The Merribee, 1820
Transformed from empty dairy paddocks, the Merribee’s breathtaking gardens with its 20 formal garden rooms, are a delight to discover.
History
Dating to the 1820s, Merribee was originally part of Alexander Berry’s extensive 100-square mile estate he named ‘Coolangatta’. Born in Scotland, Berry was a surgeon, merchant and explorer. The first settler in the area, the nearby town of Berry in NSW was established in 1822, and named after him.
Since the early 19th Century, Merribee played a significant role in the area’s dairy farming community. In 2000, the property was purchased by Lucy and Richard Marshall, who, along with horticulturalist and garden designer James Thompson, transformed empty dairy paddocks into seven acres of spectacular, French-inspired gardens that Merribee is renowned for today.
The Heritage Rose Garden traces the evolution of the rose from ancient and medieval times, with beautiful examples of Gallicas, Damascus, Rugosas, Noisettes, Portlands, Bourbons, and Tea Roses, among other varieties. There are also 20 distinct garden rooms to discover, including the Edible Garden, Purple-Walled Wisteria Garden, the Italian Garden, and Apothecary Gardens modelled on 7th Century Monastic and 12th Century Medieval designs and plantings. The Lavender Paddock, with 1,000 lavender bushes, will transport you to the South of France.
Several historic outbuildings, including a simple timber worker’s cottage dating to the mid-1800s, and early 1900s grain silo were also extensively restored, to provide luxurious accommodation for both couples and families, set within breathtaking surrounds for guests to enjoy.
Accommodation
The Merribee has a range of stylish and fully accessible accommodation options, sleeping up to 20 guests. Children of all ages are also welcome (with a cot available at no charge), and The Merribee is also pet-friendly. All accommodation options feature bespoke interiors with original art, antique and contemporary furniture, luxurious Hermès blankets, and al.ive bath & body products. The Homestead is fully self-contained, and the Villas and Silo all have a kitchenette with coffee machine, tea & coffee - along with little extras like a bottle of wine and charcuterie starters.
The Silo — 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom, Sleeps 2
The circa 1900 grain silo has been artfully converted into luxury accommodation for couples. With its romantic vine-covered facade, spiral stairs, and circular rooms, The Silo is utterly unique and charming. Spanning four levels, there is a bedroom, bathroom and one living area, with a stylish interior offset by striking exposed original walls. The top floor commands 360 degree views of the gardens, rivers and surrounding countryside.
The Main Homestead - 4 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom, Sleeps 8
Dating to the mid-1800s, the Homestead is a spacious four bedroom home, perfect for families or small groups of friends. Cook your favourite meals in the large open-plan kitchen and dining area, with views out over the gardens. Curl up in front of the wood fireplace with a glass of wine in the cosy living room, and the wide wraparound verandah is a peaceful spot to enjoy the gardens during all seasons.
Villa Parterre (Fully Accessible) - 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom, Sleeps 4
A beautiful, light-filled two bedroom house that’s perfect for a small family or two couples, Villa Parterre is also wheelchair accessible. It features stunning colourful leadlight windows, kitchenette, living room with cosy wood fireplace, and overlooks the gardens with a vine-covered outdoor seating area.
Villa Botanica - 1 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom, Sleeps 2
A romantic retreat for couples, Villa Botanica has a luxurious king bed with adjacent deep soaking bath. There is a kitchenette with dining setting, living area, and direct access to a terrace with garden views.
“Stunning accommodation with truly magical surrounding gardens. We spent time in the Silo accommodation, and the top floor has a beautiful view. The interior was colourful and chic. A lovely getaway!”
Exclusive Offer
Simply book 2+ nights and mention Historic Stays to receive 10% off your total stay.
Special Features
Established Gardens
Pet-Friendly
Wedding Destination
Families Welcome
Things To Do
The Shoalhaven region of New South Wales offers a mix of coastal charm, history, cultural attractions and gourmet experiences. Jim Wild’s Oysters in Greenwell Point is a family-owned oyster farm, where you can sample freshly-shucked Sydney Rock and Pacific oysters alongside the Crookhaven River.
Just a short drive away, visit the historic town of Berry, with charming heritage architecture, cafes, antique and homewares stores. Enjoy afternoon tea at the Berry Tea Shop, celebrated for its hand-blended teas and homemade scones and cakes. Wine enthusiasts can head to Silos Estate for wine tastings and fine dining.
For art lovers, Bundanon is a must-see. Established by artist Arthur Boyd, this unique cultural site features a contemporary art museum, heritage-listed sandstone homestead, and bushland trails.
Shoalhaven is home to some of Australia’s most picturesque coastline. Culburra Beach offers great surfing, fishing, and quiet stretches of sand. And visit iconic Hyams Beach, with its aqua water and white sands framed by a backdrop of pristine bushland. Discover Cape St George Lighthouse in Booderee National Park, with sweeping ocean views and local maritime history. End the day at The Butter Factory Restaurant in Pyree, dating back to 1889, with seasonal dishes served in the historic factory building, now a rustic restaurant.
