Greenhouse Retreat’s Pearl Beach House is the stuff Aussie luxe beach shack dreams are made of.
Who knew a former fibro shack could be converted into a beach house with the style, substance and luxury of Greenhouse Retreat in Pearl Beach?
This is the ultimate Aussie getaway; the dramatic sound of waves crashing, the fire roaring, chandeliers glistening and a steamer pumping natural oils into the air within the confines of a designer beach bungalow overlooking an exclusive glassed -in magnesium swimming pool.
It’s the stuff Australian childhood dreams are made of and two nights was not enough time for me and my friend to enjoy everything on offer.
But this is more than a getaway, Greenhouse Retreats founder Carla King-Turner is passionate about wellness and beauty and wellness products, so the house is littered with unique products to try. Most are natural.
From candles to face masks, aromatherapy herbal teas, energy sprays, shampoos, and keep cups, sustainability and inner health is a part of the Greenhouse Retreats experience. And the location couldn’t be more peaceful.
There are even paddle and SUP boards, as well as beach bags and hats left around the property for guest to grab on the go.
Carla is also dedicated to service, and the property has an app with information on everything local from bars and pubs to shops, in-house catering, and even beauty treatments.
The coastline in Pearl Beach sits framing Australian bushland with a few streets of houses in-between. Bush and beach walks abound.
Plus all of the products found within the property are available on her fabulous site, Mooi + U Beauty at a discounted rate for guests of her retreat. The online, clean beauty boutique has everything from protein powders to natural skincare, tea and anti-ageing wellness brands.
The Location 9.5/10
The retreat sits right in the heart of Pearl Beach a street away from the beach and a 2 minute walk to the local shop. Yoga Classes are available two doors away. This location is the very definition of serenity and calm.
Pearl Beach is about 1.25 minutes from Sydney, and Patonga is about 20 minutes away, as is KIlcare, and a ferry for 30 minutes will take you to Palm Beach.
Ettalong is not far with lauded Italian restaurant Osteria Il Coccia a favourite for any Italian fans.
This is definitely a location where you need a car, as ubers are few and far between, and a designated driver.
We did the Pearl beach to Patonga Walk which was a great morning of fitness through the Australian bush which even featured a wallaby jumping by, with sensational breakfast choices waiting at the other end in Patonga – and great coffee.
Service & Facilities: 8/10
There is a gorgeous modern magnesium pool sitting amongst the lush rainforest like palm trees in the yard. The house has a manicured, well kept designer feel with immaculate gardens, an outdoor deck, BBQ and a laundry with both washer and dryer outside.
Sitting outside for sun downers on the wooden deck directly connecting the main house and garage rooms as well as the pool path was a daily highlight as was coffee and herbal tea there in the mornings.
The galley style kitchen is fully stocked with full size retro Smeg fridge, oven, dishwasher, kettle and utensils. Chefs can be brought in at short notice to cook to your liking.
The style: 7/10
The overall style is one of relaxed beach house luxe.The floorboards are refreshing painted white, as are the walls, the bathroom is tasteful and modern, as is the kitchen, and tactile fabrics and comfortable furniture abound.
A neutral palette has been used, with black and white highlights, and the fire place creates a warm, cosy feel.
The Rooms: 8/10
There are four generous double rooms with queen beds. Two are in the main house and two are outside in a converted garage, (there is still a carapace within the property behind the gates).
Beds are made with quality linens, and the heating systems are thankfully excellent. Both bedrooms in the main house overlook the quiet street outside with tumbling greenery creating a serene, tranquil environment.
There is a bathroom to be shared by each pair of rooms, so two in total. This is perfectly fine inside, but outside, walking to the bathroom on a winter night in the cold night air would be a challenge.
All four bedrooms are generous in size and warm and cosy with plush pillows.
Food & Drink: 8.5/10
Swish Pearl Restaurant is abut 150m away on the ocean front with glowing reviews. The Boathouse in Patonga is a 20 minute drive and is a fabulously stylish country pub overlooking the ocean.
It was teaming with kind locals the night we went who helped us play bingo, and recommended several of the local cocktails.
The house has a well stocked kitchen, as well as a BBQ so cooking is definitely possible, but with so many local options, we wanted time out from behind an oven.
Renae says:
Who should Stay here: Groups of girls or guys, families or couples.
Who shouldn’t Stay here: I can’t think of anyone who would not love it.
Location: 1.25 hours from Sydney airport.
Best culinary delight: Osteria Il Coccia in Ettalong, the drive is well worth it.
The Highlight: Being surrounded by natural products you can use during your stay, listening to the waves crash and the open fire with logs provided.
The Lowlight: No bath in either bathroom.
Prices from $850 per night. Click here for more.
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