Inside the unsuspecting Aussie CASTLE on a hill that’s just launched onto the market – as the curious story behind it is revealed
Dining under soaring ceilings adorned with chandeliers and surrounded by walls meticulously painted to mimic the patina of time.
This is how the residents of an unassuming Aussie castle spend their days in the Victorian countryside.
In Foster, South Gippsland, the Versace Castle offers this and a chance to immerse guests in medieval splendour without leaving Australia.
Built by Fabio Versace and his wife, Louise Martin-Versace, this architectural wonder is an ode to European castles and the romantic grandeur of times past.
‘Mr Versace grew up dreaming of King Arthur and Robin Hood – he always wanted to build a castle,’ real estate agent Peter Bellingham told FEMAIL.
‘So that’s exactly what he did.’
The property is now listed for sale with an asking price of $1.4-$1.475m. Although the home is a dream come true, the ageing couple can no longer maintain its vastness.
With 68 sprawling acres of verdant countryside, this property is more than a home – it’s a lifestyle of luxury, artistry, and timelessness.
Approaching the property feels like stepping into another era.
In Foster, South Gippsland, the extraordinary Versace Castle offers this and so much more – a chance to immerse yourself in medieval splendour without leaving Australia
Built by Fabio Versace and his wife, Louise Martin-Versace, this architectural wonder is an ode to European castles and the romantic grandeur of times pas
With 68 sprawling acres of verdant countryside, this property is more than a home – it’s a lifestyle of luxury, artistry, and timelessness
The castle reveals itself at the end of a meandering driveway lined with Italian Pencil Pines and lush tree ferns.
A dramatic entrance awaits, with sweeping stone steps leading to imposing double doors handcrafted by Versace himself.
Once inside, the castle’s grand open-plan living and dining area greets you with soaring 3.9m ceilings, suspended light fittings, and stunning Italian stone floors.
Every inch of this residence has been thoughtfully designed to transport you to a bygone era, with Italian wall tapestries, antique furniture, and exquisitely rendered walls that mimic centuries-old cracks.
Modern comforts abound, from a fully equipped kitchen with Euromaid and Smeg appliances to cozy wood-fired heating in the dining area.
Two luxurious bedrooms feature hand-carved double beds from the 1700s, flanked by French antique side tables.
Additional conveniences include two spacious bathrooms with walk-in showers, a Euro laundry, and a separate kitchenette perfect for hosting guests or accommodating short stays.
The cobblestone courtyard, framed by sweeping views of tree-fern gullies and rolling paddocks, offers the perfect setting for a medieval-themed wedding, a lavish dinner party, or even a historical reenactment.
Once inside, the castle’s grand open-plan living and dining area greets you with soaring 3.9m ceilings, suspended light fittings, and stunning Italian stone floors
The 30 cleared acres provide space for everything from garden parties to starlit movie nights, while the remaining bushland teems with native wildlife, offering peace and seclusion
Imagine long tables laden with candlelit feasts, goblets of wine, and guests dressed in velvet and brocade, mingling to the soft sounds of a string quartet
Imagine long tables laden with candlelit feasts, goblets of wine, and guests dressed in velvet and brocade, mingling to the soft sounds of a string quartet.
For smaller gatherings, picture hosting a wine-tasting evening in the grand dining room, where antique tapestries set the scene for intimate conversations and the warm glow of the wood-fired heater creates a cozy ambiance.
The unique blend of medieval charm and modern functionality ensures that every event hosted here will be talked about for years to come.
‘There are no other houses like this,’ Mr Bellingham said. ‘It’s truly one-of-a-kind.’
The magic extends beyond the castle walls.
Step through ornate doors to a picturesque courtyard that feels like a scene from a Tuscan villa.
The 30 cleared acres provide space for everything from garden parties to starlit movie nights, while the remaining bushland teems with native wildlife, offering peace and seclusion.
The three ornamental dams and a seasonal creek add to the allure, creating picture-perfect backdrops for outdoor photo shoots or quiet afternoon strolls.
The unique blend of medieval charm and modern functionality ensures that every event hosted here will be talked about for years to come
Modern comforts abound, from a fully equipped kitchen with Euromaid and Smeg appliances to cozy wood-fired heating in the dining area
The castle reveals itself at the end of a meandering driveway lined with Italian Pencil Pines and lush tree fern
And for those with a green thumb or equestrian dreams, the sprawling paddocks are brimming with potential.
A 9×6 workshop with a concrete floor and two-phase power is ideal for hobbyists, while the separate wood storage area ensures your castle stays warm and inviting year-round.
Fabio Versace’s artistry is everywhere.
From the handcrafted chandeliers to the decorative armour and battle-axes adorning the walls, his dedication to creating a home that feels both grand and personal is evident.
The painstaking effort to apply six coats of paint and blend faux cracks into the rendered walls speaks to his commitment to authenticity.
Included in the sale is an extensive collection of medieval treasures: Italian tapestries, antique furniture, and handcrafted armour, making this a turnkey opportunity to own not just a home but an experience.
Located on the outskirts of Foster, this castle offers serene living just two hours from Melbourne.
Known for its lush rolling hills, Foster is the perfect blend of country charm and natural beauty.
It’s a short drive from Wilsons Promontory National Park, making it ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking respite from the bustle of city life.
