Things to Know About Little Valley Farm

Some information about Little Valley Farm alpaca farm in the Hunter Valley.

  • Little Valley Farm was established in 2012 by Euan and Daniela, who spent 15 years living and working overseas before relocating to the remote and historic Wollombi Valley in the Hunter region.

  • Initially, they focused on breeding white alpacas but have since transitioned to breeding coloured alpacas for natural yarn production. 

  • As alpacas are known for being aloof, Daniela works patiently to build trust with each alpaca, ensuring they are friendly and confident with people.

  • Euan and Daniela both work full-time at Little Valley Farm, which is an operational farm that generates 100% of its income through on-farm activities. These activities include alpaca workshops, training sessions, yarn production, educational workshops, and farm stays.

100% handspun alpaca yarn by Little Valley Farm alpacas

  • The harvested alpaca fleece is transformed into skeins, yarn, pillows, and bed throws for their Little Valley summerhouse and to purchase online. 

Alpaca throw handmade by In Her Quiet

  • They sell their alpaca yarn and fiber-milled yarn online, along with raw fleece, to crafters, spinners, and felters across Australia.

  • Alpaca education is central to their mission, and they have been conducting monthly workshops for new and potential alpaca owners since 2014. 

  • Little Valley Farm offers aftercare and mentoring services, as well as visiting farms to assist with alpaca husbandry and alpaca infrastructure. 

  • Daniela has a regular blog and YOUTUBE channel for all things related to alpacas.

  • Euan and Daniela have been featured in educational videos that raise awareness about preparing for fire and flood emergencies.

  • Daniela has appeared monthly on ABC 702AM radio with Simon Marnie, discussing and promoting agritourism across the Sydney basin from 2018 to 2024, encouraging people to visit and support local farmers.

  • They were nominated for the Best Unique Stay award with AirBNB for their glamping experience in a 1950s train carriage.

  • Euan and Daniela are renowned for their outstanding hospitality at the summerhouse and the vintage train carriage, making it a genuinely inviting destination.

  • Australian Mansion Air EMD artists filmed their "MORE" video inside the train in 2019, and Bec and Bridges photographed the launch their Wedding Edit at the farm also. 

  • The Little Valley summerhouse has been featured in CO_architectural publications in 2024.

  • The summerhouse is fully booked throughout the year due to its popularity and the many returning guests, as Euan and Daniela have been hosting visitors for over a decade with their other cabins.

  • The farm is set in its valley, surrounded by pristine native bushland, including ironbark, grey gum Sclerophyll forest.

  • The surrounding bushland is home to native wildlife, including a family of wallaroos, wombats, lyrebirds, and other species.

  • In collaboration with local authorities and RFS Hotspots, Little Valley Farm hosted a cool burn workshop during the cooler season to demonstrate the principles of mosaic cool burning.

  • Open to the public through monthly alpaca workshops and scheduled open days. 

  • The farm is available for booking small events with a maximum of 8 adults.

  • Little Valley Farm regularly offers subscriptions via its website for events, stays, new product launches, and farm updates.

Experience a serene new retreat on the ‘wild side’ of the Hunter Valley little valley 'summerhouse' 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

PRESS RELEASE

Experience a serene new retreat on the ‘wild side’ of the Hunter Valley little valley 'summerhouse' 

NSW Australia – New in 2025 – Nestled in the remote and historic Wollombi Valley, the wild side of the Hunter, Little Valley 'Summerhouse' was created for independent and adventurous travellers to experience a sophisticated stay immersed in nature's beauty. 

This new space shows the trend in sophisticated design for the short-stay market, embedded in nature and rooted in sustainability. 

An Architectural Gem 

Designed by architect Matt Elkan and crafted over two years by owner-builder Euan Wilcox, Little Valley 'Summerhouse' epitomises a modern, stylish home with strong connections to timber huts hand-milled in the area. The design is centred around the open breezeway with views of a sparkling pond where fish and wildlife thrive. 

“I have always wanted the challenge to make a beautiful building, and living out here has given me that chance. Over 2 years, I think we have crafted something quite special,” shares Euan Wilcox 

The open-plan living area flows seamlessly into indoor/outdoor dining spaces, creating an atmosphere perfect for enjoying meals with friends or a quiet evening with loved ones, all while surrounded by the captivating landscape of the 50-acre working alpaca farm. 

