Now more than ever, we need to support our sisters and brothers on Kangaroo Island.
Before the recent bushfires, Kangaroo Island had fast become a bucket-list destination for local and international travellers, full of gorgeous wildlife, mouth-watering restaurants, cellar doors and next-level luxury accommodation — like this beauty, Stowaway KI.
The idyllic retreat was saved when Mother Nature decided to rain, leaving the property untouched. The panoramic views of the property have changed slightly but are still beautiful and, as the land begins to regenerate, it’ll become even more spectacular.
I spoke to co-owner Carly about this blissful couple’s retreat.
Image credit :: Nadine Wilkinson
You and your husband Adam have created an exceptional travel experience. What made you want to start Stowaway?
In all honesty, it was the need to create a flexible job after I had my second child. I was a full-time farmer and it became apparent that I needed to make some changes to accommodate the little people in my life.
I’d seen an exclusive couple’s retreat concept on a global farming tour in the Scottish Highlands and it stuck with me as something that would work on our farm. I also knew there was demand for a true luxury offering. I was always fielding recommendation requests on where to stay to celebrate a special milestone and always felt frustrated that I didn’t have any. Five years later, here we are.
Image credit :: Nadine Wilkinson
How do you want people to feel when they stay at Stowaway?
In one word: spoiled. We know how hard it can be to find the time to get away as a couple.
From the moment our guests open the door, we want them to feel like they are really treating themselves — from the smell of fresh bread when they walk in to the decadence of a glass of Champagne in the hot tub at sunset.
Image credit :: Nadine Wilkinson
Tell us about the buildings and why they’re designed the way they are.
The Stowaway retreats have been built with privacy in mind and are designed to be a destination in themselves. You literally feel like the only people in the world, there.
You can take time out of a crazy, busy world, truly relax and have an actual conversation with your partner. You could easily spend two days there and not feel the need to leave.
Each retreat has a glass-fronted sauna, double-sided fireplace, big hot tub, alfresco deck area and a sleek and modern style, while still feeling like you are going back to nature.
We chose a lot of natural stone and timber, made the bathrooms really big, and put in cosy reading window nooks so even when the weather is less than ideal, you still feel connected to the environment around you.
We have two luxury options — The Nest and Sleepy Hollow. Both are luxe with their own charm and come with all the fabulous frills and views. We even have a massage service, which gets used a lot.
Image credit :: Nadine Wilkinson
You and Adam are proud KI-ers. For people who are yet to experience Kangaroo Island, what are they missing out on?
Even though KI is not that far away, I liken it to stepping back in time 20 years — to a time where things were slower and simpler. If you want a trip where you don’t have to see anyone, then that can be easily achieved, or if you feel like winery/ distillery hopping, then that’s on offer, too.
Being surrounded by nature even as it’s regenerating, is also good for your wellbeing, and KI has it in spades.
Image credit :: Nadine Wilkinson
Must-see places to visit while staying at Stowaway
Stokes Bay beach and The Rockpool Café :: Five minutes down the road from the Stowaways, this beach has a secret tunnel, naturally formed rockpool and the promise of locally-caught fish with chips and a glass of wine.
Dudley Wines :: The views are off the charts and it’s on the way to the ferry, so it’s really convenient.
KI Spirits :: Their gin is practically an icon and the quirky cellar door is always serving up a new and inventive cocktail — the locals love it as much as the visitors.
Emu Bay Lavender Farm :: Right near Emu Bay, it serves modern, fresh and local breakfast and lunch. Run by a dynamic mum and daughter, it’s true KI hospitality.
Really… what other reasons could you need to visit this little piece of paradise?
Hayley xx
Image credit :: Nadine Wilkinson
