Just got back from a great 3 night getaway for 2 couples and 5 children aged 9 - 16. Good communication from the outset of booking, neither family had any difficulties finding the place and we had a very relaxing time enjoying the Hawkesbury and facilities at Bandusia. Geoff and Penny are very welcoming, rooms are spacious and very clean, all had en-suites. Our friends found sleep elusive the first night due to the cockerel crowing and the guinea-fowl, but luckily had ear plugs for subsequent nights. We slept perfectly every night, the mattress was so comfortable! Just what we needed to get away from hustle and bustle of life. (Apart from the cockerel!) Bandusia is very peaceful, we spent the days bushwalking down the local tracks recommended by Penny and bouldering behind the property, swimming in the saltwater pool and grazing on the food we brought in - there are excellent self-catering kitchen facilities with everything you need, huge fridge, freezers, microwave, kettles etc. If there's anything missing, Geoff is only too happy to provide. Across the road they own more land and it was interesting to see their permaculture beds etc. Had a meal at the quirky Settlers Arms in St Albans (10 mins drive) who opened specially for us - wholesome, home made, a bit pricey but we were on holiday. If you need some peace and to get into nature, yet stay with all the comforts of home in comfy beds, this is a great place. Children will also enjoy the chooks, goat, horses, turkeys, ducks, cats, rabbits.... Very grateful to our hosts and would definitely recommend/stay again.…

Date of stay: October 2020

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Room Tip: Room 1 on the end was spacious and had beautiful view onto the bush

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Rafael C wrote a review Sep 2018

Narrabeen, Australia2 contributions

Amazing retreat experience.

From the booking until the time to come back to reality, the experience was amazing. The hosts cannot be more welcoming. We have literally disconnect from the world for a weekend. Looking forward to head back.

Date of stay: September 2018

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Trip type: Travelled as a couple

Room Tip: The honey moon suite is stunning and peaceful.

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Wayne C wrote a review Apr 2018

Shelly Beach, Australia8 contributions1 helpful vote

Superb spot for writing in peace.

I went here on a writing retreat with a university group and it could not have been better. The quietness is amazing. My room was just perfect with a very comfortable bed. Fresh grown food for the tasty meals were fantastic. Hospitable owners were also a great help.

Date of stay: April 2018

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Trip type: Travelled on business

Room Tip: I stayed in the barn upstairs room, which must be the quietest room in Australia.

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Cory M wrote a review Nov 2017

2 contributions

Great place to stay.

My partner and I stayed here for a weekend. It was the quieter time of year, and so we had the whole place to ourselves. The hosts are absolutely fantastic and very welcoming. They made us feel right at home and we all had a good ol' chat during a breakfast of delicious farm-fresh eggs. The location is brilliant and not hard to navigate to, tucked away just off the road. The lodging itself is rustic and very homely. We stayed in the Honeymoon Suite which included a private balcony facing the woods, a large bathroom and in-ground spa bath. I cannot thank the hosts enough for a great, and relaxing weekend that we very much needed. Will be staying here again and recommend it for everyone who wants a peaceful and tranquil holiday.

Date of stay: October 2017

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Trip type: Travelled with family

Room Tip: Honeyroom suite is excellent; large, open, in-ground spa, his/her basins, private entrance and...

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Paige C wrote a review Oct 2016

1 contribution

Ambience and character on steroids

Rarely do you come across a property that over delivers on comfort , ambience and experience. After a quick journey refresh at Settlers Arms , our early evening sense of arrival of Bandusia was a welcome surprise . The retreat reminds me of the lodges you find in New Zealand . With private en-suits for most rooms, a magnificent fire side lounge and dining room the retreat played perfect host to our private gathering of 20 . The nearby Jacks trial was a terrific short walk with amazing views on top of the ridge.

Date of stay: October 2016

Rooms

Location

Service

Trip type: Travelled as a couple

Room Tip: The honey moon suite is the one to book

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