Riversdale Retreat

Soothing timber and concrete frame the interior, which features aspects of Japanese living. There’s a deep tub in the bathroom; an open shower with the taps situated at knee height; and a stool and oke (bucket) for splashing water on yourself. A raised tatami (matted) seating area dominates the lounge, and you can slide away the door between the tatami room and front porch to let a little more of the outdoors in.

The house sleeps up to three people, with a queen-size bed in the main bedroom, and a single bunk encased in a wooden nook. Kangaroos bounce past your bedroom window in the morning; and there’s a daybed on the porch perfect for reading and watching the wildlife pass by.

Take your morning coffee on the back stoop overlooking the lush native bush, or on the side deck. The kitchen has all the mod cons; and a pot-belly fireplace keeps the off-grid residence warm. Power comes from solar panels, and water from tanks. Phone reception is sporadic and certainly doesn’t stretch to internet capabilities, so switch your mobile off to be woken and quietly entertained by the elements.