We loved staying at Collett Cottage. Kirsten has thought of everything that can make you have a comfortable stay - the kitchen is very well stocked and she included some treats to munch and sip. There is a lovely wood stove to keep you warm in winter.
The situation is beautiful too - surrounded by lush vegetation and forest and with a lovely garden all around with orange trees and other fruit trees (kumquats? - we are from the UK so less familiar with Aussie fruits!).
The deck outside extends around the cottage offering different aspects with views across to the eucalyptus forest and wonderful sounds of a variety of birds. We explored the forest on our first evening - didn’t see any koalas but would have had another explore if we’d stayed longer than 2 nights. There are 2 outdoor tables and a gas BBQ. Sitting out having a meal under the fairy lights on our second night was very special.
Oh and do have breakfast (or indeed any meal) at Doma Cafe in Federal - wonderful food and a lovely setting amongst trees. And try the doughnuts at Butcher Baker cafe in Bangalow too - very tasty and a nice cafe.
So if you’re considering staying in Byron Bay for a break think again and stay at Collett Cottage on a working farm. It’s so peaceful and much better value and you can still go to visit Byron Bay easily. Oh and I forgot to mention the dogs, Boag and Myrtle, who you might want to make friends with.
I wish we could have stayed longer!