The Dove Cote

Charming cottage in the heart of Tanunda, but the garden could use a little more love. Stayed here for 3 nights over the March long weekend. Towels are soft, kitchen well equipped and plenty of breakfast provisions (eggs, bacon, yogurt, cereal, milk, orange juice etc). Beds are comfy (if a little soft for my liking) but I slept very well. Beautiful big spa in the bathroom and good shower. Port and chocolates on arrival were a nice touch and undercover parking for 2 cars. There were some beautiful white doves in the dove coat too. My bedroom was upstairs and the only bathroom is downstairs so you need to be mindful of that if you have trouble with stairs, or need to get up to use the bathroom in the night. Couches were also cheap and uncomfortable. The gardens have the potential to be really pretty, but they were looking a bit unloved. Not like in some of the pictures. The wooden bench in the garden was quite rickety. But nothing that a new bench, more water and some fertiliser wouldn’t fix though. Be careful when booking too. It’s advertised as 2br cottage. We booked for two of us and when we arrived the 2nd bedroom was locked. They didn’t realise we were two single friends and would be using both bedrooms. At first they told us it would cost an extra $50 per night per person, but then reduced it to an extra $100 total for the 3 nights, then told us how to unlock the 2nd bedroom. Might have been an issue with us not being clear about bedding requirements, or the booking system. Just might be best to check with the owners prior to booking so everyone is clear on requirements and costs.

We went to Tanunda to see Missy Higgins. Dove Cote was a great place to stay. Close to the main street, but very quiet. The bed was very comfortable, the breakfast provisions enough for an extra person, and Matthew was very patient and understanding, as I'd forgotten to pay after my credit card was hacked, and he didn't chase it up until a few days before our arrival. He also found my cameras, which I left behind and didn't notice were missing until the day after we got back to Victor Harbor. Just mind the telegraph pole when you back out of the Studio driveway.