“I love not man the less, but Nature more,” once said Lord Byron in the poem “There Is Pleasure in the Pathless Woods”. To be in solitude amongst nature is to reconnect and reinvigorate the soul, which is where I found myself come dawn: watching the mist fade as the sun rose behind a string of ponies tucking into the grass for their morning nourishment. Behind them, a mob of kangaroos – including a doe and joey – provided the only movement to be seen within the abrupt slopes and undulating terrain of the Blue Mountains escarpment.
For me, this moment felt abstract compared to my usual busy city rhythm. But at Hilltop Cabin in Kanimbla, this is the norm. While one of three accommodations on the property, there is a high chance you won’t encounter another soul. Perched high on a private ridge, the aptly named lodging is the kind of place you book when you want to disappear for a while.
You might also like The most enchanting Blue Mountains getaways to dial up the romance
Looking for a solo or romantic getaway? Check-in to Hilltop Cabin
Perched high on a private ridge, this secluded cabin for two is designed for you to completely switch-off, and is less than a three-hour drive from Sydney.


Designed for two – or solo, if you’re brave enough to embrace the enchanting stillness – the rural Airbnb’s best entertainment is the landscape shifting at every hour. But there’s also much to keep you energised yet restored.
The cabin’s bucolic interior is elevated by high-end furnishings, including a luxury bathroom with two rainshower heads, a quaint but full kitchen with a coffee machine and a king-sized bed.
Here, you’ll find relaxation offerings at every turn. The indoor deep stone bath is perfectly positioned to overlook the treetops, or to meditate under the stars with the supplied bath salts and caddy for reading. The wood-burning fireplace sets the tone, accompanied by cosy throws and pillows for comfort. A TV is available with streaming, although it may defeat the purpose of an off-grid experience; and if the weather favours it, an outdoor private plunge pool is available for a dip.


Less than a three-hour drive from the city, relaxation doesn’t just stop at your stay. Your drive home will take you through rugged landscapes and quaint towns that offer a villatic energy that should sustain you for the rest of your week. Lengthen your stay by visiting the nearby Megalong Valley, such as horse riding at Centennial Glen Stables or Megalong Valley Farm. Additionally, the Megalong Valley Tea Room is a requirement if you’re after the best scones in New South Wales.
As weekend escapes go, this one offers more than a place to stay. It offers a chance to transform your mind, body and soul.
Explore Mt Kanimbla Retreats
For a solo or romantic getaway, we recommend Hilltop Cabin or Woodlands Cabin. Additionally, The Lodge at Mt Kanimbla is a four-bedroom option fit for eight to 10 people, and is pet-friendly.
Our editors handpick everything we recommend. We may receive revenue for sharing this content or when you shop through our links. Read more here
Hilltop Cabin at Mt Kanimbla Retreats