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The Retreat 2 bed Villa, Sanctuary in the Pocket

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Pool
Dining
Living area
Private kitchen
Terrace/patio

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 41937.5 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
The Pocket, NSW
  • Place, Marshalls Creek Nature Reserve
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, North Byron Parklands
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Place, Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Airport, Gold Coast, QLD (OOL-Coolangatta)
    ‪49 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Soap · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The Retreat 2 bed Villa, Sanctuary in the Pocket

The Retreat is a beautifully decorated modern 2 bedroom cottage, situated in a 5 acre tropical and exotic botanical garden with a tranquil creek.

The 12 metre outdoor pool is for the exclusive use of guests staying in The Retreat. It has a beautifully landscaped deck and Balinese gazebo, along with day beds and water gardens. The Retreat is surrounded by covered decks as well.

A romantic getaway for couples seeking peace and serenity while in close proximity to the cafes and restaurants of Brunswick Heads and Mullumbimby, and the spectacular beaches of New Brighton and South Golden.

Wander through the gardens, picnic on the lawn, sit by the creek and dip your toes, or hang out in the hammock.

Everything you need within the cottage is provided, Nespresso coffee machine, Samsung HD Smart TV, access to stream movies, Netflix, TV and music, and a log fire to curl up in front of for those snug winter nights.

Air conditioning is provided through out.

A gorgeous sound system to enjoy all day long and a huge deck to kick back on.

Cook up a storm in the fully appointed kitchen or use the BBQ , utilising the beautiful local produce for those lazy afternoons and evening barbies by the pool.

At the end of the day, sink into the luxurious king-sized pillow top bed, with crisp Egyptian cotton sheets, and mozzie net canopy

All linen and towels are provided and as well as basic kitchen and bathroom essentials.

Situated only 30 minutes from Ballina or the Gold Coast airports, we are ideally situated for that well-deserved short weekend getaway or long break.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Visitors - Please advise owners, before asking any visitors to the private property

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the area

The Pocket

Located in The Pocket, this villa is in a rural area and near the beach. Marshalls Creek Nature Reserve and Jinangong Nature Reserve reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens and Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre. Discover the area's water adventures with surfing/body boarding and fishing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with horse riding and hiking/biking trails.
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Map
The Pocket, NSW

What's nearby

  • Marshalls Creek Nature Reserve - 8 min drive - 8.4 km
  • Jinangong Nature Reserve - 10 min drive - 9.9 km
  • North Byron Parklands - 10 min drive - 10.3 km
  • Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve - 11 min drive - 11.8 km
  • Brunswick Picture House - 13 min drive - 14.5 km

Getting around

  • Mullumbimby Station - 17 min drive
  • Gold Coast, QLD (OOL-Coolangatta) - 38 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Salt Mill - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Ichi Bun - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Yaman Mullumbimby - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Baker and Daughters - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Santos Organics Mullumbimby - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does The Retreat 2 bed Villa, Sanctuary in the Pocket have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

How much does it cost to stay at The Retreat 2 bed Villa, Sanctuary in the Pocket?

As of 30 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Retreat 2 bed Villa, Sanctuary in the Pocket on 15 May 2026 start from £271, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is The Retreat 2 bed Villa, Sanctuary in the Pocket pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at The Retreat 2 bed Villa, Sanctuary in the Pocket?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Retreat 2 bed Villa, Sanctuary in the Pocket?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Retreat 2 bed Villa, Sanctuary in the Pocket?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is The Retreat 2 bed Villa, Sanctuary in the Pocket located?

Situated in the mountains, this villa is within 9 miles (15 km) of Marshalls Creek Nature Reserve, Jinangong Nature Reserve and North Byron Parklands. Billinudgel Nature Reserve and Inner Pocket Nature Reserve are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 23 out of 24 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 24 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 24 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 24 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 24 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andy V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic location having lush forest retreat and so close to beaches and cool little pub at Billinudgel. Hosts were really friendly.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jenny

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Relaxing getaway with all the trimmings with a several drivable destinations if you feel the need to leave. With lovely helpful hosts!
Verified

8/10 Good

Jeffrey R.

Lives up to its'great reputation

While only a weekend getaway while visiting family in Mullimbimby, this property ticks all the boxes. Recommended
Stayed 2 nights in May 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Serene and beautiful getaway

My partner and I stayed here for a few nights after our wedding, and it was the perfect little getaway tucked away in the serene nature in the Pocket. It really was like a little Sanctuary. Beautiful four poster bed and bath! It has everything you need to relax and make yourself at home. The pool and the cabana is gorgeous and would be great to cool off in summer. Love this place and would highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marwa E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Most beautiful and peaceful stay!

