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This secret waterfront haven is in a place you’ve never heard of

Rachael ThompsonBy Rachael Thompson
Somnium at Bingie is a hidden architectural marvel on NSW’s South Coast.

I had never heard of Bingie. In fact, neither has anyone I’ve asked. Located on NSW’s South Coast and part of the Eurobodalla Shire, this remote and rugged area is mostly beaches, headlands and bushland. The four-and-a-half-hour drive from Sydney might sound a little daunting to some. But I promise a stay at Somnium at Bingie – an architectural house for large groups and families – is worth every kilometre of the journey.

a kangaroo at Somnium Bingie
Dozens of kangaroos call the property home. (Image: Rachael Thompson)

I’ve brought my sister, a close family friend and her toddler with me on this trip as they never fail to instil a sense of calm. When we drive down the long driveway to the property we are greeted by dozens of kangaroos. They’re our only neighbours during our stay – no other houses are visible from the property.

a scenic view of Coila Lake from Somnium Bingie
Take in scenic views of Coila Lake.

Spectacular lake views – the property has over one kilometre of private lake frontage – backdrop the modern, one-story house. Designed by architecture firm Eoghan Lewis Architects, the property comprises the Main House  – where we are staying – and The Barn. The former sleeps up to 10 guests while the barn sleeps four. If you book the Main House, The Barn will remain unoccupied by other guests, but it won’t be available for your use. But booking both is ideal for multi-gen family holidays.

the accommodation exterior of Somnium Bingie
The striking Somnium at Bingie is a hidden country retreat for large groups and families. (Image: Matt Horspool)

The house has been designed to maximise views of Coila Lake, the ocean and Mount Gulaga, with floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors in every room, creating a true indoor/outdoor feel. Covered walkways and courtyards connect the sections of the house, which feature a robust materials palette of Spotted Gum timber, off-form concrete, brass, marble and charred timber and zinc.

the interior of Somnium Bingie with water views
Settle into this dreamy waterfront haven. (Image: Matt Horspool)

The interiors are the work of Silvia Rajek, who has brought warmth to the otherwise industrial-looking space in the form of timber, leather, linen and stone. My favourite design feature is the recessed linear profile lighting that emits a warm glow that accentuates the architectural lines of the exposed timber ceiling.

We spend time in each sitting area marvelling on how luxurious it feels to have so many places in which to just relax and pass the time, while grazing on an antipasto spread that was delivered to us by local business Mr Bold Catering Co . We take turns reading the newspaper and doing the weekend quiz, moving from the window seating to the deck to the two living areas. A Fleetwood Mac Mix playlist on the surround sound system becomes the soundtrack to the weekend and there’s a palpable sense of nostalgia in the air.

dining at Somnium Bingie
Guests can whip up a hearty breakfast in the entertainer’s kitchen. (Image: Rachael Thompson)

As we sit on the deck, we watch 40 kangaroos lying down, looking back at us as if we are as entertaining to them as they are to us. We head outside to play Finska on the lawn while drinking bubbles – there is an impressive collection of board games, puzzles and books to get stuck into. Drinking Champagne while taking a leisurely stroll around a sprawling property also gets added to our ever-growing list of things we find luxurious.

the bedroom at Somnium Bingie
A thoughtfully designed, spacious bedroom. (Image: Matt Horspool)

There are four bedrooms, two of which have water views, and two and a half bathrooms. There is also a laundry – very handy for extended trips – and an entertainer’s kitchen equipped with everything you could possibly need. Those staying in the cooler months can also get cosy by the outdoor fire pit.

Somnium at Bingie is a destination in itself and we don’t leave the property the entire weekend besides grabbing coffee and groceries from nearby Moruya (Woolworths and BWS). But those keen to explore should turn their attention to the Bingi Dreaming Track in Eurobodalla National Park. It’s a 13.5 kilometre (one-way) track that traverses heathland, forests, headlands and the Coila Lake shoreline. There are also two kayaks and bicycles ready to be used.

the house exterior of Somnium Bingie
The Barn can be booked for extra space. (Image: Matt Horspool)

The elevated property is positioned on a peninsula-like point, which means you are treated to both sunrise and sunset views. We spend both evenings admiring the sunset before ending the day in the relaxed living space which features a high-quality projector.

The house gets the stamp of approval from my friend’s kid who is enamoured by the kangaroos and a pair of White-bellied Sea Eagles. We spot the “Big big birds" elegantly soaring the skies multiple times during our stay as well as pink and grey galahs. The lack of stairs makes this property ideal for young children.

the outdoor deck at Somnium Bingie
Stay in a secluded retreat on the NSW South Coast. (Image: Rachael Thompson)

Those looking for a peaceful getaway with complete privacy will delight in Somnium at Bingie. We walked away with a decided sense of calm and beautiful memories. If you’re coming from Sydney and would rather not drive, Moruya Airport is approximately 22 kilometres (around 20 minutes) away.

Details

sunrise view at Somnium Bingie, NSW South Coast
Enjoy both sunrise and sunset views. (Image: Rachael Thompson)

In addition to luxury getaways and retreats, Somnium at Bingie can also be used as a wedding and event space.

Price: The Main House starts at $1975 per night in the low season (Sunday – Thursday) $2270 (low season – Friday / Saturday) and sleeps up to 10 guests. The Barn starts at $300 per night for two adults in the low season (Sunday – Thursday).

Address: 528 Bingie Rd, Bingie NSW 2537

Pet-friendly: No

Accessibility: Even though the house is on one level, it’s not wheelchair friendly due to the exterior steps. However, if you had a portable ramp, the door near the car park would be accessible.

Rachael Thompson
Rachael Thompson is Australian Traveller's Evergreen Editor and a self-proclaimed cheese and Chablis connoisseur. In her role, she creates and manages online content that remains relevant and valuable over time. With a background in publishing and e-commerce in both interior design and travel, Rachael is dedicated to curating engaging content that informs and inspires. She began her career at Belle magazine, then went on to become Senior Content Producer at Homes to Love focusing on Australian House & Garden and Belle, followed by Editor at Bed Threads. Her work has also appeared in Qantas Travel Insider. When she's not writing, editing, or optimising content, Rachael enjoys exploring the city's newest restaurants, bars, and hotels. Next on her Aussie travel wish list are Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and Lord Howe Island.
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Why the Central Coast is a foodie mecca

    Elise CullenBy Elise Cullen
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    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.