Hideaway Retreat

This place in no way represented the photographs online. This was such a disappointment as we were so very excited about our trip. We arrived at the property and drove around twice as we thought we must have gone to the wrong address!! The bottom set of apartments, which we stopped at and walked around were in a state of disrepair with tools, curtains and rubble strewn around. We then drove back up to the main area and house, to be told that we were not expected, even though this had been booked 3 months prior to our arrival and i had email and printed confirmation with me. I was shown to an apartment that I was told they could, 'clean it up for me, as it was not that dirty'!! It was in no way up to my expectations or what was depicted on their website. They had tradies on site working, which I understood, but in no way was this property suitable to be inhabited. I was also told that if they had known we were coming the lawns would have been mown!! Such a disappointment, and after a trip into the Tourist Bureau we found suitable alternative accommodation. Please do not get caught out and I would definitely not recommend this property.

Hideaway is quiet, except for the rooster, clean and comfortable. The pool looks bigger in the photos, but is only a plunge pool. Stove and microwave dated, but owners in process of updating. Driveway was narrow and needed a lot of attention. Definitely need own car to get there and around and only self catering on the property. Owners approachable and helpful, a

I stayed here with a friend for 6 nights and were really looking forward to some great accommodation. We were completely disappointed by this “retreat” and it is not at all like the pictures. There was cockroaches everywhere, no Wi-Fi, the entire property (which is quite large) and grounds were very poorly maintained and were not pleasant to visit. The parking was very average and accompanied with the poor ground’s maintenance caused for a very expensive trip. A palm frond fell on our hire car overnight and smashed the windscreen. The owner was quick to call it an “act of god” rather than a lack of action in maintaining their ground and took no responsibility, leaving us an extra $1500 out of pocket to replace the windscreen. Owners were unhelpful and rude. Rooms were musty and had very basic amenities. Would not recommend staying here at all.

It was a nice quiet area but quite run down & mouldy. New owners learning the ropes & had a lot on their plate. We were greeted wonderfully at the airport & escorted to our stay. No input during the week personally. We went to were there house was being renovated to ask questions. Very friendly & nice when approached. Lots to learn …

The online pix and description do not reflect the reality. Not welcomed by (new) owner, she had no record of the reservation and told us we would need to pay again. I had receipts. The apartment was musty, dingy, poorly lit, shabby and needing a deep clean. Cockroach on the face during the night isn't good. smoke alarm was detached from the wall, clock not working, light fitting and skylight full of dead bugs, flyscreen need cleaning. These things on their own are no big deal, but with one after the other, it's a no from me.

Our second stay here in 8 months. On this occasion we booked the chalet which is completely separate to the other guest accommodation. Is is one bedroom with a king size bed that converts to twin beds if required. The Retreat is quiet and peaceful, even with a full compliment of guests staying. Karen is a superb host and is a great credit to the property. We thought this might be our last visit to Norfolk Island given the world has re-opened but it is just such a relaxing place, so beautiful and the history is extraordinary. We’ll be back and I don’t think we would consider staying anywhere else.