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Byron Hinterland Farm Cottage on Cattle property

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Property grounds
Mara Joy 
Farm  Cottage
nearly there
Entrance
Mara-Joy Cottage

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 4140 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pool
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Federal, NSW
  • Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • Main Beach
    ‪29 min drive‬
  • Wategos Beach
    ‪36 min drive‬
  • Byron Bay, NSW (QYN)
    ‪32 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom

Toilet

Bathroom 1

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Byron Hinterland Farm Cottage on Cattle property

MINIMUM stay of 2 days. ................. NOTE***
Christmas Vacations & School Holidays. - 4 to 5 + day bookings are preferred -

Arrival time. midday-ish
Departure time midday-ish
These times may be negotiable - depending on other bookings.

Extending your stay - may sometimes be possible. Enquire with owners directly .

Wind your way down for 1 km, through the paddocks on "Yoorala" - a large working beef property in the Byron Hinterland at Federal.
Arriving to enjoy the seclusion, peace and quiet of a -family friendly- farm cottage named Mara-Joy.
Built in 2006, " Mara-Joy" Cottage is very spacious--
(140sq.m- see floor plan in the photos)
It has an open-plan design and is very light and airy.
The Cottage has a very large kitchen, dining and sitting area.

There is also a large morning sun room/TV/Family room. (8m x 5m )
Perfect for those escaping the southern cold winters
- Both the sitting areas and outdoor verandah have extensive farmland vistas where you can marvel at our amazing sunsets.

The cottage sleeps 4 persons in 2 bedrooms.
Perfect for Mum, Dad and 2 kids.
Bedroom1 - 1 Queen bed. Bedroom2 - 2 single beds.

The 1 bathroom has a combination shower/toilet/and laundry.
A second toilet is in the recently restored "outdoor dunny"

We appreciate knowing some brief details of our expected guests, incl. childrens' ages ....and place of departure (Covid times)

We are open to family gatherings and can provide limited extra sleeping options. - by prior negotiation only.
* Separate Studio -$100 per night - Queen bed -sleep couple
* K/Single day -bed in the cottage family room - sleep 1 person
**** Per night charges- $50 per adult/ $25 per child apply

The number of visitors permitted at the property must not be such, as may conflict with the residential amenities.



To preserve our grass -
Guests car - park alongside cottage entrance -inside property perimeter.
Visitors cars - park outside stone wall by the Grid.

If you want some personal space -You have the ability to spread out and find a quiet (sunny) spot indoors or outdoors - to read, gaze or just contemplate.

Workshop and conference attendees enjoy the peace and tranquillity after a long day.

The large covered outdoor deck (facing north) with BBQ facilities has spectacular views to the Nightcap Ranges and Condong Falls.

Fencing between houses ensures the personal privacy for both dwellings.

Flat areas of lawn around the cottage are eminently suitable for kids to run and play.

Guests have access to the farm house heated swimming pool between the hours of 10am to 6pm. Feel free to wander past- say Hello!... and enjoy the special views from the pool.
Pool swimming hours may be negotiable. Normal pool rules apply. No glass etc.

This is a working farm with animals.
For your personal safety - Please
Keep off any rock or wood structures or farm machinery
Do not venture onto farm paddocks without first checking with owners Nick and Perina
Farm safety information will be given ..and you will be advised of possible risks.
i.e... . cows, ticks, snakes... etc etc.

Nick and Perina Oliver live on-site in the original 100 year homestead located approximately 70 metres away. - beyond the fence... and are happy to chat.
- NO DRONES to be flown on property. Please respect our privacy and privacy of our neighbours.
Due to the topography of the land - sounds travel great distances through the valleys - quiet time after 11pm please.

The cottage used to be a short 5 minutes drive from Federal Village but because of a large rain event/flood - and landslip in 2022 -there is now a 15 minute detour.
The village road is expected to be open by end July 2024

The cottage is 1 km from roads and traffic, on a long private driveway.
You will SLOWLY weave your way over 5 cattle grids.

You may also encounter very friendly and inquisitive cattle in the paddocks - also hugging the warm bitumen strips.
Tooting and yelling will generally move them off.

