We stayed at Merribrook for three nights between Christmas and New Years, 2011. We enjoyed it very much and it was the highlight of our trip to the Margaret River region.
The retreat is set within a lush valley that is absolutely quiet, other than the sounds of exotic birds throughout the day and frogs at night. We stayed in one of the beautiful lakeview cottages (after kindly receiving a free upgrade!). They have a modern vernacular with rammed earth walls (which kept the cottage relatively cool during the daytime), windows looking towards the lake and into the beautiful woods, large bathroom with deep tub, a patio table for two, nice details, and clean.
The hosts, Lorraine and Richard Firth, were delightful and shared of themselves throughout our visit. Their enthusiasm for life and love of the property, as well as their sincere interest in learning about their guests and sharing of themselves was what made the stay so special.
The lodge is a special place as well, with beautiful landscaping and nearby pool, with a view of the lake across a groomed lawn. As others have reported, the breakfasts were delicious with a different menu every day. We were pleasantly surprised to learn that the guests had access to the commercial kitchen and barbecue to cook our dinners. It was also a great opportunity to meet some of the other guests.
We also enjoyed walking a 3+ km trail around the 160-acre property, which is diverse in terms of vegetation, ranging from the lush valley with a wide variety of trees (and with two ponds/lakes) to drier uplands and sheep paddocks (the property is a working farm). We also enjoyed swimming in and lounging around the pool, and took a delightful dip in one of the lakes.
We hope to return!
