A cottage in the valley

Lazy mornings, afternoon adventures and early nights – that’s been my last week and it’s been absolutely blissful. While Adam and I have managed a fit little trips away this year, neither of us have had more than a week off since we got married last year. We were both in desperate need of some downtime and also wanted to make the most of just ‘us’ before baby arrives, so last week we took a little trip to Kangaroo Valley…

When we booked our trip, we didn’t have a destination in mind – all we wanted was a comfortable space, with a fireplace within half a day’s drive of Wagga Wagga. We found Settlers Cottage online, noted the location and then thought nothing of it until the afternoon of our arrival.

Kangaroo Valley, in the Shoalhaven region of New South Wales, is described as Australia’s most beautiful valley – and I have to say I think I agree. Ensconced between lushly vegetated enscarpments, the valley is home to rolling green hills and a little village by the same name, but is conveniently located just a short drive from a number of beaches. It’s hard not to fall in love with the place as soon as you arrive. It truly is gorgeous.

Our cottage was just a few minutes drive from town and its rustic, timber-clad outer was surrounded by pretty gardens, a pair of belted Galloway cows and simply stunning views.

Inside the cottage was a quaint mix of modern convenience and old fashioned charm.  It was full of curios from days gone by and felt homely and comfortable.

We particularly loved being able to light a fire of a night, the super comfortable queen-sized bed and the large claw-footed bath – which this pregnant lady enjoyed soaking in.

There were trips to the nearby Fitzroy Falls and Jervis Bay (more on those soon!) and we spent a gorgeous, sunny afternoon wandering the delightful streets of neighbouring Berry (which if you loved boutique shopping and good food, is a must).  Locally, we became regulars at the Hampden Deli in Kangaroo Valley itself – which serve the best croissants I think I’ve ever eaten and do a mean Rebuen toastie.  It also seemed to be the gathering place of many locals, and it was lovely to see friends and acquaintances stopping to say hello or grabbing a coffee together to catch up.

Our week was a perfect mix of both relaxation and reconnaissance and we both felt utterly refreshed by the time Friday rolled around.  We left feeling naive for not knowing about this beautiful place, but so very thankful we got to explore it just a little. I’ve got a feeling it won’t be our last visit.

Have a wonderful week. x