In the mornings be woken up by birds and kookaburras and on occasion -when he is in residence -the "bellowing" of our Koala bear. .. Gone "walk-a-bout" lately

Sorry -NO PETS.

When the road is fixed in July - you are only 5 minutes away from :
*Federal Village Store/Bottleshop/Cafes
*The popular and famous Doma Cafe-which is open daily for breakfast and lunch.
*Jasper Corner and its wedding venue facilities.
*Federal Hall ( its monthly Saturday night movies with Hall dining.)???

Centrally located -you are also only
*A 15 minute drive to the village of Clunes Store/Bottleshop/Cafe
and the longstanding local Butcher Shop.
*15 minutes to the quaint town of Mullumbimby
*20 mins to Bangalow with a plethora of cafes, restaurants, fashion stores.
*30 mins to "The Farm" - Blue Ducks Restaurant/Cafe -and farm attractions for children and adults.
*35 minutes to the beaches and delights of Byron Bay.
*Take a further 10 min drive north onto Brunswick Heads - with its lovely river, hotel, cafes and stores - great for children and adults.
Go south to Ballina/BrokenHead/Lennox Head

We are also a short drive to many diverse natural and scenic attractions in the area such as:

Minyon Falls/Nightcap Range National Park/Whian Whian State Forest - see on Internet. "all trials.com" Minyon & Condong Falls Loop.
Rocky Creek Dam.
Macadamia Castle
Crystal Castle
Nimbin

Each Sunday (and other times -check local papers) there are markets to enjoy -with good food and entertainment in abundance.

Enjoy your stay. A review would be appreciated.

Property manager

Perina and Nick Oliver
Premier Host

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Washer
Outdoor space
Parking available
Mountain view

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Very suitable for all ages
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Events

No events allowed
Quiet gatherings welcome. 11pm noise limit.
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Pets

No pets allowed
No
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Not in the House. Outdoors acceptable. Bin butts
2 Nights min. Bookings - 4 persons only -unless negotiated prior. Min. age 25 years.
No Drones -without permission.
Please leave property as you found it. - clean and tidy. Shut doors and windows -turn off all lights, gas and electrical appliances.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Quiet gatherings welcome. 11pm noise limit.
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property, but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Federal

Located in Federal, this cottage is in a rural area and near theme parks. Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens and Bangalow Historical Museum & Tea Rooms are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Club Byron and Teven Valley Golf Course. Scuba diving, surfing/body boarding and fishing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails nearby.
Map
Federal, NSW

What's nearby

  • Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens - 17 min drive - 12.3 km
  • Main Beach - 29 min drive - 25.8 km
  • Minyon Falls - 29 min drive - 15.7 km
  • Cape Byron Lighthouse - 34 min drive - 29.0 km
  • Wategos Beach - 36 min drive - 28.5 km

Getting around

  • Mullumbimby Station - 26 min drive
  • Ballina, NSW (BNK-Ballina - Byron Gateway) - 42 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Doma Cafe - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Francisco's Table - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Moonshine Coffee - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪The Farm Gate Providore - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪The Wren's Rest - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Byron Hinterland Farm Cottage on Cattle property have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is Byron Hinterland Farm Cottage on Cattle property pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Byron Hinterland Farm Cottage on Cattle property?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Byron Hinterland Farm Cottage on Cattle property?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Byron Hinterland Farm Cottage on Cattle property located?

Located in a rural location, this family-friendly cottage is within 9 mi (15 km) of Goonengerry National Park, Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens and Snows Gully Nature Reserve. Bangalow Market and Gondwana Rainforests of Australia are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 115 out of 117 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 117 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 117 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 117 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 117 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Alicia S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to stay
Great picturesque location and ideal place to stay. Lovely hosts. Inground pool was fabulous for the kids
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anthony B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great cottage with beautiful outlook, and lovely pool
Well equipped and very spacious cottage. View over the valley was amazing, and we loved watching it change with the weather and seeing the bird life flying. Lovely pool. Friendly hosts
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Fariha J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Heaven on earth
We didn’t want to leave! The views, the cottage, the vibes… cannot describe! Nick and Perina were so lovely and accommodating we can’t thank them enough. We are already planning when to come back :)
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

robin d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
hidden gem
Wonderful rural location, peaceful with marvellous views. Cottage is very well designed and appointed. Hosts are convivial and helpful. Would happily stay again and recommend to others
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

