Steam Carriage: 1926 Train Carriage, Otways
- 6 Guests
- 3 Bedrooms
- 4 Beds
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.
Parking
Pets welcome
Broadband Internet
Pictures
Amenities
Parking and facilities
Parking, Parking option included, Private garden
Policies
Accept credit card, Accessible 24/7, Children are welcome, Pets allowed, Smoking not allowed
Entertainment
Beach chairs, Bicycles, Stereo system
Kitchen and dining
BBQ gas, Cooking utensils, Kitchen stove, Microwave, Oven, Refrigerator, Toaster, Vacuum cleaner
Bathroom and laundry
Bed linen, Blow dryer, Iron and ironing board, Shower, Towel set, Washbasin
Heating and cooling
Central heating, Fireplace
Internet and office
Broadband Internet broadband
House Rules
Credit cards accepted
Children welcome
Pets welcome
Smoking not allowed
Check-in: 03:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Location
Sanderson Lane, Forrest, Australia
Rates
Policy and notes
Payment Schedule
50% of the total amount is due at time of reservation.
The remaining amount is to be paid 15 day(s) before arrival.
Cancellation Policy
All paid prepayments are non-refundable.
Security deposit
A pre-authorization of €154 is held on 1 day(s) before arrival and voided on 2 day(s) after departure
Availability
Select check-in date
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 |
18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 |
25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 |
Reviews
Eleventy billion stars, like no other place
We have been wanting to stay here for years, and were finally able to get a booking for our 15th anniversary. It is genuinely beyond magnificent and utterly charming. The attention to detail in the renovation is just exceptional, everything from vintage screws in the timber carriage walls to the vintage seat numbers. Everything had been thought through carefully, with affection for the fact it was a train. The bath was a highlight, as was the incredibly comfortable bed and the master bedroom ambiance on waking up. The Dufflebird team genuinely care for guests and think of everything. In this increasingly strange world, you'll feel 37% better for a stay in the Steam Carriage.
Like Walking Into A Film Set
Review C/O Airbnb- We had a great stay at the rail carriage, it was like walking into a film set of an old train movie. Do not look for a train carriage when driving up the street, as from the outside it doesn't look like one, but the inside is a beautifully kept and has adjusted decor that makes it exciting and comfortable, and has you looking around for the conductor. We did have a fair few mosquitoes, and could not work out how they got inside. The main bedroom has lots of space and the other sleeping areas are better suited for people who like tight spaces and smaller beds.
Thank you so much, we absolutely love that you felt like you'd walked onto a film set, that's exactly the experience we hoped to create. Apologies for the mosquitoes. Being surrounded by bush does mean they can occasionally make an appearance, particularly after rain. Guests at our neighbouring Otways Loft noted the same on their first night, so it does seem to be a seasonal thing at this time of year and always worth thinking about if staying in the bush. And you're right about the additional sleeping areas. They're cosy by design and best suited to those who don't mind a snug space. We do always recommend checking the listing details carefully when adding extra guests. We've taken care to make these as transparent as possible to ensure everyone is comfortable! So glad you enjoyed the stay!
The Steam Carriage was Unique and extremely enjoyable
The location is special - quiet and peaceful; the place is full of surprises We had no expectations - we got a fantastic experience; no TV; just peace; quiet and comfort We will definitely keep the Steam Carriage and is quirky character in mind for future escapes Mark & Lyn
Peaceful, Unique Retreat With Outstanding Hospitality
Review C/O Airbnb - Whilst the accommodation was very homely, peaceful, clean, unique, and overall a great experience, Fleur was a phenomenal host. She was attentive, responsive, and incredibly kind. We even happened to run into a little car trouble as we were checking out and Fleur was so understanding and accommodating which made us feel a lot more at ease. I would definitely come back to Steam, or any other properties hosted/managed by Fleur, and recommend this to anyone wanting a quick and quiet getaway. In short, great property, lovely location, and an excellent host - all in all, a great experience.
Thank you so much, Ethan, for this lovely review and for recommending Steam Carriage in Forrest and Dufflebird properties in general. We're delighted you found the Carriage to be peaceful and homely. I'm glad your car trouble was a simple fix. We equally appreciate your friendly communication and the exceptional way you left the carriage. Dream guests like you remind us why we love hosting . We'd be delighted to welcome you back anytime.
Super Fun, Super Clean, Perfect For The Trails
Review C/O Airbnb - Unique accommodation which was super fun to stay in. Exactly as per the description and extremely clean. The hammock and swing chairs are a nice addition for relaxing in. A great place to unwind and get away from it all. Handy for all the mountain bike trails. Forrest Brewery serves great lunches and beers. Would definitely stay again.
