Jump in the car and within 40 minutes from Canberra you’ll find yourself in one of the many quaint villages that are home to top-quality dining options, as well as being surrounded by incredible wineries.
We’re taking you on a journey to Collector.
A short escape from your every day life doesn’t have to be expensive and you don’t even have to travel far. Collector is a gorgeous little village that has a colourful bushranger history and is located at the northern end of the famous Lake George, named ‘Weereewa’ by the local Ngunnawal tribe.
You’ll pass the Collector sign every time you travel between Canberra and Sydney via the Federal Highway. If you’re like me, you’ve probably passed it many times and thought about stopping in but haven’t quite got there…. Until now!
You could easily visit Collector for a day trip or stop in when your travelling along the Federal Highway. But if you want to unwind, relax and truly explore all that’s on offer in Collector and surrounds, I highly recommend to stay for a night, or even two.
I visited on that dreadful weekend in July… You know the one when it was reported as being the two coldest consecutive days for quite some time? Even though I wasn’t lucky with the weather, I still really enjoyed my visit so it goes to show that you’ll have a good time no matter what.
I’ve put together some options for where to stay in Collector and in part 2 you’ll read all about where to eat and drink.
Where to stay
Collector Cottage
This cute little cottage is located just down the street from Some Café and it’s where I stayed when I visited Collector. It’s perfect for two but there’s a pullout queen sofa so the cottage can accommodate four people. It has everything you need for a short stay with tea and coffee facilities, a TV, a large private bathroom, a small fridge, a heater and some great reading material. The bed is soooo comfy and I could have easily just spent all day in bed. There are also special touches like fresh flowers and a little chocolate from local chocolate company, Sweet Pea & Poppy.
Book via Airnb https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/30897871
Haven’t used Airbnb before? Visit this link https://www.airbnb.com.au/c/abidgood?currency=AUD and sign up to get $55 off your first accommodation booking and $21 off your first Airbnb experience worth $73 or more.
Greysen Estate Artists’ Retreat
Check out Greysen Estate Artists’ Retreat if you really want to switch off and get back to nature. Set in the tranquil bush setting of Currawang, Greysen Estate Artist’s Retreat offers unique accommodation in bespoke up-cycled shipping pods. Soak up the surrounding scenery and listen to the sound of wildlife while enjoying a digital detox. It’s the perfect location for artists to let their creativity run wild but you don’t have to be an artist to book your escape here. I visited during the day to check it out and I can imagine how relaxing it would be to stay here. You won’t find a TV here but if you REALLY need reception to check your messages or emails you’ll find a spot near by. If you can, switch off and make the most of this serene location but going on scenic bush walks, soaking up a sunrise or sunset and counting how many kookaburras or kangaroos you can find.
Book via Airbnb https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/2299949
You could also stay at The Historic Bushranger Hotel. Apparently it’s haunted…. More about the Bushranger Hotel in part 2.
Stayed tuned for part 2 that’s all about where to eat and drink in Collector!
This is a sponsored post but all opinions are the authors own. Photos by Amelia Bidgood.
Amelia Bidgood
Amelia is the Founder and Editor of Eat Canberra and the Founder and Managing Director of Eat Canberra Food Tours. She's a qualified journalist, presenter, freelance writer and also runs a boutique communications agency working with small business owners on all things social media, content creation and marketing. She's taught cheesemaking classes, judged hospitality and tourism awards, completed the WSET Level 1 Award In Wines, loves to cook and has travelled to 23 countries. She's also passionate about mental health and has recently started studying to become a Counsellor.