James S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Memorable stay.
Without doubt one of the best places we have stayed. A really relaxing and peaceful setting. Enjoyed talking to Perina and Nick about common memories. Would definitely recommend this place if you need to get away from it all especially if you are a young at heart mature person.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Peter W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful Hinterland retreat
Beautiful outlook, lovely cottage in hinterland hills. A peaceful property to retreat to and enjoy the views and surrounds.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Taryn L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing!!
We had such a great time. The house is beautiful and the farm is spectacular. Everything you need is right there for you. Federal is a short drive away and great for coffee and breakfast!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Timothy J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent & Peaceful!!
Execcelt, peaceful property to get away from it all. Amazing views and really comfortable accommodation. Friendly hosts. Highy recommended.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Georgie W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Delightful Farm Stay & Great Hosts
This gorgeous farm cottage is light, bright and so spacious, with two comfortable living areas and a great kitchen. Lots of cosy nooks to soak up the sunshine. Hosts Perina and Nick are wonderfully welcoming and make you feel at home immediately. We absolutely loved our stay and will definitely be back.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Courtney G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family Farm paradise
Our little family loved our week long stay on Nick & Perina's beautiful farm and were made to feel extremely welcome. Our young city kids loved being free range, feeding the chooks, seeing newborn calves etc, having space to roam. The view was captivating and so rejuvenating. So nice to mill about the farm, but also within a stones throw from so much in the hinterland. Great cafes in Federal, even a little playground and creek for kids to explore. Thanks for a lovely stay!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jocelyn W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beauty and Rest
We were looking for somewhere to rest and recharge. Perfect spot. Only noise was birds. A stunning view from every window in the house. An abundance of comfortable chairs and resting spots. We loved every minute on this beautiful property.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Megan L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect Piece of Paradise
Our little family had the best stay. Such tranquilty, all that you need to not have to go far... and the hosts Nick & Perri are just so lovely. The kids loved their ride on the Kubota to go visit the cows with "Farmer Nick" - weeks later they are still talking about all the fun they had the farm! The beds were comfy, it's a really spacious little cottage. We also thoroughly enjoyed the area...The Killen Falls was magic... and a view at Minyon was spectacular. We also got to visit Bangalow and Byron. We just loved our time there. Book a stay, you won't regret it!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kaylie I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Magical Spot
5 star location!!! What a magical spot to spend a couple of days. Even though the weather was against me in terms of exploring the local area much, the magical views from the porch made up for it! The highlight being feeding the cows oranges from the trees grown on the property and wonderful chat with Nick and Perina.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

louise v.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Serene and rejuvenating
My daughter and I stayed for 4 nights recently. It is such a great place to stay. Very light and serene. Amazing scenery and views. Perina and Nick are so welcoming and inspirational. Could have stayed a month and hopefully will do so next year.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ryan L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to Relax!
A great place to unwind, surrounded by picturesque scenery. The hosts were wonderful, ensuring a great stay. Pick up some steaks at the nearby town of Federal. This cottage is a great stopping point to explore the area, visit Cape Byron Lighthouse and watch the whales in the waters below. About a day’s drive out of Sydney perfectly situated. Great Wi-Fi. Loved the Oranges on the trees and the cows in the fields.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Charles P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A very special property
The property was the fantastic. Great location, amazing views that the photos did not do justice for. Our kids had the best time and were lucky enough to go on an adventure to open the gate for the cows to move from one paddock to the next. They fed chickens and were lucky enough to get fresh eggs one morning. The hosts/ property owners are very kind people and great with kids when we saw them as my kids wandered around the grounds. Thank you very much - we’d love to return.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

