Story by Liam & Alexis
Out By The Orchard
Adventure in Blackheath, Blue Mountains, NSW, AU
After more weekends spent cooped up at home than we’d like to count, we were so eager for a change of scenery and the opportunity to escape the mundane without travelling too far. We set off for Blackheath on a brisk but sunny morning with the windows down to fully appreciate the fresh Blue Mountains air.
We were headed for Logan Brae Orchard, the last remaining working apple orchard on the Shipley Plateau. Tucked away behind the orchard is The Machinery Shed, built-in 1919 it has been lovingly restored to provide all the comfort and luxuries of a modern homestead while also keeping plenty of its warm, rustic feel.
Stepping inside, it seemed almost impolite to label it a ‘shed’. The immaculately styled open plan space has sunshine streaming throughout from sunrise to sunset, and there's no shortage of super inviting lounges to sprawl out on with a good book from the bookshelf. The large balcony stretches across the entire length of the shed and is perfectly positioned to take full advantage of the absolutely stunning view of The Blue Mountains that stretch on as far as the eye can see.
We spent hours wandering through rows of blossoming apple orchards accompanied from time to time by Lottie - a beautiful Maremma that protects the other animals on the orchard. Following a hand-drawn map, we discovered the property’s own private escarpment with a magnificent view that rivals even some of the best-known lookouts in the Blue Mountains.
As the day went by, the hardest decision to make was whether to watch the sunset out on the balcony or from the bathtub. Once our toes met the heated bathroom flooring, the choice suddenly became simple.
Dinner was effortless as we had pre-organised a delectable BBQ pack that had an array of meats and salads, and a bag of marshmallows thoughtfully left for our stay meant dessert was taken care of down by the outdoor fire pit.
Cozied up in front of the fireplace we sipped on warm apple juice (the sweetest reward from the extensive labour that goes into apple season on the orchard), and eventually retreated to bed to lay under the fairy light ’starry’ ceiling.
On our way home we made a few stops to explore some iconic mountains townships, scouring through some of the many vintage stores hunting for pre-loved treasures, and of course, stopping for a bite to eat and a few coffees along the way.
The Machinery Shed was a wonderful place to reset and appreciate the wide-open space and stunning landscape, if only for a weekend....
We were headed for Logan Brae Orchard, the last remaining working apple orchard on the Shipley Plateau. Tucked away behind the orchard is The Machinery Shed, built-in 1919 it has been lovingly restored to provide all the comfort and luxuries of a modern homestead while also keeping plenty of its warm, rustic feel.
Stepping inside, it seemed almost impolite to label it a ‘shed’. The immaculately styled open plan space has sunshine streaming throughout from sunrise to sunset, and there's no shortage of super inviting lounges to sprawl out on with a good book from the bookshelf. The large balcony stretches across the entire length of the shed and is perfectly positioned to take full advantage of the absolutely stunning view of The Blue Mountains that stretch on as far as the eye can see.
We spent hours wandering through rows of blossoming apple orchards accompanied from time to time by Lottie - a beautiful Maremma that protects the other animals on the orchard. Following a hand-drawn map, we discovered the property’s own private escarpment with a magnificent view that rivals even some of the best-known lookouts in the Blue Mountains.
As the day went by, the hardest decision to make was whether to watch the sunset out on the balcony or from the bathtub. Once our toes met the heated bathroom flooring, the choice suddenly became simple.
Dinner was effortless as we had pre-organised a delectable BBQ pack that had an array of meats and salads, and a bag of marshmallows thoughtfully left for our stay meant dessert was taken care of down by the outdoor fire pit.
Cozied up in front of the fireplace we sipped on warm apple juice (the sweetest reward from the extensive labour that goes into apple season on the orchard), and eventually retreated to bed to lay under the fairy light ’starry’ ceiling.
On our way home we made a few stops to explore some iconic mountains townships, scouring through some of the many vintage stores hunting for pre-loved treasures, and of course, stopping for a bite to eat and a few coffees along the way.
The Machinery Shed was a wonderful place to reset and appreciate the wide-open space and stunning landscape, if only for a weekend....
Things We Did
- Experience
- Lookout
- Food & Drink
- Town
- Farm
When we arrived at The Shed, we were excitedly told there was a special addition to the property that had just been finished earlier in the day.
Late afternoon we took a basket of wine, bathrobes and bath bombs and headed towards the rear bushland down a neat, new pathway. We stopped at a small wooden deck and saw a large stone bathtub that looked as if it was resting among the treetops. Soaking in the warm tub while rays of setting sun danced through the leaves had us feeling completely relaxed and immersed in nature....
Late afternoon we took a basket of wine, bathrobes and bath bombs and headed towards the rear bushland down a neat, new pathway. We stopped at a small wooden deck and saw a large stone bathtub that looked as if it was resting among the treetops. Soaking in the warm tub while rays of setting sun danced through the leaves had us feeling completely relaxed and immersed in nature....
In the Shed, you'll find a hand-drawn map directing you on a short walk through the orchards and down through the bushland at the rear of the property. Follow the trail through the trees until you spot the 'lookout' sign and you'll discover a large clearing with absolutely stunning views, to enjoy all to yourself.
Pack a blanket and some nibbles into one of the baskets provided and have a picnic up above the mountains....
Pack a blanket and some nibbles into one of the baskets provided and have a picnic up above the mountains....
From March through to August you can visit Logan Brae and taste the reward from a year of hard work on the orchard. From over 6000 apple trees they have a small shop that sells all things apples - homemade apple pies, creamy apple butter, hot spiced apple cider or a big box of fresh, juicy apples, just how mother nature made them. After you’ve got your treats, take a seat at the lookout point and enjoy the amazing view....
Passing through Katoomba we couldn’t go past the opportunity to stop in at one of our favourite spots for breakfast!
Frankly My Dear is a bright and airy cafe stationed on the always bustling Katoomba Street. The local go-to for all things coffee, the lovely team at Frankly sure know how to brew a mean cup. You can also find plenty of unique and exciting dishes on their menu, most of which is made in house with locally sourced produce.
Keen on a different take on your normal latte? Order the Speculate - you won’t be disappointed!...
Frankly My Dear is a bright and airy cafe stationed on the always bustling Katoomba Street. The local go-to for all things coffee, the lovely team at Frankly sure know how to brew a mean cup. You can also find plenty of unique and exciting dishes on their menu, most of which is made in house with locally sourced produce.
Keen on a different take on your normal latte? Order the Speculate - you won’t be disappointed!...
For a true taste of mountain town living, you can’t go past a stop at Blackheath. We loved The Victory Theatre; an early 1900’s cinema turned antique centre with multiple levels and over 50,000 vintage gems and Hat Hill Gallery; once a printing factory but now a great little record store with everything from collectible vinyl to fine art prints.
After refuelling at one of the many cafe's, don't forget to visit Govett’s Leap Lookout, you’ll see why it’s one of Australia’s most famous lookouts!...
After refuelling at one of the many cafe's, don't forget to visit Govett’s Leap Lookout, you’ll see why it’s one of Australia’s most famous lookouts!...
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