Cherry Tree Lane, Hannam Vale
Manning Valley

A beautiful and eco-minded property that ticks all the holiday boxes…

Overall rating?        Outstanding       

What makes Benbellen Country Retreat different?
This wonderful property is so many things … a country retreat, farm stay, B&B, country cottages – and all with environmental concerns firmly at the fore. As you arrive you are entranced by the farmland setting, superb outlook and luxurious country home.  This is a working farm, and the kids will love feeding the animals, including baby alpacas (depending on the timing of your visit).

Accommodation overview
You are spoiled for choice here!  Stay in the B&B luxury of the house for a country retreat with a gourmet 3 course dinner and full cooked breakfast, or choose the self-contained cottage. The cottage has all you need for a wonderful breakfast provided… feast on home made jam, cereal, milk, fresh home baked bread, farm fresh eggs, yoghurt, fresh squeezed local juice, tea and coffee.  Quality linen is provided and the alpaca wool doonas are cosy and warm.  The Country Retreat has 2 large bedrooms, both with queen-size beds and large ensuites and one has a private verandah.

Cherry Tree Cottage is an eco-friendly, self-contained cottage built from local NSW North Coast timbers, and features original artwork by a local artist. The generous main bedroom has a queen bed and French doors leading onto the verandah. The second bedroom has bunks and a single bed.

Facilities overview
The farmhouse (Country Retreat) has a magnificent library and the elevated outlook means there is always something to see. ‘Benbellen’ is an aboriginal word meaning “high, quiet place” and perfectly describes the property.  Fabulous decks allow you to enjoy the view from the cottages or the farmhouse and there a number of great walks around and close to the property.  For the young (and even the not-so-young!) the animal feeding is a must!

Location
Take the F3 from Sydney, then follow the Pacific Highway past Taree, then turn left on to Hannam Vale Road at Moorland.  The property is about 20 kms from the turn-off.  Hannam Vale is one third of the way from Sydney to Brisbane - just under half way from Sydney to Byron Bay; an ideal stopping off point for travellers up and down the highway or as a base for local attractions.

Suitable for children?        Yes, but keep a close eye on little ones as this a working farm and there is a dam  (fenced).

Suitable for pets?               By arrangement at Cherry Tree Cottage, and absolutely welcome at nearby Penlan Cottage which is operated by the same folk and set up to the same high standard as Cherry Tree Cottage at Benbellen.  

Wheelchair access?          No

Perfect for?
The Country Retreat is the ideal B&B for couples wanting time together in a glorious part of the world – in touch with nature and away from the hustle and bustle of everyday living.

Cherry Tree Cottage is perfect for couples who prefer self-contained accommodation and ideal for families.

Why stay longer?
The ‘away from it all’ feeling – you really feel you are out in the bush. The kids love helping out with farm chores, hanging out with the alpacas and being a part of a working farm. You could easily stay for a week in the cottage, as the region abounds with things to do, such as bush walks in various national parks surrounding the area, historic Timbertown is close by and the cute old fashioned cinema Laurieton is definitely worth a visit.  The local store sells everything and is the social hub of the area.

Why you wouldn’t stay longer?
If you are after restaurants and lots of people or want to be close to the beach this is not for you. Benbellen is a good 20 minute drive inland from the highway and is a true country retreat - a place for people who want to slow down, chill out and take it easy.

Pricing
Costs depend on whether you choose the Country Retreat or one of the cottages, age of children and time of year, so check the listing for details.