Entire home

A heritage cottage in tranquil rural surrounds

your current months are December, 2024 and January, 2025.
December 2024
January 2025

Photo gallery for A heritage cottage in tranquil rural surrounds

Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Exterior
Terrace/patio
Interior
2 bedrooms, WiFi, bed sheets

Reviews

9.8 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Washer
  • Kitchen
  • Dryer
  • Fireplace

Explore the area

Map
Waimate, Canterbury
  • Seddon Square
    5 min drive
  • Pinjing Fastfood
    6 min drive
  • Timaru Station
    39 min drive
  • Oamaru (OAM)
    32 min drive

Room options

Similar properties

About the area

Waimate

Located in Waimate, this cottage is in a rural location, within a 10-minute drive of Seddon Square and Waimate Historical Museum. .This cottage is 2.3 mi (3.7 km) from St Patrick's Catholic Church and 19.4 mi (31.2 km) from Riverstone Castle.

What's nearby

  • Seddon Square - 5 min drive
  • St Patrick's Catholic Church - 6 min drive
  • EnkleDooVery Korna - 9 min drive
  • Caroline Bay Beach - 41 min drive
  • Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony - 47 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Rainbow Dairy - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Waimate Town & Country Club - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Savoy Tearooms - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Cafe Nosh - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Shearman Street Takeaways - ‬6 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

A heritage cottage in tranquil rural surrounds

Birdsong Cottage is a tranquil rural escape, where you will wake to native bird song and enjoy panoramic views from your secluded spot nestled in the foothills overlooking Waimate. The Cottage is located at the entrance to Point Bush Ecosanctuary - a regenerating native forest, only a short drive from Waimate’s main street (5km)

WHAT TO EXPECT:

This is a heritage property, loved and taken care of since it was first built in 1913 as part of a much larger estate, with a fascinating history and many original Edwardian features preserved. The Cottage has incredible views out to the Pacific Ocean, a uniquely tranquil location and is the perfect place to enjoy time in nature during your stay - there are walkways and mountain biking trails through the Ecosanctuary on your doorstep - suitable for all fitness levels!

The Cottage is perfect for small families or couples alike - whether you are looking for a unique destination to enjoy a weekend immersed in nature, or are visiting Waimate - you’ll enjoy staying in charming cottage comfort. Due to the age of the property we do ask that guests kindly respect the heritage features during their stay - there are also a couple of steps up to the front door and back door of the cottage.

There is a private, fenced garden surrounding the property, which is located next to the Point Bush Ecosanctuary Visitor Centre (which is currently only used for one-off workshops or talks). There is complimentary off road parking adjacent to the property.

THE COTTAGE:

The space includes two bedrooms (the master bedroom has a Queen bed which can be made into 2 x Singles if required; plus a second bedroom with two single beds); one bathroom including shower, toilet and vanity; Lounge with Freeview TV - and an open plan kitchen plus dining space. The kitchen is a modern renovation - which includes cooktop, oven, fridge/freezer, toaster and kettle - along with a log burner.

In moments you can be walking or cycling through native forest, spotting native birds and enjoying a variety of tracks and trails to explore. Waimate town centre is only a short 5 minute drive away, where you can enjoy cafes, bakery, dining, parks and historical features.

The entire cottage and garden is for guests to enjoy during your stay and is fully self contained!

THINGS TO NOTE BEFORE STAYING:

Please note - this is a charming and tranquil rural location, Birdsong Cottage is a heritage property that is over 100 years old. This is an ideal destination for a weekend or nature exploration holiday and is perfect for FOUR people maximum - two couples or a small family.

We have a strict policy of No Smoking anywhere on the property - while guests have the space to themselves, the property owners do live on site, so no parties please and if you do have any concerns during your stay there is usually someone nearby to assist with guests needs.
Make yourself comfortable in this cottage, which features a fireplace and a Smart TV. A kitchen is outfitted with a refrigerator, an oven, and a stovetop. Conveniences include a microwave and an electric kettle.
Take in the views from a garden.
Guests will find features like internet access and onsite parking.

