An historic contemporary retreat in the mountains

For a contemporary take on the traditional Australian homestead, look no further than The Kilns in Victoria’s High Country. Converted from the historic corrugated-iron tobacco-drying shacks that were common in this region in the 1950s, they feature polished, heated concrete floors, washed timber interiors, soaring ceilings, and picture windows framing the rural landscape as well as chic yet simple designer finishes: Italian furniture, cowhide rugs and wood fires are just the start. It’s a country retreat with every modern convenience. The Kilns is actually two separate retreats. The first, Cavedon’s Kilnhouse, has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, one includes a spa (there are bunk beds in the third bedroom) in two restored kilns. Panoramic views over Mount Feathertop from a long desk make this an ideal escape for writers. Located far enough away to ensure privacy is Chinaman’s Kilnhouse with two bedrooms and an internal courtyard. Surrounded by vineyards and farmland, both houses offer rural seclusion in an area renowned for skiing in winter, cycling and hiking in the warmer months, and exceptional food and wine year round.

This exclusive vacation rental ranges from $268 a cottage/ night for two (Monday-Thursday) $390 for four (Friday-Sunday, and public/school holidays) from here.