The Swan Cove experience begins with an enchanted ferry ride across to the island and a short drive along quiet gravel roads before arriving at your sanctuary accommodation. Please note the cottages are attached to the main house. The two, 2 storey cottages were built by a German artisan in the 1980's, and are secluded off a beautiful long winding driveway, and are but a few metres from the water's edge with its safe sandy beach. Offering cosiness and comfort reminiscent of cottages on the coasts of Scotland but with the warmth of the French Riviera, all recent renovations have been done with the environment in mind using sustainable products including cork flooring in the kitchens. Powered by solar with no powerlines or fences to distract from the natural vistas. The 10 acre property boasts tall gumtrees and Old Man banksias, home to abundant wildlife including fluffy koalas, spiky echidnas, tawny frog mouth birds, cheeky parrots, magnificent sea eagles and friendly kangaroos. Guest kayaks and bikes are provided for ‘up close’ exploration of the lakes and island. Yoga and cooking classes, meditation and nutrition consultations are available for those wanting to add wellness to their holiday.

I am a Yoga teacher, nutritionist and mother of three amazing human beings. My partner Tony and I live here at Swan Cove and we have a unique vegetable & chook garden housed in an enclosed Octagon. Tony is a 'man of the land' and has an amazing affinity with the wildlife and he enjoys sharing his love of nature with guests. We also run Yoga classes at the RSL hall in Paynesville. We came across this property while kayaking around the island one Easter. I have always dreamed of a Tudor house with a seaside garden. Now we have the entire Gippsland Lakes as our backyard! Every day is an adventure; whether it's foraging for mushrooms in the autumn, paddling with the dolphins or rescuing someone whose boat has capsized in the lake. We love both the opposites of the wildness when the wind whips up on the water in contrast to the perfect stillness and sunshine. Connecting with nature in all its glory we discover true liberation.

Raymond Island is located 200m across the McMillan Strait from Paynesville, Victoria's boating capital and is in the centre of Australia's largest lake system, with canals carving their way through town, offering unique waterside locations. The island offers a truly unique Australian experience with its 1.2km koala trail starting at the Ferry park. Raymond Island is known for its large koala population and is also home to over 60 bird species and is the only place in the world where a particular unique native orchid grows. Fish for black bream or mullet, water ski, jet ski, windsurf, kayak or just swim. Watch out for the dolphins! Stroll along the boardwalk or stop for a bite to eat at the many eateries including waterfront dining. Explore the Mitchell River silt jetties as they stretch for 8km into Lake King, the longest in the world!