5 Wembley Avenue, Bridgewater, SA 5155

Escape to a serene hills sanctuary on 3024m2 and wrap yourself in peace, privacy and a unique slice of colonial history. It is a gorgeous spot for those who love a valley view and hills interests - we're talking wine, food and the great outdoors - and Bridgewater also boasts a great little primary school. When you crave company, just pick up the phone and your town friends can be with you in around fifteen (minutes) but, be warned, they may never want to leave!

Three bedrooms plus a study and a lovely big bathroom mean there's ample capacity for putting people up. Each boasts private access to the glorious gardens, where pathways meander through a horticultural paradise arriving at 'quiet spots' and a quirky studio or office space, once an old stone water tank.

The full stone home has a fascinating history, being commissioned in 1882 by a British Colonel who, having served in India, chose this pretty corner of the Adelaide Hills to build a summer house.

Where once there were verandahs, the original french doors now create an easy flow between a gorgeous conservatory and central living area, leading to an intimate dining space on the far side. Relax and entertain under a soaring mansard ceiling hung with spectacular Moorish lanterns and warmed by a contemporary slow combustion stove.

The last year has seen a comprehensive program of maintenance and renovations carried out by licensed tradesmen. The plumbing and solar hot water service have been upgraded; the laundry brought in from the cold and incorporated into the huge bathroom; the country kitchen updated with new bench tops and all Smeg appliances; a new rear veranda tastefully rebuilt for alfresco relaxation; the perimeter of the house leveled and repaved in mellow red brick, and the garden overlooking the Bridgewater oval extensively landscaped. The list goes on! Add a stunning new paint job by Adelaide's own specialist decorator John Frew, and it is difficult to imagine a better conserved, choicer or more idyllic hideaway. A must see for everyone contemplating a hills move!

land / 3024 sqm
internal / 145 sqm
built / 1882
council / $2025.20 pa
es levy / $113.40 pa
sa water / $332.70 pq