Hunter Hunter Unwind off-grid at Little Valley ‘Summerhouse’ – the Hunter’s wild-side escape

In the media

Despite its proximity to the Hunter Valley, the region of Wollombi feels like a world away from the well-trodden wine roads of Lovedale and Pokolbin. With its quaint villages, lush country views, and country pubs, Wollombi also has a long list of gorgeous accommodation, and Little Valley ‘Summerhouse’ is one of the highlights.

An adults only retreat imagined for those with a love for great design and the great outdoors, this boutique escape offers something rare: utter tranquility without sacrificing style.

The Summerhouse is the result of a two-year passion project by architect Matt Elkan and owner-builder Euan Wilcox. Drawing inspiration from the region’s historic timber huts, the home blends raw beauty with modern comfort.

At its heart is an open breezeway that spills into panoramic views of a private pond where native wildlife causally pass. It’s laid-back luxury with a dash of wallaroo.

The 50-acre working alpaca farm sets the scene, with miniature donkeys and vibrant seasonal foliage offering constant reminders you’re far from the city buzz. Think slow mornings with coffee in hand, barefoot walks through native bushland, and dinners under a canopy of stars.

Inside, natural light floods through floor-to-ceiling windows, warming polished concrete floors in winter and opening up to summer breezes when it heats up. The home is entirely off-grid—powered by solar and designed for low impact—but that doesn’t mean you’ll be missing out. From a French cast-iron fireplace to soft alpaca wool duvets, every detail is crafted for comfort.

An adults only retreat imagined for those with a love for great design and the great outdoors, this boutique escape offers something rare: utter tranquility without sacrificing style.

Read the full article on Hunter Hunter here with more images of the summerhouse

Photo credit: Milou Hofman Photography

Written by Hunter Valley Editor

04 May 2025

Source: https://www.hunterhunter.com.au/hunter-valley/accommodation/little-valley-summerhouse/

Autumn Feels and Foodie Adventures in the Lower Hunter Valley

There’s something magical about autumn at Little Valley Farm. The alpacas are fluffier, the mornings are crisper, and the golden hues rolling over the paddocks make everything feel like a painting. With the cooler weather now settling in, we’ve been leaning into all things local—especially when it comes to food and wine. And trust us, the Lower Hunter Valley has some absolute gems.

This season is all about slow travel, long lunches, and cosy nights by the fire with a glass of something red and a delicious grazing platter close by. So we thought we’d share a few of our favourite local spots—places we love and happily recommend to guests staying in our summerhouse or popping in for an alpaca workshop.

🥂 Destination Dining: Bistro Molines, Mount View

If there’s one place that captures the essence of autumn indulgence, it’s Bistro Molines. Just a scenic 45-minute drive from the farm, the road there is half the joy—meandering through Wollombi village, past the vineyards of Cedar Creek and up into the misty heights of Mount View. It’s one of those drives where you’ll want to pull over and soak up the view.

As soon as you step inside Bistro Molines, you're transported to the South of France. Think: wrought iron chairs, fresh blooms on every table, terracotta tiles underfoot, and views that sweep out across the vines. The food? Flawless. Whether you're celebrating a birthday with a mini croquembouche or sipping on one of Sally’s sparkling cocktails, you’ll be wrapped in warm Hunter hospitality from the moment you arrive.

✨ Pro tip: Reservations are essential—this is a beloved institution!
🍽️ 2-course menu $100pp | 3-course menu $130pp
📍 Mount View Road, Mount View


Photo credit Bistro Molines Mt View

🧀 The Valley’s Best Grazing Platters: Laguna Village Providore

Only five minutes from Little Valley Farm, Laguna Village Providore is a must for those who’d rather unwind by the fire than cook. Located next to the Laguna Trading Post, this charming local store curates the most beautiful grazing platters, showcasing seasonal produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and sweet treats.

Pre-order a platter for two or four and time your pick-up to coincide with your check-in. It’s the perfect way to start your off-grid retreat—no fuss, all flavour.

🕰️ Open 7 days, 10 am–4 pm
📦 Pre-order is essential for the best selection

Wine Tasting in the Heart of Wollombi Village

No trip to the valley is complete without a local wine tasting—or two. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just here for the scenery and a swirl, Wollombi has two cellar doors we adore:

Noyce Brothers Wine, located right in the heart of historic Wollombi village, offers an intimate cellar door experience. Taste your way through their elegant range of reds, whites, and moscato —crafted with care and a focus on preserving the character of the fruit. Open Thursday to Monday, it’s the perfect stop after browsing the village boutiques or visiting the local museum. Don’t miss their Shiraz or Tempranillo blends!

