You'll absolutely fall in love with this cute 2 bed cottage surrounded by natural habitat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River only 1.5hrs from Sydney. Whether it's lazing in the hot tub, lounging in front of the wood fire place, enjoying river activities or listening to live music at the local, there is something here for everybody.
Lovingly manicured gardens surround this authentic 1950's workman's cottage creating a tranquil, private sanctuary that is quite simply, food for the soul.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Please ensure air con is off in all rooms.
Spa and outdoor furniture is covered
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number 2775, PID-STRA-66965
Property # 9968155
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 a grey water recycling system and eco-friendly cleaning products
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
About the area
Spencer
Spencer is home to this holiday home. Del Rio Golf Course and Berowra Waters Marina are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park and Australian Reptile Park. Crommelin Native Arboretum and Umina Recreation Centre are also worth visiting.
Brisbane Water National Park - 6 min drive - 5.8 km
Westfield Tuggerah - 46 min drive - 63.5 km
Australian Reptile Park - 46 min drive - 59.3 km
Central Coast Stadium - 49 min drive - 61.2 km
Getting around
Ourimbah Station - 42 min drive
Restaurants
Saddles - 46 min drive
The Estuary - 51 min drive
The Old Road Cafe - 44 min drive
Mooney Mooney Club - 50 min drive
Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed - 50 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is "Wagtail Cottage" Hawkesbury River Garden Retreat pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at "Wagtail Cottage" Hawkesbury River Garden Retreat?
As of 14 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at "Wagtail Cottage" Hawkesbury River Garden Retreat on 20 May 2026 start from AU$360, 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 "Wagtail Cottage" Hawkesbury River Garden Retreat?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at "Wagtail Cottage" Hawkesbury River Garden Retreat?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at "Wagtail Cottage" Hawkesbury River Garden Retreat?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is "Wagtail Cottage" Hawkesbury River Garden Retreat located?
Situated in Spencer, this holiday home is 0.6 mi (0.9 km) from The Convict Trail and 2.1 mi (3.4 km) from Dharug National Park. Grass Tree Circuit and Village Green are also within 20 miles (32 km).
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We had a great stay at wagtail cottage. So well equipped and such a cosy vibe. It was easy to relax. Thanks David for a memorable stay.
Matthew P.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified
6/10 Okay
Matt A.
8 Apr 2026
Liked: Check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness
There weren’t any shops nearby, and it wasn’t very clean for a family place, but the firewood was good.
Matt A.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Apr 2026
If you’d read the welcome email you would have known the shops aren’t nearby. And you absolutely trashed my home, what I walked into was absolutely disgusting. Worst guests by a country mile. So yeah, thanks for the useless rubbish review. You should not be allowed to use this service.
We loved every thing the house has, loved the spa and sauna and we were VERY grateful for all the board games as we left ours at home! Very equipped kitchen, comfy beds, we will definitely be back and have already recommended it to friends - thank you so much
We went for the girls weekend away. Loved our stay. Everything was perfect. David was an amazing host. Such a relaxing place with a spa and sauna. House got everything you need plus more. We will be back
It was such a beautiful and amazing stay. The host was responsive and went above and beyond to ensure everything was set. The only issue we had was with water and the AC in one of the rooms. Apart from that it’s a must stay property and a perfect getaway with family or friends
We stayed at Wagtail Cottage for 3 nights to celebrate our wedding anniversary and wished we’d stayed longer. From the moment we arrived, the spa was heated and ready to jump straight into. Such a perfect start to our stay. The cottage is peaceful and beautifully styled, making it an ideal spot to relax and switch off.David’s communication was excellent throughout and made everything really straightforward. We had such a wonderful time and can’t wait to come back.
Nicole T.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Sept 2025
Thank you Nicole, loved having you. Come back any time!
This place is amazing! The perfect winter getaway. The garden spa is divine and the fireplace in the living area is super cozy. Feel very relaxed, thank you!
We very impressed with this place because we have all we needs like toiletries , kitchen stuff, indoor fire pits is amazing , outdoor spa and sauna is worked very well and the bedroom was clean tidy and we spend really well with our family.,the owner very friendly and easy check in and check out all the information they gave us is clear
This place very recommended and we absolutely gonna come back and stay there again …❤️❤️❤️
veronica V.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 June 2024
Thank you Veronica, we loved hosting you. Welcome back any time! David & Jenna
Absolutely lovely property, well designed with beautiful furnishings and art work.
The sauna and hot tub are situated in the garden and have been positioned to give ultimate privacy.
We enjoyed some extra special touches including an excellent selection of books and games as well as some luxury shower gels! We took a 5 min drive to the anchor boat house to hire a boat and made delight in having a drink wity the friendly locals.. the local scenery is spectacular especially viewed on a boat for hire.. we would absolutely book again!
Sam C.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 18 June 2024
So glad you enjoyed your stay with us! It was our pleasure hosting you and we hope to see you again.
Pack your picnic baskets as there are very limited dining options but once you get there you probably won’t want to leave the cabin … Dave was lovely enough to leave a bottle of red for my wife’s birthday and the place was immaculate. Open plan and so many wonderful things to looks at table do. Bring a fishing rod and you can even cast a line in just down the road.
Thanks Dave 5/5 ⭐️
I recently stayed at this lovely cottage and had a wonderful time. The property itself is stunning—beautifully decorated and very comfortable. The hot tub and sauna were absolute highlights of the stay, offering a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. The setting was peaceful and relaxing, making it easy to feel at home.The only thing that could be improved was the cleanliness. While the space was generally well-maintained, it didn’t quite meet the standard I was expecting, especially considering the overall quality of the property. A few areas, like the [bathroom/kitchen & floors], could have been a little more thoroughly cleaned.Despite this, I still had a great experience and would highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a relaxing retreat!
A bliss stay in this cosy, spacious, trendy and peaceful cottage
We loved our stay at the wagtail cottage. It’s very private and so quiet and peaceful, the view from the windows of fields and trees in the distance really makes you feel like you’re far far away from the busy city life (only 1.45 hours from Sydney).
The hot tub and sauna are lovely touch, so easy to use and really help you relax and enjoy your stay even more. The fairy lights around the cottage are a lovely touch too!
It has all the amenities you can think of, yet so modern and tidy - we stayed in and cooked and had more than enough utensils to use. We were left with milk and lots of tea and coffee, even some coffee pods to use in the Nespresso machine!
There is heating and aircon in every room, blankets for the sofas which made it really cosy and a gorgeous fireplace - this place is perfect for a cosy really get away. The bed is also super comfy and we loved the decor!
We would recommend bringing some food shopping with you because there isn’t a shop nearby, it’s a very rural area. Once you have your snacks, you’re all good to go :)
The host was lovely and very responsive.
The only thing we regret is not staying longer! But we will definitely be back :) thank you for a lovely stay
Leah Q.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Aug 2024
You’re both so welcome and we hope to host you again!
Verified
6/10 Okay
Patrick B.
10 Sept 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication
Patrick B.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Sept 2025
The guest did not once respond to any communication made by us at any point in 3 months and did not even read the welcome message with all the detailed t that is given to ensure the quality of your stay. And now have left a 6/10 review with zero comment. We pride ourselves on giving our guests an exceptional experience but it goes both ways. At any point if you had reached out with any issues or questions it would have been dealt with immediately but you did not. This review is completely unwarranted and Wagtail urges future customers to ignore it.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Leah R.
4 May 2025
Leah R.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
About the host
Hosted by David Wrublewski
Languages:
English, Finnish
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests