By Carole Levy
Operating as a multi ward-winning B&B for the past 16 years, Captains Retreat is a truly stunning Victorian-era residence, deserving of its many accolades.
Its locale, within steps of the Strand and marinas, is superb. Its street presence enriches the historical ambience of blue-ribbon Williamstown.
2 Ferguson Street, Williamstown, 3016
- Greg Hocking Elly Partners: 8387 0000
- Price: Contact agent
- Private sale
- Find out more about this property on domain.com.au
The seven-bedroom, eight-bathroom property is presented with artistic flair and a deeply rooted charm impossible to overstate.
Although magical as a B&B, Captains Retreat would also make an extraordinary private house, especially for a purchaser wanting to share occupancy with extended family, since each floor is entirely complete and oh-so-special.
Original Victorian details such as soaring ornate ceilings, corbelled arches, leadlight and gothic windows and gorgeous fireplaces are all here, with the rich patina of age juxtaposing with top-notch contemporary kitchens and smart bathrooms.
Each bedroom has an en suite, with the exception of the one that’s part of the five-room manager’s apartment, and every one of them is a delight.
The “main” bedroom upstairs couples, via a wide corbelled arch, with a sitting room with gas log fire and marble surround. It has a sumptuous en suite and french doors to a turret and adjoining balcony. One of the many “stop in your tracks” features is the upstairs living room that incorporates a kitchen with stone benches, classy joinery and all mod-cons. The boarded ceiling has been formed from an old Melbourne train roof – quite a spectacular feature.
The three leadlight windows flanking an fireplace with reclaimed surround are also wow.
This room opens to a large balcony with views down to a walled courtyard – another exquisite space. It’s planted with a pair of forest pansy trees, forming an amazing summer canopy under which to sit, as well as other trees and pretty plantings in bluestone-edged gardens. Stylish “vase” water features flank a gorgeous carved door that creates a striking wall panel, brick paving and synthetic turf are underfoot, creepers climb walls and various reclaimed artistic items are dotted about. Truly, it’s a courtyard you don’t want to leave.
The downstairs kitchen is as well appointed as its upstairs counterpart.
Zoned commercial on two titles, the property has rear/side lane vehicle access and other liveability elements and feasts for the eyes too numerous to list. This one is in a league of its own.
