Ironbark House Dimbulah: A Unique Hideaway Gazing Across the Aussie Outback

Ironbark House Dimbulah: A Unique Hideaway Gazing Across the Aussie Outback

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Overview
2 bedrooms
2 bathrooms
6 guests
Minimum stay varies 
The minimum stay for this property changes depending on the dates selected
House Rental
Unique Ironbark House is situated on the ridgeline of Ironbark Hill approximately 600 metres above sea level gazing out across the Australian Outback towards Mt Mulligan Station over 40kms away. This totally off-grid 1345 acre property which has its own solar power generation system, sewage treatment and harvests all its own water, is located on the outskirts of the Atherton Tablelands in the farming district of Dimbulah on route to Mt Mulligan and Chillagoe. Just constructed, Ironbark House has two large bedrooms both with spacious ensuites, separated by a welcoming kitchen/dining/living area with a generous verandah over looking the most amazing vista for luxurious al-fresco dining and entertaining. The raked ceilings add to the sense of light, freedom and spaciousness that this modern ...Unique Ironbark House is situated on the ridgeline of Ironbark Hill approximately 600 metres above sea level gazing out across the Australian Outback towards Mt Mulligan Station over 40kms away. This totally off-grid 1345 acre property which has its own solar power generation system, sewage treatment and harvests all its own water, is located on the outskirts of the Atherton Tablelands in the farming district of Dimbulah on route to Mt Mulligan and Chillagoe. Just constructed, Ironbark House has two large bedrooms both with spacious ensuites, separated by a welcoming kitchen/dining/living area with a generous verandah over looking the most amazing vista for luxurious al-fresco dining and entertaining. The raked ceilings add to the sense of light, freedom and spaciousness that this modern Australian bush retreat has in abundance. This completely private 1345 acre working cattle property is a mix of wildlife habitat, with a healthy bird population of well over 100 different species found on the property, as well as it’s own colony of rock wallabies. A network of trails cover the entire property accessible by a variety of means 4X4, horseback, mountain bike or of course by walking. There are 6 dams on the property, the two largest are a hive of activity with numerous water birds including the cotton pigmy goose. Or sit quietly and watch the cattle slake their thirst accompanied by a mix of native animals. If you’re feeling fit climb to the top of Ironbark Hill for stunning 360 degree views. Ride the Outback: we offer exclusive horse riding on the property. Property Tours: we offer private wildlife, birding and farm tours with a guide of 20 years experience. If, after exploring the property, watching wildlife or just lazing with a book you need more to do…. in the surrounding area you will find a wealth of activities, each one accessible as a day excursion: 40km to the north is historical Mt Mulligan who’s mine was the site of one of Australia’s worst mining disasters with 75 people loosing their lives in 1921. You can visit the mine site, cemetery and ruins of the town. The heritage listed Tyrconnel Mine & Battery (1876) nestled between Thornborough and Kingsborough is a couple of klm detour en-route to Mt Mulligan. Head West for an hour and you will reach the mining town of Chillagoe famous for its Limestone Caves, historical smelter and Marble quarries. The Caves, estimated to be between 600 to 1000 in number, can be visited alone or to access the larger deeper caves are available through Ranger guided tours several times a day. This day trip will give you a real appreciation of outback life in Australia. Drive South East for a change of scenery to visit the highland rainforest and farming area of the central Atherton Tablelands. Starting with Tolga and Lake Tinaroo wend your way around Yungaburra with the famous Curtain Fig tree, Atherton, Herberton with it’s quaint restored historical village. Sample a variety of cheese, chocolate, coffee and bio-dynamic dairy products from a variety of farms on your adventure. If you didn’t have time to stop Mareeba on your way to Ironbark House it’s a 40 minute drive to stock up on goodies or explore Granite gorge, perhaps drop into Mt Uncle Distillery and sample some of their award winning handmade spirits or wine tasting at Golden Drop Winery and don’t forget a coffee at Skybury or the Coffee Works. The local town of Dimbulah, 7klm from Ironbark House has amenities such as a local pool, pub, café, bakery, butcher, library, variety/hardware store, bank, post office and chemist. The café, Camp 64 is a tourist attraction in it’s own right with a fascinating display of artefacts from Australia’s pioneering past. The quaint little train station opens twice a week for the Savannahlander Train on it’s way to and from Forsayth. Ironbark House is less than 2 hours from Cairns International Airport and Port Douglas and well worth the drive! The Accommodation Bedroom 1 has a King bed which can be spilt into two singles if required. The generous room has full sized wardrobe, seating area, direct access onto the verandah and spacious ensuite. Bedroom 2 has a Queen bed and a day bed which can be converted into a King bed. Wardrobe, ensuite and amazing views finish this room. The Kitchen is well equipped bearing in mind that this house is totally dependant of solar power generation, so you won’t find power hungry monsters like microwaves, dishwashers and coffee machines here, but has all the essentials for a comfortable stay. The oven and cooktop are gas, there is a generous fridge, tea, coffee and basic condiments are provided. The combined Dining and Living area, which like every room in the house has amazing views is equipped with dinning table for 6, VAST TV which offers plenty of channels, there is good mobile and internet reception (no WIFI). There are two verandahs to make the most of the sun (or shade) during the day. The main one comes complete with BBQ, al-fresco dinning and seating area. Sit and watch the sun go down while being entertained by the local wildlife.
House Rules
Pets not allowedKid friendlyNo smoking
The property has unfenced dams and potentially dangerous wildlife so may not be suitable for children under the age of 12 years. Please contact me to discuss prior to booking. The house is totally off-grid and therefore the amount of power and water usage can be restricted at certain times of the year. Fires are also banned at many times of the year Check in and out times can be flexible if bookings permit.
Bedrooms
2 Super Kings1 King
Bathrooms
2 Attached (ensuite)

