Willow’s Retreat
Where To Stay Fernances Crossing, Cessnock, New South Wales
Welcome to Willow’s Retreat, a secluded paradise; 50 acres of pristine bush and pasture, in the Wollombi Valley. An hour’s drive from Hornsby, it’s quick and easy to get to, yet feels like another world.
There’s an enormous variety of areas and trails to explore. A twitcher’s dream, with over 80 species of birds recorded. The paddocks are home to wallaroos, wallabies, and numerous wombats. In the trees at night, and you’ll find gliders, possums, and koalas!
Made of rammed earth, it’s well-insulated and maintains a great temperature year round. There are ceiling fans for summer, and a wood fire and electric blankets for winter. Equipped with smoke/CO alarms for your safety, and extinguishers and first-aid kit for emergencies. Solar-powered, and harvesting rainwater, it’s completely off-grid. Sorry, no mobile signal, but they do have high-speed satellite internet.
There’s a fully-equipped kitchen, with all you need. Outside, there’s a four burner barbecue, and a hammock to laze in. The living area is spacious, with comfortable sofas, television and DVD library. Or go old school, with board games, jigsaws and boule.
An airy breezeway between lounge and bedrooms keeps things cool in Summer. Beds are super-comfy; all linen and towels provided. With no traffic noise to disturb you, you’ll have the best night’s sleep.
Facilities
Internet Access
Free WifiActivities
Birdwatching WalksDisabled Assistance
An access and inclusion statement is available on the business website. Caters for challenges with learning and communication Caters for limited mobility Caters for people with allergies and intolerances.Membership
Regional Tourist/Tourism Association/OrganisationServices
For now, they are limited to tents, but are aiming to expand in the near future to allow campers and trailers.
To access their sites, you really need a 4WD, especially if it’s been raining (which feels like the last three years). Contact them directly if you’re not sure.
There is a long drop on site – otherwise, guests will need to be fully self contained with their own water and must take all waste with them on departure.
The local area boasts many aboriginal sites, along with more recent convict/settler milestones. And, all just a short drive from the wineries of the Hunter Valley!
Open fireplace Unpowered SiteRates
Retreat prices range from $350 – $550 per night depending on time of year.
Trading Times
Check In: 3:00 pm
Check Out: 11:00 am