- | DER CLIFF STREET COTTAGE | -<br>ALBANY, WESTERN AUSTRALIA

I’m a fourth-generation local, with five generations of my family calling Albany home. Growing up in this wonderland of the Great Southern region, surrounded by majestic oceans, powdery white beaches, tumbling granites and national parks, my childhood adventures were endless. As the daughter of a fisherman, I couldn’t help but develop a deep connection to the ocean and a love of fishing.

My passion for interior design, travel, food, family and adventure constantly had me thinking, how could I bring all of my loves into one place? And that’s how Cliff St. Cottage came about. I poured my heart and soul into every detail of the Cottage’s design, ensuring it reflects not just comfort and style but also the spirit of Albany. I created The Cliff St. Cottage—a place to relax, recharge and reconnect with the people who matter most.

My great-grandfather and great uncles served in WWII and are honoured with a tree on the Avenue of Honour on Mt Clarence. Our family’s connection to Albany runs deep, with my great-grandfather, Corporal Sydney T. Coles, arriving in the 1920s after serving in the British Army during the Boer War and WWI. Since then, my family has proudly served in the Australian Military Forces, Merchant Navy, and Royal Australian Air Force, and their legacy is honoured at the National Anzac Centre.

Today, I work as an Environmental and Aboriginal Heritage Consultant and I am a Heritage Officer and Lifetime Member of the Albany Historical Society, dedicated to preserving Albany’s rich heritage, including sites like Patrick Taylor Cottage and the Albany Convict Gaol Museum.

The Cliff St. Cottage is more than just a place to stay—it’s a reflection of family, heritage, history and my deep love for this beautiful region. Whether you're visiting Albany for the first time or returning to a place you already love, I hope Cliff St. Cottage offers you a warm welcome and lasting memories.

I chose Albany and the Great Southern region because it’s my heart and home. Growing up here, I had the unique privilege of experiencing nature’s playground and steeped heritage. From the majestic oceans and powdery white beaches to the stunning granite outcrops and expansive national parklands, this place is nothing short of magical. The peaceful beauty and serenity of the area have always been a part of me and I wanted to create a space that would allow others to experience the same sense of calm and connection to nature.

What I love most about the area is the balance between history, culture and natural beauty. Albany is rich in all—whether it’s the dramatic coastline, the nearby Torndirrup National Park, or the historical significance tied to the National Anzac Centre and other local landmarks, there’s always something to discover. The community here is warm and welcoming and there’s a deep sense of pride and respect in our heritage, history and natural surroundings.

For me, I love the daily reminder of the simple joys—early morning walks along the beach, the breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in vivid colours, the Menang People and their deep cultural connection to Kinjarling and the history at every turn. It’s a place where family and tradition matter and where you can truly escape the hustle and bustle to reconnect with the land, sea and your own sense of peace.

The Cliff St. Cottage is more than just a beautiful place to stay—it's a deeply personal expression of history, heritage and heart. What makes it truly unique is the blend of century-old charm with thoughtful, luxurious design and heartfelt touches that reflect generations of my family’s connection to Albany.

Every detail in the cottage has been carefully curated—whether it’s the open fireplaces, the floor-to-ceiling windows framing harbour views or the 3.8m chalkboard wall that brings out joy in guests of all ages. The cottage is filled with personal stories, handcrafted décor and locally inspired pieces, making it feel less like a rental and more like a home with soul.

Set in one of Albany’s historic streets, the property offers complete privacy, lush garden pathways and seasonal fruit trees, all while being just minutes from the beach, town centre and stunning coastal trails. Guests can enjoy sunrises and sunsets over the harbour, unwind in the alfresco dining area, and even cook with custom Cliff St. recipe cards designed to share a piece of my family's tradition.

It’s a place to reconnect—with nature, with loved ones and with yourself. I’ve poured my heart into making Cliff St. Cottage a space where people feel welcome, inspired, and at ease—and I truly believe it offers something no other stay can.