Rural Luxury, Reimagined at Highland Ten

Tucked away in the heart of Victoria’s high country, Highland Ten is a place where time slows, silence stretches, and the natural world takes centre stage. Set on ten acres in Merrijig, this considered short-stay accommodation feels more like a boutique country hotel than a holiday rental. Mornings begin with golden light spilling through picture windows. Evenings end by the fire, wrapped in wool blankets as the scent of timber lingers in the air. Every element – from the handmade ceramics to the hand-finished furniture – has been chosen with purpose. It’s a space that encourages reconnection, not just with others, but with yourself.

^{Photography courtesy of @bec_wilcox}

A New Chapter in the High Country

After seven years living in Singapore, Melbourne-based couple Joy and Lucas were ready for space, silence, and the ever-changing hues of the Australian landscape. With three children in tow, they left behind city life and purchased a quiet block of farmland in Merrijig.

“Our original vision was for a simple cabin – somewhere our family could escape from busy Melbourne life,” they explain. “But as time went on, we realised how special the location was, and felt called to create something more considered that could be shared with others.”

^{Photography courtesy of @nickskinnercreative}

Designing with Purpose

The interiors of Highland Ten are as grounded as the landscape it sits on. With an emphasis on authentic materials – stone, copper, linen, leather and reclaimed teak – the space feels both richly tactile and quietly luxurious.

“We relied on texture to bring the space to life,” Joy and Lucas say. “Because we’d chosen a muted palette, it was the materiality that created the warmth and depth – the grain of the timber, the patina of the leather, the softness of the wool. Texture is everything.”

^{Photography courtesy of @a.simple.meander}

Furniture from Trit House plays a central role in that layered storytelling. The Ethnicraft leather sofa – a favourite of guests and hosts alike – anchors the living area with its curved silhouette and timeless durability. The dBodhi dining chairs offer rustic character, all while standing up to daily use from guests.

A Commitment to Craft and Conscious Living

At every step, the couple prioritised craftsmanship, sustainability, and longevity. “We were determined to work with local trades and use materials that would last,” they say. “We’ve had Ethnicraft pieces in our Melbourne home for years, so we knew how well they’d hold up in a guest setting. And when we discovered dBodhi at the Trit showroom, we were immediately drawn to its story and functionality.”

^{Photography courtesy of @nickskinnercreative}

Rather than rushing to fill the space, they embraced patience, choosing enduring pieces they truly loved over quick fixes. “Highland Ten is a place to be shared. We needed furniture that was robust but elegant, that would age gracefully and suit the rhythm of this slower lifestyle.”

Curated Comfort for Guests

Though design-forward, Highland Ten is first and foremost a place to stay – and stay well. “We reflected on all the things that made us return to our favourite hotels and Airbnbs – comfort, detail, authenticity. We wanted to bring that same feeling here.”

^{Photography courtesy of @a.simple.meander & @nickskinnercreative}

That meant layering new pieces with old: vintage furniture, contemporary forms, Australian art, and handmade details that bring soul to every room. Even the plates are crafted by local ceramicists. “We realised that with a bit of research and intention, it was possible to create something both durable and beautiful.”

^{Photography courtesy of @nickskinnercreative & @a.simple.meander}

The Most-Loved Moments

While every room has its own story, one moment stands out. “It’s hard to beat the front-facing bedrooms,” they say. “You wake up to that mountain view, horses wandering past the window, and sliding doors that disappear into the wall. It’s a pretty magical way to start your day.”

Guests agree. Since opening, Highland Ten has welcomed both local and international travellers looking to disconnect – and reconnect. “People tell us they feel an immediate sense of calm. That they can breathe out the moment they walk in.”

^{Photography courtesy of @nickskinnercreative}

Planning Your Stay

Whether you’re after a weekend away or an extended retreat, Highland Ten offers an invitation to slow down and savour the moment.

Book your stay via Airbnb, Booking.com, or reach out directly via their Instagram at @highland.ten

For those who appreciate thoughtful design, sustainable living, and soulful spaces, this one’s for you.