Favourite bits.
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The story of the estate. São Lourenço do Barrocal has been in the same family for more than 200 years, and it was José António Uva (who is eight generation of the same family) who had a vision to turn the family property into a farm retreat he could share with others. The passion and dedication behind José António’s dream, and what he has created, is incredibly inspiring.
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The interiors. Perfectly simple and calming. The interior design was led by José António’s wife Ana’s design studio, AnahoryAlmeida (also responsible for the interiors of many of Lisbon’s finest restaurants) and it is a dream.
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Hortelão, their outdoor restaurant. The most beautiful place to dine between Spring through Autumn, this slow-food, farm to fork restaurant is located next to the pool, right by the organic kitchen garden, and is the perfect place to enjoy a dinner under the stars.
Heartwood Farm
HEARTWOOD FARM BYRON BAY
BYRON BAY HINTERLAND, NEW SOUTH WALES • FARM HOUSE • SLEEPS 4 | 2 BEDROOM | 1 BATH
With an outdoor plunge pool that only dreams are made of, Heartwood Farm sits on a stunning ridge on a 100 acre cattle farm in the Byron hinterland. Enjoy spectacular views over the rolling green hills, surrounded by big, beautiful skies, from this heavenly hinterland hideaway.
Nestled on the banks of the Wilson River, only minutes from my favourite little hinterland village - Federal - is the wonderful Heartwood Farm Byron Bay. Owners Craig and Nicole Spencer have poured so much love into this beautiful historic property and you will feel the love on your stay. It's the kind of place you can really stay awhile. Wander around the farm, swim in the river, fish, picnic, laze about in the claw-footed bath, or in my case, spend lots of time in the incredible plunge pool/hot tub - it's a pretty special treat to have this whole 100 acre farm to yourself.
With the village of Federal only minutes away you can easily pop down the road to get an amazing coffee from Moonshine, pick up the paper from the General Store, grab lunch (some of the best food in the world) at Doma, or if interiors are your thing, make an appointment to go and visit the incredible Sonya at Jatana Interiors who has her showroom just around the corner from the main street.
Heartwood Farm Byron Bay is the perfect couples retreat.
Why I love it
I have had he most heavenly stays at Heartwood Farm. Together with a very dear friend of mine, we were some of the very first guests back in 2020. I remember the mutual gasp of 'wowness' as we rolled into the long and winding driveway that leads you into this beautiful property. The rolling green hills are superb, as are the cows (gosh I love cows), and the trees, and the other 100-year old farmhouse on the property that is currently being lovingly restored, so full of history and character and charm. It is such a privilege to spend time on this beautiful farm with its expansive views and really big, ever-changing skies. Inside the house, I love the super lush and comfy interiors of Heartwood Farm. Nicole has put so much thought and effort into everything, and there are many gorgeous details including the little drink trolley with a quaint selection of spirits that are available for purchase. I love the luxe Cultiver linen on the beds, the full kitchen, the clawfoot bath (oh how I love a clawfoot bath), and the Marshall speaker (music is a must for me). I also love how there is an abundant herb and veggie garden on the property and guests are encouraged to help themselves to whatever produce they like. And I love Nicole and Craig's dogs Ripper and Levi who will most certainly make an appearance. Most of all though, I love the heated plunge pool outside - more like a giant hot tub for me. We spent so many afternoons and evenings in there, sitting under a sky full of stars. I loved the fire pit as well, and the veggie garden and fruit trees, and the large veranda with its stunning sunset views over the hills. The perfect place to kick back with a g&t in the afternoons. It's beautiful here.
About the owners
Your hosts at Heartwood Farm are Nicole and Craig - such kind, lovely people. They have spent years renovating and styling properties together – a passion they love and share. Craig is a builder by trade and his attention to detail is absolute and shines through when you visit their beautiful Heartwood Farm. Nicole has spent years collecting wonderful vintage pieces to furnish the cottage that she hopes guests will love and appreciate as much as they do. They are beautiful people and it's beautiful here.
What to do nearby
Coffee at Moonshine
Lunch at DOMA
Even longer lunch
at The Hut
What to bring