There’s not a lot to do at Kookaburra Ridge, the first glamping experience from tiny-house platform In2thewild. But that’s definitely a good thing – it’s the perfect opportunity to let the tranquillity wash over you, keep an eye out for kangaroos and an ear out for kookaburras, and soak up the lush surrounds as you soak in one of the outdoor baths.
Kookaburra Ridge launched earlier this year. And while it’s just a couple of hours’ drive from Sydney’s CBD – and a short drive to the nearest beach – it really does feel like you’re cut off from the world. The glamping site has two large bell tents: Kookaburra Manor and Kookaburra Chateau. Each has a luxe queen-sized bed, and the option to add two extra single beds. And though there is an abundance of USB ports for charging your phone, there’s not much point – barely a whiff of mobile reception makes it into this valley.
Rather than spending your time away from the world scrolling, step into the tub: each tent has an outdoor bath on its private deck. (Don’t fret about other guests spotting you as you sink into the water – the tents are 100 metres from one another; the only eyes on Broadsheet were those of a resident kangaroo.) Each tent also has its own barbeque, hammock and picnic table.
You may be further than usual from civilisation, but you’re never far from a creature comfort: there’s a hot shower with a rainfall showerhead and a separate toilet in a wooden building stocked with toiletries and plush towels. Much of your time at Kookaburra Ridge should be spent at Kookaburra Tavern, a rustic, semi-open structure kitted out with a barbeque, a fridge, cooking supplies, a stereo, plenty of board games and a dartboard. Right outside there’s a firepit, with wood and fire starters supplied (BYO marshmallows). You’re free to hike around the property – and keep an eye out for roos, echidnas and possums. Or just hole up in the tavern with a book and let the serenity wash over you.
Every element of Kookaburra Ridge has been considered: there are headlamps for journeying to the bathroom after dark, and fairy lights lead to each tent. Umbrellas are supplied in case there’s a downpour (as there was when Broadsheet visited – we can attest the tents didn’t let in a drop), as well as yoga mats, should you fancy saluting the sun during your forest stay.
The whole shebang runs off solar power and was built entirely by hand by landowner Chris. Chris or his dad will pick you up from the property’s entrance at the beginning of your stay and drive you the couple of hundred metres downhill to the glamping site. It’s a slippery road back up to the top of the hill – you’re better off soaking it all up until Chris comes and collects you again.
Stays at Kookaburra Ridge start at $289 per tent; both tents can also be booked at the same time.
