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An idyllic haven, an hour from the CBD, ready to explore

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Marina
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Interior
Outdoor dining
Outdoor dining

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 6968.8 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Outdoor space
  • Barbecue grill
  • Fireplace

Explore the area

View in a map
Hawkesbury River, NSW
  • Place, Brisbane Water National Park
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Sydney Opera House
  • Place, Circular Quay
  • Airport, Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.)

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed and 1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Bathtub · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

An idyllic haven, an hour from the CBD, ready to explore

We welcome you to experience a journey to Hawksbury River's ultimate getaway, Amaroo Cottage, Boatshed and waterfront Studio all set in beautiful gardens, surrounded by natural bushland. Right on the water's edge, just an hour from Sydney, it is ready to explore.

PLEASE NOTE: THIS PROPERTY CAN ONLY BE ACCESSED BY WATER.

Originally built in the 1920s, this cottage haven, boatshed and studio have been lovingly restored and is the perfect holiday retreat for up to 3 couples or a family with children.
This beautiful accommodation looking out over breath taking views of the Hawkesbury River. Perfect for romantic getaways, baby-moons or family retreats.

French doors from the main cottage lounge and master bedroom open onto a large verandah that captures the morning light all year round.

The newly renovated kitchen blends perfectly with the pot belly stove that is recessed in the original stand stone kitchen wall.

The master bedroom, with a queen size bed, has French doors that open onto the front deck. The second bedroom has 2 single beds. The third bedroom, located in the Studio next to the Boathouse, has a double bed and views over its own deck directly onto the river. Please note, the only toilet facilities are in the main house, therefore this may not be suitable for some people during the winter months.

The newly renovated, well equipped kitchen blends perfectly with the pot bellied stove that is recessed in the original sandstone chimney.

The bathroom, although private, has views over the garden and the second "lou with a view" contains a washing machine and dryer.

A gas barbeque is ideally located on the lawn by the waters edge, sheltered by a pergola covered with giant honeysuckle. Ready to cook your catch from the jetty.

The outdoor garden tables, studio deck and private boatshed are perfect settings for afternoon drinks before retreating to the cottage terrace to watch the sun light up the sandstone in the cliffs opposite and dine. Amaroo offers complete relaxation by the river.

Arrive midweek by mail boat (weekdays only), water taxi, own boat, or a hired tinny. Mary, +61 423118363 or +61 2 99222934, can advise on catering & any restaurant excursions that you may want to plan.

Staying at Amaroo Cottage is mostly about doing nothing. There are however a couple of hand lines, a great collection of books, magazines & board games to keep you occupied. A stereo, small TV & video are also in place.

For those who wish to explore further afield, we suggest you arrange hire of a tinny.

Head over to Peats Bite a fabulous place to dine on the weekends with a pick up and drop off service available to Amaroo Guests.

What to bring

Food & Beverage
Toiletries
Favourite CD's & Videos
Hooks, bait, sinkers ... for those keen to fish

The owners regularly live in the cottage mid week if it is not rented out, so everything is kept in perfect order for your visit.

HOW TO GET THERE

Brooklyn & Deerubbun Boat Ramp at Mooney Mooney are just 45km from the Sydney Harbour Bridge so we generally suggest travelling time is less than an hour from Sydney to reach this very unique weekend getaway.

Please contact us on the above telephone number to discuss any special transport issues. (eg how suitable is a "Rubber Duck" as a mode of transport)

CHECK IN & CHECK OUT

Generally check in times are anytime after 4.00 PM on Fridays, check out by 4.00PM the day you leave. Midweek times by arrangement.

As we will leave the place open for your arrival, it is important that you let us know if you are going to be greatly delayed.

Please note that we do not accept parties under any circumstances.
We do accept dogs that are well cared for, after discussion of the suitability (1 dog only).
We do love children but it is providing parents are aware of water safety issues.

Our calendar is up to date

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Outdoor space
Barbecue grill
Water view

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 1:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Infants need a life jacket and others, water safe
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
Pets need to be free of fleas
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

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 not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Property registration number PID-STRA-4631

About the area

Bar Point

Located in Bar Point, this cottage is on the waterfront. Bulgandry Aboriginal Engraving Site and Henry Kendall Cottage & Historical Museum are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Brisbane Water National Park and Marramarra National Park. Travelling with kids? Consider Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park, or check out an event or a game at The Entertainment Grounds. With jet skiing, waterskiing and windsurfing nearby, you'll find plenty of adventures in the water.
View more Cottages in Bar PointOpens in a new window
Map
Hawkesbury River, NSW

What's nearby

  • Brisbane Water National Park - 3 min walk - 0.3 km

Getting around

  • Sydney Hawkesbury River Station - 17 min drive
  • Sydney Airport (SYD) - 71 min drive

Restaurants

  • Saddles
  • Pie In The Sky
  • The Old Road Cafe
  • The Anglers Rest
  • Lifeboat Seafood

Frequently asked questions

Is An idyllic haven, an hour from the CBD, ready to explore pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at An idyllic haven, an hour from the CBD, ready to explore?

