5 of the best slow stays around Australia

Featuring everything from off-grid shacks and luxurious glamping spots to architecturally designed cabins, new book Life Unhurried calls for a slower, more sustainable way of living and travelling. Here, its authors share their pick of eco stays.

1. Upland Farm, Denmark, WA

Best for… families

You won’t have to worry about disturbing the neighbours when you take the kids to this architecturally designed guest house, set on a 43-hectare working cattle farm in Western Australia’s Great Southern region.

Upland Farm Denmark WA — Upland Farm is a great slow stay for families. (Image: Hannah Puechmarin)

Clad in iron ash, the two-bedroom property overlooks neighbouring vineyards and is built to harness the natural heating and cooling provided by nature. Venture out to explore nearby forests, walking trails and beaches, then retreat back to the fireplace and a pre-ordered barbecue hamper for an easy night in.

Bathroom Upland Farm Denamrk WA — Luxurious details inside the accommodation at Upland Farm. (Image: Hannah Puechmarin)

2. Aframe Kangaroo Valley, NSW

Best for… views

Aframe Kangaroo Valley feels a million miles from anywhere, yet you’re only two hours from both Sydney/Warrang and Canberra/Ngambri/Ngunngawal. It’s a utopia of Australiana; wedge-tail eagles soar overhead and wombats amble out from their warrens alongside Shuffles, the resident echidna. Tucked away in the south-western corner of a 6-hectare block that tumbles to a creek, this triangle-shaped abode is a creative dream realised for architect Ben Gray and partner, designer and founder of Hello May magazine Sophie Lord.

Soft furnishings champion natural fibres while the military green bedroom was inspired by Sophie’s childhood memories of camping in the Snowy Mountains with her dad and grandad, a former brigadier for the Australian Army during World War II. Curtains in the bedroom are made of recycled truck canvases and the woollen blanket on the bed is from the Army Disposals store.

While it’s hard to tear away from the storybook setting, just beyond your door the villages of the Southern Highlands beckon for adventure. You might drive over the historic Hampden Bridge and into the township of Kangaroo Valley where a hearty local breakfast from the General Cafe will fuel you up for a wander around the shops.

A canoe trip down the Kangaroo River is also one of the top things to do here or you might prefer to stay put and hike through fern gullies to swim in your own private creek.

3. The Shack at Sheepwash Bay, Tas

Best for… off-grid living

There’s beauty in imperfection, in ageing gracefully with the changing of the tides. This simple, earthy and intimate Bruny Island/lunawuni cabin is built from reclaimed timbers, with its sagging roof sympathetically restored to keep its original charm.

Wake to the smell of fresh wood-fired sourdough, baked in the shed next to you and delivered by owners John and Jenene. The day stretches ahead, like the kilometre of private water frontage beckoning with the opportunity to snorkel, swim, kayak or fish. Or you could just sit and watch the crabs scurry along the foreshore, the sea eagles flying overhead.

Check the map inside the shack and head out for a tramp across the 15-hectare property, returning for gin and tonics at sundown.

Jenene Oates and John Bullock embody the dream of living simply and their effervescent personalities are proof of the riches it can deliver. For more than a decade, they’ve lived here completely off-grid. Much of their food comes from their thriving vegetable patch, the chickens who wander about and John’s baking prowess. As well as providing handcrafted loaves to guests, John sells some of his creations in their roadside stall – a pair of vintage fridges – at the end of the dirt lane that links them to the township of Alonnah. But taking a bite out of their low-key lifestyle is just one of the benefits of staying here.

Facing out to an ever-changing bay and surrounded by peppermint forest, the Shack is an experience in eco living, with power drawn from solar panels and wind, and an inline pump bringing fresh rainwater for you to bathe in and drink. It’s a cosy space, kept toasty with a wood-burning fireplace and, when nature calls, you’ll find the composting toilet – with an unbeatable view – a few steps up a pathway.

The Shack @Sheepwash Bay Bruny Island — Embrace off-grid living at The Shack at Sheepwash Bay in Tasmania. (Image: Courtesy of Life Unhurried)

4. Wander at The Overflow 1895, Qld

Best for… sustainable luxury

It started with a simple question: instead of creating 100 rooms in one location, what if you could create one luxurious, zero-impact room and place it in 100 locations? What would that mean for the environment? The experience for guests? Could it have the potential to completely change the hotel game?

