The perfect historic home just an hour and half from Sydney
Travel back to the time of convicts and first settlers on a property granted in 1820. Now available as two parts with the extensive Architect Designed Additions or as a large family home with 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms.
Rent an Historic Georgian Cottage
A unique opportunity to stay in this styled, historic property that dates back 200 years. A true first settlers convict stone-built house set on 5 hectares with outstanding north facing lake & valley views. Now you can also choose The Retreat - the modern owner's build.
About First Farm 1820
Built on land granted in 1820 to John Bayley - son of two convicts
Amenities & Features
Surrounded by nature, stunning views of the countryside.
Country rentals often come with extra amenities, such as pools, tennis courts, and hiking trails. This can be a great way to enjoy your vacation without having to leave the property.
Completely Renovated Stone Cottage
The historic cottage, built from the original convict cut stones was completed around 1845 after the many floods had caused the first house to fail. Superbly styled and decorated with 5 star linen and furnishings and original artworks.
Enhanced Clean
This host is committed to Airbnb's 5-step enhanced cleaning process. Quality Covid compliant linen regime on the beds. Check our guest ratings.
Self check-in
Check yourself in with the lockbox. Enjoy the scenic drive through the valley following the MacDonald River. Detailed driving instructions get you here easily via Wisemans Ferry.
A charming stone-built farmhouse plus a modern build that can be combined together for a large family group of up to 8.
Looking for a relaxing country getaway just 90 minutes from Sydney?
Hey getaway seekers! If you’re looking for a relaxing country vacation rental, we’ve got just the spot for you. Our charming historic stone cottage is located in the heart of the Forgotten Valley just 90 minutes from Sydney, and it’s the perfect place to get away from it all.
The perfect place to relax - stay where the first settlers lived.
Property Options
Choose the Cottage for up to 4 adults and 2 children. You can add The Retreat to your booking to accommodate another couple. Combined, a family group of 8 can stay comfortably in this magnicifent estate. Enjoy the history and the magic of the location. Bring the family or bring your best friends.
Far From the Crowds
Getting away every weekend - out of Dural on Old Northern Road, then into Wisemans Ferry. Crossover on the car punt and leave your hassles and work behind. Drive through the historic farming country that fed Sydney Cove convicts and soldiers from first settlement of Australia. See the poplar plantations that were set up for the matchstick industry and now a protected feature of the valley.
The Retreat
The Retreat features a large lounge, entertainment center, 65 inch OLED Smart TV, various streaming services, inlcuding Apple TV, Netflix and Kayo for sports fans. The lounge has full width floor to ceiling glass providing views over the lake north to the end of the valley. An extra-large owner master suite includes king bedroom and ensuite and is completely private.
Kitchens & Laundry
Renting the entire property includes access to the main chefs kitchen featuring a full stainless steel fit out. Amazing historic fireplace includes a vintage solid fuel cooker specially restored for the property. There are laundry facilities and a second galley kitchen for paying guests. The galley kitchen works for those just renting the cottage only and is fully equipped to compliment indoor and outdoor dining. The BBQ deck is a step outside.
The Local Pub
Two kilometers back to the famous Settlers Arms Inn. Possibly the oldest pub trading this side of the Rocks. Great meals and craft beers. Enjoy the ambience of this stone built historic coaching inne. Built in 1836 and operating as a public house since then, the Settlers Arms is very popular with our guests and day trippers from Sydney and surrounds.
Pub Meetup
St Albans is the perfect place to invite your friends up to meet and enjoy lunch together. There is a choice of the Settlers Arms or The Pickled Wombat cafe.
Google Maps
The cottage is marked on Google. Follow the travel instructions for an easy trip via Wisemans Ferry crossing the Hawkesbury River.
Free Wi-Fi
Stay connected while on-the-go with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the Cottage. Use Wi-Fi Calling to ensure your mobile phone remains connected.
Phone Reception
There are no cellular signals in the valley except halfway along the route at the primary school. Connect to the Wi-Fi and switch your phone to "use Wi-Fi calling".