LOCATION
First thing's first - the location of Dan and Coco's house is a dream. It really is an easy walk into Lorne and a short stroll down the hill to the beach - but it's far enough out of the main strip, nestled in the bush, that you feel like you are miles away.
THE PLACE
The deck was by far our favourite part of our stay... There are ocean glimpses through the trees and when the sun comes out, it's just heaven! We had visits from cockatoos and King Parrots and even a friendly Kookaburra. Our two girls adored the birds and us adults ate every single meal on the outdoor table (the BBQ also worked a treat).
The actual house was smaller than we expected, but we also had 4 adults and 2 children staying in a 3-bedroom house so it's probably little wonder we felt cramped. The bedrooms are quite small and lumped together, and sadly, could have been cleaner upon check-in. (More on this later).
The renovated kitchen is spacious and easy to use, plus there were more than enough plates / cutlery / wine glasses etc to go around.
It's worth noting my daughters ADORED the outdoor bath and, while we didn't make use of the fireplace (no need to at that time of year) I'm sure it would be a hit in cooler months.
COMMUNICATION
Was top-notch - could not fault it. Dan also let us check in two hours early which was very kind of him!
CLEANLINESS
Unfortunately the property could have been cleaner upon check in. When we first arrived the entire place stank of smoke - I don't know if that was from the fireplace or a kitchen mishap but it absolutely reeked. Luckily it cleared by the end of the day but it wasn't the warmest welcome. There was also rubbish strewn throughout the garden and around the bins which we tidied up, and we found a couple of 'surprises' throughout our stay such as a cigarette butt in one of the bedroom drawers. My MIL also had to wipe down the fridge as it was not clean.
FULL DISCLOSURE
Dan messaged me upon our departure noting that there was a small stain on the carpet which we have concluded must have been a raspberry from our toddler, and for which we have offered to pay for. He also said there were two small burns in the kitchen but we have denied responsibility for those as we cooked entirely on the BBQ. (It also makes me wonder about the smoke smell upon check-in??) I am yet to hear back from Dan on this matter but I hope you can appreciate this review has been nothing but entirely honest in both the good and the not-so-good.