Jonathan & Susie It is so upsetting that we had to leave this early due to the drive back home. We have left this beautiful place filled with amazing memories all thanks to you beautiful people! Unfortunately due to COVID we were restricted on going to Bali with a private pool for our honeymoon. When I came across this place it was a straight book in and let me tell you no regrets whatsoever. My husband and I were extremely happy with the place as it was not only peaceful and quiet but as well as your service! You both managed to keep us updated and would tell us when tasks were getting done Thank you so much once again and surely surely you will see us again! All the best for your future! Hopefully many more happy days to come for the both of you! 😊
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing Family time in The Pocket

Our kids loved being so close to nature, loved the pool and they loved the wonderful garden. They cannot wait to go back. There are loads of lovely touches at the house, the cabana by the pool allows you to relax while watching the kids. The gardens are stunning and you get to enjoy the wonderful sounds of birds and beautiful trees. It is a short drive to an excellent surf beach. It is very quiet in the evenings. There are great food options in Brunswick and Mullumbimby (Milk and Honey was as good a pizza as we have tried and Baker and Daughter is a superb bakery). Punch and Daisy has great coffee. The house comes with aircon which was needed in Jan.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew J.

Beautiful Property

My wife and I enjoyed a short stay at the property with our two children. The property was spotlessly clean and had everything we required to have a relaxing stay. We would definitely recommend this property to anyone who wanted a break away from the stresses of everyday life.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

kristel g.

Very clean airy house

Very pretty little house in beautiful setting. Every room has doors so you can have the being inside/outside feeling. Nicely decorated and wooden floors. No need to go explore the surrounding area if you don’t feel like it, you won’t feel like missing out if you laze by the pool the whole day. I highly recommend this very beautiful haven in the hinterlands of Byron Bay.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dee O.

Exceeded all of our expectation is completely

This property was more then we could’ve wished for. Susie was absolutely fantastic and greeted us warmly on arrival. We had the rest of our visit completely to ourselves. The house is beautifully furnished with Balinese pieces. The gardens, tranquillity, tropical plants etc made us feel like we were in Indonesia! The pool was just perfect especially having the lovely Kabana so close. We enjoyed a barbecue one night, and all cooking utensils, kitchen equipment were all we needed. We absolutely loved this accommodation and will definitely refer all our friends! Hope to come back soon.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

JULIE J.

The best 10/10

The most wonderful peaceful sanctuary with everything we needed. What a way to experience the local community. Highly recommend. We will definitely return regularly. The beautiful surroundings, very tasteful furniture, comfy bed and just so clean. Did not want to leave,
Archival

10/10 Excellent

BEAU S.

Perfect!

We only stayed a total of three nights, which definitely was not enough. You could stay within those magical grounds forever. With Balinese touches in every direction you are truly transported to a resort lifestyle. We greatly appreciated the warm, friendly nature of Suzie, Johnny, jaky and Bella. We cannot wait to come and lounge in the bungalow under more sunny conditions. - The cleanliness was incredible, everything was in new condition. - The canopy bed was incrediblly romantic and comfortable. - At about 20 or so minutes out of Byron Bay itself, amongst the farmlands and trees we found ourselves to be souly emersed in the tranquillity of the area and we're able to escape the Hustle and bustle of the town centre after a day of adventure. - The quality was incredible, we have stayed at alot of holiday homes and never felt so welcomed and relaxed. We all (mum, dad, daughter and son) highly recommend to anyone of any age.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Tim M.

A true Sanctuary

We came to Sanctuary in the Pocket for our honeymoon and it ticked all the boxes - privacy, peacefulness, beautiful surrounds and lovely hosts. Highlights were morning and evening walks around the property, our picnic on the grass, the magnificent tree and cosy nights in by the fire, cooking meals. We thought we'd go out for dinner a lot but loved it there so much we stayed in and cooked. Jonathan and Susy were absolutely lovely - friendly and warm and respectful of privacy. We look forward to returning in Summer time!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

IAN C.

What a delight!

A great experience in peaceful surroundings made all the better by our lovely and helpful hosts. Staying at The Retreat was a perfect way to spend a few relaxing days - all the necessary comforts at hand, the rooms tastefully and lovingly furnished and our very own pool the cherry on top even if the recent rain had made the water a little chilly! Recommend to to anyone looking for a quiet escape from the problems of the world.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Jemma W.

Fabulous stay..

Loved our stay at The Pocket. Gorgeous wee property with great gardens & awesome amenities. Great spot, great surroundings. Perfect for our last three days of holidays. Great hostess too. Thanks.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

RENNAE R.

Absolutely Fabulous Retreat

My best friend and I had a wonderful time over the weekend staying at the Sanctuary in The Pocket. So relaxing, just an amazing setting. I will be back to visit this beautiful gem with my fiance so I can enjoy this quite peaceful relaxing special little hide away. It was so close to the other great little villages in the area we enjoyed exploring and having amazing food all weekend with the Sanctuary in The Pocket being our hub. We will definitely be back.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

ANTOINETTE R.

A Perfect Place For Our Wedding!

Four days of luxurious bliss, bathing and soaking in the beautiful sunshine and pool, we couldn't have chosen a better place for our wedding. Jonathan and Susie have created an idyllic get-away, set in the most beautifully landscaped gardens one could imagine. The Retreat is a charming mix of Balinese and country Australian decor. We found its facilities met our every need and comfort. Couldn't have made us feel more welcome, from the bottle of bubbly in the fridge, through to the welcome gift of first season honey from their hives, to Jonathan's excellent photography that will provide us with lasting memories of this special time. We couldn't recommend it highly enough - we'll be back! Steve Bignell and Antoinette Richter
Archival

10/10 Excellent

ARLET B.

