Lives are so busy these days that for many of us, long holidays are a thing of the past. We seem to be taking shorter but more frequent breaks and one of the most important points in deciding where to stay is the distance between home and the property. Count yourself lucky if you live in Sydney, as Tilba Cottage, nestled in the serene bush and national parks of the central coast, is only 90 minutes from Sydney – but miles away from the everyday.
It is rare to travel such a short distance from the centre of a major city and find such a sense of peace and seclusion, but Tilba Cottage has all that and more. Located at Pretty Beach near Hardy’s Bay, this gorgeous property seems to float among the treetops in its bushland setting, but is only moments from glorious beaches, gourmet restaurants and cafes, and Bouddi National Park, renowned for its ocean views, spectacular sandstone cliffs, wildflowers and sheltered bays.
Tilba Cottage, with its cedar construction and high vaulted ceilings, is perfect for a break any time of the year. There are two bedrooms sleeping up to 5 people. The main bedroom has a queen-size bed, as well as a single trundle, and the second bedroom has a double bed. Pillows, doonas and blankets are supplied, making it so easy to throw some sheets, towels and clothes in a bag, the boogie boards in the car and just take off for a few days away in this magical spot.
Everything you need is here – a well-equipped kitchen, combined lounge and dining room, bathroom (complete with spa) and laundry and separate toilet … and that view!
Whatever your favourite holiday pastime, the beaches near Tilba Cottage have you covered. Surfing (of course!), snorkelling, kayaking and sailing – all here! If casting a line is your idea of heaven, then you may never want to leave the Central Coast, as there is an abundance of fishing spots and plenty of room for all comers. For even more solitude, why not hire a boat from the marina and find your own spot to soak up the sun and dangle a line. If the fish aren’t biting, then you have your choice of great places to eat, from fish and chips on the beach to something a little more formal, if that takes your fancy. Or take your catch back to cottage and make the most of the BBQ on the front deck.
There is a great children’s park nearby – with water views, of course - as well as tennis courts. The board walk at nearby Putty Beach has panoramic views back to Sydney, underlining once again how you can feel miles away, and yet be so close to “civilisation”.
Make the most of the extensive walks through the national park and breathe air that is so clean you can almost taste it. There are walks to suit every fitness level, or you can choose to stroll the beaches and enjoy a dip in the clear waters.
If no holiday is complete without a little retail therapy, then the array of shops at nearby Terrigal, Ettalong, Umina and Woy Woy will have you reaching for your wallet in no time at all.
Whatever you choose, you will need to plan more than one visit to Tilba Cottage, as there are so many things to do in the area it would take many visits to be able to say that you had done it all. You may choose to come for the myriad activities, but it is a sense of peace and relaxation that you will take away with you.
About the Author
Lisa Monk is a marketing communications writer with a diverse background that includes experience in travel, hotel, finance, public relations and advertising. She has worked with Club Med, the Holiday Inn group and on a number of other travel projects on a freelance basis. Lisa has travelled throughout Asia Pacific, North America and England.
Lisa now works with TakeABreak.com.au as editor of the Holiday Inspirations newsletter and other publications. She lives in Sydney with her husband Andy, and sons Joseph and Nicholas.
Lisa is a professional editor for Holiday Inspirations.