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Reviews (64)
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Lisa T
3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Horse riding at Ironbark House
We had guests from the USA at Christmas looking for the true Australian Outback experience & decided to visit Ironbark House. It was an excellent opportunity to see a working cattle property & experience some native wildlife close to Mt Mulligan.
Visited December 2018 Travelled with friends
Written 10 January 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bop1965
Thanks, we were happy to show you the property and take advantage of the great weather by going on a sunset ride.
Written 11 January 2019. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

j210792aussiegirl
Berlin, Germany2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
One of the best places in Australia
Thank you so much for having us to enjoy the beauty of your property. When we arrived I was just overwhelmed. I fell in love with all your animals, especially with Misfit. I couldn’t imagine any better last days of our stay in Australia. You two are just lovely and so welcoming. I bet you’re going to have plenty of happy guests in the future and maybe I’ll come back one day, would definitely love to. We appreciate everything you set up for us a lot and we love the Ironbark House, it’s just amazing. The furniture you chose is just perfect and I couldn’t think of a more cozy house in the middle of the bush. The kitchen is well equipped and we loved to cook and have dinner at the veranda overlooking the wilderness. We even had a kangaroo saying hello once. My highlight of the stay was definitely horse back riding in the early mornings. We would recommend to stay here to everyone who wants to stay apart from touristy places and see a total different side of Australia after staying in the cairns coastal area. Two different worlds, not to compare. Both absolutely stunning and for me the Ironbark House is one of my favourite places in Australia.
Visited November 2018 Travelled with family
Written 10 January 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bop1965
Thank you so much for your lovely review. We loved having you both as our guests and look forward to seeing you again when you next come back to Australia.
Written 11 January 2019. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

j210792aussiegirl
Berlin, Germany2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
One of the best places in the world
Dear Rachael and Kevin thank you so much for having us to enjoy the beauty of your property. When we arrived I was just overwhelmed. I fell in love with all your animals, especially with Misfit. I couldn’t imagine any better last days of our stay in Australia. You two are just lovely and so welcoming. I bet you’re going to have plenty of happy guests in the future and maybe I’ll come back one day, would definitely love to. We appreciate everything you set up for us a lot and we love the Ironbark House, it’s just amazing. The furniture you chose is just perfect and I couldn’t think of a more cozy house in the middle of the bush. The kitchen is well equipped and we loved to cook and have dinner at the veranda overlooking the wilderness. We even had a kangaroo saying hello once. My highlight of the stay was definitely horse back riding in the early mornings. We would recommend to stay here to everyone who wants to stay apart from touristy places and see a total different side of Australia after staying in the cairns coastal area. Two different worlds, not to compare. Both absolutely stunning and for me the Ironbark House is one of my favourite places in Australia.
Visited November 2018
Written 19 January 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bop1965
Thank you Janina for your lovely review, it was great having you both here as our guests. Best of luck on your future travels and look forward to another visit whenever that may be ….
Written 20 January 2019. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Lisa T
3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Outback Bush Horse Riding Experience
We had guests from the USA at Christmas looking for the true Australian Outback experience & decided to visit Ironbark House. It was an excellent opportunity to see a working cattle property & experience some native wildlife close to Mt Mulligan.
Visited December 2018
Written 20 January 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bop1965
Hi Lisa, thank you for your review. Your most welcome to bring visitors any time, whether it's to stay at Ironbark House or do one of our rides or farm tours.
Written 20 January 2019. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Safari03304038366
Melbourne, Australia1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Fabulous retreat
We had a wonderful stay at Ironbark House. Perched on the hill top looking over the mountains in a gorgeous full self contained 2 bedroom house. Rachel and Kevin are wonderful hosts who introduced the kids to some lovely quiet cows and calves. Will definitely stay again.
Visited January 2019 Travelled with family
Written 30 January 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bop1965
Thank you for your kind review, it was a pleasure to have you stay and you are most welcome anytime.
Written 1 February 2019. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

