Fisherman’s Cottage - c1945 cottage by the sea

"To be outside is to be free, to wander with the wind, to let the sea fill your soul." – Unknown

Once the quiet retreat of a seasoned fisherman, Fisherman’s Cottage is now waiting for you to take a breath, slow down, and listen to the stories the sea has to tell.

Nestled in Victor Harbor, on the Fleurieu Peninsula, this 1945 cottage isn’t just a place to stay—it’s an invitation to live a little more slowly and a little more beautifully.

Fisherman’s Cottage was designed by local photographer of The Hatchery fame, Winnie Packer. And now belongs to the carefully curated collection by Mum and daughter duo Bel and Kay Atkins - creating spaces that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a dream.

They are also behind other beautifully crafted Airbnbs in the area, including Seafarers Lodge in Middleton, Herrings House in Willunga, and Penny Shack on Kangaroo Island, just across the ocean from Fisherman's.

Each property is thoughtfully designed to evoke peace, connection to nature, and a true sense of escape.When you step inside, you’ll know you’ve arrived. The cottage greets you like an old friend, one that’s seen a few seasons and knows how to make you feel at home.

The kitchen, with its sun-drenched corners and bi-fold windows, beckons you to sip your morning coffee with the salty breeze as your companion. The bay window in the living room is made for daydreaming, where views of the Bluff dance with the changing light. For the adventurous, the Bluff is calling—just a short hike away, where the cliffs and trails offer views that’ll take your breath away (and perhaps a whale sighting or two, if you’re lucky).

As the sun dips below the horizon, light a fire and settle in. The fisherman used to do the same, watching the flicker of the flames as the world outside quietly slipped into night. Here, it’s the simple moments that make the biggest impact.

You’ll discover an outdoor bath just off the main bathroom. It's tucked away under a cozy roof, offering shelter from the elements but still allowing you to look up and gaze at the stars above. Imagine sinking into the warm water, the night air cool against your skin, the sound of the sea in the distance, and the vast, starry sky unfolding above you. Time slows here, and the world becomes a little more magical.

As the night deepens, gather around the outdoor fire pit for a cozy evening under the stars. The crackling of the flames, the scent of wood smoke, and the night sky overhead make for an experience like no other. Wrap yourself in a blanket, sip on a red, and let the night unfold at your own pace.

And then there are the chooks. They’re cheeky, they’re charming, and they’re ready to keep you company as you wander through the veggie garden or sip your afternoon tea. Their eggs will make your morning breakfast feel like a gift, and their antics will bring a smile to your face every time.

The white picket fence? It’s just the finishing touch on this storybook garden, making it feel like a page out of a fairytale.

Fisherman’s Cottage is calling you to a simpler, slower life. All you have to do is say yes.

Fisherman’s Cottage - c1945 cottage by the sea offers its guests barbecue grills and a garden. The front desk is open around the clock.

This McCracken cottage is smoke free.