Noyce wine photographed in the summerhouse by Jade @heartandthesea

🕰️ Open Thurs–Mon
📍 Wollombi Village
🌐 noycebros.com.au

Just a few minutes down the road, nestled along the tranquil bends of Cedar Creek, you’ll find Stonehurst Wines—a boutique vineyard framed by sandstone cliffs and rows of century-old poplar trees. Their organically grown wines are handcrafted and reflect the wild beauty of this part of the valley. It’s a wine tasting experience you’ll want to linger over.

🕰️ Open daily
📍 1840 Wollombi Road, Cedar Creek
🌐 stonehurst.com.au

Stonehurts Cedar Creek photo by DuliliCo

Whether you’re booking a romantic weekend, a cosy friend getaway, or booked into one of our workshops, autumn in the Lower Hunter Valley is the perfect time to explore, taste and slow down. From mountaintop meals, eating days and relaxing at night. We’re here for all of it.

Insider Indulgence
Craving the kind of Hunter Valley experience that only a local would know? When you book your stay at the summerhouse, you’ll receive Daniela’s handpicked guide to the region’s hidden gems—think elegant long lunches, boutique wineries, and scenic drives only the locals whisper about. Prefer a personal touch? Just drop me a note, and I’ll tailor recommendations to your perfect escape.

See you in the valley!
– Daniela, Little Valley Farm

Little Valley summerhouse photo by Jade @heartandthesea

Little Valley Farm to showcase La Sierra Alpaca Knitwear and Living  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESS RELEASE

Little Valley Farm to showcase La Sierra Alpaca Knitwear and Living  

Wollombi Valley, NSW – [9 April 2025] – From a shared love of alpacas and textiles, Little Valley Farm is proud to announce its bringing a curated selection of ethically made alpaca knitwear and living to its boutique farmstay and online store thanks to La Sierra. 

Alpaca: A Sustainable Luxury

Naturally lightweight, breathable, and long-lasting, alpaca fibre is one of the world’s most sustainable materials. Beyond its everyday benefits, it contributes to a healthier planet, offering a natural, biodegradable, and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fibres.

Why La Sierra?
Little Valley Farm has always made use of the fleece from their alpaca herd, but local production has often been slow and challenging. So when founders Euan and Daniela met Sophia, the creative force behind La Sierra, a brand that shares their values of ethical craftsmanship, sustainability, and slow living, the connection was instant.

La Sierra offers a direct link to Peruvian artisans, supporting community impact through education, fair wages, and improved living conditions. It’s more than just a brand—it’s a purpose-driven collaboration built on meaningful connections.

La Sierra was born from Sophia’s own journey to find something truly special: luxury with meaning. While travelling through South America, she discovered the unmatched softness of alpaca fibre and the remarkable artistry of Indigenous makers who have honed their craft over generations.

Inspired by timeless quality, sustainability, and a slower, more intentional lifestyle, Sophia set out to create beautiful, investment-worthy pieces that resonate deeply with those who wear them.

More than just knitwear, La Sierra represents conscious luxury—each piece tells a story, and you’ll feel that story every time you wrap yourself in it.

A New Level of Comfort at the Little Valley Summerhouse

From Autumn/Winter 2025, guests staying at the Little Valley summerhouse will be welcomed into a new level of warmth and luxury with the introduction of alpaca knitwear and living throughout the space.

To enhance the experience, the summerhouse now features a curated collection from La Sierra—including soft alpaca cushions, elegant bed throws, cosy beanies, and a one-of-a-kind handwoven Peruvian alpaca rug.

These natural, ethically sourced pieces bring an added layer of comfort and authenticity to the off-grid retreat, creating a tranquil haven where the beauty of alpacas can be felt in every fibre.

It’s alpaca luxury - redefined.


Shop Online & Become a VIP at Little Valley Farm

Guests and alpaca lovers can also shop fleece, yarn, and alpaca knitwear and living through the Little Valley Farm online store. 

Visitors can sign up as VIP members via the website for exclusive open-day invitations and special offers.

For more information, visit www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au or contact Daniela Riccio. dani@littlevalleyfarm.com.au 0407 224 150 

### ENDS ###

Photo credit Jade, Heart and the Sea photographer

Photo Euan Wilcox

Photo credit Jade of Heart and the sea lifestyle photographer

Photo La Sierra alpaca beanie and knitwear

summerhouse art

Art at the Little Valley Summerhouse: Celebrating Local Creatives

At Little Valley Farm, we have always embraced sustainability, craftsmanship, and the beauty of the natural world. Our summerhouse by the pond is not just a retreat into nature but also a space that reflects our passion for art and creativity. That’s why we proudly showcase works from the talented artists of the Roadside Gallery in Wollombi.

