Clifftop Cottage – Panoramic Views, no Govt Tax

Set in an incredible location with breathtaking panoramic bay views from its private clifftop landing, this iconic property offers a unique opportunity to experience a slice of Victorian history.

  • Guests: 5
  • Bedrooms: 2
  • Bathrooms: 1
  • Pet friendly: Yes
  • Fireplace: Yes
*1 NIGHT FREE for new stays booked between 1/5/25-30/11/25.
Simply book then message us to have your additional night added, free of charge.
Subject to availability. Conditions apply. Cannot be redeemed for a Fri or Sat night.

Built circa 1887, the cottage was originally the home of Fort Nepean’s Master Gunner, and went on to house military personnel who fortified the area during WWI & WWII. Surrounded by original bunkers and gun emplacements, the cottage has been lovingly restored and now offers a truly unique stay in Portsea.

All profits from stays at this property go to Portsea Camp, who support disadvantaged and special needs children and their families.

Important information

• Schoolies and groups under the age of 25 will not be accepted at this property under any circumstances.
• Strictly no parties or gatherings of any type – our properties are offered for private accommodation purposes only.
• Small adult house-trained non-shedding or outside only pets are welcome, with prior approval.
• The cottage is part of The Portsea Camp, located within a fenced confine adjacent to the Camp’s oval. The Portsea Camp may host events or weekend groups on the oval during your stay.
• While we offer the ability to book instantly, you will be asked to confirm in writing your acceptance of the Terms & Conditions of your stay. Please ensure you have thoroughly read and understand the T&C’s via “View Agreement” (which can be found when placing your booking). We reserve the right to decline any enquiry or booking if a guest is deemed to be unsuitable.

The space

• 2 bedrooms (sleeps 5 – maximum 3 adults)
• 1 bathroom with bathtub (toilet is separate)
• Completely private landing with deck chairs, where guests can sit and enjoy uninterrupted panoramic bay views
• Public beach paths on either side of the address where guests can directly access Portsea front beach or Shelley Beach
• Fully fenced private gardens with two outdoor settings
• Main living area with large comfortable modular couch, open fireplace, air-conditioning and smart TV
• Separate children’s living area with Xbox, couch, tee pee and smart TV
• Dining room with setting for 6
• Restored period kitchen with new freestanding stove/oven and 4-seater breakfast setting
• BBQ
• Heating/Cooling includes open fireplace and split system air-conditioning in the main living area, portable oil heaters in the bedrooms
• Laundry with washing machine and ironing facilities
• Onsite car parking for 2 cars

Bedding configuration

• Bedroom 1: 1 x queen
• Bedroom 2: 1 x tri-bunk with double on bottom, single on top

Please note

• Tariff includes hotel quality bed and bath linen (BYO beach towels), bathroom products, kitchen basics, and firewood from April-September.
• Free WIFI, with streaming services accessible via your own login.
• Access details will be provided late afternoon the day prior to your stay, after individual security codes are set.

 

STRA0194/22
General
Air-conditioning, BBQ, Child friendly, Fireplace - Wood, Iron, Iron board, Smart TV, Wi-Fi - Free
Dining & living areas
Dining indoors, Sofa
Kitchen items
Blender, Coffee machine, Cooking utensils, Dishes & utensils, Kettle, Microwave, Oven, Pantry basics, Refrigerator, Stove top, Toaster

‣ Nearest beach: 80m walk (Franklin Point/Shelley Beach)
‣ Portsea Village & Foreshore: 600m (8 min walk)
‣ Sorrento Village: 3.5km
‣ Sorrento Car Ferry: 3.6km
‣ Peninsula Hot Springs/Alba Thermal Springs & Spa: 17.5km
‣ Nearest winery: 2.8m (Portsea Estate)
‣ Nearest golf course: 2.7km (Portsea Golf Club)

Payment policy

A partial payment in the amount of 50% of the grand total is due upon booking. Remaining payment is due no later than 30 days prior to arrival. In addition, a security deposit in the amount of $1,000 will be held against your credit card from the morning prior to your day of arrival. This amount will be automatically released 5 days after check out, provided there are no damages or breaches of our Terms & Conditions. For direct bookings made more than 180 days in advance, $0 deposit; and payments automatically debited in 3 equal instalments: 180 days prior to arrival; 90 days prior to arrival; and 30 days prior to arrival.

