This stargazing lodge is Australia’s only DarkSky approved stay

You’ve never seen the stars like this – or slept this well.

In a groundbreaking achievement for astrotourism, Kestrel Nest EcoHut, nestled within Highfield Farm and Woodland in New South Wales’ Riverina region, has been officially certified as Australia’s first International DarkSky Approved Lodge. This places it among just a handful of DarkSky-certified lodgings worldwide – there are only nine across the globe – and the only one in the southern hemisphere.

The prestigious certification from DarkSky International recognises accommodations that minimise light pollution and actively protect the natural night-time environment. For Kestrel Nest EcoHut , it’s yet another milestone in a long-standing commitment to sustainability and nature-led experiences.

“We’re excited to champion the importance of dark skies, both for human connection to the wonders of the universe, but also its role in protecting and enhancing the environment for wildlife," co-owner Louise Freckelton tells Australian Traveller.

“Light pollution is one of the easiest [types of] pollution to reverse. It’s a very simple way everyone can make a significant contribution to the environment."

Kestrel Nest EcoHut at night with Milky Way above — Kestrel Nest EcoHut is in NSW’s Riverina region. (Image: Grant Hardwick)

Situated amidst the rolling hills of Mount Adrah, Kestrel Nest EcoHut offers guests an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature.

The off-grid, solar-powered retreat is designed with sustainability at its core, featuring recycled and locally sourced materials, double-glazed panoramic windows, and an outdoor bath that invites guests to “starbathe" under the pristine night sky. Guests can also stargaze from a hammock perfectly positioned beneath the Milky Way or hire binoculars for an even closer look.

Achieving the DarkSky Approved Lodging certification involved carefully redesigning outdoor lighting across the property, ensuring it aligned with the five principles of responsible outdoor lighting. The result? A space that not only protects nocturnal wildlife but also offers guests an unfiltered celestial show.

“The absence of light pollution allows for an unforgettable and essentially free, awe-inspiring experience," says Freckelton.

“In a world filled with constant stimulation and distraction, a truly dark sky offers a rare and invaluable opportunity to be in the moment. In this way, stargazing is more than just amusement; it becomes a wellness experience."

One of Freckelton’s most memorable moments? Watching the Lyrids Meteor Shower from bed inside the EcoHut.

“The ceiling-to-floor windows allowed for a cosy and spectacular view with tens of meteors streaming across the sky," she says.

“Way better than any human-generated firework or laser display. An extraordinary display of [mother] nature doing her thing."

Looking ahead, Kestrel Nest EcoHut will focus on making the night sky more accessible. Guests are encouraged to download a stargazing app before their stay and can consult the in-hut celestial calendar to find out what will be visible during their visit, from full moon rises to planetary alignments and meteor showers.

“We aim to facilitate people’s understanding and experience," Freckelton says. “Many city dwellers have no idea, even as something as regular as the phases of the moon. For many, just experiencing the rise of a full moon over a rural landscape is breathtaking."

Kestrel Nest EcoHut outdoor bath — The outdoor bath invites guests to “starbathe" under the night sky. (Image: Stephanie Hunter)

Plans are also underway for the EcoHut to be included in a proposed inland dark sky travel route and to offer cultural stargazing experiences in collaboration with local Wiradjuri knowledge holders.

“The night sky (Sky Country) is one way to link the Dark Sky experience with First Nations peoples’ stories of the universe," says Freckelton.

“The epic tale of the Seven Sisters and the importance of understanding the Dark Emu for food gathering are just two of the easily seen interpretations we can help to highlight. We’re in discussion with local knowledge holders about providing an experience where this ancient knowledge and storytelling can be developed into a guest experience."

Freckelton and co-owner David Bray are no strangers to conservation. Two-thirds of their 390-hectare property is protected under a conservation covenant, and they were Highly Commended in the Ecotourism category at the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in the Ecotourism category. Their DarkSky certification now joins an existing Ecotourism Australia Eco Certification, helping cement their mission to offer meaningful, regenerative stays.

For those seeking a serene escape that harmoniously blends luxury, sustainability and celestial wonder, Kestrel Nest EcoHut stands as a beacon of responsible tourism and environmental stewardship.

Need more? Explore the best places to see the Milky Way around Australia.

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.

This stargazing lodge is Australia’s only DarkSky-approved stay

You’ve never seen the stars like this – or slept this well.

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Why the Central Coast is a foodie mecca

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.

Central Coast oyster experiences

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

Organic dining

Paddock-to-plate dining