As we become more and more connected, it becomes harder to switch off. Even when we stop our workdays, we still catch up on social media via our Twitter feeds, liking our friend’s posts on Facebook or scanning images of the world on Instagram. But what if you had the chance to disconnect from all of it for a couple of days? Scary? Not so scary in the tranquil surrounds of Gypsy Falls Retreat in the Camden Haven hinterland near Port Macquarie.
Sydneysiders and the rest of Australia are only just discovering this region just 3 ½ hours north of the Harbour City. Many fondly remember beach holidays here but now the rich green hills, Farm Stays and even wineries in the locale are gearing up for tourists, offering something a little different to a coastal holiday.
Graham and Cheryl fell in love with this property nearly 20 years ago. After constructing their own home, they built 2 spacious but cosy country cottages on this little piece of paradise a few years ago.
Here there are no distractions from smartphones, tablets or laptops as the phone reception is patchy at best and wi-fi is virtually non-existent. This is where you take a deep breath and exhale. And repeat. Before you know it you will be delighting in the splendid isolation.
We enjoyed a “Winter Warmer’ package – a special for 2 people for two nights staying in either Moondara or Azure cottages. With a crackling wood fire, a deep, soaking clawfoot tub, fluffy white robes and a breakfast hamper you can start planning your romantic weekend away.
You can choose to sleep in or wake to the calls of kookaburras and other native birds.
Get a cuppa and stroll down the path to a 40m waterfall. This creek is also home to a resident platypus.
As an adults-only getaway, Gypsy Falls is ideal for romance. Just do a little shopping beforehand to stock up on dinner, cheese and wine and instead of watching TV, you can relax in front of a mesmerising wood fire.
For special occasions or just to get away, you can be as active or as lazy as you want. Bushwalks around the property or in the surrounding National Parks offer the crisp smell of gum trees and a chance to do a little wildlife spotting. You can take a swim in the pool, or just curl up with a book or have a bubble bath with both sorts of bubbles if you choose.
Driving through the Camden Haven Hinterland and beyond means, rolling green hills and the occasional small and charming country town. The region has some amazing local producers, like Lorne Valley Macadamia Farm just a few minutes away for nutty oil, butters and of course, nuts. Ewetopia is just one of six farms in Australia producing sheep milk products like Pecorino, feta, labneh and some of the creamiest yoghurt you have ever eaten. Come nightfall enjoy the millions of stars in a deep blue sky without any competing city lights.
Gypsy Falls Retreat brings you closer to nature and in just 2 days can be amazingly restorative for the mind, body and soul. www.gypsyfalls.com.au