It may be small, but it’s just the beginning of something big.
Tucked away on NSW’s mid-north coast, there’s a new hideaway waiting for those who crave a slower kind of escape. Fall into the gentle rhythm of rural life at Tiny Mile – the recently opened riverside cottage where country charm is elevated by life’s little (and not so little) luxuries.
The location
Open a detailed map of NSW and you’ll easily spot the picturesque mid-north coast. It’s a region known for its quiet pace, laid-back lifestyle and untouched natural beauty, with both the beach and the bush at its fingertips. But zoom in a little closer and you’ll find Old Bar, a sleepy coastal town 40 minutes north of Forster.
The opening of Tiny Mile marks the first chapter of What’s Beyond the Mile.
It’s often overlooked by travellers, who unknowingly zoom past its exit on the Pacific Highway with their sights set on places like Newcastle (two hours south) or Port Macquarie (an hour north). It’s a happy accident for Old Bar though, which remains cocooned in the same unhurried and easy-going rhythm it’s always known.
It’s this quiet magic that lends itself to Tiny Mile, an all-new stay just a short drive out of town. Nestled on 40 hectares of private farmland, the peaceful property is framed by towering trees and opens onto its own secluded bend of Berady Creek.
The experience
The hideaway is named after the mile-long drive up to the property.
In line with the rise of wellness tourism, Tiny Mile has been designed with the quiet traveller in mind. Ideal for couples or those going solo, the one-bedroom retreat is all about unwinding and reconnecting – whether with nature, your partner or yourself.
Owner Sherinah Peck has carefully curated Tiny Mile to strike the right balance between country living and contemporary style, blending modern amenities with rural simplicity.
This philosophy is evident throughout the space – its rustic exterior, timber floorboards and industrial fixtures softened by an earthen palette, soft linens and paintings by local artist, Monique Fodor.
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AI Prompt
Industrial fixtures are softened by an earthen palette.
The kitchenette is equipped with a fridge, gas cooktop and coffee machine.
The riverside retreat has one king-size bedroom, perfect for couples and solo travellers.
It’s an ethos that has been effortlessly interwoven into the fabric of life here. Mod-cons like an automatic projector screen, fireplace, luxury Sans Ceuticals products and a fully equipped kitchenette complete with a coffee machine keep modern travellers happy. But it’s the outdoor amenities that steal the show, inviting guests to slow down, switch off and fully immerse in the landscape.
A covered balcony becomes the perfect perch for slow mornings with a brew, while the fire pit, sunken outdoor bath and custom-built western red cedar sauna create a string of cosy rituals – all with uninterrupted river views. Guests also have unlimited access to canoes and fishing poles for lazy afternoons on the creek.
The vision
Tiny Mile sits on a private bend of Berady Creek.
While the opening of Tiny Mile marks a beautiful beginning, it’s only the first chapter of a broader vision. ‘What’s Beyond the Mile’ is an all-new destination experience launched by owner Sherinah Peck. The dream? A luxurious riverfront farmhouse set on the same peaceful patch of farmland.
According to Peck, both the recently opened cottage and developing destination project are named after the mile-long drive up to the property, an experience unto itself. And while quietly working on What’s Beyond the Mile in the background, she decided to give guests a taste of what’s to come with Tiny Mile.
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The sunken outdoor bath was made using a repurposed water trough.
Relax in steamy bliss with Tiny Mile's custom-built western red cedar sauna.
The outdoor fire pit is perfect for roasting marshmellows by the river.
It’s an exciting time for not only Old Bar, but this sleepy stretch of the mid-north coast. While its laid-back lifestyle is enticing, tourism ventures remain modest – especially on a luxury level. So while it may be tiny, the future of this riverside retreat is anything but.
The details
Reservations for Tiny Mile are open now and can be made via its website. The property can be found just a short drive inland from the town of Old Bar, with the exact address provided upon booking.
Though its location promises privacy and seclusion, everyday essentials and regional drawcards are still conveniently close. Prices vary depending on check-in dates and length of visit, with exclusive rates for extended stays.
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 visit places like Norway and New Zealand, her favourite place to explore will forever be her homeland.
Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.
Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.
Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.
Where to stay
The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
Sleep inside a 151-year-old icon.
Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney. The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.
Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.
Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.
Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.
The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.
Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.
Where to drink & dine
1. The Bar
Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.
Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.
Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.
The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.
On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.
Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce.
2. The Place
Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.
On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.
3. Local gelato
Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)
What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.
What to do/see
1. GPO Heritage Tour
Be awed by the building’s history.
Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.
From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.
2. Circular Quay
Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)
An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.
3. Royal Botanic Gardens
Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)
Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.
It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.
4. Theatre Royal
Take in a show at Theatre Royal. (Image: Daniel Boud)
Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).
