Inside the gem dubbed Australia’s very own ‘Lake Como’ hideaway – and it’s 50 minutes from Sydney: ‘Perfection’

A hidden gem, nestled among the trees by a sparkling river, it’s the perfect solution for those who missed out on their dream Euro summer this year.

Perhaps one of the most serene getaways in the country, Calabash Bay Lodge is located on the banks of the Hawkesbury River – and although it’s less than an hour from Sydney, it feels a world away.

Like many of the enviable homes dotted along Italy’s Lake Como, Calabash is only accessible by boat or seaplane and sits on an idyllic tributary of the Hawkesbury River called Berowra Creek.

It is located 20 miles inland from where the main river meets the ocean, making the four-bedroom lodge one of the most private and refreshing places in the area.

The house was purchased by Wild Luxury owners Kim and Derek Ellis in 2007, having been purpose-built as a guesthouse before being converted into a private residence.

It then underwent an extensive renovation in 2020, with the couple working with some of the country’s best-known architects, designers and artists to create something very special.

And they once did.

The house can accommodate eight guests across four sleek bedrooms overlooking the water and features three floors, an entertainers’ dream kitchen, a rooftop wellness studio with yoga mats and all the extra little luxuries you can think of (think sunbeds, water toys, barbecues and sparkling water from the tap).

Those who stay will also have access to their own runabout boat to explore the river. Full training for this is provided when guests first arrive at Berowra Waters Public Wharf where they will be collected by the house caretaker.

The lodge, which starts at $1,100 per night during the week (totally reasonable if you’re sharing with friends), also has beautiful artwork, unbeatable interior design, and a master bathroom with a beautiful Agape Immersion bath from Neri & Hu.

Even more exciting is the new partnership the owners have entered into with the local population Broken Bay Pearl Farmwhere those staying can enjoy a tailor-made tour of the region’s oldest oyster farm and only pearl producer.

The Hawkesbury is synonymous with oysters and pearls from Australia’s Broken Bay.

The ‘Pearler’s Package’ costs from $930 per person for six guests and includes two nights at Calabash Bay Lodge, a private tour of Broken Bay Pearl Farm’s local oyster leases and ‘shellar door’ and a three-course dinner from a private chef at the Lodge.

The included half-day pearl farm experience includes a guided boat trip from Calabash Bay Lodge’s pontoon across Berowra Creek to Broken Bay’s oyster rental in Marramarra, where guests will learn about the history of the Hawkesbury and the intricate life cycle of oysters.

Guests will sample freshly picked and shucked oysters from the farm, including rare pearl meat (where available), before being delivered to the Brooklyn ‘Shellar Door’ to learn the secrets of pearl farming.

The best part is that they pick you up and drop you off by boat so you don’t have to lift a finger.

And while you’re away, a premium, locally produced grazing platter can be arranged for you to enjoy on your return. Bliss.

For those who prefer a quieter outing, many choose to take the boat up the river for a picnic, take a walk or kayak to some of the local waterfalls or take a bushwalk to the ruins of a federation hotel atop Calabash . Point.

It’s also the perfect time to try local gastronomic hub Berowra Waters Inn, which is also only accessible by boat.

If you choose the latter, you can expect to be wined and dined like a Como A-lister when the evening begins when you are picked up at the ‘door’ by the restaurant’s own boat.

Once there, enjoy a modern Australian feast from a $220 per person six-course tasting menu, packed with organic and local produce in the relaxed dining room-style setting.

Standout options at the moment include Murray Cod with prawns and broccoli, an excellent snack menu with kangaroo, squid and caviar and a tempting deconstructed dessert inspired by Toohey’s Old.

As one employee said of the latter, “We’ve taken one of the worst beers in the country and made Australia’s best dessert.”

It is also the opportunity to try some of the best wines on offer with four exceptional wine pairings: Classic, Discovery, Premium and Reserve.

No matter what food journey you take here, it will be one of the best and most creative dining experiences you will ever have Down Under.

To book Calabash Bay Lodge you can visit the website here; You will find the new package in the booking form.

For the ultimate VIP arrival or departure, guests can add seaplane transfers from Rose Bay or Palm Beach to Calabash Bay Lodge, or a chauffeured Tesla transfer.