A luxury stay on a black Angus cattle farm in the Byron hinterland, NSW
hotel
Amaroo Bangalow, Bangalow NSW
Entrance
Before Amaroo Bangalow hit the radar of luxury seekers, it was built as a family resort by owners Mike and Cathy Tomkins; this is fascinatingly evident in the details. Down a gated driveway that skirts the volcanic ridge of a 97-hectare black Angus cattle and macadamia farm, the lodges back onto a sloping patch of rainforest. Ultra modern and comfortable, the cabins feature a distinctive style, adorned with beautiful personal touches not always found in a vacation rental. A private heated plunge pool, manicured tropical gardens and a profusion of native Bangalow palms, thanks to Tomkins’ serious efforts to renovate the property, are welcome reminders that you’ve arrived in the tranquil Big Scrub, also known as the Byron Bay hinterland. It feels wonderfully secluded despite being just a few minutes’ drive from the amazing restaurants of Bangalow village.
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Appearance
Renowned Byron studio DFJ Architects, the team behind The Farm, designed the pavilion and the penthouse cabin. Amaroo’s sprawling configuration consists of three self-contained cabins, a split-level penthouse unit and a large communal pavilion with an impressive outdoor entertainment area. Remarkably, whether you’re here for a romantic, rainy weekend or taking over the property for a group celebration, you can still make exclusive use of the property and the grand pavilion with its spacious kitchen and excellent amenities; our favorites are the heated pool, wood-fire oven, and beautiful outdoor shower. There is a warm earthiness to the interiors that is instantly comforting. The wooden custom light fixtures and dining tables built by Mike and his father Vince deserve a special mention.
room
We’re staying in the Kingfisher, one of three luxury single-bed cabins designed by Brisbane architects Shaun Lockyer, outfitted with cozy trimmings like blond wood, travertine tiles and a cowhide rug. All three cabins are interconnected but oriented in a staggered diagonal pattern to ensure complete privacy. The rooms are spacious; There is a front porch, kitchenette, wood fireplace and room for a breakfast table and two slouchy caterpillar lounge chairs. The front sliding doors frame the hillside and can be opened fully. Floor-to-ceiling windows framing the native rainforest are a statement of intent; nature is the star. Sleep among the treetops with natural bedding, organic woods, and artwork depicting landscapes and local wildlife.
On this rainy weekend, we’re going full dork mode and putting the fireplace, fluffy waffle robes, and smart TV to good use. Additional benefits include free Wi-Fi, heated towel racks, locally sourced Mukti Organics toiletries and electric skylights.
food + drink
Fire up the outdoor wood-burning oven or use the pavilion’s fully equipped kitchen. Enjoy farm-fresh eggs courtesy of the resort’s free-range chickens, or pick up supplies at the nearby Bangalow Market and the excellent Manu’s Bangalow Alimentari. Need a break from cooking? There’s plenty of culinary talent around, including that of chef Matt Stone. Good Food Guide-hat-wearing pub You Beauty (the crocodile toast is a must-order) and The Hut, a breezy Mediterranean charmer at Possum Creek, housed in a restored historic schoolhouse.
out + about
This gated hideaway is just a short drive from Byron seaside, a variety of picturesque walking trails and Bangalow’s many excellent shops, cafes and eateries. Two beautiful custom-made tree swings perched on opposite hillsides mean you can choose a scenic picnic area for the best view at any time of the day. For gin lovers, a visit to Cape Byron Distillery is a must.
Decision
Leaving a place chattering about plans for “next time” is a really good sign. This property is a rare retreat that balances high-end architectural sophistication with idyllic tranquility and the spirit of a family home.
Fundamentals
Prices start from $850 per cabin per night, including private use of the facility. A cabin with a wheelchair bathroom and possibilities to add a ramp upon request. 47A Cedarvale Rd, Bangalow NSW. Phone: +61494 080 588. See amaroobangalow.com
Our rating out of five
★★★★½
highlight
Various lawn games for beautifully manicured lawns.
low light
The charming moss-covered fire pit area is of no use this time due to the rain.
He stayed as a guest of writer Amaroo Bangalow.
