Story by Pierre
Riverside Stay in Valerie the Vintage Van
Adventure in Barrington Tops, Country NSW, NSW, AU
Driving through Barrington Tops National Park to reach our riverside stay already sets the tone for a peaceful escape. Just 25 minutes from Gloucester, we were warmly welcomed by our host Douglas and shown to our home for the next two days — a cosy vintage caravan called Valerie, tucked into a quiet riverside spot with complete privacy.
The caravan had everything we needed and more: a charming, snug interior, a comfortable bathroom, and an outdoor bath under the stars that made the experience extra special. Being offline and surrounded by forest and birdsong, it was easy to slow down and simply enjoy the moment.
It was also the perfect base camp for exploring Barrington Tops National Park, with beautiful walks, waterfalls, and scenic drives nearby. Even better knowing we could return to a warm bath, a homemade meal, and a restful sleep. Valerie is a true paradise for anyone seeking nature, privacy, and peace — and we will definitely come back.
The caravan had everything we needed and more: a charming, snug interior, a comfortable bathroom, and an outdoor bath under the stars that made the experience extra special. Being offline and surrounded by forest and birdsong, it was easy to slow down and simply enjoy the moment.
It was also the perfect base camp for exploring Barrington Tops National Park, with beautiful walks, waterfalls, and scenic drives nearby. Even better knowing we could return to a warm bath, a homemade meal, and a restful sleep. Valerie is a true paradise for anyone seeking nature, privacy, and peace — and we will definitely come back.
Things We Did
- Scenic Drive
- Lookout
- Walk
- Waterfall
- Café
- River
- Yoga
Beautiful ride to the mountains, passing hills with horses and cows before entering deeper forest with scenic viewpoints at higher altitude.
One of many viewpoints along the way, Thunderbolts Lookout at 1450 m offers sweeping views across the surrounding mountains and forests.
Easy 1 km hike through cool rainforest featuring ancient Antarctic Beech, Gondwanan relics growing in high-altitude forests, with moss-covered trunks creating a magical atmosphere. Starting at Honeysuckle picnic area.
3 km (one-way) hike to Gummi Falls leads to a beautiful waterfall, perfect for a refreshing swim and peaceful picnic in nature. Most probably you will be totally alone.
A perfect place to stop before hitting the road. The Common is a cosy café with great coffee, healthy brunches, and plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options.
The river sits right out front of the van, and is incredible for swimming, or just sitting alongside with a book & cuppa
The deck in front of the van is the perfect spot to roll out your yoga mat, serenaded by the sound of the river running.
Our Adventure Map
Where we stayed
Things we did
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