04xx xxx xxx

Guest Compendium

Guest Information

Welcome to Mt Hay Retreat and the stunning New South Wales South Coast. Our goal is to make your stay as memorable and relaxing as possible. Should you require anything during your stay, please do not hesitate to call.

Included in your room rate:

  • King size bed or twin beds – as specified at the time of booking
  • Spacious bathroom with walk in shower
  • Lotions, potions & slippers
  • Bathrobes and towels
  • Private balcony with large sliding doors for indoor outdoor living
  • Feature bath on your private deck
  • Large FHD LCD TV
  • Individually controlled reverse cycle air conditioning
  • Complimentary fresh fruit bowl
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi internet access
  • Freshly laundered, high-quality cotton bed linen
  • Tea and coffee making facilities
  • Kitchenette with refrigerator and microwave etc
  • Ceiling fans
  • Heated towel rail
  • In room safe
  • Hairdryer, bathroom scales
  • DVD Player – available upon request
  • Ironing facilities – available upon request
  • On-Site Parking
  • Peace and Quiet.

And, of course, use of our 33m indoor heated pool and spa, giant chess set, sky scraping swing and extensive gardens.

Our pool and spa are covered in order to maintain the heat and minimise our impact on the environment. If you wish to take a dip (7am – 8pm) please give us a call on the number below, so we can remove the pool covers – please give us 5 minutes or so to do so.

The spa is always covered to conserve warmth.  If you fancy a soak, feel free to remove the spa covers and help yourself.  We ask that you replace the covers when you have finished to keep the spa toasty for the next person. You will find blue pool towels in your wardrobe for your use in the pool and spa.

If you would like a drink in the spa or pool there are two plastic glasses for you to use in your kitchen cupboard.

Please note that for safety reasons glass is not permitted in the pool house under any circumstances.

Should you require assistance at any time during your stay please call 0417 045 671.

We hope you enjoy your stay with us.

Anthony and Louise

0417 045 671

Guest Information

Air Conditioning

The reverse cycle air conditioning in your suite is operated using the remote control.
The temperature buttons are self-explanatory. The little icon in the top left can be changed using the MODE button under the sliding cover on the remote. Please make sure to select the correct icon.

  • Snow Flake = Cool
  • Sun = Heat
  • Water Droplet = Dehumidify
  • Revolving Arrows = Auto

Ideally your temperature range should be around 22 degrees.

Animals

Due to the special nature of the environment here at Mt Hay Retreat we are unfortunately unable to accept pets as guests.
You may meet Dougal our laid back Irish Setter and Griff the Welsh Spaniel whilst you are staying with us. They are very friendly and love a cuddle but they won’t bother you if you ignore them. They aren’t allowed into guest suites (Although they will pretend they have no knowledge of this rule!).

Assistance

If you require assistance please do not hesitate to contact us on: 0417 045 671.

ATM

There are a number of ATM’s in Berry – in both the pubs, the newsagent and the IGA.

Bathrobes

Bathrobes are provided in each suite. If you would like to take one home with you, please let us know and we can provide you with a brand new one. They are $100 each.

Beverages

You are more than welcome to BYO however if you require any of the below please let us know:

  • Beer, a selection of 6 Premium Beers – $40
  • White or Red wine – $45
  • Jansz, Sparkling Premium Cuvee, Pipers Brook, Tasmania – $45
  • Piper Heidsieck, Champagne, Reims, France – $75
  • Veuve Clicquot, Champagne, Reims, France – $95
  • Bollinger, Champagne Special Cuvee, France – $95

Bush Walks

  1. Drawing Room Rocks Bush Walk and Lookout (1.5 – 2 hours).

Distance – 4.5km return, climbing approx. 300m up to Drawing Room Rocks (i.e. it can be steep in spots).

Rating: Intermediate, if you are of average fitness. One of our favourite walks!

Start / End Point: Near Brogers Creek Road, a 7km drive from Berry.

To find the start of the walk, drive down Mt Hay Road and turn right into Bong Bong road. At the end of Bong Bong Road turn left into Woodhill Mountain Road. Continue for 6.8km to Woodhill where the road splits left to Wattamolla Rd (which goes to Kangaroo Valley) and straight on for Brogers Creek.

At this junction continue straight on for 100m and take the road on the right which is signposted Drawing Room Rocks walk (just past the letterbox to No 20).  The unsealed road winds uphill for about 400 metres to a private locked gate where there is parking space for about two small cars on the grassy verge.  A sign next to the gate states “Drawing Room Rocks Bushwalk”.

