44 Hylands Road

Willowbend

An Exceptional Country Estate in the Heart of Hesket

Located on the sunny northern slopes of Mount Macedon in the tightly held community of Hesket, Willowbend consists of approximately 50 acres comprising a mixture of quality grazing, exotic gardens and native bushland with stunning views towards the Cobaw Ranges.

This beautiful country estate in a magical setting offers a lifestyle of tranquillity and distinction. The wonderfully diverse landscape presents a rare opportunity to own your own little piece of paradise in this exclusive pocket of the Macedon Ranges.

A winding driveway meanders through magnificent gardens, beneath the canopy of mature trees and over a picturesque crossing of the Garden Hut creek, gradually revealing the gracious homestead in its idyllic setting.

The substantial 39-square residence has been designed to embrace its surroundings, with expansive windows drawing the landscape into almost every room. Views across the gardens and beyond create a wonderful connection to the outdoors, while high ceilings, natural light and generous proportions establish an immediate sense of space and understated elegance. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered and extensively renovated in recent times, resulting in a quality home that feels both grand and inviting, equally suited to relaxed family living and entertaining on a larger scale.

Willowbend has four bedrooms, including two ensuited bedrooms, large main bathroom with double shower and stone bath, complemented by two powder rooms. A substantial internal studio provides exceptional flexibility as an additional living space, home office, workshop or private retreat. A double carport is conveniently attached to the house.

At the centre of the home, the kitchen is exceptionally appointed with a 110cm Falcon Nexus oven and quality Miele appliances. There is a bespoke, built-in bar with Vintec wine fridges creating a space as practical for those who love food and wine as it is inviting.

Multiple living areas offer distinct places to gather or retreat, each with its own character and outlook. A Coonara wood fire brings warmth and atmosphere to the main living room, while the adjoining lounge is centred around a striking stone open fireplace, an inviting setting for dinner parties and evenings with family and friends. Gas ducted heating, split-system reverse cycle air conditioning and a gas log fire in the studio provide comfort throughout the seasons.

Spotted gum timber flooring, quality wool carpets and full double glazing enhance the comfort and refinement throughout, while custom kitchen and bathroom joinery brings a timeless finish.

Outside, the lifestyle is equally compelling. A beautifully positioned alfresco entertaining area sits beneath a magnificent Mount Fuji cherry tree, creating an enchanting setting for long lunches. Beyond, the gardens open to an established orchard, veggie gardens, tennis court with LED lighting and an in-ground trampoline, while the lake, pond and three dams bring a wonderful sense of space, movement and serenity to the landscape. Rich volcanic soil makes growing plants a joy, and an abundance of water further enhances the property's natural appeal.
Established over generations, the gardens are a defining feature of Willowbend, with many trees and plants now 40 to 50 years old. Beautifully layered and maintenance friendly, they offer a changing display throughout the seasons, from spring flowering to the rich colours of autumn, while the surrounding bushland provides a natural sanctuary alive with diverse birdlife and wildlife.

For those with an equestrian interest, the substantial, renovated barn incorporates three stables with brick flooring, concreted dedicated tack and feed room, horse wash and hay storage. Grazing pasture looking out to the Cobaws is suited to horses, sheep, cattle, alpacas. Practical infrastructure is equally well considered, with three gated entrances from Hylands Road, three water tanks providing approximately 75,000 litres of storage, plumbed water to four paddocks, a four-stage water filtration system and a pressure-pumped dam water supply servicing the garden taps. A full size dressage arena exists with the opportunity to restore it to pristine condition.

A rare combination of natural beauty, established gardens, designer improvements and generous country living, Willowbend is a property to be experienced rather than simply described. A private and peaceful sanctuary in which to slow the pace, enjoy the changing seasons and embrace the very best of country life, all within the much-loved Macedon Ranges, with easy access to quaint surrounding villages, wineries, restaurants, cafes, amenities and Melbourne just 60 minutes by car or train from Woodend. Melbourne airport is 45 minutes by car.