Cancellation policy
• 100% refund (minus 1.8% card processing fee) if cancellation is more than 30 days before arrival date.
• 50% refund (minus 1.8% card processing fee) if cancelled 15-30 days before arrival date.
• No refund if cancelled within 14 days of arrival.
• If payment has not been made by the due date, your booking may be cancelled, and any payments already made forfeited.
• No refunds are provided for early departure.
• Bookings may be transferred to a future date provided the reschedule is requested at least 30 days before the arrival date.
• Any reschedule must be for the same property and is subject to availability and any revised tariff which may be applicable.
• We recommend all guests take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected illness, accidents, inclement weather events, natural disasters or other unforeseen circumstances, as exemptions to our cancellation and refund policy may not be made for these reasons.
• All reservations are made in good faith by us but may be subject to changes in circumstances beyond our control.
• Should such circumstances cause a property to become unavailable, we will endeavour to find alternative accommodation, or provide a refund of any monies paid.
Booking terms & conditions
Please understand you are booking a privately owned holiday home. As your host, Bookabreak.com.au’s role is to ensure you have a great stay, whilst also safeguarding our client’s asset. We request that you respect the property and treat it as if it were your own.
 
By proceeding with your booking, you are bound by the following Terms & Conditions. Failure to comply may result in charges against your security deposit, forfeiture of any payment/s and/or your security deposit, and/or immediate eviction.

HOUSE RULES
• All guests (excluding children) must be over 25 years of age, unless otherwise agreed in writing. We reserve the right to request Photo ID before confirming a booking or allowing access to a property.
• We do not accept bookings made on behalf of a third party. The person booking must be staying and is responsible for monitoring the observance of our Terms & Conditions by other guests during the stay.
• Schoolies, weddings, parties, events or any other type of gathering are not permitted under any circumstance. The number of guests on the premises at any time must not exceed the number the property is advertised as sleeping. In the event that you are found to be in breach of this condition, you will be immediately evicted with full forfeiture of all payments including the security deposit.
• Pets are subject to approval, and if approved they are subject to conditions at our discretion. If you do not have approval in writing, your pet is not allowed on the property. Where an unauthorised pet is found, full forfeiture of the security deposit will apply.
• The premises must be left in a clean and tidy “as found” condition upon departure. All food must be removed from fridges/freezers, all crockery and cutlery washed and packed away, the BBQ must be cleaned, and rubbish put in the appropriate Council bins provided.
• Our properties are strictly non-smoking, inside and out. If evidence of smoking is found, the property will be fumigated at your expense.
• Guests will be held responsible for any security incident which occurs either during their stay or upon departure as a result of the premises being left unsecured. Please ensure all windows, doors, blinds and curtains are closed, the property is locked (and alarmed, if applicable) with the key is returned to the key safe upon departure.

LOCAL LAWS
The property is registered with Mornington Peninsula Shire as a short stay rental dwelling, pursuant to the local law. This means we are obliged to make you aware that you are obliged to comply with the Mornington Peninsula Shire Short Stay Rental Accommodation Code of Conduct, which states:
• Unacceptable behaviour is prohibited (including ‘loud aggressive behaviour, yelling, screaming, arguing, cheering, clapping and singing’).
• Guests are not permitted to bring additional accommodation (tents, caravans, campervans or similar).
• Guests must contain noise to a reasonable level and are not to use the outdoor areas (including swimming pools, spas, outdoor decking and balconies) between the hours of 11pm and 7am.
• All guest vehicles must be parked on the property. Parking is not permitted on any nature strip, nearby or on the property.
We have a zero tolerance policy if the property is reported to the Shire or the Police due to a breach of any part of the above during your stay. If the Police attend, you will be immediately evicted with full forfeiture of all payments including the security deposit. Additionally you will be responsible for any fine/s issued by Mornington Peninsula Shire.

