When you work in a big, bustling city like Sydney, Australia, sometimes you just need to get away to tranquility and peace. You also at times lose touch with creativity and the city scape as a means of a landscape, you become desensitised to. Coming to stay at Ballina Beachcomber Sea Cottage was EXACTLY what I needed. The house itself is so beautiful, interesting and inspired me at every turn. The colours, the gorgeous little windows and the Mexican/byron spiritual feel exported me quickly away from the race of life and into a dream!

Every window was like looking at a painting. As I arrived in the evening I couldn't really see what was surrounding the house, so when I woke up the next day I was enveloped by all of the windows that captured all the surrounding landscape!

The house has everything you need, it's was almost hard to leave! The outdoor shower (there is one inside too!) was incredible, standing amongst the blooming frangipani tree.

This sanctuary is a quick walk to Shelly Beach which is a beautiful Aussie beach, perfect for a swim or a tranquil walk. You can watch the surfers and stare into the horizon.

Another short walk away is The Belle General (www.bellegeneral.com) which served up one of the best coffees I have ever had, which is a big statement coming from a coffee snob! The food was also amazing.

A short 5 minute drive to the town centre and you have a big supermarket to stock up on goodies for your lil getaway.

The house is a 20-30minute (amazing) drive to Suffolk Park and Byron Bay.

Lastly - Edwina the host was FANTASTIC so friendly and she was very accommodating when I arrived late on the Friday evening due to traffic. She also gave me some great recommendations on what to see and do in the area.

This place is a must if you like the sound of all of that!