A Cluster of A-Frames Hugs White Sand Dunes on Australia’s Southwestern Coast
Two transplants from Sydney turn an overgrown and outdated holiday resort into a cozy compound that comes complete with fresh baked goods.
Located about two hours by air from the Western Australia state capital of Perth, the coastal area of Esperance is known for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters. On the edge of town sits a cluster of recently restored A-frames, log cabins, and cottages, located just behind the dunes. Called Esperance Chalet Village, the revived holiday community is the product of a multi-year journey that began with one couple's Sunday drive.
Esperance Chalet Village is located in the southwestern coastal town of Esperance, Australia. The compound features a mix of A-frames and other structures updated by Fiona and Matt Shillington, who purchased the property after moving to the area from Sydney five years ago.
Photo by Marnie Hawson
Several of the larger A-frame cabins feature a brightly illuminated second floor. The couple updated the interior with a simple coat of white paint, opting to freshen up the space without making it feel overly modern or fancy.
Photo by Marnie Hawson
It was a wrong turn during that Sunday afternoon that led owners Fiona and Matt Shillington to discover the overgrown and neglected property. The compound offered some of the area's original holiday rentals, and they immediately recognized its untapped potential. Five years later, the bet has paid off—the laidback couple are ready to welcome guests who want to enjoy the communal atmosphere with friends or family.
Simple furnishings of built-ins line much of the living space while large windows and doors open onto a patio at one end.
Photo by Marnie Hawson
Contrasting with the property's overall rustic vibe, the interior of all the cabins offer a kitchenette, private bathroom, as well as a mix of vintage and local furnishings.
Photo by Marnie Hawson
Shop the Look
Vintage French Oyster Basket
Straight From The Sea. We like to collect things for our home that have a story and a history. This vintage French oyster basket was used on the coast of France to grow oysters in the sea beds. They're at least 40 years old -- the merchant moved heaven and earth to salvage them from the French seaside town of Royen and clean them up. They're retired from the oyster beds, and now perfect for storage of just about anything. All vintage items from the Food52 Shop are final sale. Items may vary slightly from what is pictured. Made in: France Made of: SteelSize: 19" x 15" x 10" Sourced from: The Food52 Vintage Shop Photography by Mark Weinberg.
ShopFerm Living Ripple Wine Glasses - Set of 2
Mouth blown to achieve ferm LIVING’s characteristic geometric rippled surface, these clear wine glasses are perfect for casual drinks in the garden and can also be used as part of a larger dinner party setting. Dishwasher safe, the two glasses have been made to be paired with the rest of the Danish brand’s ‘Ripple’ series.
ShopFarmhouse Pottery Yellowware Pitcher
A home for flowers, coffee, and more. Our rustic-cabin farmhouse fantasies never feel complete without a picture-perfect ceramic pitcher, whether it’s holding a bunch of freshly cut flowers from the garden, homemade lemonade, or just some ice water for guests. This stoneware version, inspired by American yellowware popular from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s, features a lead free glaze and white bands hand-painted by Vermont Farmhouse’s master potters.
ShopA look at the bathroom, which features antique tiles and fixtures.
Photo by Marnie Hawson
In addition to six small and four large A-framed cabins, the property offers several log cabins, along with multi-bedroom cottages and 'shacks.' The 17 structures come in different styles and sizes, with prices starting at $160 AUD (~$115 USD). Amenities include self check-in and on-site baked goods when available, as well as options for fishing or kayaking in a nearby creek. Complementary bikes for exploring the town are also provided.
Outside, each of the cabins feature a large patio for relaxing or dining.
Photo by Marnie Hawson
The town of Esperance sits along a 24-mile scenic drive that connects sheltered beaches and popular surfing destinations. A few miles east is Cape Le Grand National Park, where granite rocks lines the shore and kangaroos are often spotted along the beach. Numerous other national parks and nature reserves dot the landscape further outside of town. Keep scrolling to see more of the property and surrounding landscape.
The charred exterior of each log cabin contrasts with a lighter, wood-clad interior.
Photo by Marnie Hawson
A look inside one of the two log cabins, both of which are filled with antiques the couple brought in from Sydney and other pieces found locally.
Photo by Marnie Hawson
Photo by Marnie Hawson
The village promotes communal activities with fire pits and other gathering areas scattered around the property.
Photo by Marnie Hawson
A creek winds along one side of a walking path that leads to the beach. The private grounds feature an abundance of native plantings, including: Hakea, banksia, paperbarks, salt bush, and rush grasses.
Photo by Marnie Hawson
Views of Esperance Bay and the ocean open up at the end of the walking path. The surrounding area is home to numerous national parks, scenic drives, and surfer hotspots.
Photo by Marnie Hawson
For more information, visit the Esperance Chalet Village website.