Cabin

Ben Ricketts Environmental Preserve

Photo gallery for Ben Ricketts Environmental Preserve

Cabin 1 (Wombat) seen from the garden
Cabin 2 (Lyrebird)
Cabin 3 (Sugar Glider)
Looking into Jamberoo Valley from Ben Ricketts at sunrise
Each cabin has its own wood burning stove

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Sleeps 7

Popular amenities

  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor spaceOutdoor space
  • Fireplace
    FireplaceFireplace
  • Mountain view
    Mountain viewMountain view

Check-in time

4:00 PM

Check-out time

12:00 PM

Explore the area

Map
Jamberoo, NSW
  • Popular LocationIllawarra Fly Treetop Walk7 min drive
  • Popular LocationMinnamurra Rainforest Centre12 min drive
  • Popular LocationJamberoo Action Park12 min drive
  • AirportSydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.)100 min drive

Most relevant reviews

Rooms & beds

0 bedrooms (sleeps 7)

Cabin 1 - Wombat

+1
4 Single Beds and 1 Double Futon

Cabin 2 - Lyrebird

+2
5 Single Beds and 1 Double Futon

Cabin 3 - Sugar Glider

2 Single Beds and 1 Double Futon

Bathroom - Cabin 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom - Cabin 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom - Cabin 3

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Ben Ricketts Environmental Preserve

Ben Ricketts Environmental Preserve offers three self contained cabins surrounded by the rainforest of Jamberoo Mountain. The cabins can be booked separately or together.

**Please note that prices quoted on HomeAway are for single cabins only.**
**Please contact us if the calendar does not show availability as only 1 cabin maybe booked*

Cabin 1 (Wombat) sleeps up to 6 people
Cabin 2 (Lyrebird) sleeps up to 7 people
Cabin 3(Sugar Glider) sleeps up to 4 people

Be woken up by lyrebirds and spend the day enjoying the rainforest, creeks, glades and open paddocks. Ben Ricketts is home to echidnas, wombats, swamp wallabies, greater gliders and a great variety of birds. Listen to the lyrebirds, bowerbirds, catbirds, whipbirds, kookaburras and sugar gliders.

The cabin accommodation at Ben Ricketts is surrounded by abundant bird and animal life. Sitting on the deck of one of the cabins is a great place to watch the birds and listen to the frogs as the sun goes down behind the mountain.

Children are welcome, with plenty of open space for them to play and lots of nature to discover. There are marked walking trails on the property that start close to the cabins.

There are three self-catering cabins at Ben Ricketts, each with a fully equipped kitchen, shower facilities, a slow combustion wood heater. You need to bring your own sheets, blankets, pillowslips, towels, personal needs, indoor and outdoor footwear, torch and food. The cabins are a smoke-free zone and pets are not permitted.

We have three separate cabins to choose from.

Cabin 1 "Wombat": Sleeps 6 - four single bunks and a double sofa bed

Cabin 2 "Lyrebird": Sleeps 7 - five single bunks (2 in a separate room) and a double sofa bed.

Cabin 3 "Sugar Glider": Sleeps 4 - two single bunks and a double sofa bed

There is plenty to do in the nearby area.

The property is two hours south of Sydney on the Illawarra escarpment, 8 km west of Jamberoo Village. The cabins are in close proximity to the coast and the Southern Highlands, well known areas for great beaches, festivals, markets, arts and crafts and fine dining. Barren Grounds Nature Reserve, Budderoo National Park, Gerringong Falls, Carrington Falls and Minnamurra Rainforest are ideal bushwalking destinations nearby.

Walks on Ben Ricketts There are several marked walking tracks on the property which pass through rainforest and very tall eucalypts, untouched creeks, and a waterfall, offering opportunities to see the rich variety of native plants and animals

Barren Grounds Nature Reserve There are a variety of walks at this Nature Reserve including the Griffiths Trail, an 8km loop taking in the Natural Stone Bridge and the IIllawarra Lookout.

Carrington Falls has walking tracks to lookouts with spectacular views of the Upper Kangaroo Valley. Nellies Glen swimming hole in close proximity to the falls is a great place to cool off on a hot day

Minnamurra Rainforest offers accessible and easy walks through spectacular rainforest terrain, restaurant facilities and National Parks Visitors Centre

Beaches There are several popular beaches at coastal town of Kiama approximately 20 minutes drive from Ben Ricketts.

Jamberoo Recreation Park a great place for the family is a short drive from Ben Ricketts.

Illawarra Fly, a spectacular treetop walk, is a few minutes up the road.

Property manager

Matt Corcoran - Caretaker

Languages

English

Amenities

Outdoor space
Mountain view
Fireplace

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 12:00 PM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed
Not suitable for loud parties.