Take water with you, use sun protection, suitable footwear and be prepared for wet weather.

From the start point, the walk ascends from 250m to 600m above sea level along a track through forest and heathland then onto a plateau.

Walk on for another 100m to come out at Drawing Room Rocks – nature’s Drawing Room, with tables and chairs made of rock. It’s a stunning place for a picnic!

The unique shapes of the Drawing Room Rocks are the result of the weathering of the Hawkesbury Sandstone.  Weathering, in this case, was accomplished over a long time span by a number of different agents: wind, rain, cold, heat and chemicals in rainfall.  The sandstone of the Drawing Room Rocks is horizontal strata, so the flat table tops consist of stone made up of a harder more resistant mineral layer which has remained when the softer surrounding rocks have eroded.

The Drawing Room Rocks are located in the Barren Grounds Nature Reserve.

2. The Kiama Coast Walk Route

This walk easily divides into 3 natural sections – each section taking between 1.5 and 3 hours to complete.

The Kiama Coast Walk is a stunning 22km pathway along our coastline, with spectacular ocean views, inviting detours and proximity to amenities and public transport.  It is the perfect way to explore and enjoy our region. Birdlife, basalt, beaches, bays and blowholes are just the beginning.

The Kiama Coast Walk is a mix of sealed pathways, beaches and grassed tracks – suitable for most levels of fitness.

Stage 1: From Minnamurra to Blowhole Point Grade: Medium Distance: 8.4 km Time: 3 hrs

Start at the mouth of the Minnamurra River (just a short walk from the nearby train station) before heading south.

Markers will guide you to the gentle sweep of Jones Beach and the Cathedral Rocks beyond, Bombo Beach and Kiama Harbour. Continue until you get to the Kiama Lighthouse and Blowhole Point.  Along with the hidden beauty of ‘the Boneyard’ and eerie basalt columns of Bombo headland are all well-marked and worthwhile detours along the way.  Popular with surfers all year round, North Bombo Beach gives you your first glimpse of Kiama Township.

At the other end, ascend Pheasant Point to receive a scenic ‘wow-factor’ welcome.  Kiama Harbour is home to picturesque rock pools on either side, along with many boats, nearby cafes and shops – even the odd pelican.  The lighthouse and blowhole await, with impressive views in all directions.  As well as walking, there are opportunities to swim or snorkel along the way.

Stage 2: Blow Hole Point to Loves Bay Grade: Medium/Hard Distance: 5 km Time: 1.5 hrs

From Blowhole Point, beaches and bays lie ahead, with signage highlighting landmarks and history along the way.

From Storm Bay, past the Showground and down to Surf Beach (patrolled from October to April), all-weather exercise equipment and sweeping views accompany you for this part of your journey. The Norfolk-pine-dotted headland carries you around to Kendalls Beach, with its beachfront cabins and steep sides. Steps and a breathtaking grassy walk will then deliver you to the Little Blowhole.  While its larger cousin operates best in a South-East swell, this one takes flight in a more common North-Easter.

Your journey now continues on grass until sheltered Easts Beach comes into view, with steps at each end.  The next point is a great spot to look back at how far you’ve come.  Loves Bay and its rocky solace beckons – your urban leg is complete.

Stage 3: Loves Bay to Gerringong Grade: Medium/Hard Distance: 6 km Time: 2 hrs.

Dramatically different from the previous two, this section leaves the world behind.

This newest part of the Kiama Coast Walk (opened late 2009) is also the most untouched, as you follow a zig-zag of coastal pastures south from Kiama Heights to Werri Beach.  Your occasional partner on this journey is the South Coast railway, appearing and disappearing into tunnels carved more than 120 years ago. It is here, amongst the exposed cliff tops, rainforest remnants and endless ocean views, that the weather can play a factor – so be prepared for all possibilities.

Kilometre markers inform your progress, while the Illawarra Escarpment gently tumbles into the sea before your very eyes.  Along the way, it’s possible to feel miles from civilization.  Dipping amongst rocky bays and finally to the tidal Werri Lagoon, the township of Gerringong sits atop the next hill; a well deserved coffee or return train ride with your name on it.  Or why not continue on a little further to the Werri Fish and Chip shop. Gerringong is another 2.5 kilometres along Werri Beach and up the southern headland to the whale-watching platform.

Take water with you, use sun protection, suitable footwear and be prepared for wet weather.

