Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery
Moonya is a lovingly restored vintage 1950s holiday house located in a whisper quiet street in one of South Katoomba's most sought after locations. The house is very close to the escarpment and premier attractions, the Jamieson Valley, Katoomba Cascades, numerous bushwalks, Scenic World, and within walking distance to the Three Sisters, and Katoomba township and its quaint galleries, boutique stores and gourmet cafes
Built in 1949 in post war Art Deco style, it is a tastefully furnished with vintage and retro furniture, contemporary artworks with all the modern comforts and set in a sun-drenched, beautiful and peaceful 1950s garden setting with vintage outdoor furniture. Comfortable, warm and bright, this north-facing house maintains many of its original features which adds to its vintage charm.
What also makes Moonya a truly unique holiday experience is its mid-20th Century collectables, designer furniture, fittings and furnishings from the 1920s to the 1970s including pieces from New Zealand, Australia and Denmark. The house has high ceilings, deco cornices, original Bakelite door handles, a restored original kitchen and bathroom, and polished hardwood floors.
Featured artworks includes contemporary work by local artist, Audrey Rhoda and more classical paintings by my father Colin Cameron who was a well known New Zealand artist.
The kitchen is equipped with everything needed to cook including a 90cm Italian dual fuel cooker along with quality appliances. Enjoy alfresco dining around the barbeque or just relax in the private ambiance of the garden and watch the birdlife.
Each of the two bedrooms is vintage styled with dresser, wardrobe, a queen bed and double beds. Linen and towels are supplied and are of good quality and each of the four beds have electric blankets.
Moonya faces north so it is filled with sunlight and warmth during the day. The house is beautifully warm in winter with underfloor gas central heating in the lounge, dining room, kitchen and bedrooms, and a gas heater.
Entertainment includes unlimited, fast NBN wifi, a LG smart TV with all the apps plus Stan and Netflix, board games, books, magazines and jigsaw puzzles. There is also sound system in the dining area with a collection of blues, funk and soul from the 1940s to the 1980s.
The house is well equipped for babies, toddlers and children with a cot, high chair, changing mat and a toy box.
Moonya is an ideal romantic getaway and retreat for couples, small families or a group of friends. The house is also set up as a writer's space for those who would like to have a relaxing place to work.
LOCATION-LOCATION -LOCATION. The house is located on an escarpment just above Katoomba Park, from where you have a 7 minute walk through native bushland accessed at the end of the street that will take you to the Katoomba Cascades, Falls, Scenic World and then on to the Three Sisters. At Scenic World take the cable car and view Katoomba Falls from high up, or take the scenic railroad down to the floor of the rainforest to see tall gums and other ancient trees. Take the Cliff walk with its spectacular lookouts and gaze towards the Jamieson Valley, Three Sisters, Mount Solitary, the Ruined Castle, Orphan Rock and Narrowneck. You will find that there are so many activities to choose from and all within reasonable walking distance to the house. Katoomba shops and cafes are a 15 minute walk. Restaurants, galleries, cafes and second hand shops in Leura are close by and Blackheath is a 15 minute drive away.
Additional items: Fully equipped kitchen includes essential cooking items: olive oil, herbs and spices, salt & pepper, black and a range of herbal teas, coffee (instant and ground beans), sugar, baking items etc; Nespresso pod machine, Excellent cooking facilities with a state-of-the art Artusi dual fuel cooker; Separate internal laundry with Bosch washing machine, washing powder and dryer; Shampoo and conditioner plus liquid soap, soap and shower gel; Dining room with table for 6; Hair dryer, iron and ironing board Electric blankets on all beds, for the winter nights. Continuous gas hot water system for bathrooms and kitchen. Never runs cold. Gas central heating with vents in all rooms apart from bathroom Books and magazines Dishwasher (including dish wash powder), fridge & microwave in the kitchen BBQ and outdoor furniture on covered deck. Pots, pans, plates, cutlery, glasses, cups, toasters, kettle, toilet paper, hand soap, dish washing liquid supplied, Ironing board and steam iron available. Toilet paper; As a welcome gift I provide wine and chocolates to my guests. Off street parking for 1 car. Additional parking right out the front of the property Fully fenced front & back with gates.
