Photography: Newy Digital

When you’re planning a spot for a getaway in New South Wales, Daruka might not be the first spot that comes to mind. But this picturesque area on the outskirts of Tamworth is a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle, and Marayin Hut is your base.

Owned by Coal and Cedar’s Ethan Ortlipp, Marayin Hut sits high above Tamworth on a vast private property, surrounded by lush bushland. It’s easy to feel as if you’re in the middle of nowhere, but downtown Tamworth is only a seven minute drive away.

It isn’t a challenge to settle in at Marayin Hut. The log cabin has all the creature comforts you could hope for, while still having plenty of rustic charm. Since purchasing the property four years ago, Ethan has undertaken significant renovations, transforming the hut into an idyllic retreat with several cosy fire spots, warm timber furnishings, and lots of natural light.

The boundaries between the inside and outside world are almost non-existent in the living spaces, thanks to stunning panorama windows.

“The lounge and dining areas offer floor-to-ceiling windows where avid bird and animal watchers can view the kangaroos, wallabies, goannas, echidnas, and if you’re lucky, a family of deer on the frosty fields,” Ethan said.

If you are keen to venture outside, you won’t be short on spots to explore. The property backs onto a marsupial reserve with watering holes for native animals, so there’s lots of opportunities for wildlife spotting. There’s even several marked trails that begin at the property, if you want to go for a wander or ride your mountain bike.

You can also head to the mountain peak which has a picnic spot and incredible views across the Liverpool Plains, New England High Country, Moonbi Range, and the edge of the Barrington Tops.

While you might think of a log cabin as somewhere to retreat to in winter, the climate in the Daruka region lends itself to a year-round holiday destination. 

“The climate is really amazing. Autumn and spring are absolutely stunning and the native flora and fauna is on full display; winter brings cold nights and fresh days… In summer there are great events in Tamworth and rivers to swim in and fly fish.” 

If you can pull yourself away from Marayin Hut, Ethan recommends heading into Tamworth to eat at Goonoo Goonoo Station’s restaurant, sample the brews at Dungowan Brewery, have a pub feed at The Courthouse Hotel, and get your coffee and brekkie from Camp Grounds. Keen to explore a bit further afield? Nundle Pub and Hanging Rock are well worth a visit.

Marayin Hut sleeps up to six guests and is open to hosting events such as weddings and ceremonies. Whether you book in for a romantic weekend or a family getaway, you’ll be able to truly switch off and embrace the wild beauty of the Australian great outdoors.