Peace of paradise

WANDER SOUTH TO MARRAMARRA LODGE, AN EXCLUSIVE WILDERNESS HIDEAWAY THAT’S FIT FOR A KING.

Before you even reach the calming grounds of Marramarra Lodge, about an hour and a half drive from Newcastle, you’re forced to slow to a float.

The exclusive escape is set on Fisherman’s Point on the Hawkesbury River. Is only accessible by boat, seaplane or helicopter, creating an enchanting arrival and feeling of complete seclusion.

At the destination, you’re enveloped by the Marramarra National Park and it’s clear the lodge’s beauty stems from far more than just its isolation.

The adults-only retreat hosts only up to 28 guests in luxurious safari-style tents and earthy, minimalist bungalows, with one especially private bungalow a favourite for honeymooners. The architecture blends flawlessly into the natural landscape, with river stone bathrooms and expansive private decks that provide spellbinding views of the Hawkesbury River cleaving through dense, undulating bushland.

YoU FEEL A MILLION MILES AWAY FROM ANYWHERE

Lodge manager Cindy Wood says being so close to nature in such remarkable and abundant surrounds creates an unforgettable sensory experience.

“It’s the sound of the river, the call of the birds. The feeling of being on the river is one of peacefulness and tranquillity. Sitting under a quiet night sky watching the stars and listening to the sounds of the water makes you feel a million miles away from anywhere.”

Marramarra Lodge is located on eight acres of land traditionally owned by the Dharug people, and Indigenous shellfish middens and rock carvings can be viewed on site.

In the 1950s and 60s the lodge was used as a home base for adventure groups and hosted many outdoor enthusiasts including King Charles III.

Today, intrepid explorers can connect with nature and explore the surrounds using complimentary canoes, SUP boards and kayaks, which Wood says is one of the essential experiences.

“Kayak on the river to experience the Hawkesbury up close, take a walk on (nearby) Bar Island to see some of Australia’s recent and past history, and take a Champagne and oyster river cruise, because who doesn’t love Champagne and oysters?” she says.

The gastronomic pleasures continue with a refined all inclusive dining experience courtesy of executive chef Jerome Tremoulet. The classically trained French chef focuses on local and seasonal produce, incorporating flavours from his home country into sophisticated modern Australian fare. The five-course degustation dinner with wine pairings is essential, as is a romantic alfresco meal at Picnic Point.

Indulgent pampering is also on the menu. The on-site Lyora Day Spa rejuvenates and nourishes guests with a suite of massages. Including including lomi lomi-style, aromatherapy, pregnancy and acupressure.

Tailored facials are also available with the emphasis placed on invigoration and deep relaxation, using cruelty-free, 100 per cent Australian-made LaGaia Unedited products.

Marramarra’s signature inconspicuous approach is reflected in its commitment to responsible tourism. The lodge’s operations are designed to preserve the land’s native origins and encourage the return of native wildlife and soon, the business will become certified through Ecotourism Australia. “As a business that operates in nature we are very aware of our responsibility to our environment,” Wood says. “Living on the river reminds us every day of the power and beauty of our environment.”

These principles of thoughtfulness, care and consideration are reflected throughout the entire Marramarra experience. As you step off the grounds and float back towards home, you leave with the feeling of wellbeing that can only come from indulgent rest and also a true sense of lightness.