A Unique Retreat for Nature Lovers 

Little Valley 'Summerhouse,' is an immersion in the serene native bushland and manicured farm full of autumn colour. Guests can witness wildlife, including local wallaroos, friendly alpacas, and miniature donkeys. 

With floor-to-ceiling windows, the interior is bathed in natural light—offering warmth in winter and a respite from the heat of the summer months. The home operates entirely off-grid, reflecting a mindful approach to sustainability while providing all the comforts typically found in city living. 

A Celebration of Authentic Beauty 

Guests will experience what some might call luxury—featuring a sumptuous French cast-iron fireplace and 100% alpaca wool duvets—however the owners prefer to describe Little Valley 'Summerhouse' as a space that celebrates beauty, thoughtfulness, and serenity. 

About Wollombi Valley 

Over 170,000 acres of wild Hunter Valley bushland containing two beautiful tiny villages, 1 hour from Sydney’s outskirts & Newcastle suburbs. This remote and historic valley is surrounded by National Parks and State Forest. 

Be immersed in this beautiful remote area, the wild side of the Hunter Valley, with quality food and stays you’d expect without the mainstream crowds. 

Just one hour from Sydney's north and with an average of 1 resident for every 170 acres, Wollombi Valley is a haven for small farms and nature-based stays. 

_________________________________________________________________________________

For more details, please contact Daniela Riccio mb: 0407 224 150 or Euan Wilcox 0409 988 457 

www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au Back Story on the owners and farm: https://www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au/about Entire Image Library (web & hi-res): https://milouhofmanphotography.pixieset.com/littlevalleyfarmalpacafarm/ (credit photographer when using). Book direct or AirBnb: https://www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au/littlevalleysummerhouse 

Meet Oberon – The Sweetest Alpaca and the softest wool

Meet Oberon – The Sweetest Alpaca at Little Valley Farm!

Good morning from Little Valley Farm! Today, I’m introducing Oberon, our adorable white alpaca, who is as sweet as can be. Seeing her this morning reminded me that we’ve just finished processing her luxurious alpaca fleece, handspinning it into the softest 100% pure alpaca yarn. We now have plenty of white alpaca yarn balls for sale, perfect for knitting, crochet, or weaving your next cozy project!

Why Choose Alpaca Wool?

Our hand-spun alpaca yarn is:
✔ Soft and hypoallergenic – Ideal for sensitive skin
✔ Sustainable and eco-friendly – Ethically sourced from our farm
✔ Breathable and temperature-regulating – Keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer
✔ Water-resistant and durable – Long-lasting, high-quality fibre

If you love natural, sustainable fibres, why not wear a little piece of Oberon close to your heart? Shop our collection of Australian alpaca yarn now at Little Valley Farm!

🔗 Visit our Little Valley farm website to explore our range.

#LittleValleyFarm #AlpacaYarnForSale #SustainableWool #HandspunAlpaca #AustralianAlpacaFarm #EthicalYarn

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are you located? We are located in Wollombi Valley, near the quaint hamlet of Laguna. We are fortunate to be surrounded by national parks and state forests. There is only one café, bar, and restaurant here; the Trading Post Laguna and Wollombi Village is only ten minutes away. We are under 5 km from the Trading Post Laguna. This area feels remote and is very different from Pokolbin, which has extensive vineyards and is just a lovely 40-minute drive away. We embrace the wilderness, appreciate nature, and love it as it is.

Getting to Laguna

Little Valley Farm is in its own valley, just 90 minutes from Sydney and an hour from the Central Coast. However, if you're travelling on a Friday afternoon or during a long weekend, heavy traffic can extend the journey to over two hours, so please plan accordingly. Take the Tourist Drive 33 for a scenic drive.

[ Vehicle access ] The road to our farm is a dirt track with potholes surrounded by thick bushland. Although a short, steep section exists, any standard 2WD car can easily navigate it. Confident drivers have no issues. If you have modified your car or have a low sports car, then it's at your own risk. Sport cars and low-modified cars are not recommended. Drive 20 km to protect our wildlife, as wombats, roos, and lyrebirds live here.

Do you offer farmstay? Yes, we do, but only for adults. All guests must be over 18 years old. We are not set up for children or infants. For ‘summerhouse’ booking info, click here.

