The Barracks, Tocal

I stayed in the Hazel suite two nights for work. Arriving the dark was difficult because the entrance was difficult to see from the highway, driving at 80-100 km/h. The property was also not lit and navigating also a little tricky once past the main gate. Parking was at the rear of the building. Unfortunately there were no sensor lights and again, I had trouble finding the key safe. You require a torch to enter the code in the key safe in the dark. I did not have a torch. Dragging my suitcase over the gravel, I thought I would break the wheels. I am surprised that these details have not been thought out. The accommodation is lovely and cozy. Lights and the fireplace downstairs has also been turned on. Cleanliness is impeccable. It is a very rustic and cozy abode. The steep staircase meant that I kept my suitcase downstairs because it would take too much effort to haul it up. Steep staircase also made going to the toilet in the middle of the night a little precarious. The living room is cozy although the fireplace did little to warm up the space, with very little heat throw. I loved that the lighting throughout is warm instead of the cool white that many accommodation has. Power points on the wall are not many but enough. The bathroom is well-stocked with amenities such as toilet paper, tissue and quality full-size toiletries. The cotton bath robes is a lovely touch. Like some accommodations, the lack of a face washer is why I always pack my own. There is a small kitchennet with coffee maker, kettle, two of each – cups, mug, wine glass, spoon etc. There is a tea towel but no real washing-up facility such as dish detergent and the only tap is in the bathroom. Perhaps more suited for short stays and rely on housekeeping. (When I am working away from home, I am usually booked self-contained accommodation.) This would be lovely for people who do not intend to prepare food. There is a tiny fridge enough to hold mini bottles of water, but smaller than mini fridge. There is complimentary small bottles of water, milk. No ice. Upstairs where the bedroom is situated, there is a wall heater. With the adjustable fan speed, I was able to bring up the temperature and chose to stay here in the cold evenings, although no door to keep the heat in. All the furnishings are of high-quality. There are wooden floorboards. There is a tallboy and two bedside tables, but no wardrobe. There are also drawers under the bed. The few small windows meant that the accommodation is rather dark during the daytime. Expansive views of the property is very peaceful. This is a row of four accommodation side-by-side. The property itself is quiet but not so soundproof such that I cannot hear conversations when others are standing outside my door. You also need to keep the curtains closed if you do not wish people walking by to see inside, as there is no sheer curtain. Wi-Fi is very fast. Mobile reception is not the best. I did not require room service and breakfast hamper,

Wonderful historic builings and room. Extremely charming and confortable accomodation. Helpful staff and great scenic views.Will there stay again.

Had a wonderful family get away visiting Tocal. Enjoyed reminiscing about my childhood connection with the area & the fantastic work done to restore it. The open day tours on Sundays give an opportunity to see inside the homestead, the books written available in the accommodation explain its rich history, check out the Tocal App too. Loved seeing the heritage pigs, chickens & draught horse on the grounds. Had a great meal at the Paterson Tavern & enjoyed the Paterson Pantry picnic /breakfast baskets & Boydell’s wine! The accommodation was lovely, hosts Nick & Kali do a great job. Thanks for a memorable stay.