Thanks Rebecca. "As described and extremely clean" – music to our ears, as those are super important to us too when we travel. So glad you enjoyed the hammock and swing chairs, and that you discovered Forrest Brewery. We'd be delighted to welcome you back absolutely anytime.
Unique Place, Full Of Character
Review C/O Airbnb -Such a unique place, full of character. Loved staying here and exploring this great local town. Big shout out to the General Store for its excellent coffee.
Thank you Neill. We're so glad you loved your six nights with us at Steam Carriage over New Year. It was truly a pleasure to host you for the week. We truly love when guests settle in and really get to explore the region. The General Store in Forrest is fantastic. Their coffee is excellent and we really appreciate them opening 7 days a week, pretty much all year round. Hope to welcome you back to Steam Carriage and Forrest soon.
Loved Every Minute. Excellent Communication
Review C/O Airbnb -Very special place with very good host! Lisa was so good to communicate with. She gave all the details before and throughout our stay. Lovely town and friendly locals as well - went to the Lake Elizabeth to see the glow worms and Forrest Brewing Company for lunch - all pretty good. Love every minute here!
Thank you for the kind review Yang. We're so glad you loved every minute at Steam Carriage. Lisa will be thrilled to hear her communication made your stay so smooth. We know how important easy, clear communication is when we're traveling ourselves, so we really try to give our guests that same peace of mind. We're delighted you enjoyed the township of Forrest - the Forrest Brewing Company is a wonderful spot (just a note for future guests: check opening times as they operate limited days and sometimes close in some winter months), and the glow worms at Lake Elizabeth are truly magical! Hope to welcome you back to Steam Carriage again one of our Dufflebird properties soon.
Amazing Experience. Wonderful Host
Review C/O Airbnb - Such an amazing experience at Steam Carriage! A perfect place for rest and relaxation. I felt completely at home thanks to the approachable host and excellent communication. Highly recommended!
Thank you so much, Nicoleta. We're absolutely delighted that you felt at home at Steam Carriage and that our communication helped you feel welcome. We're so glad you got the rest and retreat you were hoping for. It was truly our pleasure to host you, and we'd love to welcome you back to Steam Carriage or any of our Dufflebird properties.
Amazing, Amazing, Amazing!
Review C/O Airbnb- Amazing, Amazing, amazing!!!! Unique is the best way to describe it!! If you are a train lover or looking for an adventure with the kids this place is for you! Just like the pictures!! and best of all it is pet friendly!! loved our stay and would stay again!!
Thank you, thank you, thank you, Shane. So pleased you loved your stay and the carriage looked just like the pictures. And a big thank you for being such thoughtful pet owners. It's guests like you who make it possible for us to welcome well behaved dogs to Steam Carriage (even with delicate furnishings). You're most welcome back anytime.
Where Nature Meets Nostalgia
Review C/O Airbnb- Fleur and Michael’s place was a novelty experience that we will always remember. An unhurried space, providing meaningful connections with nature, it was a treat to indulge in the forgotten history , chess antics and moments by a roaring wood fire. With the police station just around the corner, the streets were patrolled after dark leaving us peaceful and safe in this cosy nook . The kitchen was spotless and functional. The bedrooms were reminiscent of past times with antique furniture and a particularly comfortable bed . Tranquility and birdsong, light and linen made for dreamy morning soaks in the outdoor bathtub! Above all, the Steam Carriage stayed true to its origins. The metal carriage number signs, little train conductor notes from back in the day, and photo’s of when it was being put to use on the track. This was a truely enjoyable stay and we recommend it to folk who want to Forrest bath on a steam train surround flora and fauna !
Thank you so much Emm and Natasha for your thoughtful and detailed review, it was such a pleasure to read. We’re so glad you enjoyed the unique character of the Vintage Rail Carriage, especially the original train features, old photos, and antique touches that help bring its history to life. It’s lovely to hear the surrounding birdlife and native flora added to that sense of connection to the place. We’re also happy the practical comforts made a difference (cozy beds, great kitchen and outdoor iron tub etc) And yes, we agree, our local policeman really is a gem, and it's great to know his quiet presence helped you feel safe and at ease. Most of all, it means a lot to know that your stay felt like a true novelty. A one-of-a-kind experience that you’ll always remember. That’s exactly what we at Dufflebird he experience strive to create Thanks again for choosing to stay with us.