Nothing at all.

Carmel was the most gracious host. She’s filled every single draw in the house with everything you could possibly need on your stay - games, card games, couple connection games. There are birds right outside and the most beautiful fire pit. The breakfast items were delicious and most of all, you can feel the heart Carmel has put into making this place as special as it is. Exceptional stay, would recommend it to anyone! Even toys and entertainment for children if you have them.

Stayed in August 2025

Feeding the birds, lovely garden setting, fireplace, amenities - Carmel has thought of everything. Activities provided and books

Stayed in August 2025

Nothing

The host Carmel was very friendly and helpful. The unit was clean and had everything necessary for a pleasant and comfortable stay.

Stayed in August 2025

Great location, warm and cosy

Stayed in July 2025

- if breakfast is being provided, we wouldn't have minded some tomatoes and bacon. Coffee/tea supplies very ample, but we prefer a hot breaky over cereal when we go away. - the lounge room couch needs updating: great colour but it sags/dips in the centre & wasn't comfy for two adults to snuggle up on.

- the location within the Dandenong Ranges.. great proximity to everything.. Emerald is adorable. - the cosiness of the house.. Carmel has thought of absolutely everything! (leave yr hairdryer & candles at home.. she's done that too). - Carmel has spent considerable time establishing the landscaping outside in her back garden.. it's a gorgeous extension of the indoor sanctuary (fire pit, seating area, BBQ, kids' fairy garden, large tree swing) - felt very inspired by the use of colours, textures, artworks, books & personal touches all through the house.. so visually interesting & provided a lovely mental escape.

Stayed in July 2025

Gorgeous quiet, cosy and comfortable place to stay.

Stayed in July 2025

Kitchen gets a bit chilly.

We loved the amenities and kitchen equipment, access to the garden and a meet & greet by Carmel, introducing the property.

Stayed in July 2025

I loved the quirkiness. The art is amazing.

Stayed in June 2025

The fact the I had to leave !!

The warm welcome from Carmel was such a surprise after a long drive. The place is perfect in every way for both couples and families to stay.

Stayed in June 2025

A cute little retreat amidst greenery that made us feel at home. The facilities were great! Everything that we could possibly need was kept ready for us at arrival. This is definitely a place we will stay at again!

Stayed in June 2025

Nothing

We loved everything about the property . Tucked away in a beautiful parcel of bushland The host provides so many little extras it makes the stay special . Local eggs fresh bread good coffee.

Stayed in May 2025

Tv reception not good but thats just the area

Lovely location

Stayed in May 2025

very comfortable accommodation in secluded location

Stayed in May 2025

Nothing much I can think of! I had the chance to meet the host Carmel when I collected the keys, she was detailed and gave a run thru of the place, also suggested where I could visit around the area e.g. , Puffing Billy.

The place is beautifully decorated, bed and even the sofa is comfortable. Lots of clean towels, a nice bath with bubble bath. Good hot water pressure. I fed and watched birds (various parrots) at the patio, played with the cat. Carmel thought of everything; phone chargers and electrical sockets at the work desk and bed side. She provided bread, butter, an assortment of jams, cereals, eggs, milk, coffee and various teas. Well-equipped kitchen with hob, oven, toaster, electric kettle, utensils, mugs and wine glasses etc. Board games, books etc in the drawers. There were detailed instructions. The place is also near Woolworth and BWS Emerald, and very near Emerald Lake Park which is lovely to visit in autumn. I stayed 3 days but wish I had stayed longer!

Stayed in May 2025

Amazing location, wonderful host, beautiful garden with lots to keep the kids busy, we loved roasting marshmallows at the outdoor firepit surrounded by the trees of the forest. Would highly recommend Ferny Hill Retreat for a stay while in Emerald!

Stayed in May 2025

All, Carmel goes the extra mile to make it very special.

Stayed in April 2025

Nothing

Amazing breakfast choices. We had a choice of cereals, toast with all sorts of spreads, eggs. Simply fantastic!

Stayed in April 2025

Nothing

Lovely host Beautiful, peaceful setting, lovely garden Cosy unit, Comfy bed Interesting art work Breakfast suppled which included a choice of cereals, milk, bread and eggs. Good variety of hot beverages. The extra little things supplied such as condiments in kitchen, items in bathroom drawers for everyday use. We were encouraged to open the drawers and cupboards to see what’s inside. Games to be played, books to be read. Little Easter eggs left out

Stayed in April 2025

Love the quirky art everywhere. This place had absolutely everything you could need for an awesome stay with many surprises included! Very quiet, bed was great, many breakfast options. Carmel was lovely, we will be returning in the future.

Stayed in April 2025

Lovely place to chill communication was great

Stayed in March 2025

Nothing!

Carmel is welcoming, friendly and informative. The accommodation has all the essentials you could possibly need. Absolutely love the decor! Extremely clean too, I’m an ex housekeeper so I pick up on all the little things - very well done!! Aime the local lift lady (her details are at the accommodation) gave us a ride to and from the wedding too for a little cheaper than what a cab would cost, an added bonus of our stay! She was so lovely too.

Stayed in March 2025

Nothing, it was fabulous!

Lovely location, well appointed, very clean and beautiful garden.

Stayed in February 2025

Nothing to dislike!

This place is an absolute vibe! We loved the quirky decor and the magic outdoors spaces. Fantastic location to base yourself and explore The Hills. Especially loved our feathered visitors! Carmel certainly goes the extra mile with all the extra little touches to make the stay special. Thanks so much Carmel!

Stayed in February 2025

Absolutely nothing not to like. Great location. Lovely private garden and wonderful birds that visit.

It’s very stylish and well equipped. You will want for nothing. We loved our stay and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a quiet escape where everything has been thought of.

Stayed in February 2025