True Facts
Cairns, Australia60 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Keep this place a secret- PLEASE
I am going through my bucket list and noticed an article in the Cairns Post about Ironbark House and activities. I did a search and found the contact details and sent off an email which was very promptly answered. My enquiry was about horse riding without being a guest in accommodation. I quickly made a booking. The great things about this place starts with the first email. answered the questions very accurate with information felt so welcome before I even said I would go. The directions were pin point accurate, greeted with an enthusiastic smile and put my nerves to rest. meet and greet the horses, discuss my ability and what I want t get out of the morning, sign a wavier and we are on our way. The horses were loved and in great condition the best I have seen in FNQ tourist ride. We casually rode through the bush seeing local wildlife a couple small (very small) creek crossing and getting to a trot on a couple occasions. Not being in a saddle for a few years it was a great start. The is so many advantages on this property, the great accommodation where you can rest up after your ride or the little town of Dimbulah is no more than 10 minutes away. A great base to explore the out back.There is a variety of tracks so it will never be boring, Rachael will work with your riding ability and confidence to make it a great day. There is only a few horses which suits me as this has the great experience and not the mass of tourists like other places. Things which make this place a stand out........ The great condition of the horses - they really do look after them The Owners - the horse and your safety is paramount The variety - not just going around in circles there is flats, creeks, rocks, wildlife. Yes I will go again and look to make this a monthly event for me it will still be cheaper and easier than getting my own horse again. 10 out of 10.
Visited March 2019 Travelled solo
Written 31 March 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bop1965
Thank you so much for your amazing review and taking a chance on a start up to discover our beautiful property. Looking forward to showing you some new sights. Misfit says hi!
Written 2 April 2019. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Ian A
2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Unbelievably peaceful. Undisturbed wildlife. Great hospitality.
Two nights were not long enough! We're grateful that an unexpected flood at our original destination forced us to change plans and as a result, stumble into this dry tropical 'Shangri-La'. My first reaction while sitting on the verandah looking past the iconic iron bark tree was just an enormous sense of peace. I can see why Kevin and Rachael decided to create the cottage where they did!. I'm not normally into just sitting around when on holidays, but it's hard to think of a nicer place to reconnect with nature (see photos). The sense of peace was just the beginning, as there are about 5km of tracks starting from the house and passing though a range of elevation and vegetation types, and permanent water-holes. Even though we were there at the end of the wet season, we found more than enough uncommon wildlife to make us very happy. In the dry, this must be a birdwatcher's dream! We were also lucky enough to go for a walk with Kevin on another part of the property and got to see lots of other wildlife including a cute family of Mareeba rock wallabies. It's hopefully very obvious that we wish Kevin and Rachael at Iron Bark House every success and hope to be back soon!
Visited March 2019 Travelled as a couple
Written 31 March 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bop1965
Thank you so much for your kind review, we loved having you here and hope to see you again one day. Perfect guests who left our place spotless.
Written 2 April 2019. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Ian A
2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Unbelievably peaceful. Undisturbed wildlife. Great hospitality. Friendly cows!
Two nights were not long enough! Luckily for us, an unexpected flood at our original destination forced us to change plans and as a result, stumble into this dry tropical 'Shangri-La'. I can see why Kevin and Rachael decided to create the cottage where they did!. I'm not normally into just sitting around when on holidays, but it's hard to think of a nicer place to reconnect with nature (see photos). My first reaction while sitting on the verandah looking past the iconic iron bark tree for the first time was that I'd be quite happy to just "park up" here for a few days and not move! The sense of peace was just the beginning, as there are over 5km of tracks starting from the house and passing though a range of elevation and vegetation types, and permanent water-holes. Even though we were there at the end of the wet season, we found more than enough uncommon wildlife to make us very happy. In the dry, this must be a birdwatcher's dream! We were also lucky enough to go for a walk with Kevin on another part of the property and got to see lots of other wildlife including a cute family of Mareeba rock wallabies. It's hopefully very obvious that we wish Kevin and Rachael at Iron Bark House every success and hope to be back soon!
Visited March 2019
Written 2 April 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bop1965
Thank you Ian and Chris for your great review, we loved having you here and we are very happy you ventured out this way. The cows are missing you too as they have stopped visiting the house so often! Please come back and visit us again any time.
Written 2 April 2019. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

