Bangalow’s Best Kept Secret
Words: Charmaine Yabsley We left the coastline and hustle of the Byron Bay coastline just fifteen minutes ago, but already it feels as though we’ve driven into a different world. A world that feels untouched by the 21st century. We’re here to visit Amaroo Bangalow – named from the Aboriginal word meaning “a beautiful place”, this is more than just a luxurious estate: it’s a dreamy escape that embodies nature and stillness in every detail. Spread across 213 acres of rolling green hills, creeks, and rainforest pockets, Amaroo is the perfect secluded sanctuary. The emphasis is to slow down and reconnect with nature – and nature certainly delivers! Rather than alarms, bird song is our wake-up call, friendly and curious cows and free-range chickens roaming the country lane are our neighbours, and the stars and an outdoor fire are our evening entertainment for the next two nights. For proud owners Cathy and Mike Tomkins, Amaroo is the realisation of a dream. They first fell in love with the property in 2016, when it was a neglected former cattle farm, overgrown and out of balance. But they saw the potential to turn it into paradise. Not just for tourism – but for regeneration. “Everything we’re doing is for the land and for ourselves,” Cathy says. “The ecotourism has naturally become a part of that.” Since taking control, they have planted more than 45,000 native trees, restored biodiversity, and welcomed koalas, platypus, wallabies, and black cockatoos back to the land. Working with organisations like East Coast Bush Regeneration and Bangalow Koalas, they’ve turned Amaroo into a living, breathing example of sustainability in action. Today, the estate runs on 100% rainwater and is 70% solar-powered. Harmonious homes As we drive through the towering palms lining the private entryway, Amaroo reveals itself slowly, almost shyly to us. Architecturally designed cabins with black timber exteriors and natural interiors emerge from the landscape, like inhabitants of the forest. Every aspect of the design is intentional – modern but earthy, minimalist but deeply warm. Mike and his father Vince crafted many of the fittings themselves, including the lighting and large communal dining table. The retreat is composed of four separate studios – three sleek cabins and a standalone loft – and a striking central pavilion. Guests can book a single cabin or the whole estate (sleeps 8 adults and 6 children), with exclusive use guaranteed either way. Designed for both privacy and connection, Mike and Cathy created the space with families and groups of friends in mind. And it works, beautifully. The privacy of the bedrooms sits comfortably beside the common kitchen area. As we step inside, the temptation to sit and relax to soak up the calm environment is overwhelming. The tranquil combination of soft linens, raw timber, local artwork and floor-to-ceiling views of the rainforest and paddock is soft and inviting. Outside, the estate’s experiences unfurl, with a sparkling emerald-green swimming pool, wood-fired pizza oven, starlit outdoor showers, firepit and conversation circle. There’s even two romantic swings on opposing hilltops – the perfect place to sip champagne at sunset. A slow philosophy Amaroo doesn’t just encourage you to slow down – it insists on it. There’s no rush here, just gentle rituals: we quickly embrace its pace. There’s morning walks through regenerating bushland, gathering fresh eggs from the roaming hens, a quick dip in the creek, followed by delicious coffee brewed in the communal kitchen as the morning fog lifts from the hills. Although Byron Bay is just a 15-minute drive away, most guests never leave the property. Cathy and Mike say this is by design. “We created Amaroo as a place to reconnect – with nature, with family, with self,” Mike says. “You’re meant to stop scrolling and start noticing.” There’s no on-site restaurant, but who needs one when you can dine creekside on a picnic packed by the concierge, or gather under the stars for a fire-cooked feast? Soon, there’ll be estate-harvested honey to complement the eggs, and if you don’t feel like cooking, the Amaroo team can arrange catering, private chefs, in-house massages, or a fully stocked pantry before you arrive. Despite its grandeur, Amaroo is humble at heart. The estate is not about excess but about considered living. From the recycled materials used in construction, to the solar power and organic gardens, to the welcoming space for children and pets, the retreat balances sophistication with true and authentic soul. For Mike and Cathy, that’s the greatest luxury they can offer. And it’s one they’ve worked hard to earn – not just for themselves, but for every guest who visits. “We want people to leave not just relaxed but restored. Connected. Changed,” Cathy says. Families are especially welcome, and the layout is ideal for groups that want to be together – without being on top of one another. Children can roam safely within the gated property, while adults relax in the conversation pit or take a moment on the swing. Dogs are also invited, with secure fencing and thoughtful touches like bowls in every cabin. As night falls, we’re welcome by the absences – there’s no traffic, no lights, no noise but the wind and wildlife. We sink into the experience and Amaroo becomes something truly rare – a place of absolute stillness. In a world where many escapes are about more – more pools, more features, more noise – Amaroo stands out by offering less. Less rush. Less stress. Less distraction. And in doing so, it gives us, and will give all its visitors, far more than expected. BOOKING DETAILS Name: Amaroo Bangalow Location: 47A Cedarvale Road, Bangalow NSW Bookings and enquiries: www.amaroobangalow.com Accommodation: 4 studios (3 cabins + 1 loft), sleeps up to 8 adults and 6 children Exclusivity: Yes – the entire property is yours, regardless of group size Price: From $800 per night Best for: Families, groups, weddings, nature retreats Pet friendly: Yes – dogs and cats welcome Accessibility: Yes – accessible cabins and bathrooms available Concierge
