Visiting the Hawkesbury River | Why Should You Visit
The Hawkesbury River is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty reflecting different hues of green due to its wilderness backdrop, and for its deep historical and cultural roots dating back thousands of years; the Aboriginal name for the Hawkesbury River is “Deerubbin”, meaning ‘wide, deep water’.
An eclectic mix of rustic charm, unspoilt wilderness and unbridled adventure, there’s more to do here than first meets the eye. Boredom is definitely not on the agenda, from shucking oysters to kayaking the waterways and sampling local wines to catching a glimpse of ancient aboriginal art. There’s plenty to see and do.
Marramarra Lodge provides you with a fantastic base to explore the best of the region, serving up a choice of 14 luxurious lodgings in 8-acres of unspoiled Hawkesbury River frontage with everything you need for a truly memorable stay.
Things To Do Near Marramarra Lodge
To whet your appetite, here are just a few things to do near Marramarra Lodge and the Hawkesbury River; helping you make the most of your time in one of NSW’s most beautiful natural landscapes.
Broken Bay Pearl Farm
The Hawkesbury River is home to the only operating pearl farm in NSW, Broken Bay Pearl Farm. With a choice of group and private tours, discover a hidden world of locally grown pearls, how they are cultivated and what goes on behind the scenes. With a ‘Shellar Door’ taking you to some of the finest hand-crafted jewellery around, along with a riverside oyster bar and a variety of optional extras including seaplane rides, grazing lunches, Hawkesbury River cruises and much more, it’s easy to stay a whole day and still have plenty to see and do.
Rocky Ponds Fire Trail
If waterfalls, wild swimming and walking trails are your things, then you’ll love making your way along the Rocky ponds Fire Trail. Make your way through the Brisbane Waters National Park from Little Wooby, stopping off at Spring Beach and walking the Tessellated Pavement. The Rocky Ponds are just under a 9.2kms walk from Little Wooby, with an 18km round trip, so you’ll definitely want to set aside a day for this one. Other features to enjoy on the trail include Tank Creek, Gordon Creek, Jeannie’s Pool, and the Icicles. Make sure you pack your swimmers and plenty to eat and drink along the way.
The Riverboat Postman
Climb aboard the historic Hawkesbury River Mailboat and make your way to outlying communities without road or rail access, all while learning more about the history of the area and the mailboat service. Starting in Brooklyn, the 3-hour cruise begins with morning tea and biscuits. As you make your way along the river, you’ll be given a guided tour of the main sights and attractions as you pass them. A traditional Australian ploughman’s lunch is served up, and a fully-licenced bar gives you ample opportunity to enjoy a glass or two of vino along the way. The mailboat operates weekdays, with a special Sunday sailing and a fish and chips lunch.
Spectacle Island Nature Reserve
Enjoy an afternoon of exploring Spectacle Island Nature Reserve, taking in the local wildlife, beautiful vistas and peace and tranquillity at your own pace. Designated as a nature reserve in 1978, it is home to a rich collection of aboriginal rock art and diverse vegetation. Reaching the reserve is easiest by boat, while its reasonably isolated location means there won’t be masses of tourists at every turn. Make it extra special by taking a picnic hamper with you, which can be arranged at Budyari Restaurant and suited to your dietary requirements. Not sure how to reach the reserve? That can be arranged for you too at reception or by the concierge at Marramarra Lodge.
Hawkesbury Kayak Tour
The best way to take in the Hawkesbury River is by making your way out onto it on an adventurous kayak tour made for discovering new perspectives. Make your way around meandering waterways while getting up close and personal with some of the rivers best-kept secrets. From private riverside bays to boating past lush bushland, mountainous views and along the Marramarra National Park – it’s the perfect way to spend a day. If you’ve arranged a picnic hamper, simply find a beautiful spot to stop off at and enjoy soaking up the sights and sounds at your leisure. Better yet, kayak tours are designed for all ability levels, meaning you don’t need to be a great boater to enjoy making the most of the river during your stay.
The Ultimate Luxury Wilderness Escape
Combining the perfect blend of modern-day luxury and focussed sustainable practices, Marramarra Lodge provides the ultimate in luxurious wilderness escape for that extra-special holiday. Located less than an hour north of Sydney, escaping the crowds and feeling as though you’re a million miles away from the bustling city has never been easier.
Take advantage of degustation menus and alfresco dining curated and prepared by renowned international chef, Jerome Tremoulet. Indulge all of your senses at Iyora Day Spa and relax as the weight of the world is massaged off of your shoulders. Stay in one of the 14adult-only contemporary residences featuring Riverstone bathrooms, expansive balconies and maximum privacy. And enjoy 8-acres of unspoiled Hawkesbury River land made for making the most of the natural beauty of the area.
From our exclusive river-safari Peninsula Tent to a select choice of stylish yet contemporary bungalows – arrive by seaplane, boat or helicopter and get ready to rediscover the true meaning of luxury wilderness escapes on the Hawkesbury River.
Book your stay today.