Arriving at Amaroo Bangalow, I was immediately struck by how naturally everything seemed to fall into place—the cabins blending into rolling hills, the quiet rustle of leaves replacing the usual city hum. Here, at Byron’s newest hinterland retreat, luxury feels unhurried and deeply connected to the land.
This isn’t your typical getaway. Amaroo invites you to step out of the daily rush and into a space where every detail—from the architecture to the expansive gardens—whispers calm and thoughtful care. It’s an escape where you can truly breathe, unplug and slow down.
Let’s take a look inside.
The Accommodations
The estate consists of four architecturally-designed private studios—three cabins and a stand-alone loft—alongside a shared pavilion, complete with a gourmet kitchen, a 14-seat dining table, outdoor decks, and a plunge pool. Beyond the buildings, there’s 200+ acres to explore, from babbling creeks and picnic spots to free-range chickens and wandering cattle.
Image Credit: Amaroo | Timothy Birch
The moment I stepped into my cabin, perched quietly among the rainforest canopy, I felt an immediate calm wash over me. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame lush greenery, filling the space with soft natural light. The interiors are a blend of natural materials, earthy tones and minimalist luxe; simple, elegant, and utterly restful. I made great use of the wood-burning fireplace and loved that the lighting is handcrafted by co-owner Mike and his father, Vince—a subtle touch that adds to the deep sense of craftsmanship woven throughout the property.
Image Credit: Amaroo | Timothy Birch
Each cabin offers privacy while remaining a short stroll from the central pavilion—the social heart ofAmaroo. This open, airy space features a spacious kitchen, a generous dining table, wood-fired clay pizza oven, private outdoor shower, heated plunge pool, fire pit with seating and wide decks with rolling hill views.
Image Credit: Amaroo | Timothy Birch
Designed by award-winning local architects Shaun Lockyer and DFJ Architects, the architecture deeply respects the land. Clean lines, natural materials, and muted colours complement rather than compete with the surroundings. The estate operates at 100% water and 70% energy independence, harnessing the sun and drawing from local rainfall and natural spring creeks.
The Property
Spanning 213 acres, Amaroo is centred around a clear philosophy of respecting the land and giving back to nature. What was once tired grazing land is now a flourishing sanctuary thanks to the vision and dedication of owners Mike and Cathy Tomkins.
Image Credit: Amaroo | Timothy Birch
Their six years of regeneration (read: a lot of hard work) have transformed the property. They’ve reintroduced over 45,000 native plants, eliminated invasive flora and are partnered with Bangalow Koalas, working together to plant more koala-friendly trees and create a safe ‘koala highway’.
And if that wasn’t enough already, Amaroo remains a working cattle farm with free-roaming Black Angus cattle, chickens that provide fresh eggs, and soon, honey from onsite beehives. Amaroo’s authentic commitment to sustainable, slow living feels like a breath of fresh air in today’s fast world.
How To Stay
Guests can book an individual cabin for an intimate two-person escape or the entire property for up to 8 adults and 6 children. Either way, you’ll have exclusive access to the whole estate; the central lounge, gourmet kitchen, and poolside pavilion included, no matter the number of guests.
Image Credit: Amaroo | Timothy Birch
While I loved having the whole place to myself for a romantic retreat, Amaroo is ideal for multi-generational families or groups, with private studios and expansive communal areas creating space for both solitude and togetherness. And very importantly, both dogs and cats are very much welcome, because they’re family too.
Image Credit: Amaroo | Timothy Birch
If you want to elevate your stay, Amaroo offers concierge services for private tours, catering, events, in-house massages and spa treatments, babysitting, and more.
The Amaroo Experience
By the end of my stay, I felt quietly transformed. Amaroo is more than just a luxury retreat—it’s a sanctuary that nurtures the soul, invites connection, and shows how restorative true stillness can be.
Mike and Cathy’s stewardship shines through every corner, from the regenerating landscape to thoughtful design and sustainable touches.
If you’re after a getaway that blends quiet luxury with genuine immersion in nature, this hinterland hideaway offers a rare kind of magic. Step inside, and you might just find yourself slowing down in ways you never knew you needed.
Amaroo Bangalow: What You Need To Know
How can I book? You can book via Amaroo Bangalow's website here.
What is the price? Two-night minimum. While prices vary seasonally, a one bedroom cabin is $850 for two nights.
How do I get there? Amaroo is one minute's drive from Bangalow and only a 10 minute drive to Byron Bay.
What else is there to do? While I recommend bunkering down and enjoying the tranquility of your nature escape, there's plenty to do in Byron Bay and surrounds. Check out the best Byron Bay restaurants, best Byron Bay cafes and best Northern Rivers restaurants.
Main image credit: Amaroo Bangalow | Timothy Birch