Things to do when in the valley? Check out my blog for top recommendations on where to eat, drink, shop, and experience the best of our region. From hidden gems to local favourites, you’ll find everything you need to plan a memorable visit!

[ No mobile ] Our valley has no mobile reception, and OPTUS service is random. To ensure you find us, you'll need the address and detailed instructions to avoid while on our neighbour’s property. I will email them to you, as our address is not published online. Please save this information for easy access during your journey.

[ Petrol ] If you're travelling from Sydney, the last petrol stop is Caltex Peats Ridge, Kulnura One Stop Jerry's Cafe, about 35 minutes from us. Keep in mind these places close early, so plan accordingly. Alternatively, you can refuel in Broke or Cessnock, approximately 40 minutes away. The Trading Post Laguna currently does not sell fuel.

[ Wildlife ] We love welcoming mindful guests to our farmstay—those who truly appreciate the beauty and rhythm of nature. At Little Valley Farm, every sound tells a story: the donkeys honking to greet the early morning, alpacas softly humming, roosters crowing, bees buzzing, and, if you’re lucky, the enchanting singing of the lyrebird up in the bushland. 

During summer, nature puts on an extra show—every seven years, the cicadas fill the air with their chorus. Our farm is alive with insects, critters, and all the tiny beings that make this land thrive.

You might be lucky enough to spot our resident wallaroo family—Mo, his mum, and his little sister—often found sleeping on our driveway late at night. Keep an eye out for the wombats that wander across the paddocks, snakes and goannas quietly going by, and our native rakali scuttling by. And if you’re truly fortunate, you may even glimpse the elusive and magical platypus in its natural habitat. Nature’s wonders are all around you here at Little Valley Farm.

We aim to embrace natural living and reduce the use of chemicals, honouring nature and her delicate balance. So, if you cherish these wonders as much as we do, you’ll feel right at home here. But if nature’s company isn’t for you, we may not be the best fit.  Staying here reminds us of our place in this world—we’re not alone but part of a much greater ecosystem that humbles us. 

What does working alpaca farm mean? We live on-site, and our farm is a bustling place where our livestock receives care every day of the week, morning and afternoon, rain, hail or shine I am out there tending to our animals.

Can we bring our dog or cat to your farm? Due to our strict farm biosecurity, pets are not allowed.

Are there snakes there? The most frequently asked question is whether there are snakes in the area. The answer is yes, as we aim to maintain a healthy ecosystem. Since it is their natural habitat, snakes can be seen throughout the year, and we ensure not to disturb them. However, it is essential to wear closed-toe shoes when outside.

Our Bio-Security Policy and COVID-19 safety measures are in place. All visits must have an appointment; day visits are not permitted.

Do you sell alpacas? As registered breeders, we certainly do and are also part of the Australian Alpaca Association. You will need a PIC (property identification code) to purchase alpacas from us. We like to meet you, show you our herd, and answer your questions about caring for alpacas. Read more on our alpacas for sale blog.

“Livestock inspections and visits are via appointment only.”
— Daniela

Do you run alpaca workshops? We run alpaca workshops regularly workshops.

Do you sell alpaca fleece? We certainly do. Please visit our online shop here. Most of our fleece is available after our annual Spring shearing day.

NOTE: If you have been to Indonesia, including Bali, after June 2022, please tell us BEFORE you visit. Foot & Mouth Disease is a serious threat to all of Australia’s livestock.

Our Bio-Security Policy

By booking your visit to Little Valley Farm, you understand that it is a working farm, with the attending inherent risks, and hereby release and discharge the farm, its owners, employees, volunteers or agents from any and all liability arising from an incident, accident, injury, theft, or damages that may be sustained to you or to any property belonging to you, while visiting.  You further agree that action will not be taken against its owners, and you acknowledge our bio-security policy and boundaries that are in place. Bio-security is covered upon check-in after your confirmed appointment on the farm.

*Closed shoes are essential on the farm, and gumboots are always preferred, especially after the rainy season. Flip-flops are not permitted on the paddocks. Bring boots after the flood as lots of rain the last 18 months if you want to get up close and personal with the alpacas. Otherwise indoor and outdoor shoes you will need.



