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River House (aka Federal Hilton) - Byron Bay Hinterland holiday cottage

Photo gallery for River House (aka Federal Hilton) - Byron Bay Hinterland holiday cottage

Property grounds
shady in summer and sun spot in the winter
view to the deck from the garden - perfect breakfast spot
gardenscape
deck detail

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 490 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Laundry
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Federal, NSW
  • Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Main Beach
    ‪28 min drive‬
  • Wategos Beach
    ‪36 min drive‬
  • Byron Bay, NSW (QYN)
    ‪38 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Blue Bedroom

1 Double Bed

Orange Bedroom

1 Double Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

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

About this property

River House (aka Federal Hilton) - Byron Bay Hinterland holiday cottage

This is the secret hinterland hide away that has up til now been word of mouth only. The cottage is an eclectic mix of style and comfort. And feels like you're staying in your own holiday house

The 10 acre property has been planted with a variety of tropical fruits - perhaps a grapefruit for breakfast, mango for lunch and a pomegranate for dessert!
The star attraction is the privacy and the beautiful Wilsons River that provides an excellent swimming hole and a regenerated rainforest to wander through or have a picnic lunch.

The layout of the cottage includes combined kitchen and dining room, lounge, main bedroom with double bed and second bedroom with a double bed and a trundle bed, bathroom and covered deck.

You're in the hills but we do have everything a modern holiday maker could want - Electricity, cold and piping hot running water and will be turned on prior to your stay. We have an upright gas stove & oven, fridge, dishwasher, wood burner and cd/radio/ipod dock, tv and dvd, basic furniture, cutlery, crockery, sheets, blankets and dooners for all beds + a CD library and some games and cards. Outside you can cook on a great wood barbeque or on the gas barbie. Plus we have an iron, electric blanket and all the kitchen appliances you’ll need to whip up delicious meals.

The Federal Store: The store is the only shop in the village and is a meeting place for the locals for anything and everything. It acts as the supermarket, bottle shop, post office, newsagent and eftpos outlet.

Some tips: A torch for night time spotting, gum boots for wet weather, table linen for glamour dining and beach towels for taking a dip in the creek or the sea.





Trips in the area

Within the region can be found a number of attractions.

Byron Bay:
Eastern most point of Australia. Lots of restaurants and shops in this rapidly growing tourist spot. Beaches such as Wategoes, Broken Head, Tallow and the Pass are well worth a visit. A pleasant walk and picnic can be had from Wategoes to the lighthouse. There is a golf course on the south side of town.
Ballina:
The home of the big lobster, movie theatre and airport.
Bangalow:
A ‘pretty’ town and now bypassed by the highway. The town has been restored to it’s former glory and hosts galleries, second hand/antique stores and cafes. Try the Woods and visit the country market on the last Sunday of the month.
Minyon Falls:
15 minutes by car from Federal is a 300m cascading waterfall into the valley of the palms. Picnic grounds, look outs all set in rainforest. A number of walks, including a 5km walk to the bottom of the falls.
Brunswick Heads:
10 minutes up the Pacific Highway from Bangalow. Great pub for a counter lunch and lots to discover.
Lennox Heads:
Best right hander on the coast, but watch the rocks.
Nimbin:
Hippyville!
Lismore - Lizard ville:
Bustling regional centre 30km west of Federal. Supermarkets, cafes, airport and University.
Mount Warning:
A day trip for the more adventurous.
Mullumbimby:
A 10km drive from Federal along the Coorabel ridge, giving breathtaking rural and coastal views. ‘The biggest little town in Australia’
The Channon:
30 minutes west, tricky to find but worth the trip for the monthly market (2nd Sunday) great variety of plants, food and crafty produce. Along with the sights and sounds.
The Gold Coast:
Only an hour up the highway to glitz, glamour and gluttony. Casino, Pacific Fair and airport.

Just some suggestions, but you can discover the rest yourselves.

