Tucked away behind a vineyard, around an olive grove and up a long white, stone driveway, you’ll find a hidden gem like nothing else in SA. Welcome to Waverley Estate.
No, this 19th century castle-style retreat isn’t in the middle of Tuscany as it may look. It’s a 2-minute drive out of Port Elliot and it’s a WONDERLAND.
My better half just turned 40 and rather than having a boozy party with hundreds of our “nearest and dearests”, we wanted to gather his entire family — all 4 siblings, their partners, kids, parents and in-laws and have our own (boozy) weekend away!
So, let me tell you more about this 162 year-old wonderland that we call Waverley…
It’s famous for weddings and big events. The giant grass tennis court is often converted into a stunning marquee with lavish long tables and flowers galore. The court looks over the pool with a beautiful entertaining area. And it’s all fenced off — thank GOD!
The main house sleeps 5 people and has kept its original charm and Parisian-style furniture throughout. The cottage kitchen has an industrial-sized oven, cook top and every platter, plate and teacup you can think of.
There’s also a 12-seater dining table and TV area with plenty of couch space for some much needed R&R.
Out the back and around the side is where the magic happens. Everywhere you look is a photo op! Pretty sure my kids saw fairies milling about under the boysenberry tree. There are 5 mini cottages with queen-sized beds and singles, all with en suites and decked out with linen and fresh towels.
Once you’re at Waverley Estate, you don’t need (or want) to leave. It’s your own private oasis that the little (and big) kids will fall deeply in love with. Although, it is important to know that at the end of the driveway, there’s a Cellar Door that’s cute as a button! So if you want a wine, or a bite to eat, meander about 150 metres to their divine Cellar Door.
Thank you Waverley Estate for creating memories with our beautiful family that we will talk about forever.
You’ll find Waverley Estate at 58 Waterport Road, Port Elliot, South Australia.
Hayley xx
Thank you Adelady! This was wonderful. Waverley Estatw used to belong to my great aunt and uncle before they moved away quite a few years ago, so seeing it now brought back so many good childhood memories of visiting. I remember staying in the school house and eating the berries off the trees. This was just wonderful!