Source: frequentlyaskedquestions

Alpaca birthing season

Hello, and welcome back to Little Valley Farm! I'm currently in the paddock with my pregnant alpacas. I've separated these girls from the other alpacas up on the hill to ensure they get enough feed and protein the next couple of months. I need to monitor their body condition and feed them daily. They have plenty of deep shade by the creek, access to lots of water troughs, and extra feed provided by me. The crias (baby alpacas) are expected to arrive in the next couple of weeks to months. The best times for birthing are autumn and spring in our region. Meanwhile, Honkey Hamlet, the donkey, is in a separate paddock with the female donkeys, patiently waiting for me to open the gate for him. Weaner Paisley is watching me from the laneway up the hill, and I can’t help but smile at her adorable heart-shaped nose. She’s absolutely precious! Don’t forget we’ll be hosting alpaca workshops in mid-January 2025. I hope you can join us! Jump on our website for dates and to book. Daniela

Our next workshop will be Sunday 12th January 2025 at 10:30am.

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.

Alpaca Dolce-Luna

Meet our little ray of sunshine, Alpaca Dolce-Luna! 🌙✨ Her name means "Sweet Moon" in Italian, and she’s every bit as magical as it sounds. This adorable cria is bringing all the joy and sweetness to our days—how could we not share her with you? 💖

Meet Dulce Luna, our sweet little cria! 🌙💕 This adorable female is a fancy Huacaya alpaca, and she’s already stealing hearts with her charm and her fleece. 🦙✨ We love watching the bond she shares with her friends and her mum. Speaking of bonds, we will begin the weaning process at around six months of age, depending on good weather conditions. We will discuss weaning in more detail at our alpaca workshops in the Hunter Valley. Isn't she jus the sweetest? #CriaLove #FancyHuacaya #LittleValleyFarm

Be the first. The 'summerhouse' is now on AirBnB

After 2 years of building we’re happy to say the ‘summerhouse’ is ready! Many past guests, visitors and workshop attendees have seen the building from afar - but we’d love to personally invite you to be one of our first guests. 

The ‘summerhouse’ at Little Valley Farm, the latest addition to our humble and well-loved farm in Laguna, Wollombi Valley. We are known for our award-nominated Red Train Carriage (2023 Best Unique Stays by Airbnb), and Alpaca Workshops, but this handcrafted gem—takes things to the next level. 

Why ‘summerhouse’?

*/ˈsʌmə haʊs/ noun.*  

1. A small roofed building offering shade, warmth, and rest.  

2. A cozy retreat nestled in a garden-like setting, perfect for relaxing.  

This small, architecturally designed two-bedroom house is the epitomises ‘comfortable sophistication’. Designed by architect Matt Elkan, and handcrafted by my talented husband, it was created to embrace the beautiful Hunter Valley weather across all seasons.  

Why we love it:

  • Dam-side Location: Situated by a sparkling body of water teeming with fish and wildlife, the house overlooks paddocks with alpacas, donkeys & wallaroos in the distance.
     

  • Comfort & Light: The North facing Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the interior with natural light in Winter, while thoughtful design ensures Summer protection through enormous over hand eaves. Your emersed in the landscape, yet have full control over your comfort.
      

  • Indoor-Outdoor Living: Open-plan interiors and breezeway dining space create the ultimate summer-time ambience to relax. With full kitchen and BBQ cooking facilities bring friends to sip local wine, and eat away on lazy days. 

Entirely off-grid, the ‘summerhouse’ is not just a retreat—it’s a mindful escape that harmonises modern comfort with sustainable living.   

Airbnb offers 20% off for the first 3 guests to book via Airbnb - we’d love you to be one of those people. The people we’ve meet and the visitors who have stayed are a key reason we love doing this. 

Link for dates and to book; airbnb.com.au/h/summerhouselvf

Daniela and Euan 

N.b. Soft launch sleeps two adults; the second bedroom will become available next month. 

Wood-Fired Pizza Oven

For Guests of the summerhouse, enjoy the day time wood-fired pizza oven by the alpaca paddocks.

Please schedule your pizza use date with Daniela at least two days before your arrival date.

Pizzas can only be booked for Spring, Autumn, or Winter, as summer temperatures are too high for this activity. Additionally, since the oven is a 40-meter walk away, pizza-making is only available during the day or early afternoon. Evening pizzas cannot be accommodated due to insufficient lighting.

BYO pizza base and ingredients.

Things to know

  • The wood-fired pizza oven best suits fresh pizza bases or Italian pre-made bases. Lebanese bread and skinny pizza are not great for the wood-fired oven as it's too hot.