RUBBISH
• The Council bin collection occurs early every Monday morning (including public holidays). You are requested to put the bins out on Sunday night, and again upon your departure, so that we can have the bins emptied for the next guest.
• If you do not put the bins out, if you leave excess rubbish inside the property, beside the bins, or if the bins are overflowing, the Council will not empty them, and charges will apply to have the waste removed. Excess rubbish should be taken with you or deposited in a local hopper.

CHARGES WHICH MAY APPLY
• Cleaning of BBQ: $75
• Missing, damaged or stained linen and towels: at cost
• Removal of any animal waste at a pet friendly property: $50 (minimum)
• Cleaning/and or putting away of crockery, cutlery, pots, pans etc: $50 (minimum)
• Replacement keys: at cost
• Damages, breakages and/or theft: at cost
• Excess cleaning due to the property being left in unreasonable condition: $50 per hour (minimum)
• Any rubbish left on the property: $50 (minimum)

REPAIRS, MAINTENANCE & DAMAGES
• All our properties are individually owned. Whilst each owner is required to complete regular maintenance checks as a condition of their ongoing partnership with us, from time-to-time maintenance issues and breakdowns may occur (just like in any house) which are outside of our control. Please advise us as soon as you become aware of any issue and we will endeavour to have it rectified as quickly as possible.
• Should any damage occur during your stay, please be proactive and report this to us. We understand that accidents happen and ask that you afford us the opportunity to ensure there is a solution in place to ensure minimal impact to both the next guest and the owner of the property.

CANCELLATION & MODIFICATION POLICY
• All payments include a card processing fee of 1.8% which is non-refundable in the event of a cancellation/refund.
• No refunds are provided for early departure. 
• Bookings may be transferred to a future date provided the reschedule is requested at least 30 days before the arrival date. Any reschedule must be for the same property and is subject to availability and any revised tariff which may be applicable. 
• We recommend all guests take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected illness, accidents, inclement weather events, natural disasters or other unforeseen circumstances, as exemptions to our cancellation and refund policy may not be made for these reasons. 
• All reservations are made in good faith by us but may be subject to changes in circumstances beyond our control.  Should such circumstances cause a property to become unavailable, we will endeavour to find alternative accommodation, or provide a refund of any monies paid.

WAIVER: Neither Bookabreak.com.au nor the owner of the premises take any responsibility for any injury, illness, accident or for the loss or damage of your belongings during your stay. We recommend that you purchase travel insurance for this purpose.

LOST PROPERTY: if found, any belonging/s left on the premises are kept for a maximum of 14 days. Please make contact with us then post a self-addressed satchel to our office to facilitate the items’ return: 2815A Point Nepean Road, Blairgowrie VIC 3942.
What guests have said

45 Reviews

Rated 5 out of 5 based on 45 reviews.
Write a review
Rated 5 out of 5 based on 45 reviews. Overall

Review "Clifftop Cottage – Panoramic Views, no Govt Tax"

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  1. Laurel

    An absolutely fantastic weekend stay at the cottage at Portsea. Hosts couldn’t have been more helpful through the booking and checking in process. The cottage was quaint and clean, plenty of room and the view was like nothing I’d ever seen before! Would recommend to anyone looking for a lovely coastal Vic getaway, and will be returning in the near future. Thanks guys!

  2. Georgie R

    Lovely! We visited in Feb 2025.Great location, (go for walks/swims at the beach in either direction – saving the need to drive to the beach). Great views. Cosy house with everything you need. (No dishwasher, but that didn’t worry us.) Open the windows and doors, (both doors have fly wire/security doors), and let the breeze blow through.Our two little, non-shedding dogs loved the shade and the grass outside!The camp next door had a footy team staying, but no issues whatsoever with noise or behaviour.Take a wine or cuppa and sit on the beach chairs at the top of the brick path and enjoy the spectacular view – especially at sunrise.The only things that would have topped our experience are (1) flyscreen on the second bedroom window (2) an elevated pergola. The outdoor table and chairs are a lovely addition, but if they were set a foot or two higher, you could eat meals outside while taking in the view. As it is now, when you sit at the table, you can’t see the water.I recommend this property and would stay here again.

