Escape to The Retreat, a modern 2-bedroom cottage nestled in a serene tropical garden with a tranquil creek. Wander through the lush gardens, unwind by the pool or relax on the covered decks.
Reviews
1010 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4180 sq m
Popular amenities
Pool
Spa pool
Kitchen
Washing machine
Free Wi-Fi
Air-conditioning
Add dates for prices
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.
Property amenities
Beach
Beach nearby
Beach loungers
Beach towels
Pool/Spa
Hot tub
Massage
Outdoor pool
Private pool
Internet
Available in the villa: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Parking on site
Kitchen
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Hob
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Toaster
Dining
Breakfast available for a fee
Dining table
Bedrooms
2 bedrooms
Egyptian cotton sheets
Bathroom
1 bathroom
Bathtub
Bathtub or shower
Hair dryer
Shampoo
Shower
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Fireplace
Living room
Separate dining area
Wood stove
Entertainment
Smart TV
Stereo
Outdoor areas
Balcony
Barbecue grill
Firepit
Garden
Outdoor furniture
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washing machine
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
No pets allowed
Suitability/Accessibility
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Location highlights
In a rural location
In the mountains
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a hospital
Near the bay
Things to do
Water sports equipment
Birdwatching nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
Visitors - Please advise owners, before asking any visitors to the private property
Pets
Pets not allowed
Children and extra beds
This property does not allow children
Events
No events allowed
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 indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
About the area
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 ecotours. Visit our The Pocket travel guide
Does The Retreat 2 bed Villa, Sanctuary in the Pocket have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.
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).
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The Retreat 2 bed Villa, Sanctuary in the Pocket Reviews
Reviews
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
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!
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! 😊
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.
John B.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2021
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Andrew J.
6 Sept 2018
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.
Andrew J.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2018
Verified
10/10 Excellent
kristel g.
2 Apr 2018
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.
kristel g.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Dee O.
20 Feb 2018
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.
Dee O.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
JULIE J.
1 Oct 2017
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,
JULIE J.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
BEAU S.
1 July 2017
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.
BEAU S.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Tim M.
1 May 2017
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!
Tim M.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
RENNAE R.
1 Apr 2017
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.
RENNAE R.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
IAN C.
1 Apr 2017
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.
IAN C.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Jemma W.
1 Apr 2017
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.
Jemma W.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
ANTOINETTE R.
1 Jan 2017
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
ANTOINETTE R.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
ARLET B.
1 Dec 2016
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! ?.
ARLET B.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
ROB C.
1 Dec 2016
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!!
ROB C.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
NIKI W.
1 Dec 2016
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.
NIKI W.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
TOM M.
1 Nov 2016
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.
TOM M.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Christina M.
1 Aug 2016
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.
Christina M.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
MARY W.
1 May 2016
Excellent property
Had a most relaxing time very peaceful, lovely accommodation and great hosts
MARY W.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Jean W.
1 Feb 2016
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.
Jean W.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Susan D.
1 Dec 2015
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.