Property manager

Rose

Languages

English

Property amenities

Internet

  • WiFi available

Parking and transport

  • On-site parking includes off-street options
  • On-site parking

Kitchen

  • Fridge
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Spices
  • Freezer
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shower
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided
  • Soap

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Porch or lanai
  • Fenced garden
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Washing machine and dryer

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 1 total (up to 25 kg per pet)
  • Welcoming dogs only

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • In a rural location

Things to do

  • Ecotours nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Hiking nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 1:00 PM
Contactless check-in available

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
1 total (up to 55 lbs per pet)
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: The cottage is NOT Childproofed

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Property is also known as

A heritage cottage in tranquil rural surrounds Waimate

A heritage cottage in tranquil rural surrounds Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 36 out of 39 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 39 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 39 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 39 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 39 reviews" "

9.4/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Sandy G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Old fashioned break away
Lovely place, beautiful view. Waimate is full of surprises :) Make sure you visit the Whitehorse!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brian T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very comfortable and well kept abode. Couldnt fault it.
Stunning
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jenny K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kathy T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Warm welcome
Such a cozy, inviting cottage that made our Winter stay very enjoyable.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Leanne K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing
Another enjoyable break in this wee retreat. Look forward to returning.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ross G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Feel the tranquility
Lovely peaceful spot highly recommended.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Charles B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Home with a view
We loved our stay at Birdsong Villa, the home is full of modern functional features wrapped in old-world charm.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

8/10 Good

Raymond N.

Peaceful Rest
It was ideal for us and our two small dogs. Excellent views from the verandah enjoying the afternoon.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect again
Fabulous relaxing location .. our third visit .. thanks Ann xx
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lou H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Inviting
Such a welcoming, relaxing stay. Just like visiting with a friend.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Larry M., Bobcaygeon,Ontario

Liked: Cleanliness
Waimate Vacation
The property was very clean and well furnished. The bed was very comfortable. Each room had a heater which was good. The kitchen was well furnished with all the utensils. It is recommended that towel racks be installed in the bathroom and quicker response time for the hot water.The bathroom was cool because cold air was coming through the window
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kay D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great views, comfy home
We loved our stay in Birdsong Cottage. It was very comfortable with the feeling of a bygone era. Just 5 minute drive into the centre of Waimate and no distance to some great walks. It was great to meet Ann and learn about some local history.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Charlotte W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very cozy cottage with a great feel & outlook.. safe and secure for my doggo she loved it to.
Beautiful and quiet with wood pigeons flying around 😊 thank you for a very comfortable stay.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

6/10 Okay

Kelly Y.

Disliked: Cleanliness
Family of 4
Property wasn't ready but did come straight away when we phoned. Could of been cleaner pen marks on the sheets. Beds were very comfortable and was a comfortable stay and great views.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kara M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely home with beautiful surroundings
We enjoyed meeting the owner and reading about the history behind this lovely home! Tha nature reserve is right in the backyard to hike, birdwatch and relax! We would definitely stay again!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ros W., Swannanoa

Liked: Cleanliness
A perfect little get-away
It was warm, cozy and clean. Thankyou very much for having the heaters on before we arrived. So peaceful and quiet, and we loved the bellbird who sang outside the dining room window every morning!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sandie F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fabulous place for a holiday
We loved this cottage especially being able to have our poodle free to roam on the large well fenced section. House has everything we needed and some lovely homely touches. We enjoyed the history of the place and the view, especially in the mornings on the verandah. Thankyou Rose!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fabulous
We loved it! An original cottage built in 1913. Wonderful elevated views back towards the sea. Comfortable and warm. Fully fenced so perfect for our spaniel to run around. Thanks guys .. we will return again .
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Leanne K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely Retreat
Quiet and private. Friendly and helpful owners. Warm and homely house. Well fenced for our dog. Hope to return again soon.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chrissy J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful & quiet
A peaceful place to stay & very easy process & fab communication. :)
Stayed 1 night in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Vicki M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful escape
Birds singing, bush tracks, markets. Perfect escape for me and my dog. Thank you
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rowena V.

Liked: Cleanliness
Waimate Arts & Crafts treasure
We absolutely loved our stay and everything about this home. Being obsessed with this style of architecture didn't hurt! Fabulous bed, bedding and helpful instructions. Very clean and tidy. Only negative: I would have loved a hair dryer :)
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brogan P.

Liked: Cleanliness
A lovely stay for our family
This was a lovely stay for our family. Loved the view, and loved the log burner! A great place to escape the rush of the city.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Louise P.

Liked: Cleanliness
A perfect getaway
What a delightful cottage. We loved the location and the history attached to the cottage. Communication was great and directions were easy to follow. All in all a lovely little break. Just not long enough!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Phoebe D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cody picturesque cottage
Lovely cottage in beautiful surroundings
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023