  3. Tiffany

    We had a beautiful weekend getaway at this wonderful little cottage in the perfect location with amazing views. I could highly recommend staying at this very private getaway. Everything was extremely easy. The host was amazing to deal with and always helpful.

  4. Alison

    Location, location, location! Amazing piece of real estate! Previous reviews note the proximity to beaches and Portsea pub. Would happily return.

  5. Amber

    Lovely little cottage with lovely views

  6. Ali and Parian

    What a stunning location and surroundings – Bookabreak provided exceptional service, with clear and responsive instructions for both arrival and departure. A few extra touches would greatly enhance the experience, such as providing a more comfortable bed and ensuring a thorough cleaning. Unfortunately, we found a previous guest’s socks on the hallway drawer and a dog waste bag in the kitchen top drawer when we arrived.

  7. Ben

    Beautiful awe inspiring position. Thanks for a fabulous week!

  8. Lisa

    We had a wonderful mini break down in Portsea. The booking process was very easy, with my pre arrival questions answered really quickly. The check in process was explained very clearly and made easy with the welcome note left at the property. The property we stayed at was very comfortable, well appointed and clean. Very pleased with our experience overall

  9. Ryan

    What a spot! Private cliff top to watch the world go by!! Wow!!!

  10. Matthew

    We had a fantastic few days and enjoyed the beautiful views and location. Couldn’t have asked for more.

  11. Kelly

    Fantastic location for those wanting 5 minutes walk to many great beaches. Plenty of room outside for kids and bbqing. House really well presented with a full stocked kitchen.

  12. Jack

    Bookabreak were very responsive and clear in instructions for gaining access and preparing for departure. Incredible service!

  13. Chris

    Above and beyond expectations! Will stay again for sure. Thank you guys for a wonderful stay. Incredible!!

  14. Heidi

    We loved our stay at the cottage and would love to return when we are next in Victoria and Portsea. Not only did we enjoy the position and garden but so did our dog, Stella. She could sniff around in a very large garden that was safe and fenced off. We loved having morning coffee and evening drinks on the high part of the garden overlooking the water. This was very special and beautiful. The cottage is very simple but it has the charm of yesteryear and how beach houses once looked. We loved it.

  15. Milena

    We had a lovely time up on the cliff. So peaceful and well located. Good walks, nice simple beach spot. It felt a bit like being a famous five novel. Great views from the top of the cliff.

  16. Brad

    Amazing place views are incredible and host is very friendly and great communication cannot wait to stay again highly recommend.

  17. Sean

    Fantastic place to stay. Great views will definitely be back.

  18. Mikolai N

    Amazing location on a historic cliff top in Portsea. Make sure you take the hidden walking trail to a secret fishing cove.

  19. Bronwyn

    Once again a privilege to stay here Never ever tire of that view !!!!!

  20. Claire

    If I could give 6 stars for location I would. Stunning views and the beach only a short walk away as is Portsea Pub. Property was a suitable size for our family of four and had all we needed. It was comfortable and tidy.

  21. Bede

    Charming cottage in a fabulous location and an excellent host who also perfectly described this wonderful oasis

  22. Quentin

    A-grade location… spectacular views.. it was a Rippa week. 2 minute walk to Portsea front beach, or 5 minute walk and having a pint in beer garden.. 8 minute walk along the cliffs to Shelly beach.. Amazing views over the bay

  23. Doreen Y

    We had a great time staying here with 2 families. The location was fantastic for the beach visits. The place had lots of items for entertaining which is great but the only thing is that some require a bit of maintenance to be top notch

  24. Annie S

    Original Victorian Cottage in the most amazing location

  25. Paul

    The property is in a location that cannot be beaten. We sat for hours on the chairs at the lookout, there is always something to see at this spot in the bay. The house was clean and has everything you need. We did have some issues with the internet malfunctioning a couple of times but the management team were very responsive in trying to sort this out, as you need the internet for the tv to work. It’s a truly amazing place. Note the path to the beach on the east side of the property is closed as it is dangerous and ends in a cliff edge. The beach on the west side was sandy and beautiful. Walking distance to the Portsea hotel along the beach which was very handy

