Frequently Asked Questions
1What farm activities can we participate in?
Our farm is “free and easy”. We have a variety of animals that you can get close to and hand feed with your own food at any time. We do not have activities, but you are welcome to join us in the late afternoon around 4.30 to 5.00pm when the horses are fed and the other animals are fed as well. We live on the property but you are free to do as you wish and either enjoy the serenity of the farm or use the farm as a base to explore the many local attractions in the Swan Valley, Perth city which is only 30 minute drive, Fremantle which is only 50 minute drive or the beaches which are only 30 minute drive.
2If I do not drive how do I to enjoy the farm?
We do recommend that guests have their own transport, it is easy to drive around Perth and the Swan Valley. The fact that you require food supplies makes it difficult if you do not drive. Public transport is not good. Guests that do not have their own vehicle use taxi service which is not as convenient. There is a shuttle service that does drop off and pick up, there is a link from our website to Swan Valley Shuttle Service, if interested you would need to contact them direct. Cost of taxi from Perth city to Swan Valley approx. $55.
3Can I Visit the Farm and enjoy the animals if I am not staying at Settlers Rest?
No, I am sorry the farm is not open to the public and is for the exclusive use of guests that stay at the cottage.
4Can the cottage sleep more than 8 persons
Our maximum is 8 persons, however the cottage is NOT too big for a family of four or a couple. We have one queen bed, one double bed, three single beds, folda bed and cot if required.
5Do you provide meals?
We do not provide meals, the kitchen is fully equipped so that you can cook your own meals. There is also a gas BBQ for cooking outside.
6Where do I Obtain Grocery Supplies?
Full grocery supplies are located approx. 8 kilometre drive, Coles Caversham, Woolworths Altone Park Shopping Centre, Coles & Woolworths at Ellenbrook or Midland. IGA Averley, however there is a small minimart at the gas station just 5 min drive away for immediate supplies.
7Can I ride a horse on your property?
No I am sorry all our horses are competition horses and are not suitable for guests to ride, however you are very welcome to give them a carrot or two. Horse riding can be done at Ron’s Riding Ranch a 30 minute drive from Settlers Rest, open 7 days.
8Is the cottage warm in winter and cool in summer?
We have had no complaints regarding the warmth inside the cottage in winter. All beds have electric blankets, warm duvas, extra blankets if needed. There are convection wall heaters in the main lounge room and also in the two large bedrooms. There is an open fireplace in the loungeroom. It can get cold in winter outside on the farm, it is necessary to bring warm clothing, coats etc.
The cottage has ducted evaporative airconditioning for summer use.
9How many nights would you recommend staying at the farm?
We would recommend a stay of 3 to 4 nights to really enjoy the quiet country atmosphere and to experience farm life. It is a very unique experience and so close to the city.
10What would you recommend while staying in WA?
The range of things to do and see is endless. Apart from the immediate attractions of the Swan Valley, staying at Settlers Rest and making it your base, it is very easy to visit Perth (Kings Park, Bell Tower, Perth Mint, Perth foreshore), Fremantle (famous for its Fish & Chips), Hillarys Boat Harbour (home of Aquarium of WA, nice beach and lots of shops), Cottesloe Beach (lovely beachside ambience), City Beach (Clancy’s Fish Pub), Rottnest (boat leaves from either Fremantle or Hillarys), Mandurah (Dolphins), Yanchep National Park (picnic), The Maze (great for kids). The Swan Valley Visitors Centre in Guildford is only 10 minute drive from Settlers Rest, open 7 days a week, will offer advice on what to do and see while holidaying in WA. A link to their website is in our Links section.