A delightful property where the name says it all!
This gorgeous property has three bedrooms and is absolute waterfront on Lake Macquarie – put the car in the drive and tie the boat up out the front! The feeling as you walk into the cottage is exactly what the name implies … light, breezy and (depending on the weather, of course!) sunny.
Overall rating? Excellent
What makes Sunshine Cottage different?
Being absolute waterfront means that everything is on your doorstep – or jetty! – for a holiday that offers many choices, not just a wonderful waterland. Bring your boat (or hire one) and explore one of Australia’s most spectacular waterways, with a multitude of villages and towns dotted around it and the surrounding area. Lake Macquarie is blessed with some of the best restaurants, cafes and entertainment venues in the Hunter and is a hop, skip and a jump to the marvellous wineries that abound in the Hunter Valley.
Accommodation overview
This gorgeous three bedroom cottage is filled with light and is flexible enough to suit those wanting a break with family, friends or that special someone. There are two rooms with queen beds, which open on to the deck and fabulous water views. The third bedroom has a bunk, plus an additional single bed. The master is air-conditioned and has a small TV, and all bedrooms have ceiling or wall-mounted fans. Light-proof curtains make sleeping in a bonus.
Facilities overview
Tea (including herbal) coffee and hot chocolate are supplied. There is a full kitchen, flooded with light thanks to a skylight and the laundry has an additional toilet.
If you can take your eyes off the view, there is a TV with video/DVD and books and board games. More than 50 DVD titles are available to choose from. Maps of the area and suggested activities are supplied. The deck is covered, so if it does happen to rain, you can still sit in comfort and enjoy the passing parade of boats.
Sunshine Cottage has its own private jetty, but is also close to boat ramps and a public swimming area. The large enclosed front yard makes it a perfect safe playground for children.
Location
Take the F3 from Sydney and after about 50 minutes take the Morisset exit. Follow the signs to Sunshine and within 10 minutes you will be drinking in the view from the deck.
Suitable for children? Yes – and they will think they are in paradise!
Suitable for pets? No
Wheelchair access? Not really, as there are a few steps to the front door and 8 or so down to the lake, but once inside, the cottage is all on one level.
Perfect for
Sitting on the deck and watching the boats go by, sailing, fishing, canoes & kayaks, waterskiing … a water wonderland. If you can drag yourself away from the lake, nearby is the Hunter and its wineries, historic Dobell house is open Sundays 2-4pm (www.dobellhouse.org.au), horse-riding, fabulous beaches for surfing and swimming, the Watagan Mountains, art galleries, markets and more.
Why stay longer?
It is a holiday that offers you the opportunity to do it all – or nothing at all!
Why you wouldn’t stay longer?
You’ve had enough relaxation and were craving the big city or nightlife.
Prices
$170 per night midweek, $190 per night weekends and school holidays.
Find out more at www.takeabreak.com.au/sunshinecottage.htm
Reviewer
Penny Young stayed at Sunshine Cottage with three friends – and no children!