All posts filed under: Sydney

Stay at the dog friendly Dryridge Estate, Blue Mountains

Published by Jacqueline Langford

Located in the Megalong Valley and just a 20-minute drive from Katoomba or only two hours from Sydney, the Dryridge Estate is easy to find, with ample signage available after turning off from Megalong Road. Before arriving at the winery, there is a 2km stretch of unsealed road (a little bumpy at times), and one you’ll need to drive slowly along before reaching the estate. And once you arrive, oh my… you will absolutely love your stay.. The secret is out about staying at the beautiful Sunrise Lodge, in the heart of the Dryridge Estate, surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Blue Mountains National Park. We booked our accommodation four months in advance, and one which I’d say was well worth the wait. As you settle in to your cabin, what a phenomenal sight – insert those love heart eyes emoji. It is absolutely spectacular when staying in the Sunrise Lodge accommodation. Imagine a private cabin located on the high side of a hill, with views over the vineyards and a magnificent mountain backdrop …

The Best Views from Wollondilly Tops Farm, Canyonleigh

Published by Jacqueline Langford

Less than a 2-hour drive from Sydney’s CBD, or a 45-minute drive from Bowral, you will find the expansive Wollondilly Tops property in Canyonleigh. Searching for our next dog friendly road trip from Sydney, I found this accommodation in the Southern Highlands area – instantly captured by the cliff top valley views. Wollondilly Tops is situated about 300m above the Wollondilly River Valley, and from our cabin, I could not see any neighbours in sight. I can tell you now, having experienced this stay first hand, the photos are real and the views are absolutely stunning and magical. The accommodation listing introduced the property with words along the lines of “sensational views at Wollondilly Tops”… it is that, and more. We were fortunate to have clear skies all weekend; epic sunrises from the cabin deck, spectacular sunsets sweeping across the valley, and night skies shining bright, perfect for stargazing too. Despite being off-grid, your cabin is small yet cosy and relaxing; expect a comfy bed, a modern ensuite with great water pressure in the shower, …

Vale of Avoca Lookout in Grose Vale

Published by Jacqueline Langford

Looking for a new place to explore around Sydney – not too far to drive to, but rewarding to visit too? One of the spectacular lookouts that I love to escape to, is the Vale of Avoca Lookout in Grose Vale, located in the Hawkesbury region and the Blue Mountains National Park. If you’re driving from Sydney towards Richmond, Kurrajong or Bilpin areas, this is a secluded turn off point en-route, that I’d highly recommend for you to stop by and see. Personally, I wouldn’t drive all this way just to visit this lookout however, it is a great attraction if you’re near, and it’s free to visit too. Vale of Avoca is situated about 300m above the Grose River Gorge, looking out over the beautiful Blue Mountains region and the lower Grose Valley. The best times to visit is on a cool, sunny day – the less windy the better – and you should bring some water, a hat and wear a sturdy pair of walking shoes or boots. I’d also suggest not to …

Dog friendly weekend stay: Kims Beachside Retreat

Published by Jacqueline Langford

I’m always hanging for another road trip – and better yet, when dog friendly stays are on the cards too. Just over an hour’s drive from Sydney’s CBD, you’ll find the beautiful Kims Beachside Retreat on the Central Coast, in the beachside town of Toowoon Bay. This accommodation caters for guests aged 12-years and over only, and is pet friendly. Yes, you read right a boutique beach resort, with suite or villa rooms, that only cater for adults… and allows pets. Can you believe it?! I certainly couldn’t at first. We don’t have children of our own and whilst I have no issues with them (quite a few of my friends have kids), it’s rare to find waterfront getaways that cater for just adults – and dogs can join too. On arrival, there are two main parking bays; the Terrace level car park is generally better parking (it was empty most times we left and returned), however you’re required to walk several steps down to reception and then on to your room. For anyone driving …

Family Fun And A Dog Friendly Getaway At Eden Farm Escape, Bilpin

Published by Jacqueline Langford

Looking for your next relaxing weekender out of Sydney? Located just 1.5-hours drive from Sydney’s CBD in the small town of Bilpin, Eden Farm Escape is a beautiful, luxury farm stay, owned and managed by Eden Equine. Set on a 90-acre equine farm, this is one of the most unique, pet friendly accommodation stays that I’ve experienced.. and thoroughly enjoyed too mind you. The change in scenery hits you as soon as you arrive, that ‘ahh moment’ knowing you’re about to unwind from what was only a short road trip out of the big city. With your choice of five self-contained cabins, this is the perfect getaway for a couple, a family, or a group of friends to stay on a relatively quiet and peaceful acreage. The cabins are clustered near enough to each other and only walking distance apart, yet still offering privacy in between. And what I love even more about this stay, is that your dog is welcome too. Our accommodation was in the Charlie Cabin, a modern 2-bedroom property equipped with …