Things to see and do during your stay at Moonya
Relax & enjoy the clean, crisp mountain air ! Visit one of the many Day Spas for a bit of pampering ! Enjoy beautiful, scenic walks & spectacular valley & escarpment views Visit the world famous 3 Sisters & Scenic World Browse for antiques & enjoy some fine dining in Katoomba & surrounding areas Go horse riding in the Megalong Valley Visit the vineyards in the Megalong Valley and enjoy a wine overlooking spectacular scenery Visit Jenolan Caves - a comfortable 1 hours drive. Take a day trip to Bathurst or Mudgee & check out historic Little Hartley & Lithgow on the way ! Explore the villages of Leura, Blacheath & Mt Victoria. Visit beautiful Mt Wilson & Mt Tomah botanic gardens.
Sightseeing and amenities close to Moonya
Three Sisters/Echo Point = 15 mins walk, 3 mins drive North. Leura Cascades = 20 mins walk East. Katoomba Cascades = 7 mins walk South, 2 mins drive Katoomba cafes, shops = 10 mins walk, 2 mins drive North. Blue Mountains Cultural Centre = 10 mins walk, 2 mins drive North. Historic Carrington Hotel & Pub = 10 mins walk, 2 mins drive North. Katoomba RSL Club = 8 mins walk, 2 mins drive North. Katoomba Scenic World (Skyway, Walkway, Railway, Cableway) = 10 mins walk, 2 mins drive West. Katoomba Sports & Aquatic Centre (Council swimming pool) = 10 mins walk, 2 mins drive South. Leura village & boutiques= 25 minus walk, 5 mins drive East. Edge Large Screen Cinema = 20 mins walk 5 mins drive North. Jenolan Caves = 75 kms, 1hr 15 mins West.
Minutes away from antique shops, bush walks, abseiling, horse riding, convention centre.
Aldi, Woolworths, Liquorland, Dan Murphy's, Big W, Coles are near by.
Sleeping arrangements
Bed 1 - Queen Bed Bed 2 - Double Bed, Single Bed Cot in Bed 1 also available
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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
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; 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 deadlock
About the area
Katoomba
Located in Katoomba, this holiday home is near theme parks and on a river. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Katoomba Scenic World and Blue Mountains National Park. Travelling with kids? Consider Blue Mountains Cultural Centre and Everglades Historic House & Gardens. Kayaking and swimming offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and horse riding nearby.
Blue Mountains Cultural Centre - 12 min walk - 1.1 km
Katoomba Falls - 12 min walk - 1.1 km
Katoomba Scenic World - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
Three Sisters - 3 min drive - 2.3 km
Echo Point Lookout - 3 min drive - 2.3 km
Getting around
Katoomba Station - 18 min walk
Western Sydney Intl. Airport (WSI) - 69 min drive
Restaurants
Bon Bakery Cafe - 16 min walk
The Carrington - 15 min walk
Old City Bank Bar and Brasserie - 16 min walk
Cattlefish - 15 min walk
Sushi n Co. - 15 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery?
As of 13 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery on 2 July 2026 start from AU$185, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Moonya, the writer's retreat, the 1950s vintage holiday home and house gallery located?
This family-friendly Katoomba holiday home is located on a river, within 1 mi (2 km) of Blue Mountains Cultural Centre and Katoomba Scenic World. Katoomba Falls and Prince Henry Cliff Walk Trailhead are also within 1 mile (2 km). Katoomba Station is 18 minutes by foot.
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We had a wonderful stay at this Blue Mountains home. The location was excellent — perfectly positioned for exploring the area while still feeling peaceful and relaxing. The house was warm, well heated and very comfortable.The welcoming gift on arrival was a lovely and thoughtful touch and immediately made us feel at home. The house was beautifully decorated, the beds were cozy and everything was clean and well set up for a comfortable stay.We really enjoyed our time here and would happily stay again.
Wonderful authentic 1950’s (?) place to stay with all you need for a weekend away. Warm, comfortable, interesting place that is far enough away but close enough to all you need!!Highly recommended to those wanting a different, and as I said authentic 50’s (not an 5 star hotel) experience!
Phillippa N.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2025
Thank you for being a wonderful guest Phillipa. You are most welcome anytime. Highly recommended to all hosts.
The host was very professional and polite. Thank you. The house is 1950’s charm in an absolutely beautiful street which is wonderfully quiet and close to town. We had a delightful time. Highly recommend!
Stayed here for UTA weekend, nice and convenient to walk down to Scenic World, house was nice with comfy beds. also not too far if you wanted to walk up into the heart of Katoomba aswell.
Thanks Fiona for your wonderful hospitality. We enjoyed staying at Moonya!
Steven P.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Tiffany
8 Feb 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
A lovely cottage to base our Blue Mountains hiking holiday from. A pleasant walk into town & nearby attractions. Cosy & comfortable - live like a local!
