Five day family getaway to Calabash Bay Lodge
If you’re looking for a restorative family holiday that will help everyone (young and old) to slow down, breathe deeply and recharge, here’s a five-day itinerary for guests at Calabash Bay Lodge.
Day 1: Arrive and breathe
Afternoon
Make the journey just as exciting as the arrival with a sea plane from Sydney directly to Calabash Bay Lodge. Or, arrive by boat (either your own or ours). Either way, the arrival itself is creating fun memories for everyone in the family.
Let our on-site chef (optional extra) prepare drinks and canapes as you spend your first night under the stars catching up with one another. For families with little ones, parents can enjoy some quality time together once they’re tucked up in bed.
Evening
Go to sleep listening to the gentle flow of the river as you sink into what will be a much-needed quality time with loved ones whilst surrounded by nature.
Our enchanting view over Berowra Creek, a tributary of the Hawkesbury River
Day 2: Immerse yourself in nature
Morning
Wake up to the sound of bird song amongst sumptuous Bemboka linens on our pillow top premium beds after a great night’s sleep.
Once charged up for the day, take the whole family to the water to try stand up paddle boarding or an all-ages yoga session in the rooftop wellness studio.
Middle of the day
Head out on the boat to discover one of three nearby National Parks. There’s something for everyone in the family at Marramarra National Park including walks, hikes, swimming, kayaking and bike riding tracks. We recommend a guided tour with River Adventures who combine a hike with a kayak - outdoor bliss that will leave you fully recharged.
Have our chef prepare a picnic you can enjoy whilst taking in the surrounding natural sounds, smells and sights. Your mind and body will thank you for it.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, enjoy some alone time in the lodge either snuggled up with a book in one of the many nooks and crannies or, indulge in a hot-stone massage whilst listening to the ebbs and flows of the river.
Evening
Come together again in the evening to share stories and laughter. The eco fire is the perfect place to snuggle up and enjoy quality time after a day restoring your energy levels amongst nature.
Day 3: Wine and dine
Morning
Start the day right with a swim off the lodge’s private pontoon and prepare for a big day of delicious local food and drink. Kids love making a splash as they bomb dive into the water. Alternatively, have a family game of cricket at low tide on the nearby Calabash Bay beach.
Middle of the day
Hit the water today with a boat tour to Bar Island where you’ll walk along a historic trail to learn about the Aborigional and colonial history of the river. Fun and educational for kids and parents alike. Afterwards, head to one of the Oyster Farms at Mooney Mooney for a delicious lunch.
Afternoon
Cross the ferry as pedestrians and go to the Children’s Playground at Berowra Waters Marina. The playground has its very own pirate ship for kids to play captain!
Evening
Let our (optional) on-site chef prepare a family meal whilst you relax. There’s a range of tailored options available for families of all ages, allergies and preferences.
Or, let us arrange a local babysitter whilst the adults head out to Berowra Waters Inn for dinner. This modern Australian fine dining restaurant focuses on an all Australian degustation sourced from local makers, growers and suppliers. Enjoy what’s in season knowing it’s prepared with great attention to detail.
Day 4: Simple pleasures
Morning
Enjoy quality time together over a morning coffee or tea from one of the many private balconies overlooking the river.
Kids love to watch the fish feeding underneath the bottom of the Pontoon from the top deck first thing in the morning. Today is about choosing your own adventure and taking it slow.
Middle of the day
Discover many nooks and crannies of the river by using the lodge’s double and single kayaks or stand up paddle boards. Paddling up one of the three creeks in Calabash Bay, you’ll pause to hear absolute silence - interjected only by birdsong.
Head up river in our complimentary guest boat to a secluded beach for a gourmet picnic or a spot of fishing. We have rods and crab pots available for the whole family to use.
If you wait until late afternoon for a spot of fishing under the sandstone cliffs, you’ll soak up the golden light as the sun hits the gumtrees. Pure heaven!
Evening
Cook your catch this evening back at the lodge, before gathering around for a family game of cards before watching a latest release movie on our high definition OLED TV.
Day 5: Breakfast and depart
Before checking out mid-morning, savour the atmosphere waterside from our hanging pod chairs under the shade of our jacaranda tree, or one of our French striped deck chairs with a fishing rod dangling in the water.
Or have your last morning taken care of, with an in house brunch with our private chef taking the pressure off parents right up to the moment you depart.