  • Euan and I need time to sort the kindling and well-seasoned timber and ensure the right temperature. This process takes three hours to get the right temp for you. We will show you how to manage the fire and when to prepare and cook the pizzas.

  • Please note that rain or fire ban days will affect the use of the wood-fired oven. So check the weather options.

  • Wood, kindling, pizza pans, pizza paddles and utensils are provided.

  • BYO food toppings and pizza base.

  • We only use three years of well-seasoned timber in the wood-fired pizza oven.

  • We will give you a quick rundown on baking time, which can be from 2 to 6 minutes, so you don't burn your base.

  • Shopping is limited here as we are a remote village, so pick up your groceries BEFORE heading here or see what Laguna Village Providore can provide. However, it is best to call them as they can sell out of certain produce.

  • Fire safety is crucial, so we will provide an overview. We will demonstrate the process and allow you to manage the fire.

  • If you have booked the summerhouse via a platform, there will be an additional charge to use this, so check with Daniela

“Your first pizza is sacrificial, and your last is always the best.”
— Daniela

Little Valley farm is a couples-only farmstay for the adventurous and eco-conscious travellers.

Daniela has put together a list of things to do when staying at Little Valley Farm. BYO mountain bike, book in an art class or wine tasting. click here for your ultimate city escape!

Lieutenant the alpaca stud at Little Valley Farm

Kobler Lieutenant has been an outstanding stud male in our herd, significantly improving fibre quality, and density, and introducing striking colour variations. He’s easy to handle and well-trained to wear a head collar, making him a pleasure to work with. Although he prefers pen mating, his calm nature makes him suitable for short-term paddock mating.

His crias are exceptional, consistently inheriting finer micron counts, gentle temperaments, and superb fleece quality. Kobler Lieutenant has produced both solid and fancy colour combinations, making his offspring stand out.

We are offering him for sale as part of our breeding program's progression, as he is now too closely related to our females. A proud medium grey stud with deep brown hues, Kobler Lieutenant is not only easy to manage but has been an amazing asset to our herd.

Using the wood-fired Finnish dry Sauna

Experience the ultimate relaxation with our handcrafted sauna. A simple pleasure on an off-grid working farm. Built by Euan with care and creativity, it features beautifully repurposed cedar, blending sustainability with elegance. At its core is an authentic wood-fired stove imported from Finland, offering an unparalleled sauna experience.

Dani making the most of the sauna in winter

Sauna Rules

  • Do not use the sauna alone or without a person knowingly monitoring your time in the sauna

  • Pregnant women, elderly people suffering from heart disease, diabetes and high or low blood pressure should not use the sauna. 

  • Do not use the sauna under the influence of alcohol, hypnotics and/or tranquillisers.

  • Not to be used by children under 16 years of age

  • Long exposure to sauna temperature may result in nausea, dizziness and/or fainting. Observe reasonable time limits. 10-15 minutes is recommended in one session. Cool down with a cold shower or stand outside between sessions

  • Remove all jewellery.

  • Swim attire or towel must be worn while sitting on benches for hygiene reasons.

  • Do not sit on the benches wet. You must be fully dry each time you enter.

  • Do not pour excessive water over the hot stones.

  • Do not leave the Sauna door open. Get in and out quickly to retain heat

  • Do not jump on or overload cedar benches. A maximum of 1 person on each tier is recommended. Incorrect use may lead to bench failure.

  • Always shower before entering the sauna. Wash and fully towel dry before entering the Sauna.

  • All persons using the sauna do so at their own risk and sole responsibility.

  • Never (ever) leave the wood-fired sauna stove door open - not even to establish the fire. Red Cedar can be highly flammable.

  • Only burn what we have given you. (Do not burn any tissue or paper whatsoever).

What is a Finnish Dry Sauna?

A Finnish sauna is a sauna that harnesses the power of relatively dry heat. Unlike steam rooms, also known as wet saunas, moisture and steam play are not a major feature of a Finnish sauna. Humidity is typically kept around 5-20%, and the temperature is set around 60-80ºC.

This relatively low humidity sets the Finnish sauna apart from other baths and saunas which includes:

  • Tropical bath: temperatures average 50-75ºC with an ambient humidity of roughly 20-40%.

  • Biosauna: it has an average temperature of about 50-60 ºC and a humidity level of about 45-65%.

