Tall Timbers — Tall Timbers is situated in the charming village of Cockatoo, within the lush Dandenong Ranges. The property features a large garden that seamlessly blends into the surrounding forest, creating a deeply natural and peaceful atmosphere. Daily bird visits and nearby forest trails enhance the sense of immersion in nature. — AI-generated illustration

Tall Timbers Haven

A quiet garden beyond the city

Australia Cockatoo paid

A forest-like garden sets the pace at Tall Timbers Haven, a private home in Cockatoo, about an hour from Melbourne. Rather than a purpose-built retreat campus, this is a lived-in house shared with guests, with the host describing it as a private temple. The grounds are its defining feature: a generous garden with the feel of woodland, where birds visit daily. Nearby forest walks make it easy to trade city noise for fresh air and an unhurried stretch outdoors. The setting lends itself to quiet rest and personal reflection, while Cockatoo’s position in the Dandenong Ranges keeps a Melbourne escape within reach. Tall Timbers is best approached as a nature-led private stay rather than a scheduled meditation program; ask the host what kind of retreat arrangements are possible for your dates.

Highlights

A large garden with a woodland feel
Birdlife visiting the grounds daily
Nearby forest walks for time outdoors
A host-shared home described as a private temple

Good for

Nature loversForest walkersQuiet getawaysGuests seeking a private retreat

Setting

In Cockatoo, within the Dandenong Ranges, the house sits amid a large garden that feels more like forest than formal landscaping. Birds visit daily, and nearby forest walks bring the surrounding greenery within easy reach.

A typical day

Daily structure varies by stay. Plan around time in the garden and nearby forest walks, and confirm with the host whether any guided practice is included for your dates.

Accommodation

Guests stay in a private home shared by the host, set within the garden. Room types and sleeping arrangements depend on the booking, so confirm the details with the host before reserving.

What to bring

Bring comfortable shoes for forest walks and layers for changeable conditions. The annual average temperature is 13.3°C, with cooler weather from June to August and wetter conditions in October, November and July, so pack a warm layer and rain protection.

Website airbnb.com.au/h/1001-nights-hideaway

How to get there

Tall Timbers Haven is in Cockatoo in the Dandenong Ranges, about an hour from Melbourne. Plan your route to the village before travelling and confirm the property’s exact address with the host.

Nearest airport: Melbourne Moorabbin Airport (MBW) (35 km)

Melbourne Moorabbin Airport (MBW) is approximately 35 km from the center. A taxi or rental car may be practical for the onward trip; check the route and transfer options with the host.

Nearest city: Melbourne

Languages

English

How to book

Book through the Airbnb page and contact the host to confirm stay details.

Pricing

This is a paid stay, with rates depending on the booking. Check the Airbnb page for current prices and dates.

Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.

Visit Tall Timbers Haven website

Climate

Climate Zone: Temperate

Best Months: May, Apr, Feb

Avoid: Nov, Oct, Jul

The Dandenong Ranges have an annual average temperature of 13.3°C. January to March are the warmest months, while June to August are coolest; October, November and July tend to be wetter, so expect to dress in layers and plan for rain.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is there a set daily meditation or retreat schedule?

Daily activities are not established as a fixed program. Ask the host what is planned for your dates.

Can a beginner stay here?

The home is presented as a peaceful place for rest and reflection, but no formal beginner program is described. Check with the host about any practice support.

How do I book a stay?

Reserve through the Airbnb page and confirm your dates and accommodation details with the host.

What can I do outdoors during a visit?

You can spend time in the large garden, where birds visit daily, and take nearby forest walks.

Are meals included?

Ask the host whether meals are available or included with your booking.