For other walks and hikes in the area please see: https://berry.org.au/walks-hikes/

Car Parking

Please use the on-site parking as directed, being mindful of other cars parking and manoeuvring close by.

Cooking

Please do not cook in your suite. Cooking smells can linger in soft furnishings and bedding and may require expensive specialist cleaning.

Check in – Check out

  • Check-in time is from 3:00 p.m.
  • Check-out is 10:00 a.m.

We endeavour to accommodate late checkouts upon request, but they are strictly by prior arrangement only.

Children

Mt Hay Retreat is exclusively for the enjoyment of guests aged 18 and over.

Chemist

The nearest chemist or pharmacy is located on Queen Street, the main street of Berry – opening times are Monday – Friday 9am-5.30pm and 9am-1pm on weekends.

Critters

Being surrounded by bush, on occasion insects may seek refuge in your suite. There is insect spray under your kitchen bench if they become problematic.

We also have tiny ants with amazing food detecting powers – which will appear apparently from nowhere given the chance. Please store food in the fridge or in sealed bags if possible.

Damages, Breakages and Anti-Social Behaviour

You are liable for any damage or breakage caused by you. We don’t normally charge for small accidental damage, but all other incidents will be charged to your bill.

Please alert us to any damage as soon as possible so that we can make appropriate repairs.

Bedding or towels that are soiled or damaged beyond a reasonable level will be charged to your account.

If you feel that your stay is being adversely impacted by other guests please contact us directly.

We endeavour to maintain the peace of this tranquil environment for everyone.

Any guest found to be causing a disturbance will be asked to leave.

Departure

Please ensure that you leave your key on the kitchen bench in your unit, or return them to us, prior to departure. Fees may apply if keys are lost.

Drones

Please note that we are in a ‘NO FLY’ zone due to our proximity to HMAS Albatross. Please Do Not fly drones on the property under any circumstances. Heavy fines apply.

DVD player

We have DVD players available to borrow, along with a small selection of DVD’s.

Electrical

There are various power points (240V) around your suite for charging items – including beside your bed.

Emergencies

In the case of emergency please call us directly on 0417 045 671 or, if appropriate, call 000.

Environment

Mt Hay lies in a protected escarpment area – so nature and wildlife are a part of everyday life here.

Please take a few moments to read our Rainforest Brochure for more details about this special place.

Wherever possible we are committed to minimising our impact on the environment – through recycling, reducing our use of chemicals and substances that are harmful to the environment, and living sustainably wherever possible. To help us in this quest, if you do not require your towels to be laundered, please hang them on the towel rail in the bathroom, or, if you require fresh towelling, please place used items in the shower recess, let us know, and we will refresh them for you.

It also helps to minimise our impact on this delicate environment if you turn lights off when you are not in your suite and leave your air con on low or turned off.

Fire Safety

Please refer to the Bushfire Preparedness and Action Plan. Should you have any concerns regarding fire safety, please just ask.

Gardens

Please do enjoy the gardens here at Mt Hay.

We ask that all guests respect the privacy of others when venturing out. A map of our gardens with a short walk outlined can be found in your suite.

Please note that there are several large dams on the property. Please take great care. Deep water can be dangerous. Please do not swim in the dams.

Gift Vouchers

Gift vouchers for stays at Mt Hay Retreat are available either on our website – or please just ask us.

Hair Dryer

A hairdryer is located in the bathroom.

Ironing Facilities

Please contact us and we can deliver an ironing board and iron to your suite.

Jogging

If you are a keen runner and would like to run down the road into Berry – please be careful as the road can be slippery in spots and very narrow. It is almost exactly 5kms to the centre of Berry.

Kettle

There is a kettle in the drawer/cupboard in your kitchenette.

Keys

Please ensure that you leave your key on your kitchen bench, or return them to us, prior to departure. Fees may apply if keys are lost.

Lost and Found

Please contact us if you have inadvertently lost something or left something behind.

Maintenance

If you notice something that requires maintenance, please let us know so that we can deal with it promptly.

Medical Assistance

In the case that you require medical assistance please call us directly on 0417 045671 or, if appropriate, call 000. The nearest medical centre is Berry Medical Centre located at 2 Prince Alfred St, Berry. Ph. (02) 4464 1577, a 7-minute drive away.

Mini-Bar

There are a few complimentary items in your refrigerator. Please feel free to use the refrigerator for your personal use as required.

Personal supplies

Shampoo and conditioner etc are supplied in your suite. Should you require additional items please let us know.

Picnic Blankets

We have a number of picnic blankets for you to borrow should you wish to have a picnic or chill out on the grass. Please just ask.

Pillow Menu

For your comfort, each bed is supplied with two pillows, one firm and one medium. Soft pillows are available upon request.

Pool

This facility is for the use of guests only.

The pool and spa are both covered to retain heat and minimise our impact on the environment.

If you wish to take a dip (7am – 8pm), please give us a call or drop us a text on 0417 045 671, so we can remove the pool covers for you.

The spa is always covered to conserve warmth. If you fancy a soak, feel free to remove the spa covers and help yourself (they are very light). We ask that you replace the covers when you have finished to retain the heat for the next person.

You will find blue pool towels in your wardrobe for you to use in the pool and spa.

Please note that for safety reasons glass is not permitted in the pool house under any circumstances. If you would like a drink in the spa or pool there are two plastic glasses for your use in your kitchen cupboard.

We ask that you also refrain from using sound systems in the pool as the sound carries. The pool and spa are open between the hours of 8am and 7pm.

*Please note that the hot water in the spa can be ‘unkind’ to delicate swim suits. We recommend rinsing them in cold water after your dip.

Rainforest Brochure

Illawarra Subtropical Rainforest – A Threatened Ecological Community in the Sydney Basin Bioregion.

The rain forest that is situated on our property is described as Moist Subtropical Rainforest. The ecosystem forms part of the threatened ecological community listed under the NSW Species Conservation Act as ‘Illawarra Subtropical Rain forest’. This type of rainforest typically occurs on high nutrient soils such as Permian volcanoes in the Illawarra region where conditions are wet often exceeding 1000mm of rainfall each year.

This type of rain forest mainly occurs on private land and is considered to be inadequately protected and under represented in conservation reserves. It has been recorded in the local government areas of Wollongong City, through Shellharbour City, Shoalhaven City and Kiama Municipality, however large areas of these rain forests have been cleared for agricultural purposes, with only 3,800 ha remaining in the Shoalhaven area of which 2.39 can be found here at Mt Hay.

The key significance of this type of rain forest is that it comprises a diverse range of species including dozens of vascular plants, micro-organisms, fungi, cryptogamic plants (mosses, ferns, algae and fungi) and a rich but poorly documented vertebrate and invertebrate fauna.

As the remnants of these environments are typically small and fragmented, their long term viability is threatened.

Weed invasion, future clearing, inappropriate fire regimes and rubbish dumping are among the many threats to this spectacular environment.

There are multiple management objectives that have been put in place for this rare rain forest. A few of these objectives include:

  • Targeted bush regeneration to restore remnants
  • Fire exclusion
  • Awareness programs
  • Erosion control
  • Management focused research.

Here at Mt Hay, in line with these objectives, we regularly undertake a number of measures in order to maintain the current extent and condition of the rain forest. These measures include mechanical weed removal and in some instances herbicide application. Around half a day each week and 20 litres of herbicide a year are required to control weeds that threaten the rain forest and other natural areas of the property. Weed species targeted under the program include:

  • Fireweed,
  • Scotch thistle,
  • Lantana,
  • Broad Leaved Privet.

We also plant native flora species in order to restore impacted areas and enhance existing habitats for native wildlife. The rain forest and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife including many bird, frog, reptile, and mammal species. Listen out for the sometimes strange calls of many rain forest animals – you may be lucky enough to spot them.

There are currently no formal walking tracks or signs in the rain forest areas of the property.

Steep, slippery and rocky terrain cab make walking hazardous therefore we strongly suggest that guests contact us before venturing out into this unique habitat.

Reception

Should you require any assistance during your stay please contact us on 0417 045 671.

Restaurants

For an updated list of restaurants and or takeaway options please just ask.

Rubbish

In order to minimise our impact on the environment, we endeavour to recycle where ever possible.

Please place non-recyclable items in the bin under your kitchenette sink, with all other recyclable items being placed in the same cupboard, beside the bin.

If you would like your bins emptied – please just let us know. Please do not leave rubbish outside your suite – our local mischief of magpies love to spread it around!

Sharps Bin

Please let us know if you require a sharps bin.

Tea and Coffee

There is a capsule coffee maker in each suite. Please ensure you fill the water reservoir before use.

Please let us know if you require additional supplies of either tea or coffee.

There is also milk in your kitchenette refrigerator, but please do not put milk into the coffee machine.

Taxis & Transport

There is a taxi that services the Berry area – we strongly recommend booking in advance on 44 643 181.

Berry train station is conveniently located just a few minutes walk from the commercial centre of town, and approximately an 8-minute drive from Mt Hay.

Television

The remote control is located on the side table in your suite. There is a usb connection where you can play your own movies if you wish – just ask us for directions.

Things to Do

Only 7 minutes from Mt Hay is the bustling village escape of Berry, with its many coffee shops, restaurants and boutique shopping.

The Berry Website – www.berry.org.au – also has some great ideas for things to see and do in town.

Berry has a range of cuisines to enjoy ranging from the European-inspired menu created by chef John Evans at South on Albany, or the French inspired modern menu at Queen Street Eatery, alternatively why not sample the extensive wine list at Silos Restaurant nestled in a local vineyard on the outskirts of Berry or treat yourself to breakfast at stunning Mountain Ridge Winery.

The Treat Factory www.treatfactory.com.au which is just around the back of Berry has some great treats if you have a sweet tooth.  Or, if your palate is more savoury try one of the excellent delis in Berry – including Pickled Ink, The Emporium Food Co, Flavours Shoalhaven and many more.

Held at the showground between 8.30am – 2.30pm on the first Sunday of each month (excl. Feb), the Berry Country Fair offers the chance to pick up local produce and browse for collectibles, books, art, crafts and plants.

Every Thursday afternoon there is a local farmers market at the Showground which is well worth a trip if you love fresh produce!

There are some great wineries nearby – they vary in what they offer – tastings, cheese, lunch etc.

  • Silos Estate – 10km – silos.com.au
  • Coolangatta Estate – 14km – coolangattaestate.com.au
  • Two Figs Winery – 18 km – twofigs.com.au
  • Crooked River Wines – 15 km – crookedriverwines.com
  • Mountain Ridge Winery – 15km – mountainridgewines.com.au

Gerringong is only 20 mins away and has some great cafes.

Gerroa (just south of Gerringong) has a great cafe for lunch (the Blue Swimmer) and also a stunning beach for a walk (Seven Mile Beach) plus a superb headland that you can walk out to at low tide (Black Head).

If you like golf – nearby courses include the Coolangatta Estate Winery (9 Holes), Shoalhaven Heads, Kangaroo Valley, Nowra and Gerringong.

A breathtaking drive westwards to Kangaroo Valley (State Tourist Drive 7) will lead you through the rugged escarpments of Kangaroo Valley to the natural beauty, waterfalls and cosy villages of the Southern Highlands.

Why not take a stop at Cambewarra Lookout for uninterrupted vistas of rolling hills and a panorama of Shoalhaven City, stretching from Coolangatta Mountain in the north, to Pigeon House in the south.

Toaster

There is a toaster in the drawer/cupboard in your kitchenette.

Torch

There is a torch in the kitchen drawer, should you need one – particularly useful for spotting Wombats at night!

Towels

Should you require additional towels or for your towels to be refreshed please let us know.

Smoking

In the interests of safety and for the health and comfort of all guests Mt Hay Retreat is a completely smoke free property and smoking is strictly prohibited. Additional cleaning fees apply.

Underfloor Heating

There is underfloor heating in your bathroom. In winter, the underfloor heating will have been set to warm the floor ready for your arrival. Please do not adjust these settings.

Visitors

In order to maintain the amenity of this tranquil place for all guests, please do not extend invitations to others to visit without prior permission.

Walks

You will find a garden walk map in your suite. If you would like recommendations for longer walks – please just ask Anthony or Louise.

Water

We are not on mains water, therefore please use water wisely, particularly in times of drought.

Wifi

Complimentary Wireless internet access connection is available in all rooms. The password is ‘elizabeth’ – all lower case.

Wildlife

Being perched in a Protected Escarpment Zone wildlife is part of everyday life here at Mt Hay.

Please treat our furry family with respect – especially when driving at night.

On particularly hot days you may be lucky enough to encounter some of our not so furry residents.

If you do see a snake, please do not panic. In the majority of cases snakes will retreat, but they may also choose to lay still hoping that you will go away.

A snake will not make a deliberate move towards you unless provoked.

If there is anything else we can help you with whilst you are staying with us, please do not hesitate to let us know.

Highly Commended
TC_2022_LL_TRANSPARENT_BG
NSW Tourism Awards 2022 – Gold Award – Landscape
NSW Tourism Awards 2022 – Gold Award – Landscape
Sustainable4

© 2024 Mt Hay Retreat

Site by Handmade Web & Design