Riverbend Homestead

37 reviews

• AS

  Anmolbir singh

  AU · family_with_children · Aug 2026

  9/10
• A

  Arjun

  AU · extended_group · Jul 2026

  9/10
• M

  Michael

  AU · extended_group · Jul 2026

  3/10

  Good, but the communication, guest expectations, privacy concerns, and heating issues were a concern

  The owner kindly offered to light the fire before our arrival, which was appreciated, and a packet of biscuits was also thoughtfully provided. There are handwritten notes throughout various areas of the house, which were informative and interesting to read. The property has a pleasant atmosphere, and the acoustics are surprisingly good given the solid flooring. The owner was also flexible with our arrival time, although this was possible because there were no guests departing on the day of our arrival. A late checkout was offered as well, although we were unable to make use of it.

  Although okay, several aspects of the experience were disappointing. Before arrival, I asked the owner a simple question. I received a lengthy explanation including about the cost of the cleaner (around $300). While I appreciate cleaning is an expense, a short, polite, yet clear yes/no response would have been sufficient. This also made the departure instructions confusing, as guests were expected to complete a detailed cleaning checklist despite paying a cleaning fee. We looked after the property well and left it clean, so the expectations felt excessive. Guests were also asked to feed the chickens, although unclear. The house itself is spacious, and a dining table suitable for groups. However, the chairs offer no back support, making them unsuitable for longer meals or conversations. Some bedroom blinds also don't close properly, reducing privacy from people walking along the balcony. Signs are up instructing guests not to lock the external doors. I understand this may be normal farm practice and that the owner may simply be accustomed to this lifestyle. However, the wording felt more like a directive than a request, giving the impression that explaining "how things are done here" took priority over accommodating guests' preferences. Personally, I will prefer to lock doors when staying away from home. Heating: Despite the fireplace and reverse-cycle heating, the older property struggled to retain warmth, likely due to limited insulation and multiple single-glazed doors. On a cold winter night, it was difficult to make the house feel genuinely warm and cosy. Coffee machine: Good, although the tamper was missing, requiring us to use a spoon instead. The owner acknowledged this and said it would be replaced, but not during our stay. I had already spent time searching for it.

• S

  Susan

  AU · extended_group · Jun 2026

  10/10

  Perfect for families, somthing for everyone to do

  The property excelled expectations

• S

  Stacey

  AU · couple · Mar 2026

  10/10