“It’s surely our responsibility to do everything within our power to create a planet that provides a home not just for us, but for all life on Earth,” Sir David Attenborough once said. Now more than ever, it is difficult to blend our way of living with the that of wildlife. Even so, Mark and Sue Berry demonstrate how to merge these two worlds with their luxury lodging at the Bower. On one of the most unspoiled stretches of Australia’s east coast, in a tiny town called Broulee, a glimmer of luxury carefully blends in with its landscape, leaving guests to unwind whilst the wilderness remains untouched.

The Bower is located in Broulee, a town on the south coast of New South Wales just a short drive from Batemans Bay. Comprised of five individual ‘bowers’ scattered within a 100-acre property, the Bower is a multi-award winning haven amidst untouched shores and serine bushland. With unparalleled levels of privacy, guests can expect to fully immerse themselves in the sounds which only the Australian landscape can offer. Each ‘bower’ is separated from each other between thick greenery and towering trees whilst the rest of the land offers wild walking trails among the array of plants, birds, and if you’re lucky, wallabies.

Sue and Mark Berry acquired the land back in 1992 with a vision to turn it into a retreat surrounded by nature amidst the pristine waters of Broulee. Whilst the path to this dream was not easy, they finally made enough progress to see the light at the end of the tunnel. That is until the bushfires at the end of 2019 which devastated much of east Australia’s bushland. The Bower was heavily impacted, with their home, offices and outbuildings all lost to the ashes. 

The Berry’s decided they would pick it all back up from where they left of, persevering through it to repair the Bower to what it once was: a nod to keeping the Australian wilderness untouched while subtly forming a luxury oasis to take in the sounds, odors and sights with that little bit more clarity.  

Not a few minutes after driving into Broulee — a town with the population just shy of 2,000 people — guests will be directed to turn into a driveway with a large automatic metal gate. Everything is completely self-check-in, something which the Berry’s feel is the perfect way to ensure that extra level of privacy. To get in, all you need to do is tap in the pin which Mark sends over the morning of your arrival. The gate will open in a very dramatic and slow motion, almost systematically preparing you for the utter awe you are about to witness. 

As you drive up the dirt path to your allocated bower — again, this is all prearranged and the exact location is sent to you the morning of — guests are overwhelmed by the sheer ‘wild’ aspect of the property. You may think to yourself: how is it so well kept, yet so authentically nature-intensive at the same time? The birds chirp in unsynchronized harmony whilst the wind blows through the leaves, creating a chaotic yet peaceful melody. 

It is in fact the best tune to pull up to your bower to. The serene sounds act almost as a cinematic backdrop as you first stop into your bower. Everything is so brightly lit because of the floor to ceiling windows in almost every room. The views consist of bushland, towering trees and species of boldly colored birds flying from nest to nest. 

The bathroom features a bathtub (with jets) with the same type of floor to ceiling windows on one side to gaze out from as you soak in the bubbles whilst everything else consists of an open floor plan. The attention to detail doesn’t get more real than this; from the underfloor heating to the bluetooth speakers and small fireplace with freshly chopped firewood and kindling ready for a cozy evening. The living area features high ceilings with sliding glass windows which lead onto the terrace. It wouldn’t be an outdoor adventure without a barbecue, grill and lounge chairs to get fully immersed in what nature has to offer. 

Another detail which heightened the experience that much more was the bird feeder just a few steps away from the terrace area. Whilst it is mesmerizing to watch an array of birds flying to and from the feeder, it is even more surreal having them come and perch on the railing, waiting for you to extend a handful of bird seed out. Luckily for them, Mark and Sue have prepared for such a moment with a box full of bird seed. By grabbing a handful, you’re sure to attract some colorful parrots to take delicate pecks straight form your hand. 

Whilst keeping the experience as private and self-catered as possible, the stay includes a comprehensive assortment of breakfast treats. From the basket of coffee and tea to the bread and free-range eggs stored neatly in the kitchen, guests can have a hearty breakfast ready at their disposal. That isn’t to mention the juices, fruit, jams, croissant, granola and other cereals which are almost exclusively made especially to enjoy outside on the deck. 

Upon checking-in, Mark also sends over a voucher via email to enjoy at Broulee’s local pub. Whether you want a hot beverage or a beer, it is a thoughtful spot to get to know this small town better. Whilst the entire experience is designed to be as private and intimate as possible, the Berry’s make sure that guests have everything they need to explore the charming town of Broulee. 

As cheesy as it may sound, a stay at the Bower can truly make time stand still. It is not everyday you can enjoy luxury whilst being immersed in the Australian wilderness. While everything is immaculately cared for, the owner’s attention to privacy is truly appreciated in such a peaceful wonder. The property will not only help guests to unwind and relax with birds chirping in the background, but the walking trails, outdoor adventures and culinary experiences all within Broulee make for a spectacular getaway.