Ray White Mt Gambier is pleased to present this unique, historic cottage at 22 Arthur Street, Penola, for auction. Located close to the Penola High School, with Foodland, lots of dining options and the hospital in close proximity - it's the story behind this incredible building that sets it apart. Perfect for attracting holiday let income, this historical cottage sits at the gateway to the world famous Coonawarra wine region, with a plethora of Australia's top wineries available for cellar door tastings, dining experiences and tours.
This charming two-bedroom home has a rich history. Built by ex-convict Henry Roden after purchasing the land in 1861, it was one of the first homes built in Penola. Henry left his second wife a shilling for her troubles when he died, but it was Scottish-born migrant, Elizabeth Air (nee May) who was declared beneficiary of all of his properties. She lived in Air's cottage until 1882, when she relocated to Hotham, Victoria. Henry's burial was arranged by James Air, with his grave the first erected in the Penola New Cemetery. The history of this incredibly well-maintained cottage continues with previous owners, including David McAdam, Hilda Patterson, James Umpherston and Lesley Strand. It spent a period as a bed and breakfast but has been returned to its former glory as a residential property with the potential for holiday accommodation. It is available for purchase at auction.
This solid-built home has genuinely stood the test of time, looking as brilliant now as it would have when first constructed - with more than a few modern touches to welcome its new owners in 2023.
The property is accessed through a timber picket fence with a driveway and carport to the left. This leads through to a stunning and spacious rear garden with fruit trees and sitting areas.
A typical period Aussie verandah opens into the front-facing family room/loungeroom. This charming space is comforted with carpets, a large combustion fireplace built into the original fireplace surround with an updated mantle, and offers reverse cycle air-conditioning. Original pull-down light switches and an earthly colour palette give this space a relaxed atmosphere that carries throughout the cottage.
The spacious main bedroom sits opposite. It is also front facing, featuring a French window, and is carpeted for comfort. The second bedroom sits centrally, directly behind the family room and overlooks the rear yard and carport.
A stylish kitchen with floating floorboards also sits central to this home and benefits from a neutral colour palette. It features a pitched timber-clad roof and abundant cabinets and worktop space. It offers a free-standing electric oven and cooktop and a stunning timber frame window sitting above a double sink that overlooks the attractive garden space. A hallway leads from the kitchen to the rear of the cottage, which has slate flooring and timber doors and window frames. The dining room leads to a porch/alfresco area to the right and onto the carport to the left. Both sides of this room have dual windows creating a sunny space to relax, study, work, or dine.
The bathroom and laundry sit at the rear and overlook the garden and alfresco pergola.
The bathroom has been fitted with a modern vanity, a shower and a luxury spa bath, ideal for relaxing and also attracting discerning bed and breakfast guests. The toilet sits separately for privacy and convenience. The adjacent laundry features a wash trough and linen press.
The outdoor areas of this property are a real treat and reflect the strong character of this cottage. The alfresco space is stunning. It features a timber and iron dining space with terracotta tiling and a handmade window seat with transparent walls for lots of light. It has a gorgeous, original wood-burning oven for ambient evenings outdoors.
There is a good-sized garden shed at the rear of the property and space for other outbuildings if desired. There is access to plumbing and power in the rear yard. A lovely grassed garden bordered with lush greenery offers spaces to sit and enjoy the sunshine.
This is a property like no other, one of the longest-standing solid buildings in Penola.
Contact Tahlia and the experienced team at Ray White Mt Gambier to learn more, and register your interest today. RLA 291953
Additional Property Information:
Age/ Built: Approx. 1861
Land Size: Approx. 1,150m2
Council Rates: Approx. $440 Per Quarter
Rental Appraisal: A rental appraisal has been conducted of approximately $300 to $330 per week.
Short Stay Appraisal: A short stay appraisal has been conducted of approximately $200 per night, plus cleaning.
