The hinterland community of Moparrabah is nestled in the Macleay Valley, on Dunghutti Country. Drive down a rugged country road alongside the Parrabel Creek, known locally as Toorumbee Creek, and you’ll find the area’s best-kept secret – The Valley Views Cottage.

While this place is every bit as cosy as it sounds, don’t be fooled by the quaint ‘cottage’ name; this stay is far from small. Boasting three buildings, a bath with a view and plenty of fenced garden area, it's the ideal spot to gather with your loved ones (and furry friends) for some quality rest and relaxation. After wandering down to the cascades as soon as we arrived, we spent the first evening appreciating all the perks and quirks of the property, from the pebbled frog house to the hand-carved wooden sculptures, pots and trinkets adorning the area. We watched the moon rise over the ridgeline through the kitchen window and chopped fresh beans the owners had picked us for dinner.

Despite being off-grid and without reception, the cottage felt cosy and well resourced just like home. It was full of creature comforts including quality Smeg appliances in the kitchen and satellite Wi-Fi for all our social media needs. We could easily imagine ourselves staying there for a week or two and enjoying the slower pace of life.

The next day, we wandered down to the bottom of the property, inspired by the promise of a swimming hole or two at Parrabel Creek. However, due to heavy rain, the creek-turned-river was unseasonably full and fast flowing, so we set up a picnic on the bank instead and indulged ourselves in some quality quiet time in the sunshine.

We cooked dinner on the gas barbecue and watched the sun set over the trees from the outdoor dining table. As night fell, we ran a hot bath and fed the wood fire until the whole house was cosy and warm and our eyes fell heavy with sleep. We left in the mist of the morning, utterly relaxed, refreshed and eager to return again soon.