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The new tiny home offering views of a Blue Mountains icon

Book a stay at this cosy cabin for front-row seats of the historic Zig Zag Railway, best enjoyed from your private outdoor hot tub.

Australian sustainable accommodation brand Into The Wild Escapes is known for its off-grid stays designed to reconnect guests with nature. From cosy cabins in country Victoria to beachside bungalows along Queensland’s coast, each tiny home reads like a love letter to its surrounds.

It’s this ethos that shines through with the launch of Tiny Billy, a new Blue Mountains stay that celebrates one of the region’s most historic icons – complete with all the luxe amenities to match. And if it’s already booked out? Not to worry – four more just opened across NSW.

The location

Zig Zag Railway in the Blue Mountains, NSW
Tiny Billy has opened right next door to the iconic Zig Zag Railway.

Two hours from Sydney in the heart of NSW’s Blue Mountains, the small town of Clarence appears as a quick blip on the map. But that’s all about to change with the launch of Tiny Billy, the latest sustainable tiny home to open in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed national park.

Initially a railway outpost along the original Blue Mountains train line, Clarence was considered a boom town for track workers in the early 1900s. But the population rapidly declined post-construction and, while it never fully recovered, the area remains a postcard of regional charm thanks to the steam train adventure that took over its tracks.

Zig Zag Railway in the Blue Mountains, NSW
The steam train has become a historic icon among Blue Mountains locals.

Opened as a heritage non-profit in 1975, the Zig Zag Railway is among the most unique of its kind in Australia. Using zig-zag tracks to gain height, it follows a switchback pattern up the mountain, showcasing sweeping views before crossing the region’s historic sandstone viaducts. Today, it’s considered one of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Into The Wild Escapes embraces this enduring appeal, positioning Tiny Billy to offer prime views of the iconic railway. Surrounded by lush Aussie bushland, the off-grid cabin perfectly combines local history with off-grid living and a dash of luxury.

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The accommodation

Tiny Billy in the Blue Mountains, NSW
Enjoy your morning coffee from the peaceful deck out front.

Tiny Billy is the epitome of quiet indulgence. It’s a space designed for slowing down, disconnecting from the world and reconnecting with your surrounds. The eco-friendly cabin, priced from $399 during the week and $599 on weekends, has quickly become a competitor in the Blue Mountains accommodation market.

Inside, the focus is firmly on comfort and ease of living. A fully equipped kitchen for homemade dinners. Board games for off-grid entertainment. A queen bed by the window, draped in soft linens. And with two single bunks and a double bed in the loft, it sleeps up to six while still remaining cosy for couples.

Tiny Billy in the Blue Mountains, NSW
Tiny Billy has been designed with comfort and ease of living in mind.

During winter, guests can gather around the outdoor fire pit or soak in the woodfired hot tub, or keep it cool for a refreshing dip come summer. The sun-drenched patio is an ideal spot for morning coffee, while a hammock hung between nearby gums provides the perfect reading perch.

Tiny Billy in the Blue Mountains, NSW
During winter, the fire pit provides the perfect spot to relax.
Tiny Billy in the Blue Mountains, NSW
Soak up uninterrupted views of the railway from your hammock in the gums.
Tiny Billy in the Blue Mountains, NSW
The outdoor hot tub is arguably the best seat in the house.

While it may be hard to leave your peaceful haven, be sure to take advantage of your proximity to the Zig Zag Railway at some point. The steam train operates fortnightly on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, with prices starting from $46.50 per adult. If you’re keen to explore further afield, head across the valley for some of the Blue Mountains’ best bushwalks.

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The other properties

Tiny Wallaby in Dural, Sydney, NSW
Tiny Wallaby joins Tiny Wombat within a native wildlife sanctuary. (Image: Danielle Nieuwendyk Photography)

While Tiny Billy is a standout, four other Into The Wild Escapes have also recently opened across NSW that are well worth a visit. Closer to Sydney, Tiny Wallaby and Tiny Wombat are now welcoming guests in Dural, around 35 minutes from the CBD. Nestled within The Hills Wildlife Sanctuary and sleeping up to six guests each, its private tour offerings make it perfect for animal lovers.

Tiny Lawson has opened its doors in Lake Macquarie, around 90 minutes north of Sydney, and sleeps up to six. It’s all about nature and wellness here, whether you’re sweating it out in the outdoor sauna or hot tub, meeting horses and cows in the paddocks, or soaking it all in from the verandah, where views of the dam invoke quiet contemplation.

Tiny Lawson in Lake Macquarie, NSW
Tiny Lawson in Lake Macquarie heroes outdoor wellness experiences. (Image: Danielle Nieuwendyk Photography)

In the Southern Highlands town of Buxton, Tiny Phoebe is geared towards smaller groups and couples, with room for just three guests. Encircled by ancient towering gums, you can sink into your luxurious outdoor tub, glass of wine in hand, knowing there’s not another human for miles.

Clearly, it’s a list that makes choosing just one quite the challenge, but deciding where to stay will be as hard as it gets – everything else is taken care of. For all bookings, as well as the full portfolio of properties, head to Into The Wild Escapes’ website.

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Taylah Darnell
Taylah Darnell is Australian Traveller's Writer & Producer. She has been passionate about writing since she learnt to read, spending many hours either lost in the pages of books or attempting to write her own. This life-long love of words inspired her to study a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Creative Writing at the University of Technology Sydney, where she completed two editorial internships. She began her full-time career in publishing at Ocean Media before scoring her dream job with Australian Traveller. Now as Writer & Producer, Taylah passionately works across both digital platforms and print titles. When she's not wielding a red pen over magazine proofs, you can find Taylah among the aisles of a second-hand bookshop, following a good nature trail or cheering on her EPL team at 3am. While she's keen to check out places like Scotland and North America, her favourite place to explore will always be her homeland.
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How to spend a restorative weekend on the Central Coast

Leave the frenetic pace of city life behind for a weekend of relaxation and entertainment on the Central Coast.

