Idyllic Holiday Hideaways #1
There’s a lot more to the Central Coast than beautiful beaches, much as we love them! The lush hinterland, tranquil waterways and rugged bushland offer year-round attractions and activities, all within easy reach of Sydney. Perfect for an autumn getaway.
Bikers and hikers will find plenty of challenging trails along the coast and further inland; check out alltrails.com for grades of difficulty, directions and maps. National parks in the Central Coast region include Bouddi, Brisbane Water, Popran and Wyrrrabalong; apart from swathes of unspoilt bush, attractions in the parks include historic Aboriginal sites, spectacular waterfalls, horse riding trails, kayaking trips on the Hawkesbury, whale-watching, and lots more.
Here, we take a look at two popular spots handy for Belle Escapes holiday homes. Belle Escapes’ concierge team is ready to help you make the most of your time on the Coast and organise unforgettable luxury experiences for you. A romantic weekend away? They will arrange an in-house chef and a home visit by one of their expert massage therapists. Hosting an intimate corporate retreat? The team can cater to your needs, supplying retreat-style yoga, fitness trainers or cooking classes at one of the stunning Belle Escapes properties.
KINCUMBER
The name Kincumber is believed to derive from the Aboriginal word ‘Kincumba’, which can be translated as ‘towards the rising sun’ – probably applying to the view from Kincumba Mountain. The neighbourhood is located at the southern end of the Central Coast and is easily accessible through Gosford from the Sydney-Newcastle M1 motorway. Kincumber is within about 10 minutes’ drive from the magnificent ocean beaches of Macmasters, Copacabana and Avoca; Brisbane Waters suburbs such as Saratoga and Davistown; and even closer to Kincumber Broadwater, for fishing, kayaking and a lovely waterfront walk.
You can stock up for your holiday stay at Kincumber Village shopping centre; it has a good Coles supermarket as well as the superb Saratoga butcher and Fresko Fruit, a top-quality fruit, veg, coffee shop and deli.
EXPLORE: Kincumba Mountain Reserve
Boasting many hiking and biking trails, Kincumba (or Kincumber) Mountain Reserve – featuring 700 hectares of rugged terrain – is easily accessible by car from Island View Drive. Largely untouched, the reserve is host to one of the largest undisturbed rainforests on the Central Coast. Walk quietly through the bushland to check out local wildlife as you explore palm groves, caves, extraordinary rock formations, and Aboriginal carvings and axe-grinding grooves.
Boasting many hiking and biking trails, Kincumba (or Kincumber) Mountain Reserve – featuring 700
EAT: Kincumber Post Café
Owners Kimberley and Jacob rescued the old post office building a couple of years ago and have transformed it into a relaxed, friendly all day breakfast and lunch venue. Great-value specials change daily and cakes, relishes, sauces, jams and dressings are all made in house. Coffee is supplied by local company Glee, a range of teas comes from Tea Tonic in Melbourne, and they whip up an amazing selection of smoothies and shakes. Regulars, new visitors – and their dogs – are all made very welcome. See kincumberpostcafe.com.
DRINK: Block ’n Tackle Brewery
Tucked away in a small industrial estate in Cochrone Street, this boutique brewery produces a range of craft beers – and a small-batch apple cider – which you can sample during an organised tour, during a casual lunch or a Sunday afternoon session with live music in the laidback tap room. See site.blockntackle.com.au.
SHOP: The Petal Sisters
Next door to the Post Café is a lovely bespoke florist shop, run by Petal Sisters Bree and Hollie. If you’re celebrating a special event on your Coast weekend that needs spectacular floral displays – or just looking for a sweet posy for yourself or a friend – the Petal Sisters will create the perfect arrangement. See thepetalsisters.com.au.
GALLERY: John Woulfe
The Kincumber Boatbuilders Memorial was created by renowned local sculptor John Woulfe. To find out more about John and Christine Woulfe’s work, or visit their gallery in Daleys Point, see johnwoulfe.com.au.
