A five-acre slice of the ‘Italian countryside’ is now to be found nestled in Victoria’s Alpine foothills.
Known as Planetrees Estate, the sprawling property in Stanley, three hours from Melbourne, has two stunning homes, world-class gardens, and one of the first natural swimming pools ever constructed in Australia.
The home is the product of the vision, artistry – plus 16 years of labour – of architect and former fashion designer Genevieve Milham.
‘When I found this place, it was a bare, depleted timber mill site. No gardens, no topsoil. Just a couple of rustic structures and paddocks that had been stripped back by years of milling,’ Genevieve told FEMAIL.
‘I saw it and thought, this is it. This is the canvas.’
Having spent years working and living in Europe, Milham brought back a deep appreciation for Tuscan and Provencal aesthetics – a sensibility that would ultimately define Planetrees.
‘The garden was always central to the vision. I wanted something you just don’t see in Australia – lush, layered, evocative of a European estate. A place where time slows,’ she said – so that’s exactly what she created.
A five-acre slice of the Italian countryside is nestled in Victoria’s Alpine foothills
‘When I found this place, it was a bare, depleted timber mill site. No gardens, no topsoil. Just a couple of rustic structures and paddocks that had been stripped back by years of milling,’ Genevieve told FEMAIL
Known as Planetrees Estate, the sprawling property offers two stunning homes, world-class gardens, and one of the first natural swimming pools ever constructed in Australia
The property is now on the market for $4.3-$4.5million
Today, the estate is a masterclass in garden design: over 300 deciduous trees, towering hedges, orchard groves, perennial borders, a vegetable garden, and sculptural elements, including a bocce court, a giant chess set and a circular lawn ideal for cricket or croquet.
‘There’s a rhythm to the garden,’ Genevieve explained.
‘I designed it like a series of rooms, each revealing itself slowly. You can walk for an hour and still feel like you’re discovering it.’
At the heart of the property sits the Tuscan-style main residence – a four-bedroom home with thick stone walls, reclaimed timber beams from the Nagambie Bridge, and oversized windows framing garden views.
‘The timber beams are massive, truly rare materials. They bring this grounding, organic feel to the house. You walk in and instantly feel held by it,’ she said.
A rose-covered pergola connects the home to an intimate entertaining terrace, complete with a wood-fired pizza oven and barbecue.
Terraced gravel walkways stretch both north and south, encouraging morning coffees and sunset aperitifs alike.
The crown jewel of Planetrees is the 16-metre natural swimming pool, designed by an Austrian company renowned for its eco-conscious designs – and the first of its kind ever built in Australia
Having spent years working and living in Europe, Milham brought back a deep appreciation for Tuscan and Provencal aesthetics – a sensibility that would ultimately define Planetrees
The main house also includes a separate one-bedroom apartment – ideal for guests or extended family
The house, Genevieve says, suits ‘anyone with a sense of imagination and appreciation for beauty’ – though she believes it’s best lived in with others
‘It’s designed for gathering,’ Genevieve said.
‘We’ve had long-table dinners under the pergola, family lunches on the lawn. The seasons shape the experience – the colours in autumn, the flowers in spring, the fireplaces in winter.’
The main house also includes a separate one-bedroom apartment – ideal for guests or extended family – while the second residence, a rustic lodge, adds another four bedrooms.
It’s been carefully restored with a nod to the Australian vernacular: exposed beams, stonework, and cosy textures throughout.
‘People love the lodge. It feels like a mountain retreat. It has its own garden, covered dining area – a bit more secluded but still very much part of the whole,’ Genevieve said.
Another standout is the enormous Australian-style shed – timber and iron-clad, with vast east and west-facing doors that capture breathtaking views.
Fully wired with internet and phone, the property has been used for everything from weddings and exhibitions to painting workshops and retreats.
‘I’ve hosted artists, creatives, even a few weddings when the weather allowed,’ she said.
The estate is a masterclass in garden design: over 300 deciduous trees, towering hedges, orchard groves, perennial borders, a vegetable garden, and sculptural elements
Terraced gravel walkways stretch both north and south, encouraging morning coffees and sunset aperitifs alike
Another standout is the enormous Australian-style shed – timber and iron-clad, with vast east and west-facing doors that capture breathtaking views
‘And if it didn’t, we just moved into the shed. It’s such a versatile space – you could store classic cars, host events, or just make it your studio.’
But perhaps the crown jewel of Planetrees is the 16-metre natural swimming pool, designed by an Austrian company renowned for its eco-conscious designs – and the first of its kind ever built in Australia.
‘I didn’t want a chlorinated pool. I wanted something beautiful, alive,’ Genevieve explained.
‘This one looks like a lake. When you swim, you’re surrounded by reeds, irises, lilies. Dragonflies skim the surface. Birds drink from it. It’s magic.’
Fed by a groundwater bore and surrounded by rambling plantings, the pool is more than functional – it’s poetic.
‘It’s a favourite spot for guests. They sit on the deck with wine, watching the wildlife. It’s completely immersive.’
Despite its scale and sophistication, the property is remarkably low-maintenance, thanks to smart design and thoughtful infrastructure.
An automated irrigation system keeps the extensive garden thriving, while Genevieve manages the estate largely on her own with just one part-time gardener and a lawnmower contractor.
The main house also includes a separate one-bedroom apartment – ideal for guests or extended family – while the second residence, a rustic lodge, adds another four bedrooms
Despite its scale and sophistication, the property is remarkably low-maintenance, thanks to smart design and thoughtful infrastructure
Set at 700 metres above sea level, Stanley offers cool summers, crisp winters, and the occasional dusting of snow
‘In summer, I barely have to do anything,’ she laughed.
‘Maybe a bit of deadheading. In winter, we prune. But it’s all established now – the garden looks after itself.’
The house, she says, suits ‘anyone with a sense of imagination and appreciation for beauty’ – though she believes it’s best lived in with others.
‘This place comes alive when it’s full. It’s ideal for an extended family, or someone looking to continue the accommodation side of things. It’s built to be shared.’
And the location couldn’t be better.
Set at 700 metres above sea level, Stanley offers cool summers, crisp winters, and the occasional dusting of snow.
Falls Creek ski resort is just 90 minutes away, while Albury airport is also a mere 60-minute drive.
‘It’s never stinking hot here. You get the full theatre of the seasons – golden leaves in autumn, vibrant florals in spring, misty mornings in winter. And all just ten minutes from Beechworth’s cafes, wineries and shops.’
After nearly two decades, Genevieve is finally ready to pass on the baton.
‘I’ve done what I set out to do. I created a tranquil haven from nothing. It’s time for someone else to write the next chapter.’
The estate is now on the market for $4.3-$4.5million.