Anima Sola Stunning historical mansion, open days are held every third Sunday, best to book tickets in advance. The guides conduct tours of the house every hour, but you can explore on your own. Tea room cafe in the courtyard has some lovely scones and cake.
5 /5
Rob the Nomad Reservations are welcomed but need to be made in advance to see this historical ornate architecture. One of the oldest buildings in the area it is a must to see what grandeur was back in the day
5 /5
Boba Botato Idk bro the place is stunningly beautiful but most of the staff was mad disrespectful to people paying to go inside. Only a few nice volunteers working there, and the rest of the staff honestly make you very uncomfortable. Should be run by better people in my opinion, cause they give it a really bad look to Labassa and to the national trust. Very judgey and stuck up people. They look at you funny for using a phone and taking photos, like you pay $25 for them to follow you around and not let you do shi. There was rules for no flash and other people were using flash and you could see it through the hallway where the volunteers stood but they would ignore them and continue to single out certain people who are doing absolute nothing wrong. I touched a pillar for 3 seconds and immediately got yelled at my heart sank and I was so scared that I ended up leaving. Instead they could ask nicely but they continue to yell at people instead of treating them nicely. They act like they’re better than you for running the place. Im really into fashion and history but because I’m 18 walking around with a phone and camera they judge me. The volunteers would snicker at me which was not nice and not respect you. I tried so hard to respect this beautiful place but seeing how rude they treated others especially Asian tourists and me I was so done with the place. Besides the whole upstairs is not done up, it’s only the hallway, stairs and three rooms that are actually nice. Most of them are elderly like bro they should stop volunteering cause they all gonna have a heart attack with the way they keep going on attacking young people. Anyway never visiting lol
1 /5
Claudine Faerie Labassa in Caulfield North is a beautiful National trust mansion/museum built in 1862 and lived in by more than 700 residents over an 130 year period.
Labassa mansion stands as a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the 19th century. As I stepped through its doors during the twilight open house viewing, I was immediately struck by the striking architectural details and the palpable sense of history that permeated every corner.
The mansions meticulously preserved interiors, adorned with intricate period furnishings and stunning ornate ceilings, offered a glimpse into a bygone era of wealth and extravagance. Labassa is one of few Victorian era mansions to survive with its interiors relatively intact. It was evident that Labassa was more than just a building; it was a living museum, where each room whispered stories of its past inhabitants.
Guided by knowledgeable volunteers, the tour brought the history of Labassa to life. With each step, I learned more about the families who built and once called this mansion home and the societal intricacies of the time. The guides passion for the mansions history was infectious, making the experience both educational and engaging.
Before the tour commenced, we had the pleasure of enjoying a delightful box of sandwiches and cake in the mansions front garden. The serene surroundings provided the perfect prelude to the evening ahead, allowing me to soak in the beauty of Labassas exterior before delving into its rich interior.
However, amidst the grandeur, there was a hint of neglect. The upper floor of the mansion, which reflected the most recent residents who only moved out in the 1990s, appeared worn and tired in comparison to the luxurious rooms downstairs. Labassa definitely needs some funding and love to bring it up to the standard of the downstairs rooms, which boast original ceilings, wallpaper, pieces of furniture and lighting.
Despite this, my twilight visit to Labassa Mansion was a truly memorable experience. From the captivating interiors to the knowledgeable guides and serene gardens, every aspect of the evening was meticulously curated to provide visitors with a glimpse into Melbournes architectural and historical heritage. Whether youre a history buff, an architectural enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, Labassa Mansion is a must-visit destination.
5 /5