Calabash Bay Lodge, Hawkesbury River
Calabash Bay Lodge, Hawkesbury River
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Overview
4 bedrooms
3 bathrooms
8 guests
2 nights minimum
Villa
CALABASH BAY LODGE is a boutique luxury retreat for the discerning traveller in a unique and exemplary water-access only location on the Hawkesbury River. Unlike other destinations further afield, we offer a unique experience of the Australian wilderness and absolute waterfront way of life, only a heartbeat away from the bustling metropolis of Sydney, just 1 hour to the south.
BEST AUSTRALIAN BOUTIQUE LODGE Finalist Luxury Travel Gold List Awards 2015, Best Indulgence Finalist in the Stayz Awards 2015, Unique Accommodation Finalist NSW Tourism Awards 2014 and Gold Winner 2012 at the Greater Sydney Tourism Awards 2012, the award-winning Calabash Bay Lodge is surrounded by 360 degrees of riverfront national park. Our other accolades include being called one of the world's "Top 5 Water Beds"...
House Rules
Pet-friendlyKid friendlyNo smoking
A maximum of 2 dogs are permitted subject to acceptance of our Pet Policy. An additional bond applies and there is a fee of $100.
Bedrooms
3 Kings1 Double2 Cots
Bathrooms
3 Full baths2 Attached (ensuite)
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Reviews (61)
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Nicoladk
Sydney, Australia17 contributions
Total relaxation
We spent a wonderful 3 days at this idyllic house. The property is stunning and the views are to die for. This place is relaxation at it's best. A big thanks to Manny - the food he prepared was truly wonderful.
Visited October 2013
Written 10 October 2013. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kerry Knight
Central Coast, Australia55 contributions
the most relaxing holiday destination
Stayed at Calabash Bay Lodge for 5 nights with my family. It was such an experience getting picked up by a boat and taken to this wonderful holiday home. The views were amazing and we totally used all the facilities especially the boat to run around in and fishing off our own pontoon. The house is fully equipped with every luxury and we didnt want to leave! We will definatly return one day when we need a good relaxing break.
Visited April 2014 Travelled with family
Written 29 April 2014. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Hobbsy2014
Sydney, Australia4 contributions
Fabulous location with a view from every room
We spent 3 nights at the Calabash Bay Lodge. The location of this property is amazing with a view from every room. The property has many chill-out areas including a huge round wicker sun bed on the top deck to the hammock on the grass front. We spent our time exploring the waters on the courtesy boat, fishing, walking, cooking and gazing at the amazing views. Hope to return soon.
Visited June 2014 Travelled with friends
Written 10 June 2014. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Nicholas S
Sydney, Australia6 contributions
Great getaway close to Sydney
It was a great weekend away. There were meant to be 3 couples going away but they had work commitments. In the end it worked out beautifully! My partner and I had a beautiful relaxing weekend away kayaking, boating and relaxing all weekend in the sun!
Great place for families, friends and couples!
Highly recommend it!
Visited November 2014 Travelled with friends
Written 4 December 2014. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
RickG
London, United Kingdom90 contributions
Fabulous Calabash
Just back from a top weekend at this first class property. Great location and a 5 star service from Manny. Plus the company of next doors dog - Rascal. I will be back for sure. Very very relaxing. A perfect spot for those who also love bush walking.
Visited December 2014 Travelled with friends
Written 10 December 2014. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
17JBentley
1 contribution
Favourite Place on Earth
I've had the pleasure of visiting Calabash Bay lodge a number of times. It never ceases to amaze me. One of Sydney's hidden treasures and my favourite holiday destination. It’s only 45 mins from Surry hills - but you think you’re a million miles away from town. It's a fabulous place to kayak, bush walk, boating up and down the river, and generally relax. If you’re an early bird, you can be treated to an absolutely stunning sun rise. The way the owners have set it up; means whether you go in summer or winter the house is comfortable and luxurious. Definitely worth a visit. Will be back again soon!
Visited December 2014 Travelled with friends
Written 7 January 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
mexo
179 contributions
Shucking on the Dock of the Bay
It was exciting to pull up to the jetty at Berowra and find Manny waving and smiling in his Panama hat, waiting as arranged to ferry us over to the house. We loaded his little boat with big luggage and copious supplies of wine, groceries and wine. We drove ourselves in the second boat, which was to be our own personal runaround for the duration of our stay.
