Grand Lodge@FernglenForestRetreat

The property was great for providing the perfect retreat for our working group, with excellent bedroom and living space arrangements and comforts

We recently stayed at the Grand Lodge for a family girls’ trip. The location is undeniably beautiful — surrounded by stunning bushland and birdlife — but the property itself left us with mixed feelings.The driveway is steep, winding, and stressful. The groundskeeper was on site and blocked the driveway making us have to reverse up, which was almost impossible. The “charming brook” turned out to be an overgrown trickle, that most people couldn't access. I’m also glad we didn’t pay the extra for the unkept outdoor bath and sauna.The newer Windmill Lodge was clean, comfy, and nicely presented… until following the fire-lighting instructions smoked out the entire place. The older Jacuzzi Lodge, however, felt neglected: an unemptied dishwasher, dusty “brothel-style” lampshade, cluttered carport area and broken outdoor furniture and festoon lights on the ground all contributed to a forgotten, unloved vibe.On the upside, the birdlife was amazing, the firepit was a lovely gathering spot and the natural setting was peaceful — if you ignored the neglected gardens. With proper care, this place could be spectacular. Right now, it feels more like bush camping with a roof than a premium retreat.