About The Lodge
Located near the township of Nhill on a bitumen sealed road, the Little Desert Nature Lodge, established in 1969, began its journey with four wheel drive tours into the Little Desert National Park to raise awareness of the unique local flora and fauna, at a time when plans were afoot to subdivide the remaining natural vegetation for additional pastoral leases.
Surrounding properties north are rural grazing and cropping enterprises while to the south is the Little Desert National Park accessible to guest via an access gate linking walking tracks to the adjoining Stringybark Walk. An electrified feral animal-proof fence has been completed around the Lodge to protect local flora and fauna from feral predators (e.g. cats and foxes) as well as destructive grazers (e.g. rabbits and sheep).
So began one of Victoria’s unique attractions, critical to the history of conservation in Australia. Since then, the Lodge has seen continued growth, with room accommodation for up to 120 guest. Accommodation options include garden view rooms with generous ensuites (two of which are all ability access), standard ensuite rooms with a shared lounge area, accommodation wing of 16 dorm style bunk rooms with shared amenities block, powered camp sites, two Captain’s Cabins with ensuite and limitless unpowered camp sites. Picnic ground and walking tracks. A fully licenced restaurant and cafe area for tea and coffee.
In June 2019, the Farinha family took over the reigns of Little Desert Nature Lodge from Conservation Volunteers Victoria.
Predominantly known for native fauna and flora and the home of the Mallee Fowl, Little Desert Nature Lodge attracts a large number of international guests and student groups annually. It is the perfect spot for bird watching groups, photography groups, art groups, astronomical groups, health and fitness groups.
Limited accessibility to technology allows for an unique experience. Guests can embrace the diversity of a haven nestled away from busy lifestyles to connect the human spirit to nature, creating a space to detach from the hustle and bustle of a technology-driven way of life. Feed your souls as you reconnect to nature.
Awaken to kangaroos on the lawn areas, the call of Kookaburra’s, being greeted by George the resident emu, listening to the songs of a multitude of birds, beautiful sunrises and sunsets and extraordinary beautiful starry nights.
The property is a safe haven and breeding site for the endangered Malleefowl, one of the focus species of conservation’s Wild Futures threatened species program. We hope to attract people from across Australia to appreciate the value and beauty of the remarkable Wimmera region.
This peace and tranquillity is waiting for you at the Little desert Nature Lodge.
Trading Hours
Reception
Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm
Saturday 9am – 4pm
Sunday 9am – 2pm
Cafe Operating Hours
Monday to Friday 9am – 4pm
Saturday 9.30am – 4pm
Sunday 10am – 2pm