High on the hill in one of South Yarra's most sought-after leafy pockets, just metres to Toorak Road shops, cafes and restaurants and a short stroll to the Domain precinct and the Yarra River, this secluded family sanctuary is a hidden gem.

It's a home with a rich history that begins 140 years ago, as one of the first homes built in Murphy Street. Today, Murphy Street is one of South Yarra's finest and this home is one of its treasures. On the market for the first time in 35 years, if the walls could talk, they would speak of entertaining prime ministers, knights of the realm, captains of industry and celebrated sporting figures.

This distinctive double storey home boasts generous proportions, high ceilings, timber floorboards, light-filled interiors and a self-contained home office or studio in the back garden. A major feature of this alluring property is the exceptionally large established garden at the rear of the home. A green and tranquil oasis, in this serene space it is hard to imagine the CBD is less than 10 minutes away.

It has undergone several renovations over the years, once by renowned architect John Wardle, with more recent updates by the vendors. A private courtyard entrance leads to a tessellated tiled hall and formal dining room, while timber floors flow past the powder room and onto the light-filled living space. The open-plan kitchen with Gaggenau appliances, wide timber benchtops, pantry and abundant storage overlooks the meals area and living room. Glass doors open to the deck for seamless indoor-outdoor living with views over the glorious garden.

This gracious residence is further enhanced by its functional floorplan which allows multiple living options. A lower level one bedroom self-contained apartment with its own entrance has an ensuite, extensive wardrobes and sliding door access to the sun-drenched garden.

Upstairs the main suite is a parents' haven among the treetops with a balcony, a large ensuite with twin vanities and walk-in wardrobe. The generous ground floor bedroom also has an ensuite and built-in robes.

With hydronic heating, laundry, air-conditioning in the main bedroom, two fireplaces, alarm and secure two car garage, this home is perfect for the family who wants to be near schools, transport and shops. A very rare South Yarra offering, it is also a short stroll to the Royal Botanic Gardens and Fawkner Park and South Yarra station.