Silkwood Estate

We booked one of the 4 chalets by the dam for 4 nights. It was more than we would normally pay for accommodation but it seemed lovely place to stay from the web site information, and we were given 4 nights for the price of 3. I think that 5-10 years ago it would have been top class, but time has made the furniture tired - it could use a makeover. The lounge was nice to lie on but uncomfortable to sit on. Even the swivel chairs on the balcony were not attached well to their bases so one had to be careful when shifting weight. There was no mobile signal, which for me was a treat. But there was a landline and wifi (though slow) so I could still check business emails. The promotional material says there is trout in the dam and that fishing rods and lures are provided, though the limit is one per person. But the tackle box was down to a swivel and a hook, and only one of the three rods had a lure. Keen to catch a trout for dinner, we went to town and invested $45 in lures and tackle. Reassured that fishing is a game of patience I set aside plenty of time to wet the lures. Yet all I got from 4 hours effort was a sore back. Because waters in the region are not cold enough for trout to breed I imagine the dam needs to be stocked regularly, and I suspect it has been many years since that has happened. (Nevertheless if any other guest has caught a trout I would like to see a photo posted.) Other than that, it is a delightful location. Whether it's sunny and calm, or wet and windy, the views from the chalet across the water are always a joy. The chalet has double-glazed windows and glass doors making the most of the view, and keeping the chalet at a comfortable temperature in any weather. And nestled among bushes and trees the chalet was fully private from other chalets, and made a perfect environment for the multitude of birds constantly singing all around. When the birds slept the frogs did the serenading. Would we stay there again? Absolutely if we could get 4 nights for the price of 3 again. Even though the restaurant / cellar door is closed, the location is ideal – close to everything in the area, even though we were there during school holidays there was not a child in sight or earshot, and even though the interiors need an update, the view is spectacular. Which all makes it worth going again.

Popped into Silkwood late on a Monday afternoon. The lovely staff were very accommodating. Georgous scenery, beautiful coffee & the wine not bad either. Do yourself a favour & stop in here. The accommodation looks amazing, the restaurant is beautiful and the location is beautiful.