An iconic Victorian mansion on the market in Melbourne’s outer south east is attracting nationwide interest.

`Melrose’, a stately 19th century family home, makes a striking impression on a substantial 8ha parcel at 137-163 Harkaway Rd, Harkaway.

Breathtaking views across the district to Port Phillip and Westernport bays are appreciated from an imposing tower at the front of the house, one of its many magnificent period features.

The mansion is a rarity in the area, according to Barry Plant Berwick’s Richard Davis.

“There’s nothing like it on the market, particularly on a block of land this size,” he said.

Buyers from as far as Western Australia are eyeing the offering because of its size, potential, history, views and location near leafy Berwick Village with its shops, cafes, train station and bus services.

Sprawling behind grand wrought-iron gates, the ideal lifestyle property features botanical-style gardens with mature specimen trees, sweeping lawns, leafy walkways and an established orchard.

The multi-million dollar home also comes with a tennis court, fully tiled pool with a water feature, and paved outdoor entertainment areas.

Melrose is also a hobby farmer’s delight or equine enthusiast’s haven with its sheds, workshop, stables, paddocks with loose boxes, extensive water supply, large vegetable garden and ample chicken coop.

Those with a penchant for period homes have been drawn to the mansion’s history that dates back to 1875 or earlier, Mr Davis said.

“The archives show it was built at least a quarter of a century before the mid-1870s, and it was once a boys’ home in the early days,” he said.

Features of a bygone era are displayed at every turn, including wide return verandas with wrought-iron fretwork, double-hung windows, high detailed skirting boards and Baltic pine floors.

Elegant formal living and dining rooms are adorned with soaring detailed ceilings and Victorian cast-iron fireplaces.

Melrose has been tightly held by only a few families over the decades and the owners, who have lived at the property since 2008, have thoughtfully renovated their home in keeping with the era, according to Mr Davis.

Modern lifestyle needs are met with four tastefully refurbished bedrooms, including the main with a large walk-through wardrobe to a hotel-style ensuite, a stylish bathroom, powder room and a study.

There is a relaxed family living area with French doors to the garden plus a contemporary kitchen and meals area with a large walk-in pantry, quality appliances, and sleek black granite benchtops and splashbacks.

Other features include a self-contained dwelling ideal for guests or as a teenager’s retreat, a climate-controlled gymnasium, alarm, garages, storeroom, air conditioning plus a high-capacity water catchment system.

Melrose is for sale by expressions of interest. Contact Richard Davis, Barry Plant Berwick, 0408 360 965 or 9707 1400.