FAQS
To help you plan your stay with us, we have put together some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from our guests. If you have a specific query not answered below, please contact us.
GENERAL NEED TO KNOWS
What should I bring to enjoy my stay?
Here’s a basic list of what you might want to bring. You’ll no doubt have your own needs, but we thought this might be helpful, knowing what we do about Kestrel Nest and its environment.
Food – see section following
Suncreen and repellant
Swimming costume / togs
Hat / beanie
Closed-in shoes for walking
Personal toiletries
Camera, memory cards, charger
Binoculars
Can I bring more than 4 people?
We no longer cater for campers. Motorhomes and caravans are also prohibited as they are unsuitable for our farm roads.
Is there wi-fi or internet?
No. We are proudly without Wi-Fi or mobile phone signal. As an off-grid retreat, our aim is to connect you to the bush without distraction and the constant ‘buzz’ of today’s connected world.
Be sure to let your friends and family know that you’ll be offline for a few days.
We can show you a place that you may get reception for emergencies.
What amenities are supplied at Kestrel Nest EcoHut?
Kestrel Nest EcoHut is an open plan studio style accommodation with:
- One queen bed
- Two single beds (bunks)
- Star-gazing hammocks
- Outdoor fire pit
- Indoor bathroom and a luxurious outdoor bath
- Indoor wood-fired heater
- Well equipped kitchen
- Kitchen and pantry basics
- Breakfast provisions with local produce (see below)
Everything you need to unwind, relax and enjoy nature.
How is power supplied if it's off-grid?
Australia operates on 240V and uses a two or three-pin plug.
What are the breakfast provisions?
Your stay includes self-serve breakfast provisions:
- Farm-made sourdough bread
- Freshly laid hens eggs
- Locally grown and made bacon, Highfield Farm artisanal lamb chorizo, or lamb sausages (depending on availability)
- Milk, an assortment of Teas & Coffee
- Rolled oats and brown sugar
- Muesli
- Baked Beans
- Butter, jam or honey & Vegemite
Can I self cater?
Yes, you can and, in fact, most of our guests do self-cater. It’s a long way to the shops so bring everything you need.
The well-equipped kitchen provides everything needed for self-catering, and the pantry is well stocked with essential items.
You can also order either our farm-grown beef, chicken or lamb (the choice will depend on availability) or a Regional Food Hamper. We also offer a Regional Cellar option where we can stock your fridge with locally produced beer, wine and cider. You can find out more on our Produce page, Local food hamper, Regional cellar.
How long does it take to get there?
What will the weather be like for my stay?
For the most up-to-date weather forecast, check this link:
http://www.bom.gov.au/nsw/forecasts/gundagai.shtml
Remember, the weather person is the only one who can be wrong and still keep their job. We like to say “There is no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing”.
It can be quite cool here in winter and very hot in summer. No, it doesn’t snow here, but snow falls nearby. One word of advice? Layers.
How do I check availability?
You can easily check availability by going to “Book Now” and clicking on the “Show Availability” icon. Available dates will appear in green.
What time is check in and check out?
Self-check-in is from 2 pm and check-out is by 10 am so there is plenty of time to sleep in.
Just like us, the Kestrel Nest EcoHut needs time to recharge and reconnect therefore, please plan around these times so that we service and replenish the EcoHut.
Will the EcoHut be serviced during my stay?
Short two or three day bookings will not be serviced during your stay. If you are with us on a weekly stay, we will arrange a time with you for a mid-week service.
POLICIES & IMPORTANT NEED TO KNOWS
What is your emergency contact number?
Please leave our number with friends or family and business partners to reach you in the unlikely event of an emergency.
+61 429 985 222
What is your cancellation policy?
Full refund for cancellations up to 30 days before check-in. If booked fewer than 30 days before check-in, a full refund for cancellations made within 48 hours of booking and at least 14 days before check-in. After that, a 50% refund up to seven days before check-in. Cancellation and/or amendments within seven days of arrival will forfeit all monies paid.
What is the minimum stay policy?
The minimum stay is two nights.
When is fire danger season & what are the restrictions?
We are well aware of the devastation that fire can cause after living through that horrendous summer of 2020. So we expect guests to adhere to fire danger ratings whilst staying on our property. We will advise you of any restrictions that are in place through the summer months .You can learn more about NSW Fire Danager Ratings from https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fdr-and-tobans
Can I book more than twelve months in advance?
Yes, you can book more than twelve months in advance. We find we have return guests who like to book well in advance for their special celebrations.
Do you allow pets to stay at Kestrel Nest EcoHut?
We, of course, welcome those accompanied by assistance dogs. Please let us know if you will be bringing an assistance dog so we can hear from you about any special requirements you have.
Do you have a Booking Terms & Conditions Policy?
Yes, we do. You can read our full Booking Terms & Conditions Policy here.
EXPERIENCES – ALL THE FUN STUFF
Can we explore the property?
Of course, you can. We have around 14 km of well-marked trails in our farmland and conservation areas for you to explore. We provide maps and recommendations for sunsets!
You’ll see some of our incredible bird life and maybe a wombat or an echidna. You’ll definitely see kangaroos and wallabies! And if you want to venture a little farther, many of our trails link up to the neighbouring Ellerslie Nature Reserve.
So our stay is on a working farm. Can I feed or interact with the livestock or animals on the farm?
Kestrel Nest is set on Highfield Farm and Woodland – a working farm. We raise Dorper Sheep, Dexter Cattle and chickens. We do our utmost to ensure they have stress-free and disease-free lives. You are most welcome to observe our farm animals; however, we ask that you:
- DO NOT chase or pursue our animals
- DO NOT feed any food to our animals
- DO NOT leave any food in our paddocks or conservation area
Any of these actions can threaten the health of our animals and can result in death or injury.
If you would like to meet our farm animals with our interpretation, we’d be delighted to take you on a Farming with Habitat Tour. Just get in touch!
Do you offer any farm experiences?
We have a Farming with Habitat Tour and a Bird Watching Tour. Both of these are bookable when booking your accommodation online.
Can you advise where are the best places to observe birds?
Of course we can. You will actually find many species of birds and native wildlife on the farm and we are more than happy to offer your a bird watching tour or give you some advice.
Can I go fishing?
Perfect for the BBQ dinner for two.
Is there much to do in the region?
Our region is full of amazing experiences – with pretty rolling countryside, tumbling waterfalls and gold mining heritage. The region is steeped in natural beauty and history. We have bush and bike trails and local produce, including apple and berry orchards, nut and olive groves and Trufferies! There are also beer, cider and winemakers and vineyards with views! Cafes and restaurants, cellar doors with tastings. Here are a few things we like to do in the region. If you want suggestions for day trips, read our explore page.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HIGHFIELD FARM & WOODLAND
