
Willuna Sanctuary
π Chiltern, VIC
Willuna Sanctuary in Chiltern offers cabin stays and day visits on 63 acres with over 200 rescued native and exotic animals including kangaroos, alpacas, and peacocks. Private feeding tours, a solar-heated pool, and kids playgrounds are included.
My daughter, two grandsons aged 9 or 11& I just returned home from a wonderful four days at Willuna. It was one of the best little trips away we had ever had! Our highlights were Tommy the turkey who greeted us on our arrival and remained by our side, following us around, proudly displaying his beautiful feathers whenever he spotted us. Aside the amusing guided βTurkey Toursβ, we also had a fun, relaxed & informative tour with Matt around the 60 acre property on a morning feeding round. We fed chooks, bantams, roosters, peacocks inc pure white albinos, doves & other birds, goats, a larger pig & a cute piglet called Matilda, sheep, baby lambs including bottle feeding one little cutie who was sadly more on his own but always had warmth & company at night, camels, deer, goats, buffalo, cows, emus, alpacas , ostriches,β¦ Another highlight was Raymond the ostrich doing his entertaining dance for us. That had us in stitches & was so unexpected Our accom in one of 3 well equipped cabins was most comfortable. We enjoyed an open fire in the barn where we also had the use of a BBQ & tables & chairs There was a solar heated pool which the boys bravely swam in whilst we sat watching them in our coats! Thanks to Theresa & Matt who were so welcoming, friendly & hospitable. We felt so relaxed & at home during our fabulous stay! With much appreciation from Mich, Jess & the boys. Weβll be back!
π Family Action Verdict
Best for families who want a multi-night rural escape where children are genuinely immersed in animal care rather than passive wildlife viewing. Kids who are old enough to help with feeding rounds β roughly 4 and up β get the most from the experience.
βΉοΈ What to Know Before You Go
π¬ What Families Are Saying
View all reviews β41 Google reviews
Michelle Johns
6 months ago
βMy daughter, two grandsons aged 9 or 11& I just returned home from a wonderful four days at Willuna. It was one of the best little trips away we had ever had! Our highlights were Tommy the turkey who greeted us on our arrival and remained by our side, following us around, proudly displaying his beautiful feathers whenever he spotted us. Aside the amusing guided βTurkey Toursβ, we also had a fun, relaxed & informative tour with Matt around the 60 acre property on a morning feeding round. We fed chooks, bantams, roosters, peacocks inc pure white albinos, doves & other birds, goats, a larger pig & a cute piglet called Matilda, sheep, baby lambs including bottle feeding one little cutie who was sadly more on his own but always had warmth & company at night, camels, deer, goats, buffalo, cows, emus, alpacas , ostriches,β¦ Another highlight was Raymond the ostrich doing his entertaining dance for us. That had us in stitches & was so unexpected Our accom in one of 3 well equipped cabins was most comfortable. We enjoyed an open fire in the barn where we also had the use of a BBQ & tables & chairs There was a solar heated pool which the boys bravely swam in whilst we sat watching them in our coats! Thanks to Theresa & Matt who were so welcoming, friendly & hospitable. We felt so relaxed & at home during our fabulous stay! With much appreciation from Mich, Jess & the boys. Weβll be back!β
Kathy Dryfhout
a year ago
βStaying at Willuna Sanctuary is the most enjoyable, enlightening experience I've ever had. I loved my minors cabin. Had absolutely everything we needed. The pool is beautiful. Day one is self check in. I liked that. Went for a walk and can't believe how many beautiful animals have been rescued and living a wonderful life. Each one has a name and an incredible story to go with their rescue. Obviously not a money making venture for the hosts as every cent goes to keeping these precious animals feed and healthy. Even got a bit of the host Theresa's story of changed priorities due to a family members chronic health condition. The whole family live at the Sanctuary. I can't wait to get back there again. Highly recommend you go and have a great time.β
Jessica Burton
6 months ago
βWilluna Sanctuary is the most peaceful place with the happiest and healthiest animals living their best life! I've never met such content, friendly animals. The cabins are cozy and have everything you need, plus more. Theresa and Matt go out of their way to make sure you get to experience farm life by taking you out on feed runs and involving the kids in different activities. There is a beautiful, rustic barn with an open fire and a swimming pool. Such a heavenly place. We are missing all of the animals already and can't wait to go back again!β
hello Drinnan
4 months ago
βWe've stayed several times now. Possibly five or six times in the last few years. My kids thrive there. Boots on first thing in the morning, ready to explore and ask to help fees the animals. Its a great location. 5 minutes to town, or 15 to Beechworth or 35 to Albury. Waterfalls close by, and great trail walks.β
Reviews from Google
Overview
Willuna Sanctuary is run by Theresa and Matt on 63 acres near Chiltern in Victoria north-east. Over 200 rescued animals roam the property freely, and guests encounter them throughout the day rather than from behind fences. Private feeding tour rounds are a daily highlight. Rustic cabins are fully equipped and families regularly return β one reviewer has stayed five or six times with children who ask to go back. The property is five minutes from Chiltern, 15 from Beechworth, and 35 from Albury.