What’s not to love about breathing in fresh air, surrounded by animals and a sea of stars? Whether you’re planning a couple’s getaway or family vacation, you should entertain the idea of a Shoalhaven farm stay retreat. It will be such a memorable holiday experience that you might not ever want to leave!
Mt Hay Retreat, Berry
A farm stay set amongst landscaped grounds, Mt Hay Retreat in Berry is the place for relaxation. The modern architecture is perfect for busy urbanites who want a taste of country life and want luxury. The beautiful hilltop house is a picturesque place to unwind and soak up views of green rolling pastures. You can indulge yourself at the indoor heated pool, order champagne and cheese plates and even take an outdoor bath. The accommodation combines all of these contemporary offerings perfectly with country charm. Have a go at the giant chess set, wander through the kitchen garden or play on the giant swing. You will also love saying hello to the cute pigs, Digger & Dozer, the goats and cows. This tranquil haven is tucked away just a few minutes from bustling Berry village. Perfect for those who’d like to add a bit of shopping to their trip.
The Woods Farm, Jervis Bay
A must-visit for all animal lovers – this property gives guests the chance to interact with lots of four-legged friends. Miniature goats and horses, many breeds of chickens, peacocks, pheasants, alpacas (and more!) roam The Woods Farm in JervisBay. You’ll feel like a local farmer, with the chance to get up close and personal with the animals! This is a real treat for the kids who’ll love being able to feed the horses, pet the cows and goats and play with the friendly alpacas. The property offers staying in a luxury cottage or a glamping bell tent. The beautiful waters of St Georges Basin are just one minute away and a stone’s throw from Jervis Bay’s famous white-sand beaches.
Barranca, Kangaroo Valley
A hidden gem tucked away in the lush green hills of Kangaroo Valley is Barranca. This is another fantastic place to unwind for animal enthusiasts, with private walking trails and lots of wildlife. There’s also massage and spa treatments! Barranca also has an equine program with Cedars Shire Horse Stud. Each of the four villas has a cosy outdoor fire pit and range from architecturally designed 4-bedroom accommodation to a cosy two-bedroom cabin, all with unique setting and views of the valley.
Willow Farm, Berry
A sprawling 160 acres of greenery, meticulously landscaped gardens and an old tractor shed that’s now a ‘yoga shala’. All of this awaits at Willow Farm retreat, conveniently located between Berry village and stunning Seven Mile Beach. It’s not your average cottage. The spacious stone farmhouse is flawlessly decorated and can sleep up to ten people. These guys are famous for their yoga and massage packages – which are an absolute must-try during your stay. The yoga shed is a wonderfully unique place to practise, overflowing with natural light and endless waves of calming energy. There’s something so very cute about being able to watch the cows grazing while you enjoy your yoga session.
Mimosa Eco Retreat, Bawley Point
Mimosa Eco Retreat is located on the Bawley Point Road which turns off the Princes Highway at Termeil, between Ulladulla and Batemans Bay on the south coast of NSW. This pet friendly paradise is nestled on 25 acres, just a short drive to unspoilt beaches and lakes, state forests, national and marine parks. Four fully equipped cottages and an occasion space are set in a private and peaceful landscape. Enjoy the beaches, lakes and parks, explore and dine, visit local attractions and have a campfire under the stars. It’s bliss!
Broger’s End, Kangaroo Valley
The eco haven of Broger’s End will be sure to wash away your cares away. This gorgeous farm stay is set on 160acres just minutes from Kangaroo Valley and has two separate accommodation options. You can use produce from your own private garden and have fresh farm eggs for breakfast. There are beautiful bushwalks on the property and the river is right there for a refreshing dip. With plenty of native wildlife roaming the bush it’s a good idea to have the camera ready to capture those special moments.
Narrawilly Cottages Farmstay, Milton
Located in the idyllic country town of Milton, Narrawilly Cottages provide the perfect blend of bush and beach. For the keen surfers, the unspoilt blue waters of Mollymook and Narrawallee beaches are just a short drive away from this working dairy farm and there are plenty of shops, and many places to wine and dine nearby. If you want to add a bit of adventure to your stay, get the adrenaline pumping by climbing Pigeon House Mountain nearby – we recommended heading out in the afternoon and catching an epic sunrise over the landscape.
Heggy’s Cottage
Enjoy a relaxing family retreat at Heggy’s Cottage, perched high upon a secluded hilltop located in a 120-acre working farm. This farm stay is nestled amongst lush, native bushland and features spectacular panoramic views out towards Kangaroo Valley’s stunning rolling hills. There is also a private serene waterfall on-site that will calm your soul and take your breath away. This place is all about country charm and hospitality, with a breakfast basket provided to guests filled with home laid eggs, homemade bread and the property’s very own homespun honey!
Terralong Farm, Kangaroo Valley
Another cattle farm that should be on your farm stay bucket list is Terralong in Kangaroo Valley. There’s only one house on the massive 150 acre property so you really will have the place all to yourself. Well, you’ll have to share with the cows but we think this is all part of the charm! The kids will love taking a dip in the pool, being able to explore all the nearby wilderness and getting to know the local kangaroos, wallabies and wombats that regularly roam around the estate. The farm provides exceptional views of Kangaroo Valley below, located just up the road from the main village and famous Hampden Bridge.
Old Schoolhouse Milton
A former school, Old School House Milton is now a luxury country retreat just outside of Milton. Choose from the Loft, or the Stables then settle in to enjoy the colonial charm of the buildings and modern style of the interior. The grounds are beautiful, with free-ranging chickens, an orchid and large vegetable garden which will provide you with tasty treats for breakfast. There’s even a cricket pitch and outdoor fire pits for outdoor fun in the cooler months.
