The alpaca farm stay at 95 Smyth Road Dawesley is being marketed by Matt Kenny of Ray White Mount Barker | Woodside, with a price tag between $2,800,000 and $2,950,000.

After 14 years of transforming the 32.3 hectare property into a premier destination, owners Bernard and Susan Croese are ready to pass the shears to a new visionary.

Purchased as an investment property after the Croeses daughter-in-law owned horses, Mr Croese said it was not long until the family acquired alpacas which they bred, sold and showed.

The couple, who are looking to retire, renovated the original cottage onsite and built state-of-the-art sheds and arenas, creating a rural sanctuary that balances high-end living with a thriving agricultural business.

There is also an opportunity for the new owner to take over horse agistment arrangements for additional income - as well as 50 alpacas.

Mr Croese said Carlisle Lodge features two distinct Airbnb accommodations that have reached the top 1 per cent of the platform globally for satisfaction and reliability:

  • ‘Verandah Retreat': A self-contained wing of the main house, perfect for couples or multi-generational families.

  • 'Cottage Escape': A new (2025), free-standing two-bedroom weatherboard guest house designed for families.

The main house, which was built in 2003 and renovated in 2012, overlooks Dawesley Creek - a favourite spot for long lunches, quiet mornings and year-round entertaining, Mr Croese said.

“We’ve seen everything here from engagements to quiet weekend retreats.

“Between the horse agistment and the Airbnb income, it’s the perfect setup for someone looking for a supplementary income while enjoying spectacular gardens and fresh air.”

Substantial shedding includes an oversized double garage, a barn with three stables and a tack room, a shearing shed, a machinery shed, a workshop, an arena, a round yard, raceways, and herding yards.

He said it was easy to fall in love with the property as soon as you arrive.

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