In the heart of the Otway Ranges, at Barwon Downs, this stunning four bedroom timber residence is the master stroke of its designer-inspired owners. Built early last century for a prominent merchant family, ‘Blackwood’ homestead presides over two acres of leafy garden set over two titles. With thoughtful renovations throughout, this historic home boasts all the comforts of a modern living while retaining its original charm. The recently added open plan family living, dining and entertaining area forms the heart of the home with a previously hidden brick chimney as its focal point, opening onto a spacious undercover deck overlooking the rear garden and woodland beyond. There’s a new chef’s kitchen, with stone benchtops, two stoves, a Rayburn combustion plus a Falcon gas/ electric range and dishwasher. For intimate dinners, there’s a formal dining room, for leisurely weekends, a large separate lounge with wood heating and when you can’t bear to leave, a dedicated home office. There are four double bedrooms, main with ensuite and walk-in robe, while bedrooms 2-4 are serviced by a modern family bathroom with bath and separate shower with newly installed heated flooring. The home boasts a range of original and designer features, including high ceilings, timber panelling and blackwood timber floors, quality fittings, plus hydronic heating and open fireplaces ensuring year-round comfort. Outside there’s a double garage, single carport, plus new studio space with barn doors, that if needed, could also be used as a retail space or for additional vehicle storage. An additional original building within the garden has a vine covered pergola creating a loggia perfect for outdoor summer dining. The garden is an enchanting mix of established ornamental trees and shrubs, fruit trees and forest glade which includes a truffle infused oak woodland. Picnic under the dappled shade of the giant oak, take-in the abundant birdlife and let the serenity envelope you. Explore the nearby delights of the Otway Harvest Food and Wine trail and for outdoor adventures, there are innumerable hiking tracks, pristine beaches and places of natural beauty. Barwon Downs is perfectly situated just 10 minutes from Forrest, one of the regions hottest tourist destinations, with its brewery, cafes and bike trails, 15 minutes from historic Birregurra and world-famous restaurant, Brae. 35 minutes to Lorne and the Great Ocean Road, an hour to Geelong and just under two hours to Melbourne with V/Line connections from Birregurra four times a day to both Melbourne and Geelong. Inspection is a must and strictly by appointment with agents.