Steam Carriage: 1926 Train Carriage, Otways

Step aboard Steam Carriage, a fully restored 1926 First Class railway carriage in the heart of Forrest. Velvet curtains, polished brass, and warm timber evoke the exuberance of the roaring 1920s. An unforgettable, immersive escape where you can slow down, explore every nook, and enjoy a genuinely different break from the everyday.

THE SPACE
Steam Carriage is a fully restored 1926 First Class railway carriage, tucked away in the township of Forrest, surrounded by the lush Otway Ranges. We love one-of-a-kind places, and this is our effort to create something a little different — a carriage that celebrates the elegance of the 1920s and the simplicity of the era. From polished brass and velvet curtains to warm, salvaged timber, it works with the natural beauty and craftsmanship of the original carriage rather than feeling forced or gimmicky.

It’s a place to slow down, explore every nook, and soak in history while leaving the world behind. A genuine break from the day-to-day, immersive and subtly transportive, thoughtfully put together so you can simply enjoy it.


FEATURED/RECOGNISED BY
Airbnb Awards – 2023 Australia & NZ National Winner, Best Unique Stay
Television / Media (Australia): Getaway TV, Better Homes & Gardens TV
Australian Publications: Home Beautiful, The Design Files, Homes to Love, Country Style, The Guardian, Time Out Melbourne, Secret Melbourne, Broadsheet, UrbanList
Overseas Publications: Oprah Daily (USA), House Beautiful (USA), Schöner Wohnen (Germany), The Heritage Post (Germany)
Books: Principles of Style by Sarah Andrews, Life Unhurried by Mitchell, Eppelstun & Gannon

HISTORY
Built in 1926 at Melbourne’s Newport Railway Workshop as First Class carriage 61 AW, Steam Carriage carried passengers throughout regional Victoria — surviving a train crash along the way. Between 1937–1980, it was converted several times between first and second class on routes from Melbourne to Sydney and other regional lines. Retired in 1983, it was transported by truck to Forrest, where it now resides. Lovingly restored by our team, the carriage preserves its craftsmanship and character, offering a one-of-a-kind escape steeped in history.

SLEEP
Master Bedroom: Two compartments long, queen bed, private outdoor bath
Second Bedroom: Small compartment, double bed
Third Bedroom: Single compartment, two thin single train beds (like caravan beds)
Sleeps up to six, but ideal for a couple or family of four
Rooms are close together, with very little sound insulation; consider guest combinations carefully:
A couple + up to four children
Two couples (if good friends)
Four adults
Six adults possible, but Steam is primarily a place to sleep

KITCHEN AND LIVING
The small but fully functional kitchen has a stove, oven, Italian-style coffee maker, French press, and all essentials. The cozy living space features a wood fire, books, and board games. No TV — some stream on their devices at first, but most discover they simply stop needing to.

Outside, relax in the garden with leafy trees, a hammock, and multiple seating nooks, including a covered outdoor area with BBQ.

FORREST AND THE OTWAYS
Forrest is a beautiful, quietly unhurried timber town — the kind of place that’s become harder to find. It sits on the edge of 100,000 hectares of national park, alive with birdsong and wildlife, and that is genuinely its greatest asset.

Otways Loft has direct ride-in ride-out access to over 70km of world-class singletrack across 36 trails — the Forrest Mountain Bike Trail Network is considered one of Australia’s top mountain biking destinations, with trails for every level from easy to challenging. It’s right on the doorstep. Forrest MTB Hire is open for bookings every day except Sunday — we recommend booking ahead or texting Michelle for last-minute availability.

Bush walks, waterfalls, Lake Elizabeth, Stevensons Falls and the Barwon River Reservoir are all within easy reach. The General Store is open daily, and Jen at Bodysmith — a beautiful little healing studio offering hot stone massage and Bowen therapy — is just a short walk from the Loft.

A note worth knowing — Regional Victoria is doing it tough at the moment and some businesses operate with reduced or changing hours. We do our best to stay across local openings and share the most up-to-date recommendations before your stay, though in a small regional town things can shift day to day. It’s all part of the slower rhythm here. The Loft is thoughtfully set up as a self-sufficient retreat — and guests who come prepared to cook, explore and unwind tend to have the best time.

Thirty minutes from Lorne and the Great Ocean Road. Twenty minutes from Birregurra.

HOSTING STYLE
We’re Fleur, Mike, and the team behind Dufflebird Getaways. With over 20 years of hosting, we care deeply about this space and guests who value character, detail, and a slower, considered stay.

Before arrival, you’ll receive our local guide. We can help shape your time — mountain biking, walking, long lunches, or simply switching off. Our trusted local team is nearby if anything is needed in person, otherwise we’ll leave you completely to your stay. Many guests return, which says it all.

COMBINING WITH OTWASY LOFT
Our neighbouring property, Otways Loft, is available for larger groups. Steam & Otways Loft together accommodate 10–12 guests (up to 14 max). Both remain private when booked independently. If booked together, access to the connecting gate is available.

GUEST ACCESS
The entire carriage and garden are yours, including the outdoor seating, hammock, and covered dining/lounge area

OTHER THINGS TO NOTE
Linen and towels included — just bring your beach towels. Beds made up to your preferences

Dogs welcome: Please notify us before arrival. We ask that dogs stay off furniture and beds, leaving the carriage trace-free. The yard is fenced but not dog-proof. Consider whether your pet suits our delicate furnishings

No smoking inside or candles — the orignial Smoking signs and gold lettering remain as a nod to its railway past

PRICING
Base rate covers up to 2 guests
Additional $50 per person per night
If you need to adjust guest numbers after booking? Just message us and we’ll take care of it.