Pets

No pets allowed

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
Note from host: Not suitable for loud parties.
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 fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Jamberoo

Located in Jamberoo, this cabin is in a rural area. Kiama Seaside Markets and Stocklands Shellharbour are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Barren Grounds Nature Reserve and Budderoo National Park. Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk and Jamberoo Action Park are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Jamberoo, NSW

What's nearby

  • Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk - 7 min drive
  • Minnamurra Rainforest Entrance - 10 min drive
  • Minnamurra Rainforest Centre - 12 min drive
  • Jamberoo Action Park - 12 min drive
  • Kiama Blowhole - 20 min drive

Getting around

  • Dapto Station - 23 min drive
  • Shellharbour, NSW (WOL) - 27 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Jamberoo Pub - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Kings Patisserie & Cafe - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Crust & Crumb - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪A&A Candle Lamp Supplies - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Forester's - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Ben Ricketts Environmental Preserve pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Ben Ricketts Environmental Preserve?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Ben Ricketts Environmental Preserve?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Ben Ricketts Environmental Preserve located?

Situated in a rural location, this cabin is 1.7 mi (2.7 km) from Barren Grounds Nature Reserve and 2.2 mi (3.5 km) from Budderoo National Park. Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk and Minnamurra Falls are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.4

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. 15 out of 20 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 20 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 20 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 20 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 20 reviews" "

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Beau S., Sydney

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet and Cosy
We are a family of 5, cabin was perfect for us. Very quiet, clean and user friendly. Great location for Jamberoo Action Park !
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

8/10 Good

T A., Tumut NSW Australia

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet Retreat
Tidy Little Cottage with all the basic necessities. Quiet setting on the edge of rainforest with light traffic within 100mtrs of Property. Suited to short stays for those wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle, bushwalkers etc. No Wifi or TV. Patchy Mobile Phone Coverage.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023

8/10 Good

Zyta E.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Helpful
The manager went out of his way to help me.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Cristina P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet and close to nature
It was easy to find and easy to organize with owner. Great family time close to nature. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city I really enjoyed it.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

ANTOINE B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great and beautiful region
Nice and cosy cabins with a fire place. In the middle of the national park. Mat has been really helpful! Recommend anytime
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

doreen b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing bush setting stay
We loved staying here and look forward to returning soon! Thanks so much for your hospitality.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Susan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great spot for adults and kids!
The listing undersells the property! We had two cabins and it was totally private,the third cabin and Homestead located over the road. Well equipped for cooking etc, fast more than expected. Good size rooms etc. Would definitely go again!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kate T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cosy retreat
We came for a mums' weekend away, and returned refreshed and relaxed! We spotted lyrebirds, wombats and roos on and around the property, and enjoyed the views and rainforest walks. The cabin was cosy and provided all we needed. We will definitely visit again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Yvonne W.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location
Everything you need for a refreshing break
Everything provided in order to relax together
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michael I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice cabin
We had a enjoyable stay at the cabin and enjoyed ourselves.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Judi C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family getaway
Peaceful, relaxing and beautiful location. Cottage well equipped, quaint and perfect for tranquil getaway.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Damien W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great little cottage in the mountains
One highlight was the walking trail within the property itself, which was well marked with just the occasional enjoyable challenge of finding the next marker. The outdoor fire was another highlight with the kids (big and small) enjoying the whole process from collecting the wood to enjoying the marshmallows. Overall a great getaway in the mountains for our city family.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Penelope F., Engadine NSW

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
picturesque, most amazing weekend away.
So much better than advertised, highly recommended when you need time to escape and relax, and to admire the beauty of the area, both fauna, and flora.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thanks
Awesome time; thanks so much
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mark H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved our stay! Superb location with so much to do in surrounding area! Birdsong abounds!
Really enjoyed it! Peaceful pleasant setting!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2019

10/10 Excellent

Caroline M., Loftus

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Weekend family getaway
This was exactly the kind of location and accommodation we were looking for. Beautiful country side and bush in a cosy cabin with a log fire. We loved it.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019

6/10 Okay

Marie L., Nice

Great nature getaway with the kids
We had a great few days going on bush walks and exploring the area. Kids loved the camp fire with the mandatory marshmallows. The cabin was quite basic but had a well equipped kitchen and comfortable bedding.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2018

10/10 Excellent

Karen T., Sydney

Peaceful...
loved cabin 3.. the peace, serenity, wood fire.. Nearby bush walk, water fountains, carly has thought of everything that ones needs being away..from home..
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2018
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Monique d.

Relaxing mountain retreat
We loved our time in cabin 1. Rustic and simple but with everything we needed and a lovely renovated bathroom. In such an idyllic setting, it was a perfect escape from the city. We received a very warm welcome from our hosts and the kids loved encounters with local wildlife including the resident sheep. We hope to come back again soon and keep exploring surrounding waterfalls and bushwalks.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Raymond F.

Awesome place
Best place on the kid south coast Great rooms in prime locations

About the host

Hosted by Matt Corcoran - Caretaker

Host profile image
Ben Ricketts is owned by a group of families who have been staying here since the late 1940s. The original owners, Ray and Peter Page welcomed guests to Ben Ricketts for more than 50 years.

'Ben Ricketts Environmental Preserve' came into being when these several families came together to preserve Peter & Ray's legacy. We care for the property's cabins and 40 hectares of rainforest and have a voluntary conservation agreement with the NSW government, protecting the rainforest and its inhabitants in perpetuity.

Why they chose this property

Ben Ricketts is a hugely important part of the life of its shareholders, many of whom have visited for three generations. We came together to preserve both the environment and this community, and to share it with others.

Languages:

English
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