The answer can be found in the first five of those rooms, which sit sensitively within natural bushland on the banks of Lake Wyaralong in Queensland’s Scenic Rim – Yugambeh Country. The ‘hotel’ is known as Wander, and these one-and two-bedroom glass-fronted pavilions are at once private yet seamlessly immersed in the setting. Outdoor bathtubs beckon on the deck, king-sized pillow-top beds are made up with French flax linens, and low-combustion wood fireplaces ward off chilly nights. But it’s what’s going on behind the scenes in these ‘WanderPods’ that is most impressive.

Wander at The Overflow 1895, Scenic Rim Qld — Stay within natural bushland on the banks of Lake Wyaralong at Wander at The Overflow 1895. (Image: Courtesy of Life Unhurried)

The pods are solar-powered and fed by rainwater, with greywater recycling and an advanced waste-water management system (meaning you’ll have a flushing toilet). Double glazing and UV-rated blinds and awnings help to moderate the temperature, natural cleaning products are used, and guests are encouraged to compost waste during their stay.

Here, facing the water as it reflects the sun’s golden glow, it’s not hard to see why the Scenic Rim was recently named one of the top 10 regions to visit. In this unexpected pocket of Australia – tucked between Brisbane/Meanjin and the Gold Coast hinterland – you can bushwalk, seek waterfalls and wild swimming holes, visit farm gates and enjoy a curated picnic with a bottle of wine made within eyeshot. Many of these experiences can be added to your booking with Wander. Private yoga, meditation and massage can also be arranged.

The absence of light pollution means the stars and the Milky Way shine brilliantly in their nightly performances above your head. Leave the curtains open when you climb into bed; you won’t want the show to end.

Wander at The Overflow 1895 rooms — The cosy room and view from bed at Wander at The Overflow 1895. (Image: Courtesy of Life Unhurried)

5. Ecopia Retreat, Kangaroo Island, SA

Best for… wildlife

Set within a registered wildlife sanctuary on Kangaroo Island, Mother Earth has been the ultimate architect in the creation of Ecopia Retreat.

Two rammed earth villas – designed and built by hand – are the stars of this off-grid escape, surrounded by ancient grass trees and visiting kangaroos. Created in harmony with, and of, the soil that lies beneath, there’s something completely organic and tactile about the buildings. A warmth that goes beyond the natural insulation created by the 30-centimetre-thick walls and double glazing.

Ecopia Retreat Kangaroo Island SA — Stay at one of two rammed earth villas at Ecopia Retreat on Kangaroo Island. (Image: Courtesy of Life Unhurried)

Once you’ve left your worries on the mainland and crossed over to Kangaroo Island on the ferry from Cape Jervis in South Australia, this 60-hectare wilderness retreat is found at the epicentre of the island. Instead of the wild Southern Ocean, the heartland becomes the shining star, with exclusive access to the Eleanor River that flows through the property.

The villas operate with solar panels and rainwater, and deep thought was given to the impact of every practical detail, from lighting right down to the energy efficiency of each appliance. It’s why you won’t find a microwave inside and the coffee machine switches itself off after nine minutes to conserve power.

But as earnest as Ecopia’s ethos is, there’s nothing austere about the experience here. With a bounty of gourmet produce available on the island, a welcome pack invites you in with sticky figs, fudge, olives and a bottle of local wine. You might like to add on an eat-and-drink package, filled with 100 per cent local supplies, or even organise a chef to come in and cook for you. Linen bedding and towels along with eco-friendly, bush medicine–infused body products and bath salts for soaking in the deep bathtub are all at hand.

Inside Ecopia Retreat Kangaroo Island SA — Inside the lush villa. (Image: Courtesy of Life Unhurried)

Walls are hung with a personal First Nations art collection, collected over 20 years. In many instances, Rob and Yael sat next to the artist as they painted their Dreaming or were gifted the pieces personally when they left Arnhem Land.

After a stay at Ecopia Retreat, you’re left wanting for nothing but more time to revel in the relaxed luxury of the experience. ‘It’s abundance but it’s abundance from within,’ as Yael explains.

This is an edited extract from Life Unhurried by Celeste Mitchell, Katie Gannon and Krista Eppelstun published by Hardie Grant Explore. Available 7 September; RRP $50.

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare — From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast , however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours . Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food — Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed . Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s .

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong — Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics . Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics — See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food — Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare . One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

cocktail at Bells At Killcare — Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.