If there is anything that we’ve taken for granted prior to a global pandemic and ongoing lockdowns, it is the ability to travel. With international travel out of the question, and state boarders currently closed, the Lee Mathews team have embraced the opportunity to explore our own backyard a little more than we usually would, and discover some new not-so-distant getaways that are closer to home. With this in mind, we introduce our new series LM TRAVEL – a way to share our travels and recommend places to stay, eat and experience in Australia, all tried and tested by our own team here at Lee Mathews.
Kicking off our first edition is our Buying and Planning Manager, Laura who recently spent a long weekend at MarraMarra Lodge on the Hawkesbury River, NSW.
Situated only 1 hour north of Sydney, MarraMarra lodge is tucked away on the Hawkesbury River Peninsula. My husband and I chose MarraMarra due to its close proximity to Sydney and the need to get out of the city and be completely isolated around nature – and we are so glad we did! MarraMarra did not disappoint, we felt so isolated yet so close to home. The lodge has the most amazing views in every corner you wander to, beautiful bushland and water front views. We were blown away by the whole experience, from the arrival by boat, the amazing food and wine and the serenity.
There is a choice of two options, Bungalows or Peninsula tents. We chose the tent option, which is a mix of a hotel room and a deluxe tent. The tents are pitched on the peninsula overlooking the beautiful Hawkesbury River. They have king beds and a lovely leather couch both facing the expansive balcony that overlooks the amazing view. There are no TV’s located in the room, so it was a beautiful excuse to sit back and enjoy the serenity. You can undo the tent windows to create an inside outside experience – the perfect spot to watch the sunset!
The food was exceptional. Everything is included so you don’t need to bring anything with you. We started the day with a hearty breakfast, went onto a two course lunch with Champagne, then finished with a four course dinner with matching wines. They also provide a mini bar in the room if you go hungry during the day! The Chef is very experimental, this was a highlight of our stay.. can't recommend it enough!
There was so much to do and not enough time. My partner and I spent a lot of the time reading on the balcony of our tent, drenched in sun. There are two bush walks available, we opted for the less intense version! The boat shed hosts a myriad of activities, jets skis, kayaking, paddleboards etc. We also spent the early evening by the outdoor fire before getting aboard a sunset cruise with oysters and champagne. There are endless options for activities, or the option to lay low and do nothing – something for everyone really.
I lived in the Vince set in Forest and the Tomiko Cocoon Coat. The Vince is perfect for during the day lounging around the tent, then pop the Cocoon coat on for an evening look. Plus my Solovair dealer boots, it always makes the outfit.
If you want to relax in nature, embrace the outdoors, eat delicious food!
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