Check out our Instagram account for more images on Federal Hilton #federalhilton



Property manager

Louise Bickle
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Laundry
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill
Fireplace

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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
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
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
Property Registration Number PID-STRA-29120, 2480

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
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 on a river. Andrew Johnston Big Scrub Nature Reserve and Goonengerry National Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens and Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. Discover the area's water adventures with scuba diving and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling and horse riding.
Map
Federal, NSW

What's nearby

  • Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens - 18 min drive - 14.1 km
  • Main Beach - 28 min drive - 24.9 km
  • Cape Byron Lighthouse - 33 min drive - 28.1 km
  • The Pass - 35 min drive - 27.0 km
  • Wategos Beach - 36 min drive - 27.6 km

Getting around

  • Mullumbimby Station - 31 min drive
  • Ballina, NSW (BNK-Ballina - Byron Gateway) - 38 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Empire Cafe - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪The Farm Byron Bay - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Baker and Daughters - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪Mullumbimby Bowling Club - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪The Rock & Roll Coffee Company - ‬22 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is River House (aka Federal Hilton) - Byron Bay Hinterland holiday cottage pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at River House (aka Federal Hilton) - Byron Bay Hinterland holiday cottage?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at River House (aka Federal Hilton) - Byron Bay Hinterland holiday cottage?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is River House (aka Federal Hilton) - Byron Bay Hinterland holiday cottage located?

Situated on a river, this cottage is within 9 miles (15 km) of Andrew Johnston Big Scrub Nature Reserve, Goonengerry National Park and Snows Gully Nature Reserve. Gondwana Rainforests of Australia and Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 50 out of 59 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 59 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 59 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 59 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 59 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Cameron W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely rainforest cottage

Gorgeous!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Jane S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quirky cottage in lovely setting

Beautiful tropical location in a relaxed, eclectic cottage. Perfect for a relaxed, laidback family holiday away from the main throng.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

short escape from the city

A peaceful spot, with a friendly community near by. The artwork was aspiring to curious little minds, as was the art deco furniture pieces and the older cutlery. We look forward to visiting Federal again....hopefully for a bit longer next time.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

David E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Federal Hilton

Relaxing, peaceful, restful, cozy winter break
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Richard B.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Federal

Beautiful grounds and river.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrew S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A great family destination

A great family venue to relax and have the kids unplug and enjoy the outdoors. Louise was especially helpful and the cabin was tidy and well stocked. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrew K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A secluded hide-a-way

Having travelled from Sydney over a few stop-overs with Canadian friends and after enjoying two relaxed days in Federal Hilton I asked the friends what was the highlight of the trip. Their enthusiasm was for Federal. Arty, the solitude, the environment and thanked me for finding such an amazing place. Loved it Louise. Aileen Kelly
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Marc N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing

Amazing. As usual
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kylie O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!!!

Absolutely amazing! The house is just gorgeous and perfect for a little get away surrounded by nature. Louise was super helpful and informative. Thank you
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Barb H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful getaway

We had a lovely time at The Federal Hilton. Magical gardens to frolick and have a fire in; lots of gorgeous wildlife to spot; and a warm, cosy cottage with great kitschy gear to chill out in. It was clean, comfortable and all was as communicated. We’ll definitely be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Barb H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical

We had a sublime time at the Federal Hilton. Beautiful flowers and surrounds; amazing wildlife and lovely fur babies from next door! The children loved exploring and creating and the big people loved relaxing and reading by the fire or on the deck. Local walks and visits were great and the cottage itself was fabulous, inspirational while homely. Thanks so much - we loved our stay - we’ll be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thank you

It was a lovely spot and suited us perfectly. Thanks Louise.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Stu N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic stay

We loved our stay, fantastic cabin and fantastic property. It was a perfect base for discovering the area.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

michelle m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Secluded Retreat

Rustic secluded getaway in the heart of Federal. Loved it with all the amenities that were required.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

John D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Country Cottage

What a lovely warm and inviting cottage. Enjoyed the books and music and loved the fire. And a lovely property to stroll around.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

olive m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A great retreat

It was a lovely break from the big smoke Very quiet and lovely to hear the birds, esp the kookaburra, in the morning. It was a very cold period, and great that there was a solid supply of firewood for the woodburner All appliances worked well. Very nice hot showers. Comfy beds. It suited me and my kids.. had lots to talk about and explore
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Sue P., PEARCEDALE

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Back into Wildernes

Loved the quirky design, colours and all the bits and pieces in this beautiful cottage. Its not luxury but its so comfortable and the log fire is lovely. Once opened up the house really connects with the outside and the surrounds are stunning, beautiful and loads of wildlife visitors. The local Cafe Doma and the Produce shop were amazing and had everything we needed for a great long weekend.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Hayley P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Anniversary weekend

Had a wonderful relaxing time . Explored all round the area and enjoyed the whole experience tremendously.. thank you
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Miriam L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

My Haven

Very quiet & secluded yet neighbours not far away if needed. Beautiful tress and shrubs around - enjoyed strolling around, down to the river etc. Perfect for dropping out of all the hassles for a while, I read, sketched, slept well & happily, thank you.

