Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery

Photo gallery for Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery

A dining area with a wooden table, chairs, a chandelier, a painting, and windows with curtains.
A compact kitchen with a gas stove, a coffee maker, and a dishwasher.
A living room with a sofa, a dining area, and a painting on the wall.
A bedroom with a wooden bed, a nightstand, a lamp, a framed picture on the wall, and a window with curtains.
A living room with a sofa, a coffee table, a fireplace, a chandelier, and a painting on the wall.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Made for relaxation
    Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
  • Private fenced-in yard
    One of the few properties with a fully fenced outdoor space.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Katoomba Scenic World

Popular amenities

  • Patio
  • Toys
  • Barbecue grill
  • Free internet
  • Refrigerator
  • Washing machine

Explore the area

View in a map
Katoomba, NSW
  • Place, Blue Mountains Cultural Centre
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Place, Katoomba Scenic World
    ‪14 min walk‬
  • Place, Three Sisters
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, Western Sydney Intl. Airport (WSI)
    ‪66 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed and 1 Crib

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed and 1 Single Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

Add dates for prices

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admiring view with warm glow of wood burner. Picture courtesy of Raelene
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About the area

Katoomba

Located in Katoomba, this holiday home is near theme parks and on a river. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Katoomba Scenic World and Blue Mountains National Park. Travelling with kids? Consider Blue Mountains Cultural Centre and Everglades Historic House & Gardens. Kayaking and swimming offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain climbing and rock climbing nearby.
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Map
Katoomba, NSW

What's nearby

  • Blue Mountains Cultural Centre - 12 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Katoomba Falls - 12 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Katoomba Scenic World - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Three Sisters - 3 min drive - 2.3 km
  • Echo Point Lookout - 3 min drive - 2.3 km

Getting around

  • Katoomba Station - 18 min walk
  • Western Sydney Intl. Airport (WSI) - 69 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Carrington - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Fish & Fowl - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Mountain Culture Beer Co. - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Sushi n Co. - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Old City Bank Bar and Brasserie - ‬16 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery located?

This family-friendly Katoomba holiday home is located on a river, within 1 mi (2 km) of Blue Mountains Cultural Centre and Katoomba Scenic World. Katoomba Falls and Prince Henry Cliff Walk Trailhead are also within 1 mile (2 km). Katoomba Station is 18 minutes by foot.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 33 out of 40 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 40 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 40 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 40 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 40 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a cute and cosy cottage with lots of eclectic vintage furniture and artwork. Great location on a quiet street but still within a good walking distance to the shops. We had a great weekend at Fiona’s cottage.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Wonderful stay

We really enjoyed our stay, the location was perfect for walks as well as eating and the house was just as we liked it.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Perfect Mountain holiday

Very quiet and cosy but so close to all the attractions and amenities. A really great place to stay.
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Jul, 2024
It was an absolute pleasure to host Leigh. She was a brillant guest in every way.. highly recommended. Thank you Leigh.
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Quaint little cottage

The stay was memorable with beautiful walks, close to town and a warm welcome from the owner.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful authentic 1950’s (?) place to stay with all you need for a weekend away. Warm, comfortable, interesting place that is far enough away but close enough to all you need!!Highly recommended to those wanting a different, and as I said authentic 50’s (not an 5 star hotel) experience!
Parking and such a lovely place
Beautiful garden
Our wet afternoon…
View from the front bedroom
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug, 2025
Thank you for being a wonderful guest Phillipa. You are most welcome anytime. Highly recommended to all hosts.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Weekend Stay

Thanks Fiona for your wonderful hospitality. We enjoyed staying at Moonya!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Close to central

Is a cosy and clean place. Centrally located with easy walking distance to the scenic areas. We will definitely stay there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Jan, 2025
Seok and family were excellent guests. Highly recommended and it would be a pleasure to host again
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay at this Blue Mountains home. The location was excellent — perfectly positioned for exploring the area while still feeling peaceful and relaxing. The house was warm, well heated and very comfortable.The welcoming gift on arrival was a lovely and thoughtful touch and immediately made us feel at home. The house was beautifully decorated, the beds were cozy and everything was clean and well set up for a comfortable stay.We really enjoyed our time here and would happily stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Nice Cottage

Stayed here for UTA weekend, nice and convenient to walk down to Scenic World, house was nice with comfy beds. also not too far if you wanted to walk up into the heart of Katoomba aswell.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
A lovely cottage to base our Blue Mountains hiking holiday from. A pleasant walk into town & nearby attractions. Cosy & comfortable - live like a local!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Fantastic stay

