Eaglereach Wilderness Resort, may not be one of the most well-known peaceful bush escapes, but a trip to Vacy, just over an hours drive from the Hunter Valley is a paradise just waiting to be explored. Get packing for a getaway of wildlife, bush walks, country pub feeds and spa cabins under the open skies.
Eaglereach Wilderness Resort
No name could be more fitting for this mountainous location. Follow the winding road climbing into the resort which leads to the top of a mountain, overlooking the lush bushland of the Barrington Tops National Park.
It's a secluded resort full of holiday stays and cabins, that's also home to a variety of feathered and furry locals. Keep an eye out for wallaby's, kangaroos, native birds, eagles, lizards and many more different species.
If you are staying as a guest of the resort, you can access several of the walking tracks within the property. Make a stop at the kiosk/cafe hut to get your map and have a chat with the staff about the tracks conditions.
Where to stay
From larger family houses to cosier spa cottage getaways for couples, there are plenty of accommodation options available to suit your holidaying style. These are two picks of the bunch if you're looking for something a bit special with a touch of romance.
Inala Wilderness Retreat
Located within the Eaglereach Wilderness Resort, this spacious and modern escape is one of the more remote homes in the resort. Nestled away among the bushland, this is one for natures lovers with plenty of visits from local birds and wallabies.
The private cabin can sleep up to 4 people with 2 bedrooms ( 3 beds). If you feel like having a bit of a cook up the kitchen and dining space is perfect for entertaining. Soak in the peace by taking a seat on the outdoor decking, overlooking the sparse valley with uninterrupted views.
One of the biggest attractions of Inala is the outdoor jacuzzi. Kick up your heels and relax in the bubbling therapeutic waters with a blanket of stars above, and a quietness that you just can't get back in the suburbs.
The property is available to book on Airbnb.
Cabins in the Clouds
Located at the top of the main road into the resort, take a turn to the right instead of driving through to Eaglereach to discover Cabins in the Clouds.
There are several cabins to select from, all offering an inviting away-from-it-all ambience. The Peta cabin is one of the more modern of the cabins and has one of the best mountain top views.
Decked out with an eye for design and detail, the chic little touches like the cane rocking chairs on the verandah and sparkling wine on arrival make it that bit special.
It wouldn't be a romantic cabin without an outdoor spa, a view over to the surrounding farmlands and visits from the local wildlife.
Cabin in the Clouds has a variety of accommodation options which can be booked online.
What to do
There are many walks located within the resort that are designed for all levels of fitness. The Mount St George lookout is located right at the end of the resort and is a great vantage point to view the whole region from above.
Take a walk among Moreton Bay figs and a lush rainforest with the Rainforest walk, which can be found on the right hand side a few meters after you enter Eaglereach Resort. There are some steps and steep sections but it was well pathed with guiding ropes.
Paterson
Traveling from Sydney one of the first towns you will drive through is the cosy village of Paterson in the lower Hunter Valley region. The Paterson Tavern and Yabbies Bistro is the hub of the town and worth paying a visit.
It has all that country Aussie pub vibe, Cold Chisel playing in the background, the 'staple' beers on tap and the bistro is abuzz with families, couples and travellers feasting on a hearty lunch.
It's a great no-frills dining option to keep in mind with a side of down-to-earth rural hospitality.
Vacy
Located near Eaglereach is Vacy, a main street town that has all your basics covered. The Vacy General Store and post office has all the supplies you need to stock up on, as well as a quick bite to eat at the cafe down the back.
Farmers Hotel is the place to be when you visit Vacy. It's a friendly pub when locals gather to catch up and enjoy a pint or two with a feed from the kitchen. The meals are generous and everything you could want from a pub feast, comforting, tasty and feeling like your right at home.
