Now is the time to head on a road trip and explore our own backyard with a domestic Australian holiday to support the local tourism industry and avoid cabin fever.
If you’re seeking solace and natural tranquility, we may have just found you the perfect place. La Rocher Eco Retreat opened just prior to COVID-19 and has now emerged as the perfect antidote to a busy city life with a socially distant hinterland hideaway getaway.
Nestled between the Gold Coast and Byron Bay in the lush Tweed region of northern NSW, La Rocher offers 4 luxury villas all positioned to take advantage of the sweeping hinterland views toward Wollumbin/Mount Warning.
Welcome to La Rocher
The retreat is named after its host Graham Rocher and family. In French “Rocher” means large rock and you couldn’t get a larger rock than Wollumbin/Mount Warning that is the focal point of the property. Each of the four luxury villas face toward the symbolic mountain, known as Wollumbin meaning “cloud catcher” by the local Bundjalung people. It’s a captivating view and oh so relaxing watching the changing landscape as mist and clouds come and go. While often shrouded in cloud, on a clear morning the peak catches the first rays of sunrise to hit the Australian mainland.
Graham is a welcoming host, explaining the villas many inclusions and preparing a fire for your arrival however with keyless entry, a contactless check-in can also be arranged.
Rooms at La Rocher
There are four villas – named Bordeaux, Merlot, Shiraz and Chardonnay all facing west toward Wollumbin/Mt Warning taking advantage of the spectacular hinterland and mountain views.
Our Chardonnay villa is a spacious home away from home, stuffed with luxe furniture including a heavenly king size bed, comfortable sitting area, breakfast bar, kitchenette and desk.
The hero of the room is the double-sided fireplace, accessible from the bedroom and the outdoor balcony. Start your afternoon with a sunset drink by the fire on the deck and as the sun sinks behind Wollumbin, adjourn inside and continue the fireside festivities.
The bathroom is magnificent with a deep freestanding bath inviting you to soak and take in the views to Wollumbin. Leave modesty at the door, as there is no door separating the bathroom and bedroom and limited window coverings, to enhance that get back to nature feeling.
You’ll spend plenty of time on the spacious deck, featuring an eclectic mix of furniture from a functional dining table, relaxing deck chairs and daybed to laze away the day or settle inside on the comfy couch.
After a day exploring the local villages, retreat to your luxurious surrounds and sleep well on the cloud like king size bed with the sounds of silence.
Breakfast at La Rocher
Generous host Graham leaves your kitchenette fully stocked with a selection of cereals and condiments as well as freshly baked local croissants from Ben’s Patisserie, local bread as well as bacon, eggs, tomatoes to cook a hearty hot breakfast and an overflowing fruit basket to keep you nourished. There is a nifty little espresso machine and freshly ground Bastion Lane coffee from just down the road in Uki or instant options if you don’t feel like navigating the machine.
Stepping Out
A visit to Uki Art Post and Bastion Lane Espresso Bar is a must, say hi to roast master Gary and take a quick tour of the roastery. For a quintessential country pub experience, pop in to Mount Warning Hotel which also conveniently has a bottle shop to purchase wine to toast those epic sunsets.
Venture further afield to Tyalgum to the quaint Flutterbies who offer everything from pizza, gin bar and the most delectable high tea experience all under one roof. Pop in to the Tyalgum General Store and pick up a cheese pack from Deb Allard’s Cheeses Loves You – you’ll thank us later.
Continue on to Chillingham and stop at the unassuming Buck’s Farm home of the region’s native finger lime and delicious award winner. If you’re ready to stretch your legs, head to Natural Bridge for a short and satisfying bushwalk.
Continue you country road trip loop to Crystal Creek Estate a delightful café and nursery overlooking the creek where you can even spot turtles paddling about. Continue on to Murwillumbah, for further shopping and dining options here.
Return from a day of exploring and bucolic country drives and retire to your luxury villa in style and comfort. La Rocher, like any new property has few opening quirks however with these elements improved, it’s an impressive new addition to The Tweed’s growing list of hinterland experiences.
La Rocher Eco Retreat
7 Minto Place, Smiths Creek, The Tweed NSW
Book La Rocher here.
