Ballantrae Homestead in Buninyong Listed for $2.45m–$2.65m

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Ballantrae, a striking Gothic Revival homestead built in 1857, has been listed for sale with an asking price between $2.45 million and $2.65 million. The property sits on five acres along Midland Highway, just outside the rural township of Buninyong near Ballarat, Victoria.

Despite its age of almost 170 years, the historic residence has had only four owners. The original builders owned it for just two years before bankruptcy forced a sale. The next owners kept it for 140 years, followed by a 40-year tenure from the previous family before the current vendors acquired it.

The current owners discovered Ballantrae by chance while viewing a neighbouring vacant lot. After learning the block had flooding issues, they were invited inside the homestead and decided to buy it on the spot, without stepping past the front door.

Renovations have modernised the home while preserving its heritage character. Works included painting, retiling, rewiring, and the installation of high-end fixtures and appliances. Original period details such as open fireplaces, ceiling roses, ornate cornices, and a wine cellar remain intact, complemented by modern kitchen and bathroom designs.

Set at the foot of Mount Buninyong, the residence makes full use of its north-facing rear, offering views of mature gardens and park-like grounds from the kitchen, meals area, deck, and even a bathroom with windows that open to nature.

Outside, the property features expansive lawns, heritage-listed trees, shedding, and a recently rebuilt pond that attracts local wildlife. The five-acre setting offers potential for a hobby farm or simply a private retreat.

The vendors, who have a background in building, say they aimed to keep the “bones” of the house while adding modern style and comfort. “We wanted to keep its history alive while making it a home we could live in,” they said.

Ballantrae is listed with Buxton Ballarat’s Mark Nunn via private treaty.