MICHELLE S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stay in the Country
The approach to the property, driving to our cottage was beautiful, healthy cows dotted the paddocks, newly born calves bouncing around. Perina and Nick are wonderful hosts, nothing was too much trouble. We had two of our grandchildren aged 11 and 5 years with us, when they weren’t checking out the cows or chatting with Perina, they were in the pool. The cottage is very well designed with living area and comfortable lounge area separate, large deck off the living area overlooking a magnificent view. Truly a wonderful stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Darren O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A tonic for any occasion
Nick & Perina's property is gorgeous, and they are fantastic and engaging hosts. The property is located away from any hustle & bustle, and offers peace & serenity. We had an energetic 7-year-old with us who was curious about the property's cows and loves a good swim... Nick & Perina took it all in their friendly stride. If you're after a rest or a stay in a beautiful setting in the fresh, clean country air, then you can't go wrong here. I have a feeling we'll be back. Thank you both for letting us stay. Darren
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ina H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stunning
Such welcoming, friendly and informative hosts. The property is stunning, roomy and has beautiful views because it’s located on a ridge. The pool is beautiful and in such a nice location. We used it as there was a heat wave of 34 degrees C in August! You can see the stars at night. Our kids aged 8 and 12 were very happy. They collected chicken eggs, Perina came by to pick up the kids to help feed the cattle in the vehicle.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christopher M.

Spectacular views!
What a wonderful cottage with amazing views. Felt right at home straight away. The owners Nick and Perina are lovely people ard very friendly and made us feel welcomed. We will definitely be returning. Thankyou! :) Chris, Mary, George & John.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Natalie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A slice of Heaven
I almost don’t want to review this place so that it stays hidden from the crowds - it was a slice of Heaven. The farm cottage was larger than we expected and warm and inviting. We would wake up above the clouds and sit on the large verandah, warm coffee in hand, overlooking the valley. We only spent 2 days there but we left feeling replenished and rejuvenated. The highlight of our stay were the wonderful hosts, Perina and Nick who should be crowned national treasures. We were lucky enough to have a tour of the property and then enjoyed a lovely cup of tea with them and listened to all their stories. Our children even received an amazing lesson on the sun and stars, complete with an antique solar system replica. We can’t wait to return.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ruth D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect escape to the hills.
Driving over the hill and down to Mara Joy Cottage, I instantly felt this was the restful retreat I had imagined. Hosts Perina and Nick warmly welcomed us, setting the tone to enjoy the spacious, well-equipped cottage that ultimately became a cosy sanctuary to unwind. And oh, the view! The breathtaking view and spectacular sunsets across the valley were not lost on us. Surrounded by nature and the intoxicating scent of orange blossoms, the grounds were perfect to wander and explore. When we did venture out, Doma Cafe in Federal served outstanding contemporary Japanese cuisine; the eclectic general store stocked our pantry with local produce to 'dine in' each evening. Plus, a quick drive to Minyon Falls gave us an extra 'awe' moment. We left feeling deeply relaxed and rejuvenated. Thank you, Perina and Nick!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ruth D.

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Megan J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Complete quiet
I stayed for 2 nights and it felt like completely tranquil and remote even though we where so close to all the great cafe and activity options of the Byron bay hinterland. The house was large and warm with beautiful views. There was heaps in the kitchen to cook with. I would certainly visit again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mirko G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Hidden paradise
Great location to explore the amazing Byron Hinterland and check out the surrounding beaches. The cottage is on top of the hill with wonderful valley views.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

About the host

Hosted by Perina and Nick Oliver

Host profile image
Nick and Perina Oliver have lived here for 46 years and are "nearly" considered to be locals.
Although not from a farming background - we have over the years been on a really big learning curve to understand the land and farming best practices.

We do our very best to keep the history alive - whilst also embracing the future.


Why they chose this property

"Yoorala" was and still is a special place. - it is very private and picturesque.

The property was bought from the original owner - Mr Stanley King who inherited the land from his father - a first settler to the area in the late 1890's

What makes this property unique

The property is extremely quiet and devoid of traffic and people - unless invited.
We value the seclusion and privacy of our property and ask our guests to respect this.
No Drones please.

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests