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When I think of off-grid, my mind tends to wander to long-drops. This couldn't be further from the truth at Ashwood AFrame, a luxury riverfront cabin in Upper Macdonald, about a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney. Yes, there’s fresh country air and views for days – the property is set on a bushy 45 acres to wander and explore. Then, as night falls, the panther-black sky glitters with thousands of stars. You’re also surrounded by a heck of a lot of wildlife – cows and ’roos and wombats and birds and nearby horses.
But on my last off-grid stay, there wasn’t a bathtub. At Ashwood AFrame, there are two freestanding ones – one in the chic, modern bathroom, and one on the deck for golden sunsets with a side of bubbles. There are two extremely comfortable beds with quality linen, making the cabin a top stay for both romantic couples' getaways and friends' weekends. And there’s a bar area, air con for the warmer months and a hanging fireplace come winter. Plus, satin eye masks.
The property really is fully off-grid, powered by solar and gas with filtered rainwater for drinking. You can choose to log on to the speedy wi-fi, or spend a weekend switching off devices and diving into your latest page-turner.
Owners Ann and Andrew have created a bushland sanctuary. The beautifully designed A-frame architecture is coupled with warm timber interiors, earthy tones, floor-to-ceiling windows and thoughtful details (including said outdoor bath!) that make you want to extend your stay.
One of my favourite things about Ashwood is that we didn’t have to leave all weekend. We stocked up at the nearest town and enjoyed eggs, bacon and avo for brunch, cheese and nibbles around the fireplace, and we fired up the barbie for dinner. Our days consisted of battling it out over 500 and Bananagrams. I went for a morning jog, filling my lungs with crisp, non-city air. We drank red wine, toasted marshmallows on the fire, stargazed, woke up with no alarms, and the biggest issue was figuring out whose turn it was to fill up our drinks. Bliss? You betcha.
The St Albans Village Markets are held monthly and if you time your stay right you should pop in on your way home, or stop at the historic Settlers Arms Inn for a cold pint and schnitty. Either way, you're in for a treat.
Ashwood AFrame has a two-night minimum stay, with rates starting at $550 per night. You can book here.