As of 27 Mar, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at An idyllic haven, an hour from the CBD, ready to explore on 7 Apr, 2026 start from S$441, 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.

What time is check-in at An idyllic haven, an hour from the CBD, ready to explore?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at An idyllic haven, an hour from the CBD, ready to explore?

Checkout is at 1:00 PM.

Where is An idyllic haven, an hour from the CBD, ready to explore located?

This family-friendly Bar Point cottage is located on the waterfront, within 2 mi (3 km) of Brisbane Water National Park and Marramarra National Park. Spectacle Island Nature Reserve and Long Island Nature Reserve are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

9.8

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. 36 out of 40 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 40 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 40 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 40 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 40 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marie-Claire G.

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

Beautiful waterside escape

We had 3 couples at this beautiful place and arrived by boat and docked to the private wharf. It feels like you are miles away from sydney. Beautiful spot for fishing and relaxing.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Vineetha F.

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

Amaroo

We had a brilliant time at the cottagr, the host was helpful
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Clare M.

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

Amaroo is a gorgeous cottage in a beautiful setting. The deck with an uninterrupted views is magic

We had a wonderful stay at Amaroo Cottage. The position with a beautiful view over the river was amazing. The kids loved the garden and boathouse and we all enjoyed the fire by the river. The kitchen is well equipped with a great central table and view onto the verdant garden. Highly recommend Amaroo and the friendly residents on the river!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

4/10 Poor

Sarah S.

Liked: Communication
Disliked: Check-in, location, listing accuracy

Understand the property - is it for you?

This review is a fair and accurate account of our stay, all has been disclosed with the property owner so no surprises. Location - It was advertised in the wrong place, Stayz showed it as West facing, its not it East facing over the hill in a completely different location. April you lose the sun with this house at 2.30pm, we booked west facing for the sun so this was disappointing. Access to the property. Unknown from the property details disclosed on Stayz prior to booking is the jetty access. There is no pontoon nor bridge to the jetty, and you have to climb a ladder. Thankfully, we didn’t have my mum with us on this trip. 2 WAY ROPE MOORING - not pontoon mooring - we were expected to moor up against 2 pylons, grab the ladder and manage the ropes to pull the boat into free water. Not a problem I guess if you have an old tinny, only we have a nice boat and the location of the house (East facing) means it is susceptible to winds being in the exposed part of the river. If you are well versed in this 'boat parking' not a problem, but for us it was our first time, cumbersome and timely. The rope securing was disclosed after the booking was paid – I find this very misleading for the guest. I would never choose this again 1. due to the risk of damage to your boat and 2. its not easy and when you are there a few days so coming and going is painful. View from the house - this is lovely and what people come to the Hawkesbury for, rest and relaxation. Mary corresponded well and hopefully she has fixed the location now.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brigitte P.

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

So so peaceful

This was our first getaway anywhere since 2017 when my hubby broke his back at work. We weren't sure if we were ever going to go boating again, but he managed ok. The best part of the house is being able to open up all doors throughout and not just enjoy the view, but the breeze that came through daily..the home is absolutely beautiful and the view is just magical. It was one of the best Christmas days we've ever had and we look forward to coming back.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Blake M.

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

Amaroo cottage weekend

We had a lovely weekend on the hawkesbury. Mary was super helpful to make sure we had everything we needed, the neighbors were lovely and also very helpful and Amaroo is one of the most unique places we have ever stayed. It’s cosy, has incredible views and is the perfect weekend escape.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracy J.

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

Charming cottage, a perfect pace to relax.

Amaroo is a charming cottage on the most beautiful grounds and gardens with spectacular views of the Hawkesbury. We enjoyed sitting on the jetty just outside the boathouse with a glass of wine and a book. The view from the main deck is something you can never tire of, watching the sky change from early morning to sunset. The cottage is very comfortable and well set up with everything you need. We had such a relaxing time, it's the perfect place to unwind. There is lots to explore if you have a tinny or boat but we mostly just enjoyed doing nothing! Mary was a very helpful and welcoming host. I highly recommend Amaroo.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Xanthe C.

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

Peaceful and historic

Great having a cottage and separate boat shed for sleeping (grandparents and parents) Lots of different areas of the property to enjoy (fireplace, jetty, cottage and boatshed) Clear skies to see the stars and stunning views. Enough beach for a paddle and high tide and to explore at low tide. Would go back.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Utter relaxation

We spent Christmas here and it was perfect. Mary had Christmas decorations and tree set up for us on arrival. The deck was a great place to relax and watch the days go by. The view, words cannot do it justice, it is absolutely stunning.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Simone M.

