So many people like to get out of their home city for a couple of days in a bed and breakfast. They are great places to relax, usually in the home of a local who knows the area, makes delicious home-cooked meals but makes sure you have privacy.
Just 20 minutes from Canberra near the wine region of Murrumbateman is a cracker little B&B with lots of character. Ten years ago it was just a paddock, but the property, now known as Redbrow Garden, is the most awarded B&B in the Canberra area.
Owners David and Elisabeth Judge have a lifetime of experience in farming, hospitality, nursing and teaching as well as extensive travel.
Describing themselves as an "ecotourism oasis", Redbrow Garden has four modern lakeside ensuite B&B rooms and a spacious self-contained three-bedroom Garden Guesthouse, all air-conditioned. There are large verandahs for lazing, private enclosed garden courtyard and jacuzzi. They are tastefully decorated and surrounded by rural garden and a wildlife haven and wetland habitat.
The Garden Guesthouse has a small kitchenette with refrigerator and freezer, stove, microwave and an undercover barbecue area.
You'll hear birdsong and see butterflies, fruit trees and shrubs, and delight in the artistic combination of water and stone in the garden.
Visitors enjoy strolling along the water's edge, enjoying the gardens and views, and while Giaan Rooney enjoyed her visit, she really loved playing farmhand. Pedro and Amigo are Redbrow's alpacas, and had she been able, she would have taken them home. The adorable duo have made friends with sheep and goats and even bonded with and protect chickens.
Location
Redbrow Garden in the Canberra wine region.
Cost
Redbrow Garden rooms start at $160 a night and the main homestead is $245. Bed, breakfast and use of all facilities are included. Courses are $195 per person. They have indoor kennels, a cat room and stable yards for horses. A fee will be quoted at time of booking.
Prices correct at March 26, 2009.
For further information
Redbrow Garden
1143 Nanima Road
Murrumbateman 2582
Ph: (02) 6226 8166
www.canberraguesthouse.com.au
redbrowgarden@bigpond.com
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