Cloud Farm – the place to escape to!

My husband and I recently visited Cloud Farm for 2 nights to celebrate our 9th Wedding Anniversary. First things first, if you’re planning on a visit, aim to stay at least 3 nights because once you arrive, you’ll simply want to stay longer.

Cloud Farm is 5 minutes drive, south west of Apollo Bay, nestled in the hills overlooking sweeping country side and the sea (just after Jansil Ct). The light filled loft style house felt modern yet rustic at the same time. It has simple clean furnishings, with fresh white linens and cosy doonas. All the cutlery and crockery you need is on hand, and we were left wanting for nothing.

It also felt more like a real bed and breakfast for us, not someone else’s home. A total escape away from the bustle of the city and tourism. The only thing you hear are birds (which we hand fed), the odd sheep, a koala, rain on the roof, or the crackling of the fire place. There are also plenty of spaces outside to sit, ponder and breathe. Personally I loved sitting on the veranda with a glass of wine, looking over the hills and just reflecting. And sitting outside at night time is like touching the heavens – no lights anywhere, allowing the stars and the Milky Way to come out in all their glory.

For those who like to stay connected, keep in mind that many areas along the Great Ocean Road are out of range. This isn’t the case with Cloud Farm so you’ll be able to talk, text and Google till your hearts content. The satellite TV will also serve your fill of viewing pleasure.

The shower and bath are just decadent. It’s not just about bathing in beautiful tank water, it is about bathing in the claw foot bath or having a rain shower, with strong water pressure, and consistent hot water. We had both and were left feeling blissed!

If possible, aim to arrive during daylight so you can get your bearings. And if you need to, pick up your essentials in Apollo Bay (IGA or Food Market) so once you arrive you don’t have to go anywhere if you don’t want to. If you do decide to venture out we’d recommend:
•the Apollo Bay Markets on the foreshore, Saturdays (8am-1pm), has some good locally made/grown items like: soaps, massage oils, jewelry, candles, cards, art works, preserves, herbs and vegetables. I picked up a great massage blend for muscle pain from Peak Natural Products ($25).
•the Fisherman Co-op near the Boat Harbour on Trafalgar Street, which has fresh seafood straight off the boats – we had half a crayfish for $40, but you can also get fish and chips, or fresh seafood to eat there or take home and cook.
•Sandy Feet Café on the main street, is also a great little café for yummy, healthy food.