Mt Hay Retreat Is the South Coast Destination Where Luxury Meets the Great Outdoors

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For those who are time-poor and perpetually online (let's be honest, most of us), one of the most luxurious things we can do is simply disconnect and unwind in nature. Then, of course, there's luxury in the classic sense: indulgent amenities and five-star service. Perched among the treetops above the historic village of Berry, Mt Hay Retreat offers the best of both.

Mt Hay's secluded lodges populate 360 acres of abundant greenery, overlooking the rolling landscape of Berry and beyond. From a private sun-soaked deck, your vista includes the highlights of NSW's South Coast scenery – green pastures, native bushland and glimpses of the distant coastline. Around two hours' drive from Sydney, it's close enough for a micro-escape without losing half the weekend to travel, but far enough away to feel completely immersed in nature.

The property has collected a bevy of accolades over the past few years, including taking home gold for five-star luxury accommodation at the NSW Tourism Awards. Step inside one of its elegantly appointed suites and it's easy to see why. Designed exclusively for two, each adults-only retreat boasts a plush king bed, en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower, oversized living area and fully-kitted kitchenette. An open-plan design and expansive windows seamlessly connect the interiors to the outdoors, while select suites even invite you to soak in a discreet outdoor bath while taking in the views.

Mt Hay's lavish grounds set the scene for hours of relaxation. Take a leisurely stroll through the on-site gardens, soaking up panoramic views and the tranquil sights and sounds of the surrounding wilderness. Or, unleash your inner child – one of the best vantage points comes courtesy of the exhilarating 'Cloud Swing', where you can soar above the meadows. While you're embracing your playful side, why not play a few games of chess on the giant outdoor set? Once you've had your fill of childlike revelry, picnic blankets are on hand for a decidedly more grown-up pastime: romantic alfresco spreads on the hilltop.

No matter which season you're travelling in, don't forget to pack your swimming costume. The glistening 33-metre-long indoor pool is heated year-round, with an adjoining spa primed for afternoons spent decompressing over a glass of sparkling wine. And to ensure you're feeling sufficiently mellow, massages are also offered on-site.

The deluxe-yet-warm atmosphere at Mt Hay is in no small part due to the hospitality of owners Anthony and Louise, who go above and beyond to make your stay a one-of-a-kind experience. Adjectives like kind, attentive and friendly pepper online reviews. Whether you're interested in local recommendations, help planning your stay or just a chat, your hosts are only too happy to oblige.

While some might revel in the idea of staying put for a few days with nothing but a good book, Berry is right on your doorstep should you fancy a change of scenery. Renowned for its heritage architecture and gastronomic credentials, the village is dotted with acclaimed eateries and artisan shops. Pick up a keepsake at quintessential regional homeware stores like Maison on Main and Few and Far. For souvenirs of the edible variety, The Berry Chocolatier and The Treat Factory cater to those with a sweet tooth and the savoury-inclined alike.

Start the day with breakfast at The Garden, where dishes spotlight locally sourced produce in a leafy garden setting. For something more casual, Milkwood Bakery is your go-to for freshly baked pastries, bread and coffee, while IV Coffee is a worthy pit stop for an expertly brewed cup.

Come evening, you're spoiled for choice on both the upscale and low-key dining front. South on Albany is an intimate spot with a changing three-course menu centred on seasonal produce and regional wines. Just outside Berry, venture to Moraea Farm for Sara Dining, where meals are prepared over wood fire and an Argentinian parrilla. For another special-occasion dinner, make the short drive to Bangalay Dining at Shoalhaven Heads, where native Australian produce is at the heart of the menu. The must-visit restaurants in town are bound to be busy, especially on weekends, so best to book as soon as you confirm your Mt Hay reservation.

Turn to Tre Bambini Italian & Seafood Restaurant if you want a high-quality relaxed alternative, or Quattro Kusina & Pizzeria for handcrafted pizza with Filipino influences. Stop by Le Bar for an apéritif before dinner, or drop in afterwards to savour a nightcap from its impressive wine list. And if you've somehow left room, the soft pretzel with hot honey is the talk of the town.
Oenophiles are equally well looked after, with a handful of wineries sprinkled throughout the countryside surrounding Mt Hay. Pay a visit to Two Figs Winery for a tasting and cheese plate overlooking the Shoalhaven River, relish a glass of wine or two and a slow lunch at Mountain Ridge Wines, or bask in the pastoral allure of Silos Estate, where tastings are paired with platters of local fare.

If adventure is calling you, you'll find plenty within an hour's drive of Mt Hay. Try horse riding around Shoalhaven Heads or kayaking through Kangaroo Valley, the latter well worth exploring for its rugged escarpments and gushing waterfalls.

Towards the coast, picturesque Seven Mile Beach stretches from Shoalhaven Heads to Gerroa, where Black Head offers fascinating fossils and rock pools to explore at low tide. While you're there, grab a coffee and bite to eat at The Blue Swimmer cafe to recharge your batteries. Closer to Mt Hay, let the lyrebirds serenade you on the way up to Drawing Room Rocks lookout, where the stunning views justify the two-hour expedition.

At Mt Hay Retreat, you can dial up the opulence without sacrificing the simple pleasure of switching off in nature. Secluded enough to feel a world away, yet moments from the charms of Berry, it offers that rare combination of deep, rural immersion and top-tier indulgence.

Book your stay at Mt Hay Retreat here.

Image Credit: Supplied