Donnybrook Cottages - Donnybrook Cottage

The cold, wet arrival was rough: our door code didn’t work, and after many calls to the caretaker we eventually got a key and let ourselves into a dark, dingy cottage full of mosquitoes. There were two air conditioners for heating, but they weren’t adequate, and one was on. We froze the whole time. The only way to get warm was to go to bed, which isn’t much fun when you don’t usually turn in at 7:30 pm. When we did sleep, dive-bombing mosquitoes kept waking us. Low water pressure, skimpy towels and a freezing bathroom made mornings unpleasant too. We’re South Australians who now live interstate and have spent many wonderful times in the Clare Valley, but this wasn’t one of them. If the owners can’t provide enough heating in winter, they shouldn’t rent the property out. We’ll return to the area, but certainly not to Donnybrook cottages.

I paid $450 for a two-bedroom cottage for two nights, then found a sign on the second bed saying there’d be an extra $50 per night to use it. If I’d wanted a one-bedroom cottage, I’d have booked one. I’ve raised this with several commercial operators in Clare, and they’re as dismayed as I am. At the very least, it’s deceptive marketing.

A relaxing, enjoyable stay in a well-equipped cottage with pleasant decor. The breakfast provisions were generous, and the location was perfect.

After our experience at the so-called grand hotel milldura, this place felt like heaven. Great location, and everything you’d want for a great holiday. We couldn’t be happier, 9/10, great job.