  • Russian sauna: temperatures range between 60-90ºC, with humidity levels around 60-70%.

  • Steam bath: temperatures reach 40-45ºC, with humidity at 100%.

How to have an awesome Finnish Sauna at LVF

As an off-grid farm our Sauna is powered by a traditional wood fired sauna stove. People pre-book the use of the sauna and the first fire is preset with timber. Simply light the newspaper and it should burn well for about 15 minutes or so. Do not overload the firebox too early with large timbers, you may smother the flames, let the fire get established. Alternatively don’t leave it too long before adding more timber, it will just burn out and you’ll have to start again. Start with the smaller timber and work up to larger, heavier, logs which have been left for you. It will take about 1 to 1 ½ hours to get the sauna upto about 60°.

Never leave the sauna wood fired stove door open! Air is sucked up through the grates into the firebox, this always enables plenty of air to establish the flames (this is different to the other wood fire stoves). The red cedar panelling can be highly flammable, please be careful.

Make sure the Sauna is at least 55° or 60° degrees. Once in the sauna you can apply One or Two ladles of clean water to the hot stones to help raise the temperature a little. The upper air vent, above the top bench, should be open. Ensure the door is always fully closed.

Before entering the sauna to start your first session, rinse off in our adjoining rain shower. Wash with soap and fully rinse off with water. These Finnish dry saunas are used for therapeutic, not hygienic, purposes. The inside of the sauna must be kept clean at all times. Towel dry before entering the sauna, this promotes sweating and the elimination of toxins.

Always use a towel that you can fold or wrap around you before sitting down. This serves a dual purpose. The benches are hot, and sitting directly on them can be uncomfortable and even burn the user without the towel. This also keeps the sauna clean for other users, since no one sits directly on the same surface if everyone uses a towel.

Users stay in the sauna for an average of 15 minutes. However, the time varies from person to person: some can only handle 5 to 10 minutes of the dry heat, others a little more. If you have excessive perspiration, feel uncomfortable or dizzy step outside and cool down for a while. The lower bench is cooler than the higher bench, so start there or move there if you are too hot.

Cool down after leaving the sauna. You can either stand outside for a while or our favourite option is to have a cold-cold, shower. It may be best to go slowly, starting with the feet and gradually moving upwards but in the end you can go full Wim Hof and shower directly under the very cold water from our rainwater tanks. This simulates the traditional Finnish habit of jumping in cold lakes between sauna sessions. 

Towel dry and then go back inside the sauna and repeat the entire process again for another two times. Your total session would be between 40-60mins including the sauna and the showers. 

We guarantee you will feel relaxed after your session. 

You can have Wine & Cheese like many do in the Hunter Valley or grab Sausage and Beer which is the traditional Finnish post-sauna relaxation. 

Rain shower with full bush views

Benefits of a Finnish sauna

Using the Finnish sauna in conjunction with the other elements of your stay should help you deeply relax. The sauna itself is a great tool that has these important benefits for your physical and mental health.

  • Detoxification: A key benefit is the ability for a Finnish to help eliminate toxins, something the body does naturally when it sweats. The high temperatures of the Finnish sauna trigger a deep sweat, which eliminates a large amount of toxins to help purify the body

  • Skin care: High temps and sweating do more than just detoxify: they also help remove dead skin cells. This also helps with cellular renewal and skin care.

  • Improved immune function: By accelerating the body’s detoxification processes, a dry sauna helps boost several of the body’s systems, including the immune system.

  • Improved breathing: The high temperatures inside a Finnish sauna help to reduce congestion. The dry air opens the airways for easier clearing of any congestion in the respiratory tract. The use of cold showers helps intensify this benefit.

  • Muscle relaxation: The high temperatures inside the sauna combined with the cold-water baths afterwards help to relax muscles. This is true for anyone who uses a sauna, but it is particularly useful after a workout or training session.

  • Prevent fluid retention: Sweating does more than just eliminate toxins: it also helps the body get rid of excess liquid. This helps the body run more efficiently and can aid in weight loss.

  • Reduces stress: Last but not least, another benefit of Finnish saunas that shouldn’t be overlooked is that they help to significantly reduce stress. The combined effects of both the detoxification and muscle relaxation as well as the dry sauna ritual itself help users de-stress.

Our Sauna featured Australian Traveller magazine.

Please ensure you note our check