Create precious family memories

What a lovely surprise! Bali in the Bush! A wonderful escape from the busy city for the parents and a special place to explore and play for our small children. Such a gorgeous home away from home, truly a labour of love. 5-star facilities, amazing pool and gazebo, super clean and tidy, wifi, Apple TV/Netflix. Easy 15 min drive to Mullimbimby and Brunswick Heads (no crowds!) and 20 mins from beautiful (but busy) Byron Bay. We will be back next year!! BIG THANKS to the lovely hosts Jonathan and Susie who made our stay extra special! ?.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

ROB C.

Beautiful property

We had an amazing Christmas break at the Sanctuary, our accommodation was the retreat which is absolutely stunning. The gardens are beautifully manicured and the pool is perfect as there is plenty of both sun and shade as you wish. Jonathan and Susie are incredibly kind, generous and sociable hosts with whom we clicked instantly. Our one and only regret was that we didn't book it for the new year period too. All four of us can't wait to return!!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

NIKI W.

Paradise!

My husband, our two children and I stayed in The Retreat @ Sanctuary in the Pocket over new years, I cannot really find the words to express just how fabulous our stay was! The accommodation was beautiful but at the same time functional, and suited our family perfectly. Jonathan was a fabulous host and made sure we were well looked after throughout our stay, and finally the property was beautifully maintained and such gorgeous surroundings for a relaxing quiet holiday. The property is located in an area, that makes you feel that you are a million miles away from civilisation, but the local General Store, Chemist, and other essential shops/services are only a few minutes drive away. If you're interested in seeing the local Attractions, everything is within a 1/2 hour drive, or if you want to nip up to the GC it will only take you around 50mins! Highly recommend you visit this beautiful accommodation and property! Dont hesitate, it was literally our best every NYE accommodation ever.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

TOM M.

A Hidden Gem!

We would love to have stayed longer than our two nights in this truly delightful hidden gem. The beautiful gardens, pool, quality accommodation and the excellent hosts, Jonathan and Susie all added to a memorable experience.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Christina M.

Truly a sanctuary

We came here to escape the Canberra winter and were not disappointed. Great décor, very relaxing, beautiful outlook. Lots of interesting, picturesque drives in the area. Jonathon and Suzie were very friendly and helpful. We would definitely come back and would recommend to others.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

MARY W.

Excellent property

Had a most relaxing time very peaceful, lovely accommodation and great hosts
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Jean W.

Beautiful property, beautiful grounds and pool.

Thank you Sue and Jonathan for creating such a truly relaxing holiday home and for being such good hosts.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Susan D.

Exceeded my very high expectations!

My husband and I had our second honeymooon at Sanctuary in the Pocket - which is every bit as stunning in real life as it is in the photos. Jonathan and Susie were super helpful and welcoming and have created an environment where beauty, tranquility and romance are everywhere you look. It was as close to perfect as you can get. Plus we loved the surrounding area and can't wait to come back. Thanks J and S for a totally replenishing and memorable stay.

About the host

Hosted by Lisa Galea

Host profile image
London Born, I've lived in Middle East & Africa before moving to Australia as a teenager. My husband Mike is also from the UK but more of a country mouse than me with green fingers that supply me with an abundance of fresh produce to play with. We have been married for almost 25 years and both have a love of nature, a strong sense of adventure and approach life with a sense of play and curiosity. I currently consult as a creative alchemist working from an intersection of design and behavioural science to active positive change for business ecosystems,

Our children have left the nest and we are now excited to move forward into the next phase of our journey and create a space in the Byron Hinterland that activates your senses and is full of both creativity and love.

Why they chose this property

The whole area is beautiful, however, we found that this valley, The Pocket offered the best of both worlds. Easy access to a buzzing lifestyle with great shops, art, beaches & access to airports plus our own tropical private oasis lifestyle.
It is beautifully peaceful, in a lovely rural valley with cattle and horses, but is very close to the beautiful Ocean beaches of New Brighton and South Golden (10 Minutes) and the lovely townships of Mullumbimby and Brunswick Heads (10 Minutes). Byron Bay is only 20 minutes away and the Gold Coast airport 25 minutes away.
Wonderfully centrally located, whilst also being incredibly quiet and peaceful.

What makes this property unique

We both fell in love with this property from the moment we came through the front gates, feeling welcome as we opened Bali Doors and explored hand made Bali style villas that had been built with love and care so many thoughtful touches had gone into their design. The gardens won us over as we could feel nature was recharging us from our first visit. 5 acres of beautifully mature rainforest garden, with an amazing variety of huge trees, fresh fruit and exotic plants. To cap it all off there is a beautiful creek that runs through one side of the property. Sitting quietly in the garden is an absolute pleasure, listening to the sounds of the water flowing and birds singing.

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