‘swimmable’ (at your own risk), a lovely spot to cool off on our warm summer days, or a mesmerising place to sit, watch, read, contemplate, draw or write. It awakens the creative juices to be in such beauty in nature. Some large old Mountain Ash remain along the river bank, with lots of new plantings. It is not uncommon to see an echidna, a variety of stunning birdlife, and on dusk, maybe a wombat family. Our river block can hold up to 4 caravans (under 10 metres) and a couple of tents in one group. In addition, the upper adjoining block can accommodate 2 caravans. This is a single group occupancy site so you can enjoy the privacy of your group. If you wish to hook into our powered site, please add $10 per night, per van. All campers will also have access to our Casa Cucina gorgeous eclectic, quirky community space to sit in out of the weather. Please note: This is not an accommodation space. As a reminder, all campers will need to be Self Contained as we have no toilet facilities, no access to fresh water, no hot showers or cooking facilities. Bookings are essential by emailing [email protected] Drop ins are not possible. Initial arrival time to the property is 365 days per year between 1pm - 3pm, (or by arrangement), when no other bookings are secured. If you are travelling in Winter, depending on amount of rainfall we have, the area may also not be accessible. Please contact us via email to enquire Winter conditions. Getting stuck or bogged is your responsibility. Any damage to our property must be returned to the original condition by you prior to your departure. We do allow dogs on leads, but this MUST be discussed with us prior to booking as we have strict rules around pets. We are a working hobby farm with alpacas, chooks and horses. We also allow campfires only when local fire restrictions aren't in place - which is often all summer. If you wish to have a campfire, you can (pre-book) and purchase wood on arrival. |
Hosted by Chris
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We are 1 hour 10 minutes from Phillip Island,1 hour 30 minutes from Mt Baw Baw, 35 minutes from the beautiful Strzelecki Ranges, and 33 minutes from the Noojee Trestle Bridge. The Ada Tree - a giant Mountain Ash is 1 hour away, located in the Yarra State Forest and is considered to be one of Victoria’s largest living trees. It is estimated to be over 300 years old and towers over the surrounding rainforest in the headwaters of the Little Ada River.
There are markets and vineyards, restaurants and nature walks to be explored. Why not consider dropping in for a minimum of 1 night, maximum – your choice depending on bookings.
While we look forward to welcoming you to our private and peaceful river block, we feel the need to point out that our property has multiple dwellings and many outbuildings. Please know, we do not extend any invitation for you to access any of the dwellings or outbuildings during your stay. We will offer you the same respect during your time with us. Thank you for your understanding.
We look forward to greeting you along your journey!
There are markets and vineyards, restaurants and nature walks to be explored. Why not consider dropping in for a minimum of 1 night, maximum – your choice depending on bookings.
While we look forward to welcoming you to our private and peaceful river block, we feel the need to point out that our property has multiple dwellings and many outbuildings. Please know, we do not extend any invitation for you to access any of the dwellings or outbuildings during your stay. We will offer you the same respect during your time with us. Thank you for your understanding.
We look forward to greeting you along your journey!
Things to know before booking
Pricing: $40 per night, per each vehicle, caravan, camper or tent
Extras: Power - $10 extra per night for power Firewood - $10 for wheelbarrow of wood for fire pit (cash on arrival) Check in Time: 1:00 pm - 3.00pm (or by arrangement) Check out Time: 11.00 am On arrival: Meet with Host Booking: 50% deposit required on booking, balance on arrival (no credit card facilities available) Cancellation policy: Up to 7 days - 20% of deposit paid plus an admin fee of $5 per booking will be charged. No refunds for cancellations within 7 days of booking. Minimum nights: 1 night Maximum nights: Open (depending on bookings already taken) Accepts bookings: 12 months out Generators allowed: 8.00 am to 10.00 pm Quiet Hours: 10.00 pm to 8.00 am |
Local Area FacilitiesRefreshments and Supplies: Drouin (10 minute drive and Warragul (15 minute drive) Fuel & Food: Ampol Foodary (2 minute drive) 24 hr-7 day service station with everyday essentials, fast food, toilets and showers. 290 Sand Rd Cnr, Princes Hwy Longwarry VIC 3816 Dump Point: Neerim South Recreation Reserve (15 minute drive) Main Neerim East Road Neerim South VIC 3831 |
Vehicle Details
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What We Offer
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During your stay
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Reviews
"Our Yoga studio hosted a small women's circle at the beginning of Autumn 2024 at the River House in Longwarry North. Chris was so accommodating, meeting with us to discuss our vision for the day and working with us to make sure our guests would enjoy their experience. We set up blankets rugs and cushions by the river for our activities and hosted tea and treats in the river house. All our guests commented on how tranquil the location was, but also how incredibly easy it was to access. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to host a meaningful connection of like minded people, in a space that has been cared for and developed with great respect for the land. A gem in our community, we will be back!"
Local Yoga Studio Instructors and Students 2024 |
"We had a fantastic stay back in April & May at Chris's Farmstay - an absolutely great place. We were able to catch up with our family and friends in the local areas of West Gippland. Right next to the Tarago River, a beautiful spot. We would highly recommend staying here. Thank you Chris - loved staying at your farm. Our doggies Milo loved the freedom there too and was quite fascinated with the farm animals, the Alpacas in particular!
J & P 2024 |
"Over summer 2023/24 I was fortunate enough to stay at the beautiful private location in Longwarry North, where the Tarago River flows beneath the majestic gums. We brought our camper trailer, 2 kids and puppy (who we kept on lead). We are set up for free camping and made sure we left this carefully manicured site as we left it, pristine. We felt welcomed by Chris. Our stay was enjoyable and comfortable. The kids enjoyed jumping from the log in the river and we enjoyed the serenity around us. Only 5 minutes from the freeway but felt like we were far away from anyone. What a great location!"
T, A and Family 2024 |
"A perfect city escape with my doggo. It's hard to find a place in my brain truely goes quiet and feels so present. There is certainly something special about it here. We cannot wait to come back soon. A peaceful, serene paradise for your imagination to run wild."
M & B 2024 |
"Thank you for sharing your gorgeous space with us at Casa Cucina. The most beautiful spot to unwind, share with family, enjoy the outdoors, relax and take in the beauty of the Tarago River. What a wonderful hut to go with it! We will be back many times."
M Family 2024 |
"Just love being here. Our second time. There will be more. So Peaceful. Thanks Chris. A welcome getaway."
S & J 2024 |
"It is so very special here. To be able to be on this peaceful land on your own or with your own small group of friends is heaven....a good place to sit and breath in nature. The hut is a little sanctuary to write, contemplate and just be in another time. Thank you from my heart."
B 2024 |