Home to more than 40 idyllic beaches, an eco-certified wilderness and a burgeoning hospitality scene, the Central Coast is a favoured holiday destination for good reason. Located just 90 minutes north of Sydney, you can easily enjoy a day trip here. But with so much to offer, this coastal haven deserves at least a weekend of your time – especially when a stay at Encore by Mingara makes lingering so effortless.

Here’s how to spend a memorable weekend on the Central Coast discovering its best offerings.

Day 1

Afternoon

Modern, comfortable room interiors at Encore by Mingara, designed for a restful stay on the Central Coast.
Savour a slow morning before heading home.

Holiday mode can be switched on as soon as you check into Encore by Mingara, a centrally located boutique hotel in Tumbi Umbi. Loved for its sleek rooms, diverse offerings and unbeatable location, in 2026 the property even received the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award. Taking cues from its coastal surrounds, the hotel’s design is luxurious yet welcoming. A sophisticated palette of ocean blues, ochre and sand tones is complemented by light joinery and punctuated by abstract artworks by the hotel’s artist in residence, Sarah Isbel Hill.

As the hotel is conveniently found in the Mingara Destination Precinct, you can spend a leisurely afternoon exploring the property’s impressive offerings. Energise the body at Mingara Recreation Club – complete with a world-class gym and Olympic-sized swimming pool – or pop into one of many restaurants or bars. You can also grab a wine from the bottle shop to imbibe in the comfort of your luxurious Harmony or Bravo suite; these generously sized rooms feature plush king beds, separate lounge spaces and dedicated working areas.

Evening

couple dining inside restaurant at encore by mingara
Treat yourself to an evening of great food and cocktails.

There’s no need to venture out when your hotel gives you access to fantastic dining options. Allow plenty of time to savour the culinary dishes at modern Australian restaurant, Hadley’s. Helmed by chef Peter Streckfuss, the relaxed eatery’s menu spans rib-sticking bites such as wood-fired pizzas and chicken parmigiana through to premium meats and fresh seafood. Pair them with the solid line-up of Australian and international wines.

Mosey over to Hadley’s Bar for a post-dinner nightcap. The stylish cocktail lounge’s mixologists shake up masterful tipples using the bar’s extensive spirit collection, as well as pouring local craft beers and fine wines.   

Day 2

Morning

Waterfall along the Girrakool Loop Track, at the Brisbane Water National Park, on the Central Coast.
Explore the Central Coast’s great outdoors. (Image: Destination NSW)

With so much happening onsite, it’s tempting to stay put, but early birds can start their day by catching the sunrise at nearby Toowoon Bay, where a vivid display of warm tones is reflected in the calm waters.

Back at Mingara Recreation Club, top up your caffeine levels and try treats including scrolls, cakes, scones and tarts at The Roasted Berry. Or settle in for smashed avo or a mushroom bruschetta.

Fuelled and ready to go, spend some time exploring the Central Coast’s natural beauty. The region is a playground for outdoor lovers who can discover the Brisbane Water National Park, a haven for hiking, cycling and fishing. The 12,000-hectare reserve features stunning waterfalls, including the three-tiered Somersby Falls, and vantage points such as the Staples Lookout, which offers panoramic vistas of Brisbane Water and Woy Woy Bay.

Afternoon

Friends enjoying a tour through Distillery Botanica, Erina.
Sip the flavours of Distillery Botanica. (Image: Destination NSW)

A well-deserved lunch in the garden at Distillery Botanica awaits just a 20-minute drive away. The brainchild of herbalist and master distiller Philip Moore, this innovative distillery is found in a lush landscape and produces a range of botanically infused craft spirits. Tuck into bruschetta, toasted sandwiches and charcuterie boards, paired with standout concoctions like the Framboise Martini with Botanica Vodka or Botanica Raspberry Liqueur, vanilla, lime and pineapple.

Evening

Head back to Encore by Mingara to freshen up for dinner at the onsite restaurant, Ming Dragon. The Chinese eatery offers a traditional yum cha experience with succulent favourites such as sweet and sour pork and steamed prawn dumplings.

End the night on a high note with entertainment at Mingara Recreation Club. The jam-packed schedule includes live music, major touring acts and big-name tribute band performances, such as Live Baby Live: The INXS Tribute Show.

Morning

Breakfast at The Roasted Berry encore by mingara
Enjoy breakfast at The Roasted Berry.

The dreamy rooms at Encore by Mingara make sleeping in a little too easy, so take the morning at your own pace with a lie-in and a final swim or a yoga or pilates class. Amble down to The Roasted Berry for another delicious breakfast before your departure.

Afternoon

Guest examining a freshly farmed pearl on a tour of the Broken Bay Pearl Farm, Mooney Mooney.
End your escape with a pearl farm visit. (Image: Destination NSW)

Another highlight of the Central Coast is the Broken Bay Pearl Farm on the Lower Hawkesbury River, a must-visit on your way home. Head to their ‘shellar door’ and join a tour out on the water, where you’ll discover their working oyster leases and indulge in the freshest Australian Akoya, Angasi and Sydney rock oysters. You’ll also get to witness a live pearl harvest and learn the fine art of pearl grading. Those with an appetite can also enjoy a gourmet grazing lunch while soaking up scenic river views. Commemorate the weekend with an elegant pearl memento from the farm’s shop.

Start planning a Central Coast weekend at your own pace at encorebymingara.com.au.