The first thing I notice as my Uber cruises down Amaroo’s long driveway is just how lush and green the estate is – coming from Melbourne, where it’s been so very dry recently, the dewy rolling hills look almost fake to me, and I blink my eyes a few times to drink it all in. Have I landed in paradise? It certainly appears so.
Amaroo is nestled in the Bangalow hinterland, about a five-minute drive from the township. It’s the brainchild of owners Mike and Cathy Tomkins, who purchased the property with the intent to restore its ecological balance. What they’ve created is a luxurious, extremely private retreat that is focused on sustainability, regeneration (the pair have planted around 45,000 native trees) and connection to the land. It also doubles as a working farm – go for a wander around the grounds and you’ll spot a herd of black Angus cattle. Farm life has never looked so appealing.
Why stay at Amaroo?
To immerse yourself in the splendour of a property that is working in harmony with the natural environment around it. This isn’t a place to stay only to remain glued to your phone or laptop. You’re encouraged to relax by the pool, enjoy a creek-side picnic, spot wildlife, cosy up with a book next to the fireplace or sip Champagne on the swing. All in total peace and quiet, too – Amaroo’s secluded location makes it feel as though you’re miles away from civilisation.
While I found it to be a gorgeous spot for some R&R during my solo stay, it’s also perfect for a cosy couple’s getaway (hello, romantic sunset strolls) or big group trips with friends or family (exclusive access to the entire property is available to book).
What are the rooms like at Amaroo?
There are two accommodation options at Amaroo: a series of four self-contained cabins and a loft-style unit. I stayed in one of the architecturally designed studios, which has everything you could possibly desire. Think a wood-burning fireplace, outdoor deck, plush bed, lounge area, well-equipped kitchenette (with coffee machine), a luxe bathroom with skylight and rain shower, French flax bed linen and comfy robes. All the decor is in earthy tones of green, brown and charcoal – a nod to the hues of the landscape outside.
But by far my favourite feature of the cabins is the huge floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to a dense canvas of rainforest. This treetop outlook makes you feel as though you’re completely cocooned in nature, also amplifying the sense of privacy. If you’re wanting a digital detox, you’ve certainly come to the right place.
I also got a peek at the split-level loft apartment, and can confirm it’s a real show-stopper – with a larger floorplan guests are treated to a full-size kitchen, four-person dining table, separate living area, laundry and not one but two bathrooms. There’s even a dedicated pet bed, because your furry friends are more than welcome at Amaroo.
What is the service like at Amaroo?
It should be no surprise to read that Mike and Cathy are the ultimate hosts who love nothing more than showing off the magic of Amaroo. From offering advice on where to go for a walk to helping set up the pizza oven, they (and the wider team) are dedicated to ensuring you have a wonderful visit
Some of the special and personalised experiences they can curate for you include airport (and helicopter!) transfers, babysitting services, private tours of the region, in-house massage and spa treatments, and restaurant bookings. They’ll even stock the pantry for you! Plus, there’s a personal meet and greet for all guests upon arrival.
What are the facilities like at Amaroo?
The beating heart of Amaroo is the Pavilion – a communal area comprising a commercial-grade kitchen, lounge area with fireplace and 14-person dining room table (seriously, this is the place of dinner party dreams). With timber features, leather banquette armchairs and warm lighting – the spectacular installation above the table was actually made by Mike and his father Vince – it’s cosy, inviting and provides the ideal space for groups to come together, eat and relax.
On the outdoor deck you’ll find all the makings of a guaranteed good time: a heated plunge pool, four-burner barbecue and woodfired clay pizza oven. And if bathing under the moonlight is your thing, there are also outdoor showers.
What are the best places to eat/drink nearby?
While you’re equipped with absolutely everything you need to whip up a mean feast at Amaroo (including eggs courtesy of the free-range chickens that roam the property), if you want someone else to take care of the cooking, Bangalow has you sorted.
A good place to start is at the pub, of course. The Bangalow Hotel serves up ice-cold beers, a hearty bistro-style menu with all the classics, sport on the TV and live music. And its spacious veranda area is a lovely spot to spend a balmy arvo with a Spritz in hand.
For some relaxed dining options you can hit up Woods, which is your go-to for superfood smoothies and organic produce; Butcher Baker, which boasts a cabinet full of drool-worthy treats; and the Bangalow Tuckshop for elevated takes on comfort food. And don’t miss Ciao, Mate! for your fix of woodfired pizza, homemade pasta and a wine list loaded with natty vino and Italian drops.
What’s the area like around Amaroo?
The charming township of Bangalow is well worth a visit to get a taste of that laid-back Northern Beaches lifestyle. The picturesque main street is lined with quirky shops and cute eateries, and there’s a farmers market every Saturday morning where you can stock up on everything from locally grown fruit and veg to pasture-raised meat, honey, artisan cheeses and fresh flowers. For some culture, head to Ninbella Art Gallery – a creative hub that boasts spectacular pieces from some of the region’s best Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists.
It’s also just a ten-minute drive from Amaroo to Byron Bay, so it would be rude not to pop over for a day of swimming at the beach, exploring the many walking trails and grabbing a bite to eat.
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If there’s one thing I learned from my stay at Amaroo, it’s that one night is simply not enough to really soak up the beauty of this place. This is a property you want to savour and fall in love with, much like Mike and Cathy obviously did when they first purchased it. My advice? Gather up your favourite people and make a real holiday out of it – the memories you make here are guaranteed to be special.
The key details
Address: 47A Cedarvale Rd, Bangalow, NSW, 2479
Price per night: From $850 for one of the self-contained cabins
Closest transport link: The closest airport is Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, which is a 20-minute drive from Amaroo
Book now: Click here
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