10/10 Excellent

Nick J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful ,secluded and very private property.

Really enjoyed this property, set in really nice bush surroundings with running creek and swimming hole all to ourselves!! The house is very cosy and comfortable. Will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Hermes E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bellingen

Great place with style
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Steve H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Federal Hilton bliss

This was our second stay at the FH. We returned for the beautiful bush setting and the location. Close enough to the towns and beaches but far enough to be away from the Byron bubble. The house is simple but charming with its eclectic styling and furnishings. Wonderful.
Stayed 11 nights in Jan 2021

8/10 Good

Justine G., ALEXANDRIA

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful retreat

Spent a peaceful 8 days at Federal Hilton. The property is a little piece of paradise - tucked away and whisper quiet.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2020

8/10 Good

Amanda C., Sydney

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute rural cottage on outskirts of Federal

Great communication and checkin and terrific advice about things to do in the area. Cute cottage with unique decor reminding me of a mix of Grandmas house and ritual farm digs. Very friendly neighbourhood dogs came to visit and the native animal nightlife reminded us that we were remote and rural! A lovely stay thank you.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Blasius E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect mid week break

Beautiful property, with a quirky artistic vibe. Can’t wait to return, early morning coffee with the resident kookaburra, pitch black night sky for star watching, swimming hole, and great restaurants close by.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020

About the host

Hosted by Louise Bickle

Host profile image
We live in the inner city suburb of Redfern and this is our much loved holiday escape. We like to share this beautiful hideaway with other like minded guests (although not at the same time of course). We try to get up to the hills as often as possible so our house has that homey feeling rather than your usual holiday let, we are always updating something or making things more comfortable.

Why they chose this property

Before the original European settlers arrived, the Federal Valley was a rain forest & bush area called the ‘Big Scrub’. The settlers were afraid of the ‘big scrub’ so they cleared all areas of the land. The land was then used mostly for the running of livestock.We bought the property in 1978 & at that time there was only one tree on the entire 10 acre block, (it’s the one to the left of the deck, the Red Apple Tree). All the other trees & shrubs have been planted by us or spread by birds or the elements. The rain forest at the creek edge has slowly regenerated by it self.From 1979 to 1986, the top paddock was planted as an orchard of avocados. These unfortunately were slowly killed off by phitopherous (a root disease).The Federal Valley was also a proposed dam site, a 10 year battle was fought & won by the community in 1995. The dam would have flooded the valley entirely, our property would have had water to the top gate. All the wild life & trees would have been lost.Our 10 acres now hosts many interesting trees & shrubs, among them we have grapefruit, limes, oranges, tung oil, pecans, black bean, mango, custard apple, macadamia & coffee as well as a huge range of gums, cedars and pine trees to name a few.We are slowly creating a beautiful garden, there are both fragrant & colourful species that do their thing at different times of the year.At the creek we have turtles, a platypus family, a kingfisher family & hundreds of other birds, butterflies & reptiles.We hope you relax & enjoy your stay!

What makes this property unique

Our back grounds are in textiles, theatre and interior styling - so you'll find an eclectic mix of furniture and furnishing. We like cooking and eating at home so the kitchen is very well equipped for the holiday chef. We have a teenage son who has spent his growing up years, holidaying on the property, so we have a very child friendly environment and lots of books, CDs and DVDs to keep all ages entertained + a trampoline! AND we have no wifi. Internet and mobile coverage is a very recent addition to the area - but try to stay off grid for 100% relaxation. Read a book on the deck, relax in the butterfly chairs, swim in the swimming hole, spot wildlife and enjoy the sunshine.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests