My partner and I were looking for somewhere quiet and relaxing during our holiday break so whilst searching online came across
Bellshala Bungalow in Bellbrae near the world-famous Bells beach. Firstly, I didn't really know much about this coastal town and secondly, we wanted somewhere we could take our mountain bikes to and explore the trails near Anglesea and Torquay.

Bellshala bungalow
This place has it all! Only a one hour and a bit out of Melbourne, driving along the
Great ocean Road, we by-passed Geelong and Torquay as our aim was to get there unpack and then go out and explore the area.

The gardens and lake
The accommodation is surrounded by nature, located on 5 acres of beautiful bushland. Surrounded by Japanese inspired gardens, along with a Cactus garden and native gardens surrounding the property.

The Catcus Garden
There are 2 entrances to the property, one allows you to access the accommodation and is clearly sign posted, the other to
Surf Coast Yoga. Both owners Ross and Ros (Roslyn) are yoga instructors with almost 40 years of experience. They have added their personal touches throughout and created a beautiful space both indoors and out.

Surf Coast Yoga studio

Surf Coast Yoga Sculpture
We were greeted by Ros who gave us a tour of the lovely gardens and yoga studio. She also gave us the heads up about a chicken they call "Chook Chook" and a dog named Leela, who sometimes turn up in pairs to visit the Bungalow, looking for food!

Meet Chook Chook

Leela the friendly dog!
The Bungalow is well equipped with a kitchen and all the basic utensils and crockery one would need. A handy instant hot water dispenser for hot tea or coffee on the go. The spacious bathroom and toilet has access through beautifully hand crafted Japanese inspired sliding doors. Free Wifi access and a nice outdoor lounge nook to relax or read a book, plus an outdoor table setting to enjoy the bush setting. This apartment is perfect for couples that want a quiet, relaxed and private getaway, away from the crowds.

Outdoor lounge area

Bellshala bungalow
I was invited to join in on one of the morning Hatha yoga classes run by husband Ross. A 90 or so minute class using ropes, blocks and blankets. Certainly a different yoga experience for me as opposed to what I'm used to. The class typically involves a set of yoga poses and breathing techniques which is great for those getting into yoga.
What a great way to start the day and stretch those muscles. Of course, after the session I was ready for our mountain bike ride. The nearest trail head is at the
Eumeralla Trails - Hurst Road (Great Otway National Park) which is almost opposite the
Great Ocean Road Chocolatier. With so many single trails to explore depending on your skill level, we spent the next few days exploring and riding this area. If you prefer walking, the Surf Coast trail is only a short drive down Jarosite Road to Bells Beach Southside Carpark.

Exploring the bike trails

Eumeralla mountain bike park
Bellshala Bungalow is perfectly located only 4 minute drive to
Bells Beach or Winkipop. Sits in between Torquay and Anglesea where there are many cafes, restaurants and shopping. We If you love fresh coffee, you have to go to
Mikro Coffee Roasters on Geelong Rd, Torquay, just around the corner from the surf fashion outlets and Torquay garage!
Our favourite pizza place is
The Cave The Cave in Jan Juc! Delicious woodfired pumpkin vegetarian pizza! If you have a sweet tooth like me then a must visit to
Laneway73 which have a selection of fresh Italian cakes and pastries. They are known for their cannoli!

Pumpkin Pizza at The Cave

Bells beach
So much to see and do in and around Bellbrae! We loved the location. The peacefulness away from the crowds. We had the beaches almost to ourselves. Highly recommended if you're looking for accommodation off the beaten track away from it all yet a stone's throw from all that the surf coast has to offer! We cannot wait to be back to
Bellshala bungalow. To book visit their website:
www.surfcoastyoga.com.au/bellshala-bungalow/
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Surf coast walk heading towards Point Addis