This Byron Hinterland escape redefines what luxury really looks like

When Mike and Cathy Tomkins snapped up a swathe of land in Bangalow in 2016, they had no idea of the regeneration work that lay ahead. Based in Brisbane Monday to Friday, the couple got acquainted with the land while camping in swags on weekends. Once part of the fourth-generation dairy farm next door, the land had been smothered by camphor laurels. The Tomkins set to work, clearing and planting thousands of native trees. "We thought we'd give something back first," says Mike. They opened for bookings in spring 2024.

Amaroo Bangalow crowns 86 hectares, five minutes' drive from Bangalow and 10 minutes from Byron Bay's beaches. The work that has been poured into it is obvious in its manicured lawns and thriving rainforest gardens. Mike estimates they have planted 45,000 trees in the past five years, including two important koala corridors in partnership with Bangalow Koalas. "Amaroo" is a Nyoongar word meaning "beautiful place" and here views stretch to the coast and spill down to a neighbouring macadamia farm and the pocket-sized township. Two oversized swings are positioned to soak up the view and guests can wander to the dam to spot platypus, or picnic by one of the creeks. Designed with groups and multi-gen travel in mind, there are three architecturally designed cabins, a loft-style unit and a communal dining/lounge pavilion. Amazingly, couples booking a single cabin are still guaranteed exclusive use.

Feeling "at home" in holiday accommodation doesn't always come easily but there's a warmth to Amaroo that has me settled in almost immediately. Blackbutt-lined interiors feel like a welcoming hug and a table for up to 14 - handcrafted by Mike and his father Vince - invites long lunches.

The personal touch extends to fresh eggs from the chickens roosting nearby and honey from Mike and Cathy's hives. Furnishings are understated, comfy - all buttery brown leather, timber and hides. "Some people think luxury is chandeliers and gold-plated cups. I think the opposite," says. Mike. "I think the more natural it is, the more beauty it brings out, especially in a place like this."

My cabin, Bowerbird, is the furthest from the pavilion and supremely private. Tumbled stone flooring runs from the front landing throughout, while floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the rainforest trees outside. Everything has been considered for comfort: a fireplace and cosy Togo chairs, Sonos speakers and Chromecast streaming, waffle-weave robes and slippers, and Mukti amenities from nearby Mullumbimby. The shower pressure in the charcoal-tiled ensuite is a highlight, and feels even better knowing the estate is spring and rainwater sufficient. A branded dog bowl is a sweet touch and dog beds are available on request.

Beyond picnics and private chefs, farm tours, helicopter flights and in-house spa treatments can be arranged.

Breakfast on the deck, being eyed by a kangaroo and her joey.

The writer was a guest of the retreat.