Two heritage cottages located on Kangaroo Island are being revived after the devastating bushfires. The stone walled May’s Homestead and Postman’s Cottage nestled together in unison.
The devastation of the bushfires of 2019-2020 were the largest in the island’s history with the western end of the island burnt away including the majority of the Flinders Chase National park. Repairs were unclear but perseverance and a return to care for the island was certain.
Both sites within the National Park were almost entirely destroyed with only the stone walled masonry of the buildings enduring the flames. The restoration was carefully approached with the supervision of heritage architects. It’s safe to say that both the cottage and homestead have been upgraded and are looking better than ever.
Re-opening to the public last week, the heritage sites now boast a quality accommodation with the extraordinary renewal of the cottages backed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
May’s Homestead and Postman’s Cottage were built on Kangaroo Island in the 1880s as part of the original Rocky River Homestead. The scrub was home to countless sheep and a handful of cattle during the establishment of several stations on the island. The Postman’s Cottage was originally built for a mailman who would lodge in the homestead once a fortnight.
The first designs were rough with solid stonework walls and low corrugated iron roofs. Now after two years of upgrades and expansions it’s a beacon of light in a now rejuvenated part of the island.
Both sites have overlapping and similar designs. May’s Homestead is a warming home with a modern expansion equipped for families while Postman’s Cottage is a humble cabin with accessibility and undisturbed nooks.
Foundational elements of the homesteads remain with their stone mason ends and white-walled exteriors which have been complimented with the addition of subtle contemporary downlights and metal chimney toppers adding a touch of modern flair.
Natural fauna and bark pattered around the homes are the perfect surrounds for that hot tea or view at dawn or sunset. It’s an atmosphere that will feel off the grid and heavenly.
The interior boasts modernistic wooden kitchen tops and dining sets with a trendy kitchen spread alongside the main walls with both the living rooms and bedrooms simple yet cozy. Wood based furniture with patterned blankets and ornamental books and lamps are littered throughout keeping in theme with the natural feel of the property.
The upgrades come from Kangaroo Island’s “build back better” approach. There’s been numerous rebuilding projects in the pipeline and new additions being added for visitors including the Remarkable Rocks boardwalk which was completed late last year alongside the rebuilding of the KI Wilderness Trail and campsites that are already underway.
Both May’s Homestead and Postman’s Cottage work in tandem together as a base point for Kangaroo Island’s activities and experiences. Attractions include viewpoints and walks along the western end of the island. Visit Admiral’s Arch at Cape du Couedic and Seal Bay, view the nature and wildlife in the Flinders Chase National Park or venture into the Kelly Hill Caves.
For an opportunity to return to Kangaroo Island amidst its transition into gorgeous glory these two accommodations are prime selections.
To book a stay visit the National Parks and Wildlife Service’s website and explore its activities and experiences on Kangaroo Island.
May’s Homestead from $270 per night (two bedrooms) and Postman’s Cottage (one bedroom) at $180 both sites with a two night minimum stay.
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