The house was all glass and wooden decks reaching over the water. It was beautifully designed and decorated, tasteful and comfortable.
The kitchen was generously equipped.
The sound system was impressive.
The complimentary chilled bottle of Prosecco was appreciated.
On each bed were packs of REN products, with plenty of towels and good, fresh linens. The bathrooms had rain showers and designer quality fittings. There were books and magazines strewn around amongst plumped up cushions and rugs.
After throwing ourselves off the jetty into the cool water, we made a chicken salad lunch, treated ourselves to some cold Pinot and then crept off to find a quiet corner each to snooze, read and fish. It could have been a huge round wicker sofa high up on the top sunny balcony, a hammock in the shade, a swinging chair overlooking the water or a lounger on the tip of the jetty.
Later we went for an explore on the lake in the runaround, returning for hot showers and a bit of lip gloss, ready for Sydney Rock Oysters and Prosecco on the dock as the sun set. We barbecued prawns, steaks and sausages and ate at the big table on the deck, followed by a night cap up top, watching for shooting stars.
The next morning we went off on the boat to collect 2 more friends and took them for a bush walk. A kangaroo was spotted and we were accompanied by the next door neighbour's dog. When we came back and once again felt the need to launch ourselves into the water, he did too.
Another lunch was prepared of a huge quiche and salads - and more of that Pinot. Well, we WERE on holiday. After a suitable sojourn of hammocks and hard backs (the house absorbed 6 drowsy people very comfortably), some kayaked, while others went fishing.
That evening we were in for a treat as Manny was coming to cook our dinner. On the dot, we heard the sound of his boat and spotted the Panama hat on the horizon. He unloaded mysterious boxes of goodies and we got showered, perfumed and dressed up for aperitifs on the dock.
Manny had laid the table in such a way that we all had a view of the water. We ate sashimi tuna with an orange and fennel salad, the best lamb any of us had ever tasted and individual pavlovas.
It was with heavy hearts, but a much lighter load, that we climbed back into the boat the next morning, homeward bound. Calabash had been a luxurious delight, an unforgettable experience that we were very lucky to have been treated to by our friends. We can only hope they invite us back one day.
We'll bring the oysters.
Visited February 2015 Travelled with friends
Written 15 March 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Calabash B
Thanks for your review MacBride. We're very happy to hear that you had a relaxing and soporific stay at Calabash Bay Lodge, making use of all the many relaxation zones and also getting in some adventure time on the water on the boat and kayaks as well. We look forward to welcoming you back for more lazy days on our waterfront soon!
Written 16 March 2015. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
NBB58
Sydney, Australia127 contributions
Tranquil Weekend
4 couples enjoyed a weekend away from the fast pace city life. The lodge delivers in most aspects but couldn't help feel that with a little extra maintenance this getaway would receive a five star rating. Little things like a coffee machine that makes hot coffee, mirrors in the 3rd and 4th bedroom, two man kyak that is usable. Would recommend but don't expect everything to be first class.
Visited April 2015 Travelled as a couple
Written 29 April 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Calabash B
Thanks for your review MacBride. We're very happy to hear that you had a relaxing and soporific stay at Calabash Bay Lodge, making use of all the many relaxation zones and also getting in some adventure time on the water on the boat and kayaks as well. We look forward to welcoming you back for more lazy days on our waterfront soon!
Written 16 March 2015. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
suijohn
Sydney, Australia2 contributions
Magical spot
What a great surprise to reach the wharf where Manny helped take my family and I across the river to Calabash. The location is breathtaking, it is so quiet and peaceful. We went in winter so swimming wasn't an option though my sons and husband still decided to jump in off the pontoon. The days and nights were still so though cool the weather was very pleasant. We enjoyed going out on the boat, kayaking, fishing, bushwalking, and I liked chilling out on the day bed. My husband and I really appreciated the tranquillity and luxury Calabash offered to relax and recharge. We hope to return and would like to try Manny's cooking next time :)
Visited July 2015 Travelled with family
Written 12 July 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Calabash B
Thanks for your review MacBride. We're very happy to hear that you had a relaxing and soporific stay at Calabash Bay Lodge, making use of all the many relaxation zones and also getting in some adventure time on the water on the boat and kayaks as well. We look forward to welcoming you back for more lazy days on our waterfront soon!