  26. Rod

    This is all about the view. If you are looking for perhaps the best view in Portsea, this would be hard to beat. It really is secluded and amazing. The house is a renovated old cottage and has all the facilities needed with updated bathroom and all kitchen appliances. The beds were not to our preference but everyone is different and the main bed is an ortho mattress. The furniture and outdoor seating are all comfortable and the grounds are excellent, particularly if travelling with pets or children. Lots of gated sections and lush grass around the house. The upper section has a private panoramic view of the entire bay however you will need to keep an eye on pets/kids as it incorporates the top of the old military battery and is a steep drop onto concrete below. Cleanliness wise it was fine, some marks on the couch, burrs on the carpet and the main fire place was full of ash/coals/burnt wood which may be an issue for some as it is open and you can smell it. Overall, recommend.

  27. Paul S

    Cozy little getaway for adult couple and no doubt 2-3 children if you have them. Also pet friendly, which our little dog absolutely loved. No bells or whistles but great location and just perfect for what we needed which was a quite and relaxed retreat.

  28. Lisa S

    Peaceful. The private seating near the edge of the cliff gives you a stunning view of the bay!

  29. Lexie

    We had a fantastic stay, the location and views are incredible. The house is very comfy, with everything we needed for an easy family holiday. The fire was very welcome on a cold night, and the oil heaters were perfect for keeping the bedrooms toasty. We would definitely stay again.

  30. Tom

    This cosy, charming clifftop cottage has a stunning location and is a superb base for exploring the Peninsula. We felt very welcome and loved staying there.

  31. Natasha

    Loved it will be back

  32. Kathleen

    Such a special location. Great house and amazing views from the lookout. Very well appointed and plenty of heating for winter. Would definitely stay here again!

  33. Karen

    Loved the location, beautiful views and great walking pathways right on the doorstep. Had everything we needed, and our dog was welcome inside too.

  34. Emily

    Beautiful comfortable cottage with lots of extra touches to make us feel comfortable. Amazing views, we spent a lot of time at the lookout admiring the skyline. So many places to walk, barely needed the car for our stay.

  35. Andrew

    Great location. Unique stay

  36. Calvin

    Such a great place to spend the weekend at! Views were amazing and access to the beaches within minutes made it feel like home. Will be back someday soon.

  37. Samantha

    This is a magic spot. The views are beautiful. We had an issue with no gas and the team worked hard to rectify it as quickly as they could

  38. Jamis

    It had everything we needed and more from a fully equipped kitchen to picnic blankets. The house was super clean and in immaculate condition. AND we paddle boarded with dolphins…it doesn’t get much better than that 😉

  39. Josh

    Great place to stay. Amazing views and great communication. Would recommend

  40. Sarah

    We loved our stay and the weather was also amazing! Great communication, very neat, tidy. Amazing spot and beautiful view. Peaceful. My daughter also loved the cottage – she enjoyed walking to Portsea pier and jumping off and heading to Shelley beach across the cliff. A note for people – if you cook a lot, there is no dishwasher. This was fine for us.

  41. Rachelle

    We ate fish and chips while looking over the bay. A unique stay and great location. Communication with hosts was A+

  42. Bronwyn

    Superb summer sojourn

  43. Bronwyn C

    Steeped in history, never missed a sunrise, watched a pod of dolphins frolic till sunset from the deck, unparalleled views, sun, salt and sea air, nothing comes close. All proceeds going to a beautiful cause.

  44. Lucy N

    Breath taking views day & night. Comfortable quaint cottage situated between 2 very private beaches with clear water and clean sands. 2 big TVs that we never used as the view was a better option! Great night’s sleep with total silence- no traffic noises! Proceeds go to those with a disability makes the holiday even better.

  45. Carmen

    My favourite part was having my coffee on the top with the view over the bay. Beach access is just a stroll – over the oval from the school camp – where we also went to the awesome portsea pub (dog friendly). Or walk along the millionairs clifftop walk to shelleys beach (10min). Our dog and and 8 year old son enjoyed the stay too. The cottage was cosy, clean and comfy.