The Roadside Gallery, located in the historic village of Wollombi, has been a creative hub for many years. More than just a gallery, it is a collective of Artists and Makers, a place where visitors can meet the artists, learn about their process, and experience the stories behind each piece. Owner and founder Stephanie Vella curates an evolving collection of creative works highlighting our community's extraordinary talent.

Stephanie describes the gallery as “a curator’s dream to bring together such an incredible variety and evolving collection of creative works.” Each artisan brings something unique to the table, with a strong focus on 3D art—from sculpture to mixed media—allowing their materials to tell a story in new and imaginative ways.

A Selection of Local Art

When designing the summerhouse, we wanted to ensure that every detail reflected not only our connection to nature but also the rich creative culture of the Hunter Valley. With the expertise of Stephanie Vella, owner of Roadside Gallery, Euan carefully selected pieces that would complement the space and enhance the guest experience.

Featured Artist: Stuart Weir

One standout piece is Stuart Weir’s sandstone three pear sculpture, which sits proudly on the dining table. Stuart, a master stone mason and structural landscaper with over 30 years of experience, has an incredible ability to harness the natural characteristics of sandstone and repurposed steel, creating pieces that feel both organic and timeless.

Photo credit Milou Hofman

Guests will also find his handcrafted blooms near the Cheminees Philippe fireplace, adding warmth and artistic charm to the living space. Every piece within the summerhouse has been thoughtfully chosen to evoke a sense of harmony, blending seamlessly with the hand crafted house.

Photo Euan Wilcox

Featured Artist: Polina Karuso

Emerging artist Polina Karuso, living and working in Wollombi, Hunter Valley, has created a stunning four-part series titled Home Sweet Home, which welcomes guests at the entrance of the house. 

Polina’s work is deeply personal, often exploring themes of mindfulness and mental well-being. Her series “My Mind, My Body, and Me” is an introspective journey into the interconnected aspects of the importance of mindfulness, meditation, and self-care as essential tools for maintaining emotional balance.

Her work serves as an invitation to pause, reflect, and engage with the present moment. 

Photo Euan Wilcox

Hidden Art: a hidden message awaits

Take a seat in the lounge room and look towards the fireplace. If you look closely, you’ll notice something unusual—Morse code hidden in the bricks, carefully crafted by Euan.

Can you decipher the message?

Photo Euan Wilcox

Experience Art in Nature

We believe art should be experienced in an environment that inspires, and what better place than a secluded, off-grid retreat overlooking the alpaca and donkey paddocks? Whether you’re relaxing by the fireplace, enjoying a meal at the dining table, or simply taking in the peaceful surroundings, the carefully curated selection of artworks adds an extra layer of beauty to your stay.

Image Roadside Gallery Wollombi Village

If you find yourself inspired, we encourage you to visit the Roadside Gallery during your time in Wollombi. Meet the artists, explore the gallery’s diverse collection, and perhaps even take a piece of the Hunter Valley’s creative spirit home with you.

https://www.roadsidegallerywollombi.com/

2864 Wollombi Road, Wollombi NSW 2325

Parking is available onsite, or wander from the historic village.

MOBILE: 0423 376 804

Co-escape features Little Valley summerhouse

Little Valley Farm’s Summer House Featured on CO-escape

We’re thrilled to share that our Little Valley summerhouse is now showcased on CO-escape, a platform dedicated to Australia’s best architectural stays—perfect for those seeking a unique escape from work life. Handcrafted by Euan and designed for sustainable off-grid living, our summerhouse blends comfort with nature, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of Wollombi Valley. 

Check out our feature on CO-Scape and plan your next rural getaway!

Don’t forget to book directly and enjoy special rates and treats. 

Source: https://www.instagram.com/p/DF_KjRVTI0c/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Incidental Architecture Little Valley summerhouse

A huge thank you to Incidental Architecture for featuring our summerhouse! Their article beautifully highlights the design and sustainability behind our eco-retreat in Wollombi Valley.

See the full article on Incidental Architecture here.


It is a working Alpaca breeding farm with some accommodation for guests. This project involved the design of a linear two-bedroom guest pavilion looking North over the beautiful dam and paddocks, with the singular intention of connecting the inhabitants to nature. 

To this end, everything in the project is consciously about connection to, and preservation of, the environment. The environment is joyful, yet also harsh at times. Summers can be hot, winters can be cold. There is a lingering background risk of bushfire as with all naturally vegetated areas. 

The house is small (115m2), sits off the ground so water can flow under, yet low enough below the approach to appear inconspicuous and private. Entry is through a central breezeway with a floor that steps down to the North with view over the dam and a deck which hangs out over the edge. Cool air is drawn up off the water to help passively moderate the temperature. Eels, turtles and fish inhabit the dam. North orientation is an obvious, yet critical move. Large overhangs shade windows in summer and let winter sun into all rooms. Large eaves also protect the building and allow windows to be open in most weather. 

The house is entirely off grid for power, water and sewer. Electricity is generated on site. There is no AC. All rooms have ceiling fans, and there is a slow combustion wood stove in the living room. The house is divided into small zones that can each be heated individually. 

The house is largely a timber building.  A variety of hardwood species have been used according to availability and purpose. Doors and windows are all recycled blackbutt. Feature grade stringybark floors were salvaged from a builder’s auction. Cladding and linings are all in locally sourced White Mahogany. 

Notably, the building work and the joinery was all done on site by the owner, using only local trades where needed. 

One of the most profound questions that arose in the design process is that of what is ‘really necessary’. What things could be removed from the building that may paradoxically lead to greater joy and connection to the environment ? 

For information and accommodation visit https://www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au

Project Team: Matt Elkan, Sam Horspool, Owen Kelly, Lauren Maley 

Builder: Euan Wilcox (Owner Builder)  

Structural Engineer: Mike Jefferiss 

Landscape: Lindy Hulton Larson 

Photographs: Milou Hofman https://www.milouhofman.com

Little Valley Farm summerhouse, Wollombi Valley. Laguna.

Source: https://www.incidentalarchitecture.com.au/13471207-little-valley-alpaca-farm#0

Seasonal activities

For guests booking directly through our website (not third-party booking platforms such as RR or ABB), we offer the opportunity to enhance your stay with seasonal activities.

One of our highlights is the wood-fired Finnish dry sauna, perfect for two people at a time. For groups of up to four, you’re welcome to rotate, as the benches are designed for individual seating.

Please note:

  • Bookings must be made at least three days prior to your arrival to allow us time to prepare the timber.

  • This service is unavailable during the Summer months.

  • We will provide towels but please wear your swimmers for hygenic purpose.

The sauna is a short walk up the hill, providing a serene and private experience amidst nature. There is an additional charge for this also.

Wood-Fired Pizza Oven by the Alpaca Paddocks

Bring your own pizza ingredients, and we’ll have the oven ready for you to create and enjoy your very own picnic-style pizza experience. We provide pizza utensils, crockery, and cutlery, along with a table and chairs for your convenience.

Please note:

  • Bookings must be made at least three days prior to your arrival to allow us time to prepare the timber.

  • The pizza oven is for daytime use only—ideal for lunch or early afternoon. We discourage nighttime use to avoid disturbances to our livestock and due to limited lighting in the area.

  • This service is unavailable during the Summer months.

The pizza oven is just a short walk downhill, offering a scenic and peaceful spot to enjoy your meal surrounded by the beauty of the alpaca paddocks. There is an additional charge for this use.

Additional Firewood for the Fireplace

For our autumn and winter guests, additional firewood is available for purchase to ensure you have plenty for a cozy and relaxing stay. We’ll also provide enough firewood to get you started and enjoy your time by the fire.

Please note:

  • The Summer House is well-insulated, so the fireplace is intended for comfort and ambience when you’re sitting nearby.

  • Avoid building large, roaring fires, as they are both unnecessary and potentially dangerous. 

  • Never leave a fire unattended or leave the door open. 

Relax and let the gentle warmth of the fireplace enhance your stay in the tranquil surroundings of the summerhouse.

Grazing Platters

Elevate your experience with a delightful grazing platter designed for either two or four people. To enjoy this treat, simply add it to your booking when you reserve directly with us. Your platter will be freshly prepared and waiting in the fridge upon your arrival.

Please note: Platters contain meat, cheese, nuts, and fruit, and are not suitable for those with allergies or specific dietary requirements.

Booked via an External Website?

If you’ve booked through an external platform such as RR or ABB, you won’t see these activities being offered.

When you book directly through our LVF website, you’ll have access to the seasonal activities and their prices, allowing you to easily add them to your booking at the time of reservation.

Why You Should Always Book Your Accommodation Directly with the Host

Booking directly with a host offers several advantages, such as lower fees, personalised service, and stronger relationships compared to using platforms like Abb. Direct bookings provide more flexibility with pricing and payment options, allowing hosts to build repeat business across Australia. Additionally, booking directly helps keep funds within the country rather than sending them overseas to large corporations.