Cottage in New South Wales
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
High-end valueWell priced for this area
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About this cottage rental
The Old Shack - is a self catered cottage and has been tastefully renovated with an abundance of unique character for couples to sit back and relax, to slow down and unwind. It is filled with furniture and fittings handcrafted on site from reclaimed materials. Set on 26 acres nestled in its own valley with Cattai Creek meandering through, there is only one guest cottage so you can be assured of your privacy. (sorry no children or pets)
The Old Shack was built around 1890 by the first landowner. It was built mainly from materials found on the property, rubble sandstone for the walls and round poles for the roof structure. It slowly fell into disrepair as a result of termite damage, fire and disuse.
For the first ten years of our ownership the Old Shack was deteriorating, with large cracks in the stone walls, and holes through the rusty corrugated roof. Repairs began with the intent to house the chooks and store hay. As the renovations took place we got a little carried away, creating the distinctive retreat that you see today. We have always called it 'The Old Shack' so I guess the name will stay.
To watch our YouTube clip, copy and paste link into your web browser. ?v=lDPF8rkk3fQ
Location
The Old Shack is located at Cattai, New South Wales on the tidal section of Cattai Creek approximately 60 minutes North West from Sydney CBD. It is situated on 26 acres in a very private valley with a short stroll to the wharf and bush walking tracks. Access to the creek by kayaks/canoes is by a gentle ramp. It is a short (4km) paddle downstream to the Hawkesbury River where you can picnic at Cattai National Park. The creek has a 4 knot speed zone which ensures paddlers are not disturbed by speeding watercraft.
Vehicle access - There is about 800 metres of maintained gravel driveway to the Old Shack which is suitable for all standard vehicles.
Boat access - You can access The Old Shack with your own boat (height restricted 1.4m at high tide at Cattai Bridge on Wisemans Ferry Road), 16km from Windsor boat ramp, 69km from Wisemans Ferry boat ramp and 125km from Berowra Waters boat ramp.
Things to do
We have a TV for watching DVDs (with limited TV reception). There are DVDs, board games and plenty of books and magazines for your enjoyment. If you are the type that can't sit still you can take the canoe for a paddle or follow the tracks though untouched native bush. Visit the local National Parks, there are great drives around the Hawkesbury River area, visit some historic sites, browse the shops have an ice cream, enjoy a cappuccino or play golf at the local golf courses.
The Old Shack was built around 1890 by the first landowner. It was built mainly from materials found on the property, rubble sandstone for the walls and round poles for the roof structure. It slowly fell into disrepair as a result of termite damage, fire and disuse.
For the first ten years of our ownership the Old Shack was deteriorating, with large cracks in the stone walls, and holes through the rusty corrugated roof. Repairs began with the intent to house the chooks and store hay. As the renovations took place we got a little carried away, creating the distinctive retreat that you see today. We have always called it 'The Old Shack' so I guess the name will stay.
To watch our YouTube clip, copy and paste link into your web browser. ?v=lDPF8rkk3fQ
Location
The Old Shack is located at Cattai, New South Wales on the tidal section of Cattai Creek approximately 60 minutes North West from Sydney CBD. It is situated on 26 acres in a very private valley with a short stroll to the wharf and bush walking tracks. Access to the creek by kayaks/canoes is by a gentle ramp. It is a short (4km) paddle downstream to the Hawkesbury River where you can picnic at Cattai National Park. The creek has a 4 knot speed zone which ensures paddlers are not disturbed by speeding watercraft.
Vehicle access - There is about 800 metres of maintained gravel driveway to the Old Shack which is suitable for all standard vehicles.
Boat access - You can access The Old Shack with your own boat (height restricted 1.4m at high tide at Cattai Bridge on Wisemans Ferry Road), 16km from Windsor boat ramp, 69km from Wisemans Ferry boat ramp and 125km from Berowra Waters boat ramp.
Things to do
We have a TV for watching DVDs (with limited TV reception). There are DVDs, board games and plenty of books and magazines for your enjoyment. If you are the type that can't sit still you can take the canoe for a paddle or follow the tracks though untouched native bush. Visit the local National Parks, there are great drives around the Hawkesbury River area, visit some historic sites, browse the shops have an ice cream, enjoy a cappuccino or play golf at the local golf courses.
Amenities
Non-smoking
No pets allowed
Map of New South Wales
Ratings and reviews
10 / 10Outstanding·May 2026
This property is an absolute gem only an hour or so from Sydney but it is a little slice of paradise. The hosts have crafted a beautifully constructed home and outdoor entertaining space where every little detail has been carefully planned for to make your stay perfect. You have everything you could possibly ever need in the kitchen and home, for the BBQ, pizza oven, spa, bushwalks and a paddle on the river. The trees and bird life are spectacular on the property and along the river, and even binoculars are provided. The spa is divine especially when the stars come out, then curl up in front of the roaring fire. The linen is top quality, as are all the fittings. We loved our stay !!
10 / 10Outstanding·Mar 2026
Wow!!! We had such a wonderful stay at the Old Shack. We can’t thank Mark and Judith enough for their hospitality. The Old Shack is just a gem. We loved listening to all of the animals in the morning and especially loved the Kangaroos that visited us. My husband enjoyed making the fire in the hot tub and we were blessed to take a long canoe ride down the river. Thank you so much, best part of Australia! If you're ever in this area, STAY HERE!! You won't regret it.
10 / 10Outstanding·Jan 2026
Judith and Mark have given incredible attention to detail to make this stay one of the most enjoyable that we have experienced.
10 / 10Outstanding·Oct 2025
The old shack is a perfect place for a perfct relaxing getaway.
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Top rated by guests
10Outstanding
(196 Ratings)
"This property is an absolute gem only an hour or so from Sydney but it is a little slice of paradise. The hosts have crafted a beautifully constructed home and outdoor entertaining space where every l..."
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