Steam Carriage: 1926 Train Carriage, Otways | House in Forrest
3 Bedroom House in Forrest
Step aboard Steam Carriage, a fully restored 1926 First Class railway carriage in the heart of Forrest. Velvet curtains, polished brass, and warm timber evoke the exuberance of the roaring 1920s. An unforgettable, immersive escape where you can slow down, explore every nook, and enjoy a genuinely different break from the everyday.
THE SPACE
Steam Carriage is a fully restored 1926 First Class railway carriage, tucked away in the township of Forrest, surrounded by the lush Otway Ranges. We love one-of-a-kind places, and this is our effort to create something a little different — a carriage that celebrates the elegance of the 1920s and the simplicity of the era. From polished brass and velvet curtains to warm, salvaged timber, it works with the natural beauty and craftsmanship of the original carriage rather than feeling forced or gimmicky.
It’s a place to slow down, explore every nook, and soak in history while leaving the world behind. A genuine break from the day-to-day, immersive and subtly transportive, thoughtfully put together so you can simply enjoy it.
FEATURED/RECOGNISED BY
Airbnb Awards – 2023 Australia & NZ National Winner, Best Unique Stay
Television / Media (Australia): Getaway TV, Better Homes & Gardens TV
Australian Publications: Home Beautiful, The Design Files, Homes to Love, Country Style, The Guardian, Time Out Melbourne, Secret Melbourne, Broadsheet, UrbanList
Overseas Publications: Oprah Daily (USA), House Beautiful (USA), Schöner Wohnen (Germany), The Heritage Post (Germany)
Books: Principles of Style by Sarah Andrews, Life Unhurried by Mitchell, Eppelstun & Gannon
HISTORY
Built in 1926 at Melbourne’s Newport Railway Workshop as First Class carriage 61 AW, Steam Carriage carried passengers throughout regional Victoria — surviving a train crash along the way. Between 1937–1980, it was converted several times between first and second class on routes from Melbourne to Sydney and other regional lines. Retired in 1983, it was transported by truck to Forrest, where it now resides. Lovingly restored by our team, the carriage preserves its craftsmanship and character, offering a one-of-a-kind escape steeped in history.
SLEEP
Master Bedroom: Two compartments long, queen bed, private outdoor bath
Second Bedroom: Small compartment, double bed
Third Bedroom: Single compartment, two thin single train beds (like caravan beds)
Sleeps up to six, but ideal for a couple or family of four
Rooms are close together, with very little sound insulation; consider guest combinations carefully:
A couple + up to four children
Two couples (if good friends)
Four adults
Six adults possible, but Steam is primarily a place to sleep
KITCHEN AND LIVING
The small but fully functional kitchen has a stove, oven, Italian-style coffee maker, French press, and all essentials. The cozy living space features a wood fire, books, and board games. No TV — some stream on their devices at first, but most discover they simply stop needing to.
Outside, relax in the garden with leafy trees, a hammock, and multiple seating nooks, including a covered outdoor area with BBQ.
FORREST AND THE OTWAYS
Forrest is a beautiful, quietly unhurried timber town — the kind of place that’s become harder to find. It sits on the edge of 100,000 hectares of national park, alive with birdsong and wildlife, and that is genuinely its greatest asset.
Otways Loft has direct ride-in ride-out access to over 70km of world-class singletrack across 36 trails — the Forrest Mountain Bike Trail Network is considered one of Australia’s top mountain biking destinations, with trails for every level from easy to challenging. It’s right on the doorstep. Forrest MTB Hire is open for bookings every day except Sunday — we recommend booking ahead or texting Michelle for last-minute availability.
Bush walks, waterfalls, Lake Elizabeth, Stevensons Falls and the Barwon River Reservoir are all within easy reach. The General Store is open daily, and Jen at Bodysmith — a beautiful little healing studio offering hot stone massage and Bowen therapy — is just a short walk from the Loft.
A note worth knowing — Regional Victoria is doing it tough at the moment and some businesses operate with reduced or changing hours. We do our best to stay across local openings and share the most up-to-date recommendations before your stay, though in a small regional town things can shift day to day. It’s all part of the slower rhythm here. The Loft is thoughtfully set up as a self-sufficient retreat — and guests who come prepared to cook, explore and unwind tend to have the best time.
Thirty minutes from Lorne and the Great Ocean Road. Twenty minutes from Birregurra.
HOSTING STYLE
We’re Fleur, Mike, and the team behind Dufflebird Getaways. With over 20 years of hosting, we care deeply about this space and guests who value character, detail, and a slower, considered stay.
Before arrival, you’ll receive our local guide. We can help shape your time — mountain biking, walking, long lunches, or simply switching off. Our trusted local team is nearby if anything is needed in person, otherwise we’ll leave you completely to your stay. Many guests return, which says it all.
COMBINING WITH OTWASY LOFT
Our neighbouring property, Otways Loft, is available for larger groups. Steam & Otways Loft together accommodate 10–12 guests (up to 14 max). Both remain private when booked independently. If booked together, access to the connecting gate is available.
GUEST ACCESS
The entire carriage and garden are yours, including the outdoor seating, hammock, and covered dining/lounge area
OTHER THINGS TO NOTE
Linen and towels included — just bring your beach towels. Beds made up to your preferences
Dogs welcome: Please notify us before arrival. We ask that dogs stay off furniture and beds, leaving the carriage trace-free. The yard is fenced but not dog-proof. Consider whether your pet suits our delicate furnishings
No smoking inside or candles — the orignial Smoking signs and gold lettering remain as a nod to its railway past
PRICING
Base rate covers up to 2 guests
Additional $50 per person per night
If you need to adjust guest numbers after booking? Just message us and we’ll take care of it.
This 3 Bedrooms House provides accommodation with Ocean View, Balcony/Terrace, Sports/Activities, for your convenience. This House features many amenities for guests who want to stay for a few days, a weekend or probably a longer vacation with family, friends or group. The rental House has 3 Bedrooms and 1 Bathroom to make you feel right at home.
Check to see if this House has the amenities you need and a location that makes this a great choice to stay in Forrest. Enjoy your stay in Forrest at this House.
This Property is OneKey Eligible
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible vacation rentals, villas, cottages, cabins, and more when you book on Vrbo.
Amenities
Facility Overview
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Heating
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Shampoo
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Soap
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Toilet paper
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Towels provided
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Hair dryer
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Shower
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3 bedrooms
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Bed sheets provided
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Dining room
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Wood stove
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Fireplace
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Living room
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Coffee/tea maker
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Electric kettle
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Microwave
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Paper towels
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Stovetop
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Oven
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Cookware/dishes/utensils
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Spices
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Refrigerator
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Laundry facilities
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Washing machine and dryer
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Beach towels
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Beach sun loungers
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Onsite parking
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1 total (up to 218 lbs per pet)
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Pet friendly
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Welcoming cats and dogs only
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Smoke-free property
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Bicycle on site
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Tennis on site
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Fishing nearby
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Winery tours nearby
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Games
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Stereo
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Books
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Unit size: 646 sq ft (60 sq m)
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English
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Children's toys
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Children's games
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Iron/ironing board
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WiFi available
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Outdoor furniture
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Barbecue grill
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Balcony
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Garden
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No carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
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No smoke detector (host has indicated there is no smoke detector on the property)
Policies
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 host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip host has indicated there is no smoke detector on the property onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed this property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room 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
Reviews
FAQ's
Is this Forrest house pet-friendly for guests?
Yes, pets are allowed at this property. Check the guest reviews to learn what guests had to share.
Does the Forrest house have a swimming pool?
No, this Forrest house does not have a swimming pool. Check the Facility Overview section for details about the pool and other available facilities.
How much does it cost per night to stay in Forrest house?
Best-rates for the Forrest house starts from $280 per night with includes View, Wellness Facilities, Internet, Pet Friendly, Security/Safety, Bedding/Linens, Fireplace/Heating, Ocean View, Balcony/Terrace, Sports/Activities, Kitchen, Laundry, Parking, Entertainment, Barbecue/Outdoor Cooking, Child Friendly with all other facilities. matches every traveler with their perfect accommodation, whether you are traveling with a group, friends, family, or pets.
Is Forrest house a family-friendly place to stay?
Based on the information we have received from the owner or our partner, this is considered to be a family-friendly property. Families have rated this house Good or guests have recommended them suitable for families. As reported by the owner or manager, the house has specified that children are welcome. Please see details about suitability for your family or inquire with the property to learn more.
Is the Forrest house wheelchair accessible or offer services for disabled guests?
Based on the information received from our partner, the Forrest house has not specified they are wheelchair accessible. Likewise, there is not an elevator specified as being available at the property. Specific accessibility details may be addressed in the property details section of this page.
What is the minimum night stay policy for the Forrest house?
Based on the information reported by the owner or manager, the Forrest house indicates 1 day stay policy at this house. Guests are cautioned that the minimum stay policy may differ based on seasonality or availability and may be at the discretion of the owner or manager.
What cancellation policy is in place for Forrest house?
Guests are cautioned that the cancellation policy may differ based on seasonality, availability, or current travel restrictions. Guests should also be aware that this policy may be subject to change and should be confirmed prior to booking. More details may be available on this page in the property description. However, early check-in or late check-out can sometimes be negotiated between the guest and the owner or the manager of this property.
