Disconnect to reconnect at Rest at BoxGrove, without leaving an environmental footprint.

Thellie and Barry Renshaw bought the 68 hectares of land that would become BoxGrove, their family-run working cattle farm, in 1971. After decades of managing the farm, the couple handed it over to their granddaughters and Bathurst locals, Kayla and Melissa, in 2012. Under the watchful eye of the sisters and Kayla’s husband Ben Fry, BoxGrove has continued to grow and bloom.

Inspired by his connection to the property and love of the land, Ben and Kayla built the farm stay so others could experience its magic. Construction began on what is now Rest at BoxGrove in August 2022 and in December of 2023, the boutique eco-retreat was officially completed. Now, the stay is quickly becoming a new contender in the luxury accommodation market and one of the best places to stay in Bathurst.

Location

On Wiradjuri Country, around a three-hour drive from Sydney, Rest at BoxGrove is on the outskirts of the stunning regional town of Bathurst in NSW’s Central West region.

“I often refer to Bathurst as the dark horse of regional New South Wales. The fact we are so close to Sydney gives visitors the opportunity to discover the road less travelled without having to stay too far from the city," says Ben.

Style and character

It’s clear that the surrounding environment has played a pivotal role in the design of Rest, both architecturally and ethically. From the moment you enter your room, you’re greeted by tellurian tones; think browns like terracotta and burnt sienna, smooth creams and coastal whites, plus touches of muted pink and soft grey. These colours immediately work to ground and relax you. Add in linen textures and wooden accents and you’ve got yourself a palette that instills mellow quietude and earthly connection.

This feeling is only deepened by the sustainable ethos behind Rest. The solar-passive cabins are designed to be completely off-grid, with energy-efficient appliances, renewable energy and no wi-fi or cable television.

This purposeful detachment from modern tech encourages guests to reconnect, whether that be with each other, nature or personal hobbies. From walking through the onsite vineyard or greeting the farm’s cattle to reading a book outside or hanging out with family, connection is key.

“We want our guests to fully immerse themselves in the rhythm of rural life. When staying here, guests are encouraged to unplug, unwind and enjoy the simpler things," Ben says.

Rooms and facilities

Six suites make up Rest: four eco-studios and two access eco-studios. Each one comprises a king-sized bed, table and chairs, a small kitchenette and a separate bathroom.

Ben and Kayla have ensured you’ll have everything you need when staying at Rest. The kitchenette is small, but fitted with a mini fridge and sink, cutlery and crockery, kettle, toaster and plenty of bench space.

Along the opposite wall, a long wooden bench doubles as seating and storage. Inside, you’ll find extra pillows and blankets, while on top is a bespoke record player and a selection of vinyls. A table and chairs are set for four, with a television mounted on the wall that you can cast to. In the middle of the room, your cosy king-sized bed awaits at the end of each day.

There’s also a private bathroom, separated from the rest of the suite by a fogged glass door. You’ll be treated to a large rainwater shower, sleek vanity and free-standing stone bathtub with a floor-to-ceiling window for a soak with a view.

Outside, pull up a chair on the deck to admire the setting sun, which paints everything around you in a soft golden glow. You can also opt to sit around the fire pit (firewood provided) or slip into your private outdoor spa. Once you’ve chosen where to settle, admire the sprawling pastures of green in front of you, dotted with black Angus cows and mountains unfurling in the distance.

Also onsite at BoxGrove are Luxe hair salon, purpose-built wedding venue Barn, and a bespoke vineyard, with BoxGrove’s wine brand and cellar door, Vino, coming soon.

Food and drinks

Upon arrival, you’ll find the mini-fridge is stocked with goodies. Think locally sourced eggs, bacon and tomatoes, plus butter and milk. A fresh loaf of sourdough awaits you on the counter; all the ingredients required for a delicious brekkie cooked on your barbecue on the deck.

You’re also generously supplied with a bottle of wine from local cellar door Renzaglia, a small bottle of gin from Bathurst Grange Distillery and a slab of Mudgee-based Pebbly Path’s delicious rocky road.

If you’re after something more substantial for dinner, take the 10-minute drive into town and visit one of Bathurst’s classic pubs. Looking for something a little more special? There are also plenty of great restaurants that are perfect for a romantic dinner date.

Does Rest at BoxGrove have access for guests with disabilities?

Two of the six eco-studios at Rest are specifically designed to suit those with accessibility needs. Each one features a wheelchair ramp, adjusted widths and heights inside and fully accessible bathrooms. All suites also have a covered car parking space.

Is Rest at BoxGrove family-friendly?

Couples with a small child can book one of the suites at Rest if they bring their own cot or bedding. However, all suites have only one king-sized bed, so there isn’t much room or privacy for families with older children.

Details

Best for: Couples keen for a romantic getaway.

Address: 119 Duramana Rd, Bathurst, NSW

Phone: 0431 425 889

Cost: Pre-pastoral pricing is $550 per night. Prices will increase in the 3rd quarter of 2024.