★ Inviting Bush + Beach Pad ★

Set in the beautiful Illawarra Escarpment, between bush and beach and just one hour south of Sydney, awaits a lush and airy getaway suited to couples, solo travellers and artists. The space is an ex-refrigerated shipping container that we have lovingly restored into a self-contained guest room. Filled with natural sunlight and set amidst native trees and sprawling evergreens, it’s a place to totally unwind, kick back and tune in to nature as lyre birds, kookaburras, wallabies and deer regularly pass through. Winter adds a whole new dimension to the experience with blustery beach walks and cosy evenings under the stars. The container is private with no internal access from the main house - the “main house” being a humble one bedroomed dwelling. Where we live with our little kelpie, Laela who WILL get very excited when she sees you (show her the yellow water pistol and she’ll quickly calm down). She roams freely around the property and keeps the chickens in check so if you are uncomfortable with dogs, then this place is probably not the best place for you. She loves other dogs, but like other dogs, she is protective of her pad so no pets please (but I could be persuaded). Whilst the property does NOT offer direct ocean views (rather glimpses from the garden), the ocean is very much a part of the experience living here. All of the images shown on this site have been taken on my walks to/from Wombarra Beach and Sharky's Beach, both or which are about 10-15 minutes walk (more info in 'The Neighbourhood' section below). Cooking facilities are not provided here given our proximity to a great selection of cafes and restaurants that stretch from Wombarra and into the hip little ‘burb of Thirroul. All tastes and dietary requirements are well catered for and delivery/takeaway is an option if you fancy a quiet night in. The container is equipped with a toaster, kettle, coffee plunger, mini fridge and crockery. Please note this is not a huge space - it's cosy, comfortable, clean and positioned in a beautiful location. Access is down a steepish pebble driveway. Guests are asked to park at the top of the driveway as exiting the drive can be tricky. We are 10 minutes’ walk from Wombarra Station and may be able to pick/drop you if the timing works out. I am around to help and offer local knowledge but also appreciate that guests typically want to be left alone so I can also be as quiet as a bush mouse. It’s likely that we will be camping or off on an adventure with Laela at the weekend so everything you need to know is detailed in the guest book. Details of where the key is located will follow after booking. Wombarra and surrounds have been blessed by Mother Nature. Sandwiched between the lush vegetation of the Illawarra Escarpment and the Pacific Ocean, adventure and exploration on land and water are abound. Uncrowded beaches stretch from Scarborough to Thirroul. Our 'local-local' beaches are Wombarra Beach (for sunrise, a morning dip and explorative walk over the rocks) and Sharky's (surf and dog beach following a darn good brekki/brunch at Earth Walker) and both kick off a lengthy coastal walk, or cycle all the way into Wollongong. There are superb trails for all levels of fitness within 5-10 minutes drive from the property including Sublime Point, Sea Cliff Bridge and Wodi Wodi. Add to that, yoga classes, foragers markets, cafés, bars and restaurants and yes, you have found a fabulous little getaway! EAT in COLEDALE :: Earth Walker & Co General Store and Café The food and coffee here is excellent, as is testament by the weekend queue of locals vying for a table or a takeaway enroute to Sharky's beach. Great selection of vegan and gluten free options. :: Sharky’s Takeaway Fuel up with a gourmet burger or fish n’chips. :: Mr & Mrs Smith A less hectic café/restaurant to Earth Walker this is a place to sip on a coffee in the morning sunshine, or a casual lunchtime wine. in THIRROUL :: Jose Jones An absolute must! The food here is by far the best this side of Sydney! Big call I know, but coming from a vegan that is a big deal. Seasonally inspired daily specials, cocktails, craft beers, live music, cool vibe, great service – check, check, check, check, check and CHECK! Book in advance, particularly on a balmy summers evening when the place gets slammed – or equally on a drizzly arvo when everyone moves indoors! Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. :: South Sailor Casual seafood, indoor and outdoor dining with live weekend music . :: Bread and Espresso Coffee and bakery – enough said! :: Other great eateries to check out: Indian, Pizza, Mexican, Japanese and Thai DRINK and ENTERTAINMENT :: Jose Jones Can’t rave enough about this place, just go! :: Headlands Hotel, Austinmer A nice place to take in the coastal and escarpment views over a quick beverage. :: The Beaches, Thirroul Bands and a large sunny beer garden draw in the younger crowds heading to the city. :: Wombarra Bowlo Take a step back in time and take in the original retro feel of this iconic local watering hole. Enjoy a round of barefoot bowls and a taste of Thai street food before the afternoon sun slips behind the escarpment. Public holidays are typically heaving with spirited locals and live entertainment. :: Scarborough Hotel An iconic establishment that draws the Sydney crowd and with it, the prices! Well worth a visit nonetheless, if only to take in the sweeping coastal views and a bowl of hot chips. :: Anita’s Theatre, Thirroul An impressive performing arts venue with old school charm and host to touring musicians and comedy acts. EXPLORATION :: Sublime Point Lookout Sublime is one of the iconic treks of the Illawarra Escarpment. A challenging walk (or run!) through lush coastal rainforest and up a series of ladders and stairs. Catch your breath and take in the wildlife before making one last push to the top where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views and a café to refuel! :: Wodi Wodi, via the Sea Cliff Bridge This is a 6.5 kilometre track, named after the original Custodians that lived along the Illawarra coast. It’s a circular trip with lookouts along the way. Its my go-to trail and I’ve been lucky enough to have several wedge tail eagle encounters here. :: Bald Hill Lookout Grab an ice-cream and a selfie from this popular lookout - whilst also looking out for hang-gliders! :: Symbio Wildlife and Splash Park Located in Helensburgh it’s well worth the 15 minute drive. Another selfie op with a koala and a chance to hand feed a cheeky mob of kangaroos. :: Foragers Market, Bulli Showground Open last Saturday/Sunday of the month 9.00am – 2.00pm Fresh food and produce from local growers plus arts, crafts and music. Lots of parking. :: Coledale Flea Market Located on the grounds of Coledale Public School, this community event is held every last Sunday of the month with stalls, food, music, hidden treasures and chilled vibes :: Retro Wombat, Thirroul If you love antiques, up cycling and finding hidden treasure then please go check this quirky Thirroul establishment out! ESSENTIALS Coles Supermarket, Thirroul IGA Supermarket, Thirroul Woolworths Supermarket, Bulli Post Office, Thirroul and Austinmer Fuel, Coledale and Bulli We are located 10 minutes walk form Wombarra Station or 10 minutes drive from Thirroul Station. Just over one hour south of Sydney via the Sea Cliff Bridge and 30 minutes north of Wollongong. The property is located on E3 environmental land so with that there are a few responsibilities and things to consider: Toilet We are on a septic tank system so P-LEASE don’t put anything down the toilet other than “you know what” and the toilet paper provided. Bushfires Despite being a rainforest, it gets very dry and bushfires are a real threat. Do not light fires unless the fire pit has been stocked with firewood (signalling that it’s safe to do so!) In the unlikely event of a fire, take the safest route down to the beach. No smoking indoors and preferably not at all on the property. Hills The property is based 'UP' in the escarpment, approximately 10-15 minutes walk 'DOWNHILL' to the beaches, cafes etc. This inevitably means you have to walk back up a hill to return 'home’. Avoid Denmark Street, unless you are feeling particularly energetic, instead opt for Morrison Avenue or Cater Street on the homeward journey (shower and cold drink on standby!) Garbage There is a small bin in the room. For food and/or larger items, please place garbage in the bins located next to the workshop. Just to recap: RED lid for general waste, YELLOW lid for recycling and GREEN for garden waste if you feel like pulling some weeds. Dinner plates They are my responsibility so please place your plates in the basket provided and leave them outside the door. There are 2 sets in case I’m out on an adventure and unable to get to my marigolds! Creepy crawlies This is a bush setting so inevitably there are creepy crawlies. Be kind to them unless they pose an immediate threat to your life – in which case I recommend a wide side step and sprint in the opposite direction! Privacy The container sits beside my place which means it isn’t exclusively private. Please use the garden, great for picnics and plenty of space for everyone!