We had a lovely time staying in this cute cottage. It was a perfect place to base our stay while exploring the area. The host was very friendly and helpful and made us feel very welcome. Thank you!
Had a great week at the cottage, it was very peaceful and perfect for writing. Great location close to town and scenic walks, and the heating is perfect for cold nights. Thank you!
Elaine P.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Oct 2021
Thank you Elaine for being such terrific guests. Look forward to hosting you both again.
We enjoyed the comfortable cottage and the quiet, tranquil location. The home is light filled and has lovely windows. The mattresses are comfortable, the large gas stove is a real treat, and the gas heating with floor vents was an exceptional bonus.
we had a great week at Moonya, it is a lovely characterful property in a wonderful location. Fiona is very easy to communicate with and has the property well prepared for our stay, including some stocks in the fridge etc. We would defiantly stay again in the future
Moonya was a great base for exploring the Blue Mountains together. Over our stay it became home with comfortable beds, clean kitchen and bathroom, comfy lounge. Location was excellent! Thank you, Fiona. The food supplies you left were much appreciated.
Perfectly located, 15 mins walk from the town and from clifftop walking tracks and lookouts. Very comfortable mattress, excellent ducted heating and well-equipped kitchen (including bacon and eggs, a bottle of wine and Tim Tams!). Mid-century furniture and decor suits the Mountains’ atmosphere. My partner and I enjoyed a lovely week here - thank you!
Third time visitors this property brings us back to Katoomba. Each time enjoying what the Blue Mountains offers but also knowing our stay at Moonya will be great. The property offers you a comfortable and cosy moment in Katoomba history. Communication fantastic, centrally located and well provisioned. Would thoroughly recommend.
Jill M.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2023
Thank you Jill for the wonderful review and for being such terrific guests. Always an absolute pleasure to host you and Erin. Hope to see you in 2024
Great little cottage, as described. Walking distance to three sisters, Katoomba main drag. Plenty of supplies. Easy instructions and great communication. Lovely weekend away, thanks muchly.
Warm welcome with chocolate & wine! Moonya is a vintage cottage with period furniture just as described, equipped with everything you might need. Lovely little yard for watching birds! Despite its age, good heat and hot water. Good location in a quiet area. If you have allergies, you might struggle due to aged furnishings.
The property was quirky and showing its age but was very clean. The weather was freezing the week we stayed and the central heating was excellent. Plenty of hot water and warm and comfortable beds. Lots of extras in the kitchen, coffee, tea bags, herbs and spices etc. Fiona was quick to respond to any questions.
Loyeanne W.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 June 2022
Moonya is a 1950s vintage heritage mountain cottage and has kept its style and charm rather than been modernised. It is advertised as such and these guests appear not to have understood the heritage nature of the property and why its character has been retained.. Having said that It has modern quality appliances and all the comfortss. These guests didn't follow the rules and check heck out when required .
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Robert
7 Oct 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Compared to a hotel room, the house was spacious, comfortable, and located in a quiet suburban street. We really enjoyed the location, there was no traffic at night or noise, except for the wind. Two issues we would query. I ticked the breakfast included filter, but did not find any breakfast included. If this has changed, then it should be removed from the filter. The TV remote did not work, despite replacing the remote with the spare batteries. This meant no access to streaming services, and using the button controller behind the screen was very inconvenient. The welcome box of chocolates and bottle of wine were much appreciated.
Fiona is a fantastic host with great communication and lots of lovely touches for our arrival. The house is in a good location and in original condition (1950s) apart from the renovated bathroom. The heating is very good and we had everything we needed to make our stay comfortable. The biggest problem is that the house is packed with too much furniture! It makes it hard to move around the rooms comfortably. It would be even better if some benches were cleared and excess furniture was taken out to give a little more space.
Moonya was just as the website had promised. It has a 1950s vibe but everything works and one has the sense of staying in a friend’s home instead of in a cookie cutter house. The garden is beautiful; lots of things are within walking distance and the surrounding bush is welcoming. Of great interest were the paintings in every room- everything from abstracts to landscapes - and all of them worth looking at closely. When we arrived, the welcome from the local cicadas was deafening; we were so lucky to be around when these amazing insects make a rare appearance.
My only criticism might be that very tall or wide guests might find the double bed a trifle short or the toilet (tucked into a busy corner of the bathroom) a little small. Altogether, though, a great place to stay and an attentive host. Many thanks for the welcome wine and chocolate.
Paul B.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024
About the host
Hosted by Fiona Cameron
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests