Winter at the Little Valley Summerhouse - Wollombi Valley's Adults-Only Alpaca Farm Retreat

Winter at the Little Valley Summerhouse

Winter in the Wollombi Valley brings a special kind of quiet.

Mornings are cold and still, with mist hanging low over the paddocks. The pond reflects the treeline perfectly. If you watch from the deck, you might spot wallaroos settling in the far paddock, moving slowly and calmly, just like the valley itself. We provide binoculars for a closer look at the wildlife, and a bird book to help you identify what you see and hear.

Little Valley Summerhouse in the afternoon with Stoked hot tub overlooking the pond

This is winter in the Hunter Valley when you leave the wineries behind and explore its quieter, wilder side.

The Summerhouse is perfect for this time of year.

Inside, the Cheminees Philippe fireplace keeps things warm and cozy. Outside, the Stoked wood-fired hot tub steams in the cool air. You can watch alpacas and donkeys grazing in the evening light. Everything moves at a relaxed pace. At night, you can look up at the stars, and you may see some satellites drift by.

Little Valley Summerhouse loungeroom with Cheminees Philippe fireplace

The Summerhouse can host up to four adults. It has a king bedroom, a queen bedroom, a full kitchen, and a spacious deck with views of the pond and alpaca paddocks. The beds feature alpaca textiles, including our alpaca duvet and throw, offering a warmth that makes cold mornings feel like a choice, not a challenge.

Wombats wander by at dusk, and the birdlife is always active and diverse. Winter truly is one of the best times to visit.

Book directly with us to enjoy exclusive benefits that you won't find on other sites. When you reserve at littlevalleyfarm.com.au, you'll get:

- The best available rates

- Early check-in from 11 am, so you have almost a whole extra day to enjoy your stay

- Access to special add-on experiences such as:

- Grazing Box for four for $140*, prepared by Laguna Village Providore and chilled in the fridge before you arrive. One box is perfect for four adults.

- Alpaca and donkey photo session – $220*. Spend an hour with the herd in a relaxed, natural setting on the farm. Learn more at littlevalleyfarm.com.au/photo-sessions.

Alpaca Dryer Ball Workshop with Daniela – $40* per person. Meet the alpacas, then spend two hours in the carriage shed making your own dryer balls from fleece straight from the herd. It’s a hands-on and rewarding experience.

SIP Wollombi Village Tasting and Transfer – $150*. Daniela will drive you to and from SIP Wollombi Village at Grays Inn for a private tasting. Available Thursday to Monday, 11 am to 3 pm. Please book in advance. *All prices mentioned above are subject to change, so visit our website for up-to-date prices.

Where is Little Valley Summerhouse? Little Valley Farm is in Laguna, in the Wollombi Valley, Lower Hunter Valley, NSW. It’s just 90 minutes from Sydney along the scenic Tourist Drive 33. The property is adults-only, off-grid, and fully solar powered.

Arrival and check-in are easy. Detailed directions are provided before your stay. When you arrive, you can drive right up to the Summerhouse, where you'll find private parking and your host, Daniela, to show you around and introduce you to the alpacas and donkeys.

Winter weekends fill up fast. Check availability and book directly with us. We would love to welcome you to the Summerhouse this winter. Come experience the magic, the calm, and the warmth of our valley- your little escape awaits.

Little Valley Summerhouse Laguna Wollombi Hunter Valley

The Little Valley Summerhouse overlooking the pond and the alpaca paddocks

The best little alpaca farm in the Hunter Valley.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people does the Little Valley Summerhouse sleep? We sleep four adults only. No children/infants/pets.

Where is the Summerhouse? We are located in Laguna, under 5 km from the Trading Post Laguna located in a hidden valley in Laguna. Wollombi Valley, the Hunter region.

What beds does the Summerhouse have? We have a king bed and the second bedroom has a queen bed.

How far from Sydney is the Little Valley Summerhouse? We are 90 mins from Sydney along the Tourist Drive 33. See more FAQs here.

Little Valley Summerhouse Stoked Hottub overlooking the pond and alpaca paddocks

Autumn at Little Valley Farm - A Weekend Away from Sydney Worth Bookmarking

There's a moment in autumn when the Wollombi Valley stops being just beautiful and starts being absurdly beautiful. The mornings are cool and still. The light turns golden by mid-afternoon. The alpacas are particularly unbothered about all of it, and I am usually covered in mud or hay or both.

If you've been thinking about escaping Sydney for a proper weekend away, not a resort, not a busy wine region, not somewhere with a queue for brunch, this might be the one.

90 Minutes from Sydney. Feels Like Another World.

Little Valley Farm sits in Laguna, Wollombi Valley in the lower Hunter region of NSW. It's 90 minutes from Sydney, about an hour from Newcastle and the Central Coast.  Genuinely close, but far enough that your phone can stay face-down for two or three days.

The valley is one of those places that doesn't shout. Wollombi is a small historic village with a pub, a general store and six art spaces/galleries…. and not much else in terms of tourism, which is exactly the point. In autumn, the surrounding bush and farmland settle into earthy reds, golds, and that particular soft grey-green of eucalypt in cool air. Its personally my favourite season.

The Summerhouse

The Little Valley Summerhouse is an architect-designed, off-grid farm stay, completely solar-powered, private, and set on the working alpaca farm. It sleeps four comfortably, and it's the kind of place you arrive at and immediately feel your shoulders drop.

Autumn is arguably the best season to be here. The mornings are crisp, the light through the valley is soft and low, and the evenings are cool enough to actually appreciate a fire. No traffic noise. No neighbours. Just the farm, the alpacas going about their business, and whatever you brought in the esky.

You can watch our short farm video to get a feel for the Summerhouse and the property in autumn, it's the most honest way to show you what a stay here actually looks and feels like.


What to Do on a Wollombi Valley Weekend

A stay at Little Valley Farm pairs well with everything the valley has to offer.

  • The Trading Post Laguna - the best cafe, wine bar and Friday night dinner in the valley and under 5 km from our place.

  • Wollombi Tavern - an institution. Cold beer, local colour, and a beer garden that's perfect in autumn.

  • Wollombi General Store and Artsian Collective - good coffee, local produce, and the kind of unhurried morning you came here for.

  • SIP Wollombi Village - the valley's cellar door collective inside the historic Grays Inn. Local wines, spirits, and producers in one spot. No need to travel to Pokolbin or Broken when you can taste the Hunter region here.

  • Galleries - The Forge, Roadside Gallery, Jodie Usher Gallery and the Artisan Collective to discover.

  • Yengo National Park - easy walking around the National Park. 30 mins from our place.

  • Wollombi village - genuinely one of the best-preserved heritage villages in NSW, worth a slow wander.

A Note on the Alpacas

They'll be here when you arrive. They'll probably watch you from the fence. They are not going to do anything dramatic, and somehow that's the most relaxing part.

If you'd like to learn more about alpaca ownership, the farm also runs monthly Introduction to Alpaca Workshops - but that's entirely optional. A weekend at the Summerhouse requires no agenda whatsoever.

Ready to Book?

Autumn/Winter fills up. The Summerhouse has one booking at a time, so if you're thinking about it, don't sit on it.

Check availability and book at littlevalleyfarm.com.au

Where to Buy Australian Alpaca Yarn

Farm-Grown Alpaca Yarn from Wollombi, Hunter Valley NSW

Where to Buy Australian Alpaca Yarn Online

If you're looking for Australian alpaca yarn that you can actually trace back to a real farm, you've found it. Little Valley Farm is a working alpaca farm in Wollombi, Wollombi Valley, Lower Hunter Valley NSW. We shear our own herd every September, sort the fleece, and have it processed locally into 100% alpaca yarn. Then we sell it directly from our farm, online, and ship it anywhere in Australia.

Farm-Grown Alpaca Yarn from Wollombi, Hunter Valley NSW

We sheared in September 2025, and this season's yarn is ready now, and I managed to find the time to sort it out. Now, with the cooler weather, you all want to start knitting again.

Our alpacas live on the farm in the Wollombi Valley, surrounded by bushland and national park. They're not a commercial herd; we know each of them by name, and the fleece reflects that. It's carefully selected, not just bulk-processed.

The result is a soft, warm, 100% alpaca yarn that's naturally hypoallergenic and breathable, warmer than wool without the itch, and kinder to sensitive skin.

What Can You Make With It?

Alpaca yarn works beautifully for scarves, cowls and beanies, where the warmth-to-weight ratio really counts. Cardigans and sweaters - it drapes well and doesn't pill the way synthetic blends do. Baby knits and heirloom blankets are hypoallergenic and genuinely soft against delicate skin. Anything you'd usually reach for merino for, but want something a little more special.

What's Available

Our yarn is 100% pure alpaca, a natural fibre, with no synthetic blends. We stock a limited range each season. Quantities are genuinely limited because it all comes from our herd, not a warehouse. Check the shop for current colours and stock levels, as it does sell out.

Browse the shop here → littlevalleyfarm.com.au/shop

We Ship Across Australia

We ship to Sydney, Newcastle, the Central Coast, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and everywhere in between. Orders are packed and sent from the farm in Wollombi Valley, NSW.

If you're local to the Hunter Valley or passing through Wollombi, note that we're not open to casual drop-ins as the farm is by appointment only, but the online shop is always open.

FAQ Australian Alpaca Yarn

Is your alpaca yarn suitable for people with wool allergies? Often yes. Alpaca fibre doesn't contain lanolin, which is what causes most wool sensitivities. It's naturally hypoallergenic and tends to be much gentler on sensitive skin. That said, individual reactions vary, so if you have severe fibre allergies it's worth doing a small test first.

How do I care for alpaca yarn? Hand wash in cool water with a gentle wool wash, or use a delicate machine cycle in a mesh bag. Lay flat to dry. Don't wring it, alpaca is strong but it doesn't love being twisted when wet.

How is your yarn different from alpaca yarn I'd find in a craft store? Most commercial alpaca yarn is a blend of alpaca mixed with merino or synthetic fibres to reduce cost. Ours is 100% pure alpaca, grown on our farm, with no blends. You're also buying direct from the grower, which means you know exactly where it came from and who raised the animals.

Do you restock each year? Yes, we shear every September and process a new batch each season. Quantities are limited to what our herd produces, so if something sells out it may not be back until the following year. Getting on our newsletter is the best way to know when new stock lands.

Can I visit the farm to buy yarn in person? The farm is not open to casual visitors; we're a working farm, and the Summerhouse hosts guests. If you're interested in visiting, our Alpaca Workshops run monthly and include a farm tour. Otherwise, the online shop is the way to go.

From our alpacas in Wollombi to your knitting needles - wherever you are in Australia.

Shop alpaca yarn → littlevalleyfarm.com.au/shop

view our shopcart here

Daniela with her alpaca herd at Little Valley Farm

Our Summerhouse and Lodgify: our direct booking partner

This is a little behind-the-scenes note for fellow accommodation hosts.

At Little Valley Summerhouse, we use Lodgify as our direct booking system. They recently showcased us on their socials, which was lovely. More importantly, it’s become our preferred partner for managing direct bookings.

Why use Lodgify for direct bookings?

Quite simply, it's easy to use.

Guest communication is clear and seamless, and it keeps bookings - and funds - closer to home rather than disappearing overseas via large OTAs such as Airbnb.

Using Lodgify also means we have a direct line of communication with our guests, including personal messages and phone numbers. Many people don’t realise that some OTAs use proxy mobile numbers, allowing them to read all SMS conversations alongside in-app messages. For us, having transparent, direct communication feels important.

What the setup is really like

There is a bit of time and effort involved in setting up Lodgify, but it’s no different from creating a listing on an OTA (online travel agency). Once it’s done, it’s done - and it works quietly in the background.

Lodgify provides everything needed to manage a short-term or vacation rental business in one place. This includes tools to:

• build a clean, professional website

• accept online bookings with credit card payments

• manage reservations from a single dashboard

Channel management and synchronisation

Their channel manager allows synchronisation with major platforms such as Airbnb, Booking.com, Google Vacation Rentals, Vrbo / HomeAway, Expedia and others. This keeps availability and pricing aligned without constant manual updates.

Our experience so far

If you’re thinking about setting up direct bookings for your own accommodation, this is a platform we genuinely enjoy using and feel comfortable recommending.

We’ve included our special Lodgify trial rate with 15% off below for anyone curious to explore it further.

Trial Lodgify with us here

Where is the Little Valley Summerhouse?

Little Valley Summerhouse is located in the Wollombi Valley, in the Lower Hunter Valley, New South Wales. It sits on our working alpaca farm, Little Valley Farm, surrounded by rolling paddocks, dams and bushland, with uninterrupted rural views.

We’re approximately:

• 90 minutes north of Sydney

• 1 hour from Newcastle

• 40 minutes from Pokolbin and the Hunter Valley wine region

This makes Little Valley Summerhouse an easy weekend escape for guests travelling from Sydney, the Central Coast, Newcastle and regional NSW, while still feeling a world away once you arrive.

The Summerhouse itself is set privately by the pond, overlooking alpaca and donkey paddocks. It’s an off-grid stay, powered entirely by solar, and designed to sit lightly within the landscape. There’s no traffic noise, no neighbours in sight - just farm life, bird calls and wide open skies.

Wollombi Village is a short drive away and is one of the oldest villages in Australia, home to historic sandstone buildings, local pubs, cafes and small cellar doors. The area is known for its relaxed pace, scenic back roads and strong sense of place.

Little Valley Summerhouse suits couples, friends, or families (adults-only), looking for a quiet country stay in the Hunter Valley that feels personal, thoughtfully designed and genuinely connected to its surroundings.

Whether guests book direct through our website or discover us via trusted platforms, the experience remains the same: calm, rural and grounded in everyday farm life.

Trial Lodgify Here

The best little alpaca farm in the Hunter Valley.

Wollombi Valley Art Scene: Galleries, Markets and Creative Life in the Hunter Valley

Wollombi Valley has a quiet way of surprising you.

Photo of Sophie Cook, Wollombi Burlesque Troupe at the Barn Wollombi General Store. Photo Veronfante composite Euan Wilcox

Six Galleries. Two Villages. One Very Creative Wollombi Valley

Two small villages sit along a historic road, established c. 1830. The area holds layers of Indigenous history, early colonial stories, and sandstone buildings that have seen many generations. It might seem quiet at first glance.

But it isn’t.

Even though you can drive through the two villages in just ten minutes, creativity here is everywhere. There are now six different galleries. Six!

Wollombi is home to Roadside Gallery, Jodie Usher Gallery, Little Yengo Gallery, and the Fireshed Gallery.  There’s also The Forge, filled with antiques and curious finds, and now the new Artisans Collective in the old barn at the Wollombi General Store, opening this March. That’s a lot of creativity for one historic village.

Every two years, the Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival fills the village and gardens with art, turning the whole valley into an open-air gallery.

The Laguna Art Show is also held biannually to support Laguna Public School. It brings together artists and students, and the money raised helps fund school programs.

Valley Artists Inc has been staging standout live theatre since 1998. These are fully realised productions, complete with crafted sets, tight scripts and months of rehearsal. Run by a dedicated team of local volunteers, the theatre has built a strong reputation for fresh, high-quality performances.

The Wollombi Burlesque Troupe brings bold, unapologetic energy to the countryside. This isn’t improvised. It’s rehearsed, curated and just the right amount of outrageous. Guitars are tuned, stilt walkers hit their mark, and amps blasts to life.

Community markets are held three times a year during the long weekends, bringing together local makers, growers, and artists. Handmade goods, fresh produce, home baking and plenty of familiar faces. It’s country shopping, Wollombi Valley style.

But creativity here isn’t just about exhibitions and events.

Local musicians play for the joy of it, yes. But this isn’t busking. These are seasoned performers booked for festivals, weddings, openings and long-table lunches. They rehearse, they collaborate, and they deliver.

So many people in the valley learn to paint, weld, carve, restore, knit, make prints, or join ceramic groups.

That’s what makes this place special. It’s still country and yes its small, but there’s space here - space to try new things, open a gallery in a shed, start a workshop, or put on a show and trust people will come.

Each gallery is another small business.

It’s another creative person taking a chance, and another reason for someone to stay.

Even though the valley has been here for almost two hundred years, Wollombi Valley feels full of life and creativity.

Wollombi Village photo credit Euan Wilcox

The Creative Heart of Wollombi Valley in the Hunter Valley discover it for yourself.

reserve your stay summerhouse

Stay at Little Valley Summerhouse. Just 90 minutes from Sydney, tucked into Laguna in Wollombi Valley. An adults-only escape in the Hunter Valley, set on our working alpaca farm.


Little Valley Farm - Frequently Asked Questions

“This FAQ answers common questions about our adults-only farm stay in Wollombi Valley and our monthly alpaca workshops near Sydney, Newcastle and the Central Coast.”
— Daniela


Where is Little Valley Farm located?

Little Valley Farm is located in Wollombi Valley in the Lower Hunter Valley, NSW, around 90 minutes from Sydney and just over an hour from the Central Coast and Newcastle. We’re tucked away in a hidden valley in Laguna, surrounded by paddocks, wildlife and rolling hills. We are 4.5 kms from The Trading Post Laguna (our local wine bar, cafe, restaurant, which we love).


What is the Little Valley Summerhouse?

The Little Valley Summerhouse is an architecturally designed, adults-only farm stay for couples or friends looking to slow down. It’s a relaxed, comfortable space to enjoy the farm, spend time outdoors, and step away from everyday noise.

Little Valley Farm

Is the Little Valley Summerhouse suitable for children or pets?

No. The Summerhouse is for adults only. We’re not set up for children, infants or pets.

No to pets, as this helps us keep the experience peaceful and protects the welfare of our alpacas, donkeys, and wildlife.

How many people can the Summerhouse sleep?

The Summerhouse sleeps four adults. It’s ideal for couples or a small group of friends wanting quiet time together.

Is Little Valley Farm off-grid?

Yes. The entire farm, including the Summerhouse, is fully off-grid and solar-powered. Living and hosting this way is part of how we farm and live sustainably.

Is there mobile reception or Wi-Fi?

There is no mobile reception at the farm, which many guests love.

The good news is the Summerhouse has reliable Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected if you need to, without constant phone interruptions.

What is included with the farm stay?

Your stay includes:

• Access to the wider farm

• A personal welcome and introduction to the alpacas and donkeys on check-in

• Firewood for the indoor fireplace

• Firewood for the outdoor hot tub

• Kitchen and basic pantry supplies so you can travel light

• A quiet, private setting overlooking paddocks and the pond

• Daniela’s personal recommendation of things to do in Wollombi Valley

• A welcome gift when you book direct

• Early check-in time from 11 am with check-out at 11 am 

Can guests explore the farm?

Yes. Guests are welcome to enjoy the wider farm areas. On arrival, we’ll introduce you to the alpacas and donkeys and explain where you’re welcome to wander so everyone stays safe and relaxed.

What is the minimum stay?

• Weekdays: one-night stays are available

• Weekends: minimum two-night stay

• Long weekends are minimum three-night stay

Is the drive suitable for standard cars?

Yes. Guests arrive in standard cars every week. The final kilometre is a dirt road, with one small steeper section. Confident drivers have no issues, but low or heavily modified vehicles are not recommended.

What makes Little Valley Farm different from other farm stays?

We live and work here full-time. Little Valley Farm has been home since 2012, and alpaca farming isn’t a side project for us; it’s what we do every day. Hosting is personal, relaxed and genuine, not a production line.

In 2023, we were recognised with Best Unique Stay for our original 1950s glamping train carriage, which remains part of our farm story. Today, our full focus is on the Little Valley Summerhouse.

Alpaca Workshops

Who are the alpaca workshops for?

Our alpaca workshops are designed for beginners and potential alpaca owners. You don’t need land yet, many people attend because they’re in the early thinking and planning stage.
They’re especially suited to people with small acreage or hobby farms.

Are the workshops hands-on?

Yes, but always supervised. Handling alpacas takes place in one of our pens and is done carefully and calmly, with animal welfare as the priority.

Is this a petting zoo experience?

No. We’re a working alpaca farm and an adult farmstay retreat. The workshops are practical, hands-on and focused on real farming knowledge, not entertainment.

How long is the alpaca workshop?

The workshop runs for half a day, but we keep it flexible so everyone’s questions are properly answered. Small groups allow us to take our time.

How many people attend each workshop?

Workshops are limited to around six people. We keep groups small so everyone can ask questions and get personal guidance.

How often do you run alpaca workshops?

Workshops are held once a month, with dates published on our website.

Bookings are essential due to limited availability.

Who runs the workshops?

The workshops are run by Daniela, who has been farming alpacas full-time since 2012. She’s deeply involved in day-to-day care, breeding, fleece and yarn production and management, and has a strong network of alpaca breeders across Australia.

Mentoring doesn’t stop after the workshop; advice is always shared openly, regardless of where people choose to buy their alpacas.

Farm Rules & Biosecurity

Why aren’t dogs/pets allowed at Little Valley Farm?

We are a working alpaca farm, and biosecurity is extremely important. Dogs can stress alpacas and pose a real risk to their safety and well-being. For this reason, dogs are not permitted on the property.

We are available by appointment only due to our bio-security policy. If you have any questions, please call or email us. We will try to respond within 24 hours.

Arriving by Electric Vehicle into Wollombi Valley

Travelling to the Little Valley Summerhouse in an electric vehicle is surprisingly easy, and a lovely way to arrive if you enjoy the journey as much as the stay.

The Trading Post Laguna Wollombi Valley

The Trading Post Laguna Photo Credit Euan Wilcox

This is where you charge your electric vehicle.

We have happily hosted many e-drivers over the years and have been asked a few times whether people can charge their vehicles here.

Little Valley Farm is a fully solar-powered farm in Wollombi Valley, Hunter Valley, but we don’t currently offer on-site EV charging. Instead, guests travelling by EV are well supported by nearby options in Laguna, just a few minutes down the road.


Where to charge your EV in Laguna?

The closest EV charging point is located at The Trading Post, Laguna, just 4.5km from Little Valley Farm. There is a Tesla charger available, and guests will need to bring their own charging adapters.

Charging here fits nicely into a relaxed arrival or mid-stay plan, especially as The Trading Post is a favourite local stop and just down the road.

They’re open from 8 am and do an incredible egg and bacon roll and coffee in the morning. On Friday nights, they host dinner, the only night of the week they do evening meals, and it’s well worth planning around if you’re staying with us then. It’s an easy place to eat, drink and unwind while your vehicle charges.

Also at the Trading Post, you’ll find the Laguna Village Providore, a small fruit shop where you can pick up fresh produce and a few snack essentials before heading back to the farm.

The drive to Little Valley summerhouse

Part of the appeal of staying here is the drive itself.

• From Sydney, it’s around 120km, roughly 90 minutes, depending on traffic

• From Newcastle, the drive is about one hour

• From the Central Coast, allow around one hour

Most guests travel via Tourist Drive 33, a scenic and winding stretch of road that takes you through bushland, valleys and historic villages. It’s a beautiful drive, particularly as you get closer to Wollombi Valley.

The farm is accessed via a maintained dirt road. Most vehicles are suitable; however, low-sport cars or heavily modified vehicles are not recommended. Confident drivers will find access easy.

A quiet place to arrive, in any season

The Little Valley summerhouse sleeps four adults and is designed to be comfortable year-round. Whether you’re arriving in summer with long evenings by the hottub, or in winter with crisp mornings and slow days indoors, the house works beautifully in every season.

Arriving by electric vehicle fits naturally with the pace here, slower travel, thoughtful stops, and a stay that’s about switching off rather than rushing through.

wollombi valley 2025 photo Euan wilcox

Wollombi Valley photo credit Euan WIlcox

Staying Local: Laguna, Wollombi Valley

If you feel like heading out, Wollombi Village is just a 10-minute drive from Little Valley Farm and well worth a visit. It’s small, historic and easy to wander at your own pace.

For something casual and nourishing, we highly recommend the Wollombi General Store. It’s a great spot for healthy food options, takeaway meals and coffee, and it also serves as the local post office. The building itself has a wonderful sense of history, with antiques to browse, seating both inside and outside, and plenty of space to relax. You’ll also find Noyce Brothers Wine nextdoor, with wine tasting available inside the beautifully restored building, and don’t miss the garden out the back, a lovely place to sit quietly for a while or enjoy a game of giant chess.

wollombi village photo Euan WIlcox

Wollombi Village photo credit Euan Wilcox

If you’re in the mood to sit down and relax a little longer, Myrtle & Stone is a beautiful café perched on the hill overlooking the village. You can sit inside or out on the veranda, enjoy good food, and take in the view across Wollombi.

For a late afternoon drink or something a little more lively, the Wollombi Tavern beer garden is a local favourite. It’s the perfect place for a cold beer and a relaxed end to the day before heading back to the farm.

Art Lovers

For art lovers, Wollombi Village also has a quiet, creative side worth exploring. Roadside Gallery is known for its rotating exhibitions and thoughtful, locally connected works. Nearby, The Forge, curious finds and antiques. Little Yengo Room offers a more intimate space to view art and objects inspired by the surrounding landscape. The village is also home to an Indigenous art museum, providing an opportunity to engage with First Nations art and stories connected to this region. Each space is small, considered, and well-suited to a gentle wander rather than a rushed visit.

What’s the best way to book the Summerhouse?

Book direct for the best rates and an 11 am early check-in so that you can make the most of your first day.

Third-party platforms can add $250–$300 in fees per weekend, and much of that money heads offshore. When you book direct with a host, those dollars stay here in Australia and help support the local community. It's a simple choice that makes a real difference, and you get to enjoy a unique piece of Australia.

book summerhouse here

Make 2026 the Year You Finally Take That Farmstay Break

Your Little Valley Summerhouse guide to maximising public holidays and annual leave

If you’ve already started daydreaming about slower weekends, quiet breakfasts, and a few days where your phone isn’t dinging at you, this is your sign to start planning your 2026 getaways. The good news? Next year is full of generous public holiday runs, and if you play it right, a handful of annual leave days can turn into proper holidays.

And if you’re going to escape, you may as well do it somewhere that actually feels like an escape. The Little Valley Summerhouse sleeps up to four adults and sits right by the pond, looking across the alpaca and donkey paddocks. Euan (my hubbie) built it, and it runs entirely on solar (actually, the whole farm is solar-powered), and it has that rare “arrive, exhale, stay awhile” feel.

To help you time your getaway, here’s your friendly cheat sheet for turning a few annual leave days into long, glorious breaks.

This is Big Teddy Bo Alpaca before shearing!

Your 2026 “Take a Few Days, Get a Lot More” Guide

January Long Break (January 24–February 1)

Take 4 days of annual leave and turn it into 9 days off.

  • Jan 24–25: Weekend

  • Jan 26: Public holiday

  • Jan 27–30: Annual leave

  • Jan 31–Feb 1: Weekend

Early in the year is perfect for a warm-weather visit and long evenings on the deck, the occasional alpaca side-eye, and easy, relaxing days. The Stoked hot tub can be used as a plunge pool to cool down in and at night, stoke it up!

Little Valley Summerhouse photo credit Euan Wilcox

Easter + Autumn Magic (March 28–April 12)

Take 8 days of annual leave and unlock 16 days away.

  • Mar 28–29: Weekend

  • Mar 30–Apr 2: Annual leave

  • Apr 3: Good Friday

  • Apr 4–5: Weekend

  • Apr 6: Easter Monday

  • Apr 7–10: Annual leave

  • Apr 11–12: Weekend

Autumn/Winter Summerhouse

Autumn at Little Valley Farm is one of the best times to visit. The light softens, the paddocks glow, and the whole valley feels settled and calm.


King’s Birthday Escape (June 6–14)

Take 4 days of annual leave for 9 wintery days off.

  • Jun 6–7: Weekend

  • Jun 8: Public holiday

  • Jun 9–12: Annual leave

  • Jun 13–14: Weekend

Cool nights, fires going, and the hot tub steaming away under the stars, it’s one of the coziest times to stay.

The entire farm turns a beautiful red-orange thanks to the autumn leaves. It’s a photographer’s delight to capture the farm in these colours.

Autumn Hunter Valley Little Valley Summerhouse farmstay

Little Valley Farm Autumn/Winter photo credit Euan Wilcox

Labour Day Spring Break (October 3–11)

Take 4 days of annual leave and score 9 days off.

  • Oct 3–4: Weekend

  • Oct 5: Public holiday

  • Oct 6–9: Annual leave

  • Oct 10–11: Weekend

Spring usually brings cria season, so there’s a decent chance you’ll spot a curious little face peeking around its mum in the paddock.

Christmas–New Year Mega Break (December 19–January 3)

Take 7 days of annual leave and enjoy 16 days off.

  • Dec 19–20: Weekend

  • Dec 21–24: Annual leave

  • Dec 25: Christmas Day

  • Dec 26–27: Weekend

  • Dec 28: Boxing Day public holiday

  • Dec 29–31: Annual leave

  • Jan 1: New Year’s Day

  • Jan 2–3: Weekend

This is the big one, a chance to slow right down, reflect on the year, and start 2027 feeling human again.

Why Plan Ahead?

The Summerhouse books out quickly, especially when public holidays line up like this. If you’ve spotted a run that suits your style, a long weekend, a cheeky mid-year break, or the mega Christmas stretch that is worth locking it in early.

Pack a good book, bring your favourite people, and enjoy a slice of the valley at your own pace

Make 2026 the Year You Finally Take That Farmstay Break

summerhouse calendar

Summerhouse with friends

Little Valley Farm’s Summerhouse is an adults-only retreat in Wollombi Valley, NSW, about 90 minutes north of Sydney and around an hour from Newcastle, making it a convenient country escape.

About Daniela Riccio

Daniela Riccio is the co-founder of Little Valley Farm, a boutique alpaca farm and farm-stay located in Wollombi Valley in the Hunter Valley, NSW. Established in 2012, the farm is home to a small herd of alpacas and donkeys and focuses on sustainable living, animal care and practical education for small-acreage and hobby farmers.

Daniela works hands-on with alpacas every day and shares real-world experience through workshops, mentoring and writing, based on life on the farm rather than theory. Little Valley Farm is located around 90 minutes from Sydney and one hour from Newcastle, making it a well-known alpaca farm and country retreat in the Hunter Valley.

From Jungle Juice to Alpaca Farms: Why Wollombi Should Be on Your Radar

A lovely little write-up from Ripe in Town Media has just landed, shining a light on Wollombi Valley and giving our Little Valley Farm Summerhouse a sweet mention. Have a read when you’ve got a minute, and don’t forget to wander over to Ripe to see the full piece.

wollombi valley Little Valley Summerhouse stays

Photo credit Euan Wilcox, Wollombi Village

From Jungle Juice to Alpaca Farms: Why Wollombi Should Be on Your Radar

By Lauren Deighton December 8, 2025

Wollombi is the Hunter Valley’s hidden, unhurried escape – a historic village where 19th-century sandstone cottages, bush-fringed roads, and a warm country rhythm still reign. Wollombi sits less than two hours from Sydney and around 90 minutes from Newcastle and delivers a sense of calm that’s rare to find yet easy to reach.

The history of the area is long and colourful. Wollombi – which stands for “meeting place of the waters” – was a significant meeting place for Aboriginal people. The region still boasts more than 300 significant Aboriginal sites, particularly in Yengo National Park and the surrounding area. 

More recently in its history, Wollombi is known as a key convict-built administration centre along the Great North Road. Many of its well-preserved convict and colonial-era buildings can still be seen today on the Historic Wollombi Walk or the Convict Trail.

This tiny town is not only rich in cultural significance but also a charming haven for foodies, explorers, and those seeking a retreat away from the masses in a setting that feels like a step back in time.  

CONTINUE READING VIA RIPE
little valley summerhouse farmstay

Little Valley Summerhouse

Learn more about the summerhouse

If you’re curious about the summerhouse, think of it as a grown-up little getaway for two couples or four friends. Two comfy bedrooms, an indoor bath, and a Stoked hot tub outside that looks straight over the pond and across to the alpaca and donkey paddocks. It feels tucked away from everything, relaxed and quiet, and you’ll be looked after by hosts who genuinely care.

Source: https://ripeintown.com/wollombi-hunter-valley/

A Little December Breather at the Summerhouse

December always sneaks up, doesn’t it? One minute you’re packing away the winter chores, and the next you’re wondering how it’s already time for Christmas lists, end-of-year catch-ups, and that familiar “where did the year go?” feeling.

If you’re craving a quick reset before the chaos begins, the Summerhouse at Little Valley Farm is one of those easy escapes that works beautifully as a one-night stay. December is filling fast, but there are still a few nights open for anyone wanting to exhale, switch off, and wake up somewhere peaceful.

View from across the pond looking towards to the Summerhouse. Photo credit Euan Wilcox

Set beside the pond with the bush wrapping around you, the Summerhouse has that quiet, steadying energy people look for at this time of year. The Stoked hot tub’s always a favourite, warm at night, cool during the day, and you’ll have alpacas and donkeys grazing nearby as your unofficial welcoming committee.

If you like to choose the exact night that suits your plans, it’s best to book directly. One-night stays are open through December, and January 2026 has its own little window of availability as well.

It’s a lovely time to be in the Hunter Valley: warm evenings, long days, and that relaxed holiday rhythm that settles over the valley once the calendar flips.


Our Summerhouse sleeps up to four adults only, with one king bedroom and one queen bedroom, plus a full kitchen, a fireplace (for Winter), and plenty of spots to sit with a drink and listen to the frogs around the pond.

If you’re thinking about squeezing in a quick getaway, whether it’s a pre-Christmas breather or a slow start to the new year, now’s the time to lock it in.


Book direct for the best rate and the widest choice of dates.



Summerhouse deck overlooking the pond.

Australia Day Long weekend in the Hunter Valley

PS: Don't forget the long weekend coming up at the end of January, book for three nights for total relaxation and immersion.

Book the summerhouse
Source: https://www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au/summerhouse

The Calm Science Behind an Alpaca’s Chew

By Daniela Riccio,  Little Valley Farm, Wollombi Valley

When you see that slow, rhythmic chewing, it’s not boredom, it’s business.

Alpacas are what’s known as pseudo-ruminants. Unlike true ruminants such as cows, which have four stomach compartments, alpacas have three. Their digestive system is remarkably efficient, designed to draw every last bit of goodness from the grasses, hay, and pasture plants they eat.

After grazing, they’ll often settle into a quiet spot, sit down, and begin to chew the cud,  regurgitating partially digested food to chew it again. It’s all part of how they process fibre and nutrients.

This slow, steady chewing has a calming rhythm to it. Spend a few minutes watching, and you’ll see their jaws move in gentle circles, their eyes half-closed, perfectly at peace. It’s one of those moments that remind you how unhurried farm life can be, where digestion doubles as meditation.

Our alpacas do this most mornings, especially when the valley is still waking up. The birds start their dawn chorus, and the soundscape is pure spring. You can watch (and listen) here:
🎥 Watch the video on Instagram


What do alpacas prefer to eat?

At Little Valley Farm, alpacas spend most of their time grazing on paddock grass, moving through rotational paddocks each week so they always have fresh feed, and the pasture has time to recover. Their food needs aren’t one-size-fits-all. Wethers, weaners, crias, pregnant females and lactating mums all have slightly different requirements depending on age, condition and season. Alongside grazing, we offer good-quality lucerne hay and, when needed, oaten chaff or lucerne chaff, adjusting with the seasons. We do keep alpaca pellets on hand, but they’re used mainly as a treat or for training, not as a daily feed. Pellets are higher in sugar and not something alpacas need regularly, even though they absolutely think they should have them every day.

Learn More

If you’ve ever wanted to understand alpaca behaviour up close, from their calm chewing to how they communicate, join one of our Introduction to Alpacas workshops here at Little Valley Farm.

We cover everything from body scoring and health checks to daily care and herd dynamics, designed especially for small farms and hobby acreage.

You can also subscribe to ourYouTube channel for more short videos from the paddocks and real farm moments, straight from Wollombi Valley.

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About Daniela Riccio

Daniela Riccio is the co-founder of Little Valley Farm, a boutique alpaca farm and farm-stay located in Wollombi Valley in the Hunter Valley, NSW. Established in 2012, the farm is home to a small herd of alpacas and donkeys and focuses on sustainable living, animal care and practical education for small-acreage and hobby farmers.

Daniela works hands-on with alpacas every day and shares real-world experience through workshops, mentoring and writing, based on life on the farm rather than theory. Little Valley Farm is located around 90 minutes from Sydney and one hour from Newcastle, making it a well-known alpaca farm and country retreat in the Hunter Valley.

New Singapore–Newcastle Connection Opens the Door to the Hunter Valley

Press Release 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    14 November 2025

New Singapore–Newcastle Connection Opens the Door to the Hunter Valley


Singapore travellers will soon have a much easier way to reach one of NSW’s most scenic wine-and-country regions. Jetstar’s new Denpasar–Newcastle route, which launched on 21 October 2025, will connect with the airline’s daily Singapore–Denpasar service from March 2026.


With only a 90-minute layover in Bali, Singaporeans can fly to Newcastle on a single ticket. No Sydney airport, no long transfers, just a smooth hop straight into the Hunter. Jetstar is also increasing the Bali–Newcastle service to four flights a week, adding extra capacity ahead of the busy travel seasons.


From Singapore Life to Valley Living

For Daniela Riccio and Euan Wilcox, founders of Little Valley Farm in the Wollombi Valley, this new flight connection feels a little like the universe giving them a wink. The couple spent over ten years living in Hong Kong and Singapore before returning to Australia to build their alpaca farm from the ground up.


During her time in Asia, Daniela worked as an editor and marketing manager for LUXE City Guides, shaping travel content for Asia’s most design-savvy jetsetters. Those years left her with a strong connection to the expat community and a deep appreciation for how precious long weekends and quick getaways can be.


Today, Little Valley Farm is known for its alpaca herd, hands-on workshops, and a growing reputation as a peaceful countryside escape. Their newest addition, the Little Valley Summerhouse, overlooks a scenic pond and the alpaca and donkey paddocks. Architecturally designed and handcrafted by Euan, the two-bedroom house is entirely off-grid, featuring a full kitchen, a Cheminees Philippe fireplace, a Stoked hottub, and a passive-solar design that keeps it naturally comfortable throughout the seasons.

“The new route removes the last bit of travel friction,” Daniela says. “You land in Newcastle, grab your bags, and you’re in the valley before you’ve even processed that you’ve left the city.”

Little Valley Summerhouse Hunter Valley

Little Valley Summerhouse Photo credit Euan Wilcox


A Different Kind of Australian Escape

For expat Singaporeans who’ve done the classic Sydney and coastal itineraries, the Summerhouse offers something more grounded, fresh country air, wide-open views, and the rhythm of a working alpaca farm. 

Newcastle Airport is an easy 90-minute drive from the property, and the surrounding region is filled with boutique wineries, heritage villages, and plenty of space to unwind.

Bookings & Media Enquiries

Little Valley Farm, Wollombi Valley

Daniela Riccio, 0407224150 

dani@littlevalleyfarm.com.au

www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au 

You From Reggie

What else to discover when in Wollombi Valley by You Found Reggie.

Win 2 nights at LVF Summerhouse when you shop at Three Donkeys

littlevalleyfarm summerhouse farmstay

Three Donkeys Home + Coffee Bar is a charming lifestyle hub in Long Jetty on the NSW Central Coast that blends a cozy café specialising in wholesome whole-foods and excellent coffee with a curated homewares boutique featuring vintage, farmhouse-inspired pieces, handmade décor and natural-linen fashion.

Their focus on simple, intentional living and slow moments dovetails nicely with the ethos of Little Valley Farm, so it’s a natural fit for the collaboration, bringing together off-grid, slow-living values with the relaxed, aesthetic lifestyle experience Three Donkeys offers.

We kicked off this collaboration with Maggie from Slow Folk, who brought her creative energy and beautiful eye for styling to The Summerhouse for a product shoot. She filled the space with pieces from Three Donkeys Home & Coffee House and all their Co-op partners, Slow Folk, KK Homewares, La Crème Vintage, and Honeysett House. Her effortless approach to visual merchandising made for a relaxed, inspiring day of photography that captured the essence of both The Summerhouse and the slow-living lifestyle we love.

Enter by shopping at Three Donkeys, Long Jetty, before Christmas 2025.

Promotion Terms & Conditions ~ “Win a Stay at Summerhouse Hunter Valley”

How to Enter:
Buy anything in-store at Three Donkeys Home & Coffee House, Long Jetty, including items from our Co-op Partners, during the promotion period to receive one entry into the draw.
Co-op Partners: Slow Folk, KK Homewares, Honeysett House & La Crème Vintage.
Each purchase made on a different day counts as a separate entry.

Prize:
One winner will receive 2 nights’ accommodation for 2 adults at Summerhouse Hunter Valley.

  • Stay valid for any Monday to Wednesday nights between January and March 2026 (excluding the Australia Day long weekend).

  • Two-bedroom house with 1 King Bed and 1 Queen Bed.

  • No children or pets are permitted during the stay.

Eligibility:
Entrants must be 18 years or older. Employees of Three Donkeys Home & Coffee House, their Co-op Partners, and their immediate families are not eligible to enter.

Draw & Notification:
The winner will be drawn at random and notified by phone or email. If the winner cannot be contacted within 7 days, a new winner may be selected.
The winner will receive a one-time booking code to book directly with Little Valley Farm, owners of the Summerhouse, with a 100% discount applied.
Once a booking is made, all communication regarding the stay will be directly with Little Valley Farm.

Marketing & Promotion:
By accepting the prize, the winner agrees to participate in reasonable promotional activities related to the competition. This may include photos or short videos taken at Little Valley Farm and promotion on social media channels for Three Donkeys, their Co-op Partners and Little Valley Farm.

General:
The prize is not transferable, exchangeable, or redeemable for cash.
By entering, you agree to these Terms & Conditions and consent to being contacted by Three Donkeys for prize arrangements and promotional purposes.


Slow down this Christmas and spend the holidays in Wollombi Valley

If you’ve been craving a quieter kind of festive season, Wollombi Valley might be precisely what your head and heart need. Tucked in the southern end of Hunter Valley wine country, this little pocket of bushland offers the kind of Christmas where the soundtrack is birdsong, the neighbours are friendly, and you can finally breathe a bit deeper.

Christmas and New Year in the Bush: Slow Down, Stay Close, and Soak Up Wollombi Valley

huntervalley accommodation

Friend time at the Summerhouse

Visitors can choose from all sorts of stays, from camping under the stars, family-friendly cottages, romantic hideaways, and nature stays where you wake up to nothing but trees, hills and the occasional curious wallaroo. It’s the perfect valley to switch gears, settle in, and enjoy the holidays at a slower pace.

For anyone who likes their New Year’s Eve with a spark (literally), the Wollombi Tavern hosts its much-loved fireworks night. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly evening that brings locals and visitors together on the big grassy paddock out the back. Kids run around, grown-ups exhale, and everyone gets a dose of simple country fun.

Across the valley, you can wander through the historic village of Wollombi, circa 1830 and still proudly holding onto its heritage, or head down the road to Laguna, home to the iconic Trading Post. Good food, great coffee, and the kind of people who’ll remember your name if you pop in twice.

A Stay Made for Long Chats and Lazy Mornings

One standout option is the Little Valley Summerhouse, which sleeps four adults and sits in its own quiet pocket of bushland. It’s the kind of place you book for a friend’s escape or a family catch-up. Somewhere you can settle in, pour a drink, and watch the scenery do its thing. The deck looks out over the pond and across to the alpaca and donkey paddocks, so there’s always something cute wandering by. You’re only 5 km from the Trading Post and about ten minutes from Wollombi Village, but it feels far enough away that city life slips off your shoulders without you even noticing.

huntervalley farmstay

Little Valley Summerhouse Photo credit Euan Wilcox

Easy to Reach, Hard to Leave

Wollombi Valley sits an easy 90 minutes from Sydney, about an hour from the Central Coast, and an hour from Newcastle. Close enough for a spontaneous getaway, far enough to feel like you’ve stepped into your own quiet corner of the world.

Whether you’re planning a last-minute escape or setting up a new holiday tradition, Wollombi Valley is a gentle reminder that Christmas doesn’t need to be complicated. Sometimes the best gift is a few days in the bush, where time slows down and life feels easy again.

For more information, story requests, images or interview opportunities, please get in touch with Daniela.

Book the adults only Summerhouse here

The Little Valley Alpacas just after this September ‘25 shear

A soak by the summerhouse pond

Say hello to our brand new Stoked Hottub.

By day, the pond glistens. At night, the stars arrive. Always, the frogs are singing.

In the middle of it all sits our wood-fired hot tub by Stoked Stainless. It’s simple and honest: fill, stoke, soak. Daytime is for warm water and sunshine on your shoulders. After dark, it’s steam, sky, and a whole galaxy reflected on the water. No rush. Just the slow rhythm of the valley and the frogs keeping time.

This is everyday life out here at the summerhouse in the beautiful, remote, utterly wild Wollombi Valley.

Nothing fancy, nothing forced. Just a quiet place to breathe.

Thanks, @stokedstainless and Huubie Euan Wilcox, for building the entire summerhouse.

Join us on Little Valley Farm Instagram for more instant updates.

Book the adults-only summerhouse here

Where is Wollombi Valley? The Lower Hunter Valley. Along the Tourist Drive 33 from Peats Ridge, Mangrove Mountain, Bucketty and straight into Laguna, where The Trading Post Laguna is.

The Trading Post is a great place to stop for lunch, coffee and a wander around this iconic bar, cafe, and restaurant.

Where is Little Valley Farm? In Laguna, Wollombi Valley and only 90 minutes from Sydney. The farmstay is for adults only. The farm is available by appointment only and is situated in a secluded valley.

Follow us on our social media for updates on our annual open days and sign up for our monthly newsletter to stay informed about special events.

Frequently Asked Questions? Read more here.

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