Written 16 March 2015. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nathan M
Sydney, Australia1 contribution
Amazing birthday weekend with friends!
Calabash Bay Lodge was the perfect setting for an amazing birthday weekend with friends & family!! We couldn't fault the house - beautifully furnished, very well appointed and amazing service from the whole team (especially Kim).
A perfect weekend and highly recommended!
Visited October 2015 Travelled with friends
Written 2 November 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Calabash B
Thanks for your review MacBride. We're very happy to hear that you had a relaxing and soporific stay at Calabash Bay Lodge, making use of all the many relaxation zones and also getting in some adventure time on the water on the boat and kayaks as well. We look forward to welcoming you back for more lazy days on our waterfront soon!
Written 16 March 2015. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
What this rental offers
Location features
- Waterfront location
Living spaces
- Highchair
Outdoor amenities
- Balcony
- Terrace
- Patio
- Deck
Things to do
- Fishing spots available
- Watersports
Location info
- Kid friendly
- Beachfront/Lakeside
- City getaway
Kitchen and dining
- Cooker
- Grill
- Refrigerator
- Dishwasher
- Freezer
- Microwave
- Kettle
- Toaster
Additional amenities
- Boat available
Bathroom and laundry
- Washer
- Dryer
- Towels provided
- Iron
- Linens provided
Entertainment
- DVD player
- Stereo system
- Television
Nearby
- Golf course (within 30 mins drive)
- Hiking areas
- Countryside area
Property features
- Ceiling Fans
Scenic views
- Waterfront views
Indoor amenities
- Air conditioning
- Cable television
- Internet access
- Fireplace
Wi-fi and internet
- Wi-fi
Services
- Housekeeping included
Map
Getting there
Sydney Airport
40.2 km
Restaurants
A Chef Secrets
1.7 km
Berowra Waters Inn
13 min
Peats Bite
7 km
Pie in the Sky
7.2 km
Attractions
Berowra Valley National Park
5.8 km • National Parks
Inflatable World Mt Kuring-Gai
6 km • Game & Entertainment Centres
Berowra Farmers Fine Food, Wine & Handcraft Market
5.1 km • Farmers Markets
Philippines
5.4 km • Points of Interest & Landmarks
About the neighbourhood
Calabash Bay Lodge is a luxurious absolute waterfront retreat on a southern tributary of Sydney's majestic Hawkesbury River at Berowra Waters. Conveniently situated for local and international travellers alike, Calabash Bay Lodge is only a 45 minute drive north of the Sydney CBD or 1 hour from Sydney Airport.
We are surrounded on all sides by 3 different national parks, a rare experience in NSW, the Ku'ring'gai Chase, Marramarra, and Berowra Valley.
Getting around
Return boat transfers from the nearest road access point at Berowra Waters to Calabash Bay Lodge are a standard inclusion and we provide use of a 5 seater boat on the river during your stay, subject to terms and conditions. There is no boat license required to drive and we will provide a full safety briefing during your check in. There is the option to upgrade your boat for an additional cost - for licensed drivers only. Please contact us for further details.
Access
Car not needed
How to get there
Calabash Bay Lodge can be reached in only a 45 minute drive north from the Sydney CBD via the Pacific Highway or M2 Tollway and F3 Freeway, and 1 hour from Sydney’s international and domestic airports. The Lodge is also reached easily from Sydney’s north-west and west via the M2 and M7 tollways, Newcastle & the Central Coast south on the F3, and from the Hunter Valley region on a pleasant tourist drive via the old Pacific Highway.
Berowra Train Station is on the North Shore and Newcastle/Central Coast lines north from Sydney Airport and CBD. A short taxi ride will take you from the station to Berowra Waters to meet us for your arrival boat transfer.
Activities nearby
Fishing spots availableGolf course (within 30 mins drive)Watersports
About this property
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Frequently Asked Questions about Calabash Bay Lodge, Hawkesbury River
- Calabash Bay Lodge, Hawkesbury River is able to accommodate up to 8 guests. See all property details.
- Calabash Bay Lodge, Hawkesbury River has 3 bathrooms available. See all property details.
- Calabash Bay Lodge, Hawkesbury River has 4 bedrooms available. See all property details.