Fernglen Forest Retreat

Sassafras Accommodation | Stay Near Sassafras at Fernglen Forest Retreat

Discover the Charm of Sassafras While Staying at Fernglen Forest Retreat

If you're looking for accommodation in Sassafras, Fernglen Forest Retreat offers a peaceful rainforest escape just 5 minutes' drive from the heart of Sassafras Village. Nestled on seven acres of private forest in Mount Dandenong, our self-contained cottages provide the perfect base for exploring one of the Dandenong Ranges' most loved mountain villages.

Sassafras is famous for its boutique shopping, cosy cafés, antique stores, artisan food, galleries and welcoming village atmosphere. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a family getaway or a relaxing break from Melbourne, Fernglen Forest Retreat puts you close to everything while giving you the privacy and tranquillity of your own rainforest retreat.

Why Visit Sassafras?

Sassafras has been welcoming visitors for generations and remains one of Victoria's favourite mountain villages.

Visitors love Sassafras for its:

  • Boutique shopping
  • Antique stores
  • Artisan gifts
  • Local art galleries
  • Handmade chocolates and confectionery
  • Cosy cafés
  • Fine dining
  • Beautiful tree-lined streets
  • Nearby rainforest walks
  • Relaxed mountain atmosphere

It's the perfect place to spend a leisurely morning or afternoon before returning to your cottage at Fernglen Forest Retreat.

Why Stay at Fernglen Forest Retreat?

Fernglen Forest Retreat offers much more than simply accommodation.

Guests enjoy:

  • Five unique self-contained cottages
  • Accommodation for couples, families and groups
  • Seven acres of private rainforest
  • Open fireplaces in selected cottages
  • Spa baths in selected cottages
  • Private eight-person outdoor jacuzzi in Jacuzzi Lodge
  • Forest sauna available to hire
  • Fully equipped kitchens
  • Native birdlife including king parrots, rosellas and kookaburras
  • Free on-site parking
  • Pet-friendly accommodation in selected cottages

Unlike staying in a motel or hotel, you'll enjoy complete privacy surrounded by nature.

Things to Do in Sassafras

There's plenty to discover during your visit.

Browse Boutique Shops

Sassafras is renowned for its unique independent retailers selling homewares, gifts, fashion, books, jewellery and locally made products.

Enjoy a Long Lunch

The village is home to charming cafés, bakeries and restaurants where you can relax over coffee, lunch or afternoon tea.

Explore Local Galleries

Discover local artists, handcrafted items and unique souvenirs inspired by the beauty of the Dandenong Ranges.

Visit Nearby Gardens

Several of Victoria's finest gardens are just minutes away, including:

  • Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden
  • Cloudehill Garden
  • Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden
  • Pirianda Garden
  • George Tindale Memorial Gardens

Experience Puffing Billy Railway

Combine your visit to Sassafras with a ride on the world-famous Puffing Billy steam train, only a short drive away.

Perfect for Romantic Getaways

Sassafras is one of Victoria's most romantic destinations.

Spend the day:

  • Browsing boutique shops
  • Sharing coffee in a cosy café
  • Walking through nearby gardens
  • Enjoying scenic mountain drives

Then return to Fernglen Forest Retreat to enjoy:

  • A relaxing spa bath
  • A cosy fireplace
  • A private outdoor jacuzzi
  • Peaceful rainforest surroundings
  • Native birdsong

It's an unforgettable setting for anniversaries, birthdays, honeymoons and weekend escapes.

Family-Friendly Accommodation Near Sassafras

Families enjoy the relaxed pace of the village and the many nearby attractions.

Popular activities include:

  • Puffing Billy Railway
  • SkyHigh Mount Dandenong
  • Grants Picnic Ground
  • Sherbrooke Forest
  • Easy bushwalks
  • Ice cream shops
  • Picnic areas
  • Wildlife spotting

Fernglen's spacious cottages make it easy for families to relax after a full day exploring.

How Far is Fernglen Forest Retreat from Sassafras?

Fernglen Forest Retreat is approximately 5 minutes by car from Sassafras Village.

You'll also be close to:

  • Olinda Village
  • SkyHigh Mount Dandenong
  • William Ricketts Sanctuary
  • Cloudehill Garden
  • Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden
  • Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden
  • Sherbrooke Forest

Our central location makes exploring the entire Dandenong Ranges easy.

Beautiful Throughout the Year

Spring

Enjoy colourful gardens, flowering trees and fresh mountain air.

Summer

Escape Melbourne's heat and enjoy cooler temperatures beneath the forest canopy.

Autumn

Experience spectacular autumn leaves throughout Sassafras and the surrounding gardens.

Winter

Warm fires, misty forests and cosy cafés make winter one of the most magical times to visit.

Why Guests Choose Fernglen Forest Retreat

Visitors love staying with us because of our:

  • Peaceful rainforest setting
  • Convenient location near Sassafras
  • Spacious self-contained cottages
  • Comfortable accommodation
  • Native wildlife
  • Quiet atmosphere
  • Easy access to the Dandenong Ranges' best attractions

Many guests enjoy spending the day exploring Sassafras before returning to the peace and privacy of Fernglen.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Fernglen Forest Retreat from Sassafras?

Fernglen Forest Retreat is approximately 5 minutes' drive from Sassafras Village.

Is Sassafras worth visiting?

Absolutely. Sassafras is one of the most popular villages in the Dandenong Ranges, known for its boutique shopping, cafés, galleries and charming mountain atmosphere.

Is Fernglen suitable for couples?

Yes. Couples love our spa baths, fireplaces, rainforest setting and private outdoor jacuzzi.

Is Fernglen suitable for families?

Yes. Our cottages cater for couples, families and larger groups, with many family attractions nearby.

Can I bring my dog?

Selected cottages are pet friendly. Contact us before booking and we'll recommend the most suitable cottage for you and your pet.

Enjoy the Best of Sassafras and the Dandenong Ranges

Sassafras is a destination where you can slow down, browse unique shops, enjoy excellent food and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Dandenong Ranges. Whether you're visiting for a day or an extended holiday, it's a place you'll want to return to again and again.

Stay at Fernglen Forest Retreat and enjoy comfortable self-contained accommodation just minutes from Sassafras. Surrounded by rainforest and close to the region's best gardens, villages and attractions, Fernglen is the perfect base for your mountain escape.

Related Pages

You may also enjoy exploring:

  • Olinda Accommodation
  • Mount Dandenong Accommodation
  • Puffing Billy Railway
  • SkyHigh Mount Dandenong
  • Cloudehill Garden
  • Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden
  • Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden
  • William Ricketts Sanctuary
  • Sherbrooke Forest
  • Grants Picnic Ground


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