HeathM
Mossman, Australia3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Incredible location!
We stayed here last night, the view was spectacular! You could see for hundreds of kilometres! The quality of the accommodation was 5 star, all brand new and finished to a very high standard. The mix of stunning views, abundant wildlife and luxurious accommodation make this property outstanding. Far better than anything else we have stayed in and great value. Friendly, welcoming hosts with a vaste knowledge of the region. Unrivalled in the area a MUST for all travellers.
Visited April 2019 Travelled with family
Written 6 April 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bop1965
Thank you for your review, you were great guests, hopefully you'll find the time to make it back up here one day.
Written 7 April 2019. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Court199
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Breathtaking!!!
The most beautiful home set within gorgeous woodlands overlooking one of the most amazing views I have ever seen in my travels. Never ending look out across an amazingly biodiverse country side in all directions. Wallaby visits and a keen birders heaven! Beautiful friendly cows. The luxurious house which has been exceptionally designed is completely self sufficient - so inspiring! You can go horse riding with gorgeous Rachel who is amazing with animals. You can also go on a series of tours to suit your interest with Kevin who is so kind, funny and full of knowledge about creatures large and small. We even saw beautiful rock wallabies including one with an adorable joey! This place is something special. Perfect for a friend group, family and I think it would be lovely for a solo aspiring artist or writer who needs an inspiring, peaceful setting. I'm an early career researcher in environmental science and this place had so many species I had been looking for in field trips for years! I will be recommending this to absolutely everyone. I can't wait to plan my next visit to Ironbark House!
Visited April 2019 Travelled with friends
Written 6 April 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bop1965
Thank you so much for your review, we really enjoyed having you visit our unique property. Hope to see you again one day.
Written 7 April 2019. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Showing results 1-10 of 64

What this rental offers
Nearby
  • Golf course (within 30 mins drive)
  • Hiking areas
  • Countryside area
  • Horse riding facilities
Outdoor amenities
  • Private yard
  • Balcony
  • Terrace
  • Patio
  • Deck
Property features
  • Staff on property
  • Ceiling Fans
Parking
  • Parking available
  • Secure parking available
Entertainment
  • Stereo system
  • Television
Living spaces
  • Highchair
Things to do
  • Fishing spots available
  • Cycling areas
Scenic views
  • Mountain views
Bathroom and laundry
  • Towels provided
  • Iron
  • Linens provided
Indoor amenities
  • Internet access
Location info
  • Kid friendly
Kitchen and dining
  • Cooker
  • Grill
  • Refrigerator
  • Freezer
  • Kettle
  • Toaster

Map
Getting there
Cairns Airport
77 km
Restaurants
Camp 64
6.7 km

Dimbulah Takeaway
6.7 km

Billabong Cafe
6.7 km
About the neighbourhood
There is the town of Dimbulah 8km from the house and many other attractions suitable for a day visit by car from the house. Dimbulah is a small town that was once a busy tobacco growing region, it is now a fertile region for growing mangos, avocados, citrus, grapes and several organic vegetable farms. The town has a pub, post office, hardware/agricultural supplies store, bakery, take-away, café, mini-mart, fuel, bank, chemist and library.
Getting around
You will need your own vehicle if you wish to explore the surrounding areas, but there is a lot to see on property also. We offer boutique guided tours of the property: bird-watching; wildlife; farm and mountain hikes with a guide of 20 years experience. Helicopter transfers can be arranged to and from Cairns
Access
Car required
How to get there
You will need your own vehicle to get to Ironbark House as there is no public transport to the area. In some cases we may be able to help with transport.
Activities nearby
Fishing spots availableGolf course (within 30 mins drive)Horse riding facilities

About this property

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Property #HL22210049102

Frequently Asked Questions about Ironbark House Dimbulah: A Unique Hideaway Gazing Across the Aussie Outback

Ironbark House Dimbulah: A Unique Hideaway Gazing Across the Aussie Outback is able to accommodate up to 6 guests. See all property details.

Ironbark House Dimbulah: A Unique Hideaway Gazing Across the Aussie Outback has 2 bathrooms available. See all property details.

Ironbark House Dimbulah: A Unique Hideaway Gazing Across the Aussie Outback has 2 bedrooms available. See all property details.

Stays at Ironbark House Dimbulah: A Unique Hideaway Gazing Across the Aussie Outback must last at least 2 nights. See all property details.

Ironbark House Dimbulah: A Unique Hideaway Gazing Across the Aussie Outback - Tripadvisor - Holiday Rental in Dimbulah