We had a lovely time staying in this cute cottage. It was a perfect place to base our stay while exploring the area. The host was very friendly and helpful and made us feel very welcome. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Dec, 2022
Thank you for being such wonderful guests Rebecca
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Nice small house

we enjoyed the house,especialy dining room
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Wonderful stay

Had a great week at the cottage, it was very peaceful and perfect for writing. Great location close to town and scenic walks, and the heating is perfect for cold nights. Thank you!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Oct, 2021
Thank you Elaine for being such terrific guests. Look forward to hosting you both again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was very professional and polite. Thank you. The house is 1950’s charm in an absolutely beautiful street which is wonderfully quiet and close to town. We had a delightful time. Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

A Pleasant and Relaxing Stay in Katoomba

We enjoyed the comfortable cottage and the quiet, tranquil location. The home is light filled and has lovely windows. The mattresses are comfortable, the large gas stove is a real treat, and the gas heating with floor vents was an exceptional bonus.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Moonya stay Spring 2023

we had a great week at Moonya, it is a lovely characterful property in a wonderful location. Fiona is very easy to communicate with and has the property well prepared for our stay, including some stocks in the fridge etc. We would defiantly stay again in the future
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Mother Daughter Trip

Moonya was a great base for exploring the Blue Mountains together. Over our stay it became home with comfortable beds, clean kitchen and bathroom, comfy lounge. Location was excellent! Thank you, Fiona. The food supplies you left were much appreciated.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Dec, 2022
Thank you for being such great guests Sara
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cozy home away from home.

Third time visitors this property brings us back to Katoomba. Each time enjoying what the Blue Mountains offers but also knowing our stay at Moonya will be great. The property offers you a comfortable and cosy moment in Katoomba history. Communication fantastic, centrally located and well provisioned. Would thoroughly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Jun, 2023
Thank you Jill for the wonderful review and for being such terrific guests. Always an absolute pleasure to host you and Erin. Hope to see you in 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cosy mid-century cottage

Perfectly located, 15 mins walk from the town and from clifftop walking tracks and lookouts. Very comfortable mattress, excellent ducted heating and well-equipped kitchen (including bacon and eggs, a bottle of wine and Tim Tams!). Mid-century furniture and decor suits the Mountains’ atmosphere. My partner and I enjoyed a lovely week here - thank you!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Spring in the Mountains

Great little cottage, as described. Walking distance to three sisters, Katoomba main drag. Plenty of supplies. Easy instructions and great communication. Lovely weekend away, thanks muchly.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cozy, comfortable

Cozy, comfortable, quirky. Home from home. A nice touch to provide the makings of a cuppa, Tim Tams, bacon eggs and wine. Much appreciated.
Stayed 13 nights in Mar 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Blue Mountains Road Trip

The property was quirky and showing its age but was very clean. The weather was freezing the week we stayed and the central heating was excellent. Plenty of hot water and warm and comfortable beds. Lots of extras in the kitchen, coffee, tea bags, herbs and spices etc. Fiona was quick to respond to any questions.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Jun, 2022
Moonya is a 1950s vintage heritage mountain cottage and has kept its style and charm rather than been modernised. It is advertised as such and these guests appear not to have understood the heritage nature of the property and why its character has been retained.. Having said that It has modern quality appliances and all the comfortss. These guests didn't follow the rules and check heck out when required .
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cockatoos and Parrots

Warm welcome with chocolate & wine! Moonya is a vintage cottage with period furniture just as described, equipped with everything you might need. Lovely little yard for watching birds! Despite its age, good heat and hot water. Good location in a quiet area. If you have allergies, you might struggle due to aged furnishings.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Good location

Fiona is a fantastic host with great communication and lots of lovely touches for our arrival. The house is in a good location and in original condition (1950s) apart from the renovated bathroom. The heating is very good and we had everything we needed to make our stay comfortable. The biggest problem is that the house is packed with too much furniture! It makes it hard to move around the rooms comfortably. It would be even better if some benches were cleared and excess furniture was taken out to give a little more space.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Compared to a hotel room, the house was spacious, comfortable, and located in a quiet suburban street. We really enjoyed the location, there was no traffic at night or noise, except for the wind. Two issues we would query. I ticked the breakfast included filter, but did not find any breakfast included. If this has changed, then it should be removed from the filter. The TV remote did not work, despite replacing the remote with the spare batteries. This meant no access to streaming services, and using the button controller behind the screen was very inconvenient. The welcome box of chocolates and bottle of wine were much appreciated.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
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