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.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

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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Winter on the Mid-North Coast

Winter on the Central Coast

Winter in Wollongong