dream staycations
IF YOU’RE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR SOMEWHERE STYLISH AND BREATHTAKINGLY UNIQUE TO STAY, YOU NEED NOT LOOK FAR.
Words Hayley Griffiths
Images Barton Taylor, The Palm Co, Kathryn Durham, Marnie Hawson, Tom Blachford and Kate Ballis
Quirky or cool, everything you could possibly want in accommodation to relax and recharge is right at your doorstep. Whether it be a celebration for two, a solo retreat or a family getaway, we’ve got you covered.
We’ve rounded up the ultimate staycations from around the neighbourhood to put on your list - from bush surrounds in the foothills of the escarpment, to a beachside paradise and coastal gems.
Pepper Tree Passive House, Unanderra
4 guests / 1 bedroom (3 beds) / 1 bath
Note: No children or pets allowed
A secluded luxury hideaway awaits at Pepper Tree Passive House. A state-of-the-art eco retreat is set amongst the trees, designed to reconnect guests back to nature while inspiring with sustainable design.
A fifty-year-old Pepper Tree stands proudly in the centre of this treehouse, a sight to behold at night magically lit against a canopy of trees. Designed by renowned architect Alexander Symes, interiors selected by Paiano Design and built to the rigorous Passive House standard (the most sustainable building standard in the world) by Souter Built, this home provides an experience like no other.
A soothing palette of natural materials including timber and stone are complemented with rooftop gardens and a tree canopy deck to help you to unwind and feel truly immersed nature. The attention to detail is evident with little luxuries including Bed Threads linen, Sukin bath and body products and a welcome basket on arrival for guests to enjoy.
The Palm House, Gerroa
9 guests (6 adults & 3 children) / 4 bedrooms / 3 baths
It’ll feel like summer every day at this South Coast getaway. Ideal for families or a small group of friends, The Palm House offers relaxed holiday living located in the beautiful coastal town of Gerroa.
A note for all guests – bring your swimmers as this modern retreat features a pool and direct access to the stunning Shelly Beach or a short walk to Seven Mile Beach.
The coastal inspired interiors of the home were thoughtfully curated by Simone Matthews from Soul Home. Admire the panoramic ocean and headland views from the deck with coffee in hand (or wine – your choice!) and enjoy the most peaceful surroundings. While the parents are relaxing, the children are well looked with a kids’ table set up and a console full of board games and puzzles to keep them busy after a big day splashing in the pool.
Dovecote, Gerringong
The Headland
6 guests (4 adults & 2 children) / 4 bedrooms / 4 baths
The Range
4 guests (2 adults & 3 children) / 2 bedrooms / 1 bath
Note: No pets allowed
An acclaimed architectural retreat, Dovecote offers a rare and magical experience set on 150 acres of oceanfront farmland in Gerringong. Breathtaking views of the sea and stretches of rolling green hills will await you on arrival. And with two unique, award-winning accommodation options on offer (The Headland and The Range), Dovecote is the perfect one-of-a-kind escape for your next holiday.
Designed by architect Atelier Andy Carson to fit the landscape and maximise the experience of its jaw dropping location, The Headland is located only 50 metres from The Range guest house. The smart positioning and direction of the buildings provides guests with a sense of privacy and tranquility.
For those who enjoy life’s luxuries, the concierge at Dovecote can organise in-house spa treatments and a tasting of local wines, ciders and beers with their chosen wine sommelier. Or perhaps you want a night off cooking – simply book in with one of their partnered chefs to bring you a top culinary experience at Dovecote. The majestic location will also encourage you to connect with the natural surrounds. There is an opportunity to explore the acres of farmland, walk to Werri Beach for a dip in the ocean or hike the 12-kilometre coastal trail to Kiama lighthouse.
The Black Chapel, Austinmer
11 guests / 4 bedrooms (5 beds) / 2 baths
Note: No children under 12 or pets allowed
The iconic Black Chapel estate is a tranquil retreat in the heart of the Coal Coast and has been designed to seamlessly integrate with its picturesque surrounds. With bushland, lush gardens and only a 500 metre stroll to the beach, you won’t ever want to leave this slice of paradise.
There are also plenty of activities for guests to enjoy without having to set foot outside the estate. On cooler evenings, sit around the open fire with a glass of wine or have a soak in the divine hot or cold Moroccan plunge pool, then unwind in the Finnish sauna. The hosts have also considered every detail to ensure guest feel right at home – with a decadent stocked pantry, beautiful books to read and curated art and décor to admire. It truly is the perfect retreat for a romantic escape or intimate getaway with family and friends.
Heading further afield?
Steeped in history dating back to the 1890s, Osborn House is a lovingly restored, impeccably styled in the heart of the Southern Highlands. If you’re looking for tranquillity and country charm, then this is where you’ll find it.
Luxury villas to architecturally designed beach houses, Bangalay has all options covered. Inspired by nature and just a stone’s throw from Seven Mile Beach, your next beach vacay will be done in style – and the best news? Award-winning Bangalay Dining is just next door.
For an off-grid, eco-luxury experience, Sky Ridge ticks all the boxes. Uniquely designed to take in the stunning valley views, its industrial styling is nicely paired with high-end finishes, bespoke artwork and a yoga deck to unwind in style.