Merilli1885
History
‘Merilli’ has a rich pastoral history. The name Merilli is believed to be an Aboriginal name, that was first recorded by Captain Charles Sturt in reference to his close friend Edward Bate Scott (1822–1909), an early pioneer, explorer, and long-serving Superintendent of Yatala Labour Prison.
Scott developed Merilli into one of the region’s earliest pastoral holdings, holding strong ties to the community, with its own schoolroom, tennis court, and cricket pitch. The original ironstone cottage, built in 1885, was followed by the bluestone homestead in 1905. Nearby, the remnants of an early settler’s hut made from creek stone provide a fascinating glimpse into the property’s early history.
Merilli remained in the Scott family for more than a century, before passing to its current custodians, Richard and Sophie Mintz, in 2002. The main homestead was carefully restored in 2003, and in 2024–2025, the ironstone cottage was reimagined as Merilli 1885, a luxury farm stay experience.
The restoration preserved the cottage’s original character, including stone foundations, beautiful ironstone walls, and windows with hand-blown glass. A modern extension was designed to complement the historic cottage, with stone from the collapsed settler’s hut used to create the feature chimney in the living space - linking this chapter of Merilli 1885 to its earliest beginnings.
Accommodation
1-4 Guests — 2 Bedrooms — 2 Bathrooms
Two king suites, each with a private ensuite bathroom, comfortably accommodate up to four guests. Couples or solo travellers can choose to book one king room, with all shared living and outdoor areas available for their use.
Premium king beds dressed in French flax linen and Egyptian cotton ensure a blissful night’s sleep, while reverse-cycle air conditioning provides year-round comfort. Both luxurious bathrooms have fluffy robes, Sheridan bath sheets, heated towel rails and spacious showers, with one ensuite also featuring a deep soaking tub. Spa-quality Salus botanical products and hotel-style amenities are provided for your stay.
The gourmet kitchen is fully fitted with premium appliances, including a Falcon cooker, and generous full breakfast provisions are included, with Brookfarm muesli & granola, and local Fleurieu Milk Company milk & yogurts, organic butter, Berrenberg preserves & condiments. A coffee machine with pods is also supplied, along with complimentary pantry essentials such as olive oil, teas, and artisan coffee.
Curl up on one of the feather-filled sofas in front of the Chiminee Philippe wood fireplace with a cheese platter and local wine. The cottage also has a 55-inch Smart TV next to the fireplace to enjoy your favourite shows, high-speed WiFi, and an extensive collection of books & board games for quiet afternoons and rainy days.
Outside, choose from several outdoor seating areas for your morning coffee, a BBQ lunch, or a wine at sunset, taking in panoramic views of century-old gums, the dam, and rolling farmland with grazing cattle & horses. Native wildlife is abundant on the farm, including kangaroos, kookaburras, rosellas, and wedge-tailed eagles.
As the sun sets, sit back on the verandah listening to the evening chorus of birds and frogs along the creek…then toast marshmallows around the seasonal firepit under starry skies.
Exclusive Offer when Booking Direct
Book 2+ nights and use code HISTORICSTAYS to receive a complimentary bottle of South Australian premium wine, along with a selection of cheeses from local Alexandrina Cheese Company.
“Merilli is the best South Australian property we’ve stayed at. The location is tranquil and serene, and everything we could need for a relaxing weekend had been considered. The original cottage has been immaculately restored and extended. Highly recommended - 5 out of 5!”
Special Features
Luxury Farm Stay
Soaking Bath
Country Surrounds
Gourmet Kitchen
Things To Do
Merilli1885 offers complete seclusion, yet it’s an easy drive to stunning beaches, wineries and charming historic towns. A range of optional experiences can be arranged prior to your arrival, including helicopter flights departing directly from the property, chauffeured car services, private chef dining, massage & yoga sessions, and personalised wine or picnic experiences to create an unforgettable stay.
Just minutes away, discover Currency Creek Aqueduct Reserve - built in 1915 to supply water to the region - with a walking trail framed by towering gums, native flora, and sweeping rural views. Visit South Australia’s oldest seaside town, Port Elliot, much loved for its heritage sandstone cottages, charming boutiques, and Horseshoe Bay - one of the Fleurieu’s most iconic beaches. Middleton Beach & Encounter Bay are just a short drive away for long walks, surfing, and dolphin spotting.
Only ten minutes away, Goolwa’s river port blends maritime heritage with modern coastal charm. Visit the Signal Point Gallery, browse artisan markets, and dine overlooking the Murray at Hector’s on the Wharf. For nature lovers, Coorong National Park, a World-Heritage listed sanctuary, and Urimbirra Wildlife Park are wonderful places to discover, and Nangawooka Flora Reserve in Victor Harbor is particularly beautiful in spring when the native wildflowers bloom.
Experience the region’s renowned food & wine through the McLaren Vale and Langhorne Creek wine regions. Visit many world-renoowned cellar doors, including d’Arenberg, Coriole, Angove’s, Bleasdale Vineyards, Lake Breeze, Kimbolton Wines, No. 58 Cellar Door & Gallery, and Smidge Wines. Taste locally-made cheeses and shop for regional produce at Alexandrina Cheese Company, just a short drive from the cottage. And follow the Mount Compass & Hindmarsh Valley Produce Trail, stopping in at distilleries, farm shops, and cafés for the best Fleurieu produce.
The area is also rich in history. Take a day trip to Strathalbyn, a picturesque heritage town with antique stores, bluestone buildings, and riverside gardens. Step back in time with a horse-drawn carriage across Victor Harbor Causeway, or visit the SteamRanger Heritage Railway, and take a steam train ride along the spectacular coastline between Goolwa & Victor Harbour.