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

Incredible location - a world away on Sydney’s doorstep. Fabulous for teens - so much to explore.

We had four days at this wonderful location and can’t wait to go back. We felt at home at this stunning and “secret” location with very friendly host and neighbours. Our teenagers, who have not experienced a River life like this loved exploring by boat and fishing- and are keen to explore more. Gorgeous gardens, beautiful unique accommodation. Highly recommended!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan H.

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

Charming and peaceful

We had a lovely time at Bar Point. The property is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy doing not very much at all. The cottage is lovely, particularly that amazing view from the front verandah, the garden is charming and a snooze in the boat house in the afternoon sun is bliss. Mary is a lovely host and we really appreciated her advice regarding local contacts, such as boat hire. Highly recommended.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nitesh N.

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

Beautiful retreat close to Sydney

Great property, which we enjoyed with our teens. Highly recommended location.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Harriet S.

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

Perfect Escape

We enjoyed the most relaxing weekend in Mary’s beautiful home. We felt no obligation to do anything other than enjoy the incredible view and soak up the sunshine whilst playing chess with a glass of wine down on the jetty. Mary is also a wonderful host and shared all of her local knowledge. Thank you so much for sharing your home.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Absolutely amazing

This property is so good. We couldn’t fault it. Wonderful location. Gorgeous house, beautifully decorated and very comfortable. Adored the riverside garden and brazier. The boathouse is a charming building and perfect for lounging around in. The fire trail is a great walk through stunning bush. We loved this property and highly recommend it to anyone looking in the area.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Madeline G.

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

A little piece of paradise

We loved staying in Bar Point. Even though we were so close to Sydney we felt like we were a million miles away. It was a weekend of total relaxation enjoying the views over the Hawkesbury. Mary's house is very comfortable and the view is breathtaking. She is a super host who communicated well and made us feel most welcome. We can highly recommend this property to other guests and we plan to visit again.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020
Verified

8/10 Good

John Simons S.

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

Lovely property

We had the long weekend at this property the owners were great in helping with the logistics of how to get there as it’s only accessible by boat. The house was very clean and had everything except a coffee machine. The property would be great for a couple.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Allan F.

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

Fishing Weekend

Fantastic property. Mary was lovely and very easy to communicate with. We will be back
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Monique M.

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

Enchanting property

This place has it all. Magical gardens, charmingly furnished house and views from every window. A luxurious escape.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kim W.

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

A beautiful retreat, in a stunning location.

Thank you to our hosts for providing a wonderful experience. The location itself was just stunning, allowing us to wind down. The cottage was clean and provided all we needed for a restful stay. Thank you again !
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paul S.

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

Highly recommended. Fantastic views.

Highly recommended. Fantastic views, total relaxing vibe but also plenty to do if you hire a tinny and explore private beaches and bar Island. Mary was very responsive and easy to communicate with. We are regulars to the river and would say this is one of the best places we've stayed. Hope to be back. Thanks Mary.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ros Porter

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

Amaroo at Bar Point, Hawkesbury River, NSW

If you want to get away from busy city life, Amaroo is perfect.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pauline B.

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

Lovely to hang on the river

remote and relaxing.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alex H.

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

Fantastic Cottage + Great host

We had a wonderful stay in the cottage, was a great overdue catch up for 6 of us from the city and our dog. We spend the weekend down on the jetty sharing wines & fishing - perfectly relaxing. Would recommend getting there in the daytime if you're hiring a tinnie as we had a few issues tying it up but Mary was great and very easy to speak with. Thanks for sharing your house with us.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristin d.

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

Delightful getaway

Delightful character filled cottage and boat shed . Exactly as it appears in the photographs . Gorgeous location , easy to get to , water taxi service is quick , friendly and punctual , we would highly recommend Amaroo for anyone needing a relaxing weekend , turn your phones off and enjoy
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nigel W.

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

The essence of tranquility.

Beautiful, engaging property. Perfect spot in which to let time slip by.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2019

About the host

Hosted by Mary Threlfall

Host profile image
We bought Amaroo in 1981 and have had wonderful family times there. It's ideal for children from 3 to perhaps 16.
We are both keen sailors and have spent a lot of time on the water. The Garden was designed by Michael Bligh and built by Michael Bates.
I am a keen gardener and spend as much time in it as I can. I am a Guide at the Botanic Gardens.

Jonathan had written books in the Studio. His daughter and sister have painted many pictures, including a small one in the kitchen.

It is a family home and so lots of books and games suitable for all ages.

Why they chose this property

We love water views and when we first came to Sydney, we drew a compass circle around North Sydney where we lived, and still do, representing travel distance of less than 1 1/2 hours. We travelled the Blue Mountains and the Hawkesbury and fell in love with Amaroo and its boat house and jetty.

We think its the most beautiful property on the river

What makes this property unique

The tranquility, the garden, the excitement of young kids at jumping into the water. Everything.

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