Lakesland Cabin - Bush Retreat - NSW
Want to spend a weekend surrounded by nature, but not too far from Sydney?
Here is my suggestion!
If you guys know me a bit, I love to be surrounded by nature. Every weekend that I can, I prep my backpack, jump on a train and leave Sydney to explore. This is how I charge my batteries.
During the colder months though, I like to have some more comfort so from time to time I seek and rent cabins.
I find cabins to be the perfect combination of nature and glamour, where all the characterising elements of camping (such as shared or no toilets at all, heavy backpacks, air mattresses and small tents) have been “upgraded” to resort services, but the contact with nature is exactly the same.
Bush Retreat in Lakesland
So, this is what I have opted to spend a weekend last month. I was looking for a cabin not far from Sydney and the BUSH RETREAT on Airbnb ticked this box. The Bush Retreat in Lakesland is only 1.5h away from the heart of Sydney, which is an indisputable pro, and only 15 min from Picton, where you can find restaurants or do your grocery shopping and cook on the provided BBQ as I did. Who wants to drive 5 hours to spend a weekend away? This cute little cabin is surrounded by trees and it has a huge campfire.
There is NO wifi so it is the perfect detox escape. Mobile coverage is good in my experience (with Telstra).
My experience at Lakesland Cabin
I spent my 2 nights sitting by the fire, stargazing and reading. No music was needed as the crackling, popping noises from the campfire and the sound of wind in the trees and the rustling of leaves were just enough for me.
I was lucky enough to have 2 beautiful sunny days and it is absolutely a beautiful place to wake up to.
CHECK MY VIDEOS HERE:
Accommodation details and pet policy
Monique, the owner, has another cabin, just on the other side of the property. Both cabins are close but really secluded, which is perfect if you want to spend a weekend with other friends too. Whilst Monique and her family live on the property, they keep to themselves. You may get a glimpse of them riding their horses and have a chance to help groom and help out at feed time.
Oh, and it’s pet friendly! Only if your pet is well behaved and sociable with both people and animals. The cabins are not fully fenced and there are other dogs and horses around.
I took this weekend to cook and relax…but there are few short hikes you can take, suggested by Monique. On my way back to Sydney, I have decided to spend half a day hiking to reach Mermaid pools and Tahmoor Gorge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dog allowed?
Yes, You can take your puppy… but only if you collect their 💩!!
Where to sleep? Tent?
- Not many accommodations along the Alta Via, so plan to stay in B&Bs or hotels in coastal villages.
- Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as demand is high.
- If you stay up on the Alta Via there are plenty of places where you can set up a tent, but bear in mind that you need to think about water and food supplies
Difficulty
It doesn’t present any major challenge, but make sure you are happy with elevation gain
Credentials?
There are no credentials.
Best months to hike it?
- The mild climate makes the Alta Via suitable for year-round hiking, but would avoid July and August. (I did it in August and it was way too hot).
- As usual, check weather forecasts for safety, avoiding the trail during heavy rain or strong winds.
What to bring?
- Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes suitable for various terrains. It is not a walk in the park and is more challenging than expected.
- Carry trekking poles for stability.
Trail waymarking
- Marked trail with signage, but it could be improved.
- Especially if you don’t speak Italian, I would recommend having a gpx map with you.
Planning Information
Cinque Terre and sourroundigs areas can get packed and fully booked quite in advance. So make sure you book your stays and plan the whole hike in advance.
Getting there & Away
Few options:
- I recommend starting in Levanto, which is accessible by train from La Spezia or Milan. Trains are the most practical mode of transportation between Cinque Terre villages.
- If you want to start from Porto Venere, then you need to get a bus 11/P from La Spezia
- If you travel by car consider leaving your car in Campiglia, a village midway between Portovenere and Telegrafo and then getting to the beginning of the trail (hitchhiking, hiking, booking a taxi in advance…)
Permits & Fees
No Permits required.
IMPORTANT: Pay close attention to the data contained in this description.
They may be incomplete or outdated. The paths may change over time due to bad weather, fires or simply the change of seasons. Check in the comments if anyone has made any reports or recommended any changes.
Do you still have a question?
"Discover Italy Like a Local" Consultation
I always try to write everything I can to give the best possible informations, but if you feel like you need a specific and tailored consultation, feel free to book a one-on-one consultation to address your concerns, answer your questions, and provide support throughout the planning process.❤️
