



Story by Brook
Unwind and Reconnect: a perfect weekend retreat
Adventure in Illowa, Great Ocean Road, VIC, AU
After rolling down the long driveway, with the dark sky littered with stars, we let ourselves into the house. Like kids in a candy store, we explored every inch of it. The beautiful design maximizes the use of space, and it was exciting to continue discovering ways in which the space had been utilized throughout our weekend.
We woke up to the most amazing view of the property that The Cutting is nestled on. We watched dogs playing and cows grazing as we slowly eased into the day. After heading into nearby Port Fairy for a coffee and a cake, we stopped at Tower Hill for some small hikes and learned about the area's history as a dormant volcano. On our way out, we even spotted some koalas!
We made a stop at a local produce stall and got organic eggs and vegetables. Embracing the slowness of the afternoon, we read and enjoyed each other's company. Later, we had a glass of wine on the deck where we were joined by two friendly farm dogs. To finish off our evening, we whipped up dinner with the fresh produce and enjoyed a game of chess by the fire.
Our final morning was bittersweet - we didn't want to leave. We prepared some breakfast and fresh coffee before practicing yoga and heading for a cold ocean swim. On the way home, we browsed vintage stores and grabbed a country town pie for the drive.
A weekend of slowing down, disconnecting from the hustle and reconnecting with self - it doesn't get any better than that.
We woke up to the most amazing view of the property that The Cutting is nestled on. We watched dogs playing and cows grazing as we slowly eased into the day. After heading into nearby Port Fairy for a coffee and a cake, we stopped at Tower Hill for some small hikes and learned about the area's history as a dormant volcano. On our way out, we even spotted some koalas!
We made a stop at a local produce stall and got organic eggs and vegetables. Embracing the slowness of the afternoon, we read and enjoyed each other's company. Later, we had a glass of wine on the deck where we were joined by two friendly farm dogs. To finish off our evening, we whipped up dinner with the fresh produce and enjoyed a game of chess by the fire.
Our final morning was bittersweet - we didn't want to leave. We prepared some breakfast and fresh coffee before practicing yoga and heading for a cold ocean swim. On the way home, we browsed vintage stores and grabbed a country town pie for the drive.
A weekend of slowing down, disconnecting from the hustle and reconnecting with self - it doesn't get any better than that.
Things We Did
- Hike
- Yoga
- Swim
A dormant volcano with beautiful views and numerous hikes. You may even spot a koala or two!
Stretched out and got our zen on with an early morning yoga practise and a cheeky coffee.
An icy swim to get your blood flowing. Who says you can't go swimming in winter?!
Our Adventure Map
Where we stayed
Things we did
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