Accommodation at Baldessin studio
For artists and writers wishing to stay on site at Baldessin Studio, we offer a selection of simple, comfortable, self-contained accommodation options. Staying and working full-time over several days or weeks allows for a level of immersion, focus, and concentration that can be difficult to achieve elsewhere. It also offers the freedom to work and rest according to your own rhythm, in tranquil surroundings that support creativity and wellbeing.
Accommodation is available for retreats and during workshops. We currently offer three options, each with its own character: the Printmakers Pod, the Gîte, and the Artist’s Garret.
We aim to keep prices accessible and within a range of budgets. Accommodation rates do not include breakfast; however, tea and coffee are provided. Guests are asked to bring their own sheets, pillowcases, and towels, with all other essentials supplied.
Evening meals may be enjoyed at local eateries or prepared in your accommodation. Please note that most local venues operate from Thursday to Sunday, so we recommend checking opening hours in advance.
Important:
As the studio is located within a sensitive bush environment with conservation protections in place, pets (including dogs) are not permitted on the property or within the accommodation.
CANCELLATIONS & FEES
For all accommodation bookings and enquiries, please contact us via email at accommodation@baldessin.fr.
Accommodation fees will be invoiced during your stay. Payment by bank transfer prior to departure is appreciated.
Any booking modifications or cancellations should be made with at least 10 days’ notice. Cancellations made with less notice may incur a cancellation fee.
As our accommodation options are in high demand, we recommend booking as early as possible. We hope you enjoy your stay with us!
The Printmakers’ Pod
Our newly remodelled shipping container is located just below the studio and overlooks the bushy gully. Surrounded by gumtrees, it offers a peaceful setting where guests may spot our resident kangaroos while enjoying their morning coffee.
This cosy, fully insulated pod is equipped for short-term stays and includes a queen bed, ensuite, microwave, fridge, electric kettle, and toaster. The pod is fitted with a split-system unit for heating and cooling. Please note that there is no kitchen.
Rates:
$80 per night
BYO linen* or hire a linen pack for $20
The Artists' Garret
Located in the attic above the studio, this one-bedroom flat overlooks the surrounding bush at treetop height, making it ideal for bird- and kangaroo-spotting. The Garret is well suited to an artistic retreat, with direct access to the studio below. Access is via an exterior staircase and the accommodation is therefore unsuitable for those with restricted mobility.
The Garret has a friendly, cosy feel, with sloping whitewashed attic ceilings and dormer windows. It features a queen size bedroom with ensuite, a fully equipped kitchen, sitting room, and a small balcony. The space includes a reverse-cycle unit for heating and air conditioning, as well as WiFi.
Rates:
$90 per night — minimum two-night stay
BYO linen* or hire a linen pack for $20
Additional fold-down sofa bed available at $40 per night
The Gîte
Retaining its rustic stone and timber character, the Gîte is located beside the main house and kitchen garden and is well suited to longer residencies. It is situated approximately 50 metres from the studio and can be accessed by car or via the bromeliad garden. This is our most spacious and comfortable accommodation.
The Gîte features a large deck offering close views of the surrounding bushland. It includes a separate bedroom with a queen size bed, a spacious living area with a fold-down sofa bed, bathroom, and basic kitchen facilities. The space is fitted with a reverse-cycle unit for both heating and air conditioning.
Rates:
$120 per night — minimum two-night stay.
BYO Linen* or hire a linen pack for $20
Additional fold-down sofa bed: $40 per night
For further information and bookings, please contact our accommodation team:
Email: accommodation@baldessin.fr
Phone: 0431 821 838
*LINEN
Due to the high demand for our accommodation and our reliance on tank water, regular laundry use is no longer sustainable. To help us manage our facilities responsibly, we ask visiting artists to please bring your own bed linen. If needed, linen can be hired on arrival for $20.
We provide:
– Duvet and duvet cover
– Extra blankets
– Pillows
– Bathmat
– Tea towel and hand towel
You provide:
– Queen size sheets
– Pillowcases
– Towels
Linen hire ($20) includes:
– 1 queen size fitted sheet
– 1 flat sheet
– 2 pillowcases
– 1 bath towel
We supply:
– Tea, coffee, cooking oil, seasonings, some dry tinned food left by previous guests and tea towel.
– Liquid soap, bathmat, dishwash liquid, hand towel.
– Duvet, pillows and electric blanket.
OTHER Accommodation OPTIONS near THE Baldessin Studio
We cannot guarantee this list is always up to date, please contact them directly for more information and availability.
A Boy Named Sue – Sue’s House, St Andrews
85 Burns St, St Andrew – About a 5 min drive from the Studio Information here
ELTHAM GATEWAY HOTEL
1339 Main Road Eltham - About a 20 min drive from the Studio Information here
Queenstown Retreat – St Andrews
80 Smiths Gully Road, Smith Gully – About a 10 minute drive from the studio –
Phone: 0407 881 245 Information here
CandleBark Ridge - St Andrews Information here
Treetops Cottage- Self Contained Valley Escape - Panton Hill
2 Bedrooms – Highly recommended by past students. Information here
Public transport, taxi, Uber
TAXI – If you are flying into Melbourne Airport, we recommend arranging a private taxi to travel directly to the studio. We often use the services of Harry (0433 256 284), who is familiar with the route and has transported artists between the airport and the studio many times. If arranged in advance, he is also happy to stop at a local supermarket along the way for supplies.
The journey from Melbourne Airport to the studio takes approximately one hour and generally costs around $120 AUD.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT – The closest train station to the studio is Hurstbridge. Trains from Melbourne’s city centre to Hurstbridge generally take around one hour. A Myki card is required for travel on public transport within Melbourne and can be purchased at the station.
From Hurstbridge station, Uber or taxi services are available for the short journey to the studio at 90 Shaftesbury Avenue, St Andrews.
Food and takeaway nearby
Nearest supermarket (IGA or Coles), deli, health foods, and more in Hurstbridge (9kms) or Diamond Creek (15 km)
St Andrews market every Saturday morning from 9am (1km). You can purchase fresh fruit and veg, cheese, and takeaway food.
A Boy Named Sue – wood fired pizza restaurant, licensed (1km). Open Fri - Sun
Panton Hill Hotel (6kms)
St Andrews Hotel (1.2 kms)
Smith’s Gully General Store cafe (3kms)
For those staying long enough to explore the surrounding area, the studio is within a 40-minute drive of the Yarra Valley wineries, TarraWarra Museum of Art, Kinglake National Park, Heide Museum of Modern Art, and Montsalvat, and approximately one hour from Melbourne’s CBD.
Other relevant information for guests staying on site:
During the bushfire season, we reserve the right to cancel workshops and accommodation if conditions are rated Extreme. In such cases, workshops and/or accommodation will be rescheduled. This policy prioritises the safety of our artists, guests, and staff.
Important phone numbers
April Baldessin (Accommodation Manager) – 0431 821 838
Gabe Baldessin - 0487 324 005
Tess Edwards – 0448 144 449
August Carpenter (Studio Manager) – 0497 859 500
Silvi Glattauer – 0417 377 962
