WANDERSLEEPS
wanderlust.co.uk October 2019 8579
RAWNSLEY PARK,
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
This Flinders Ranges’ camp o ers everything
from inexpensive tent pitches to a two-bed
homestead with private pool, all with one thing
incommon: goosebump-inducing views of mighty Wilpena
Pound. Known originally as Ikara (meeting place), this crater-
shaped rock formation is rich in Aboriginal spirituality and raw
beauty – not to mention excellent day walks. On
aive-hour guided hike to Rawnsley Blu ’s summit and back,
keep an eye out for emus and wedge-tailed eagles.
SECRET TIP: In winter, the topped-up watering holes attract
Western Ghat kangaroos and yellow-footed rock wallabies.
Campsite pitches from AU$29 (£16) per night, cabins from
AU$185 (£103) per night; rawnsleypark.com.auRownsley Park Tourism, Billabong Falls/Claire Takacs, The Kilnhouses/Josie Withers
81
THE KILNHOUSES,
VICTORIA
After a sharp redesign,
these three farm buildings
have garnered praise
aplenty for their contemporary design and
soothing vineyard vistas. They’re set on a
working cattle ranch, lanked by nothing
but mountains, wine ields and a few
grazing cows. In summer, there are free
bikes for exploring your glorious isolation- and in winter, Mount Hotham ski resort
(an hour’s drive away) receives a generous
dusting of snow.
SECRET TIP: The retreat hosts regular
cooking classes with Italian-born Patrizia
Simone – chef-owner of an award-winning
local restaurant.
Whole properties from AU$350 (£195)
per night, including breakfast;
kilnhouse.com.au
80
BILLABONG FALLS, VICTORIA
It’s no surprise to learn that Billabong Falls’ owner
is a renowned landscape designer, and former
gold winner at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
Surrounded by waterfalls and gigantic ash trees,
Phillip Johnson’s Aussie opus features a freshwater swimming pool
that lows underneath its woodland-view lounge – with space for up
to four guests in the two rustic-luxe bedrooms.
SECRET TIP: A bottle of Victoria wine, home-gathered eggs and
a freshly baked loaf awaits new arrivals.
Whole property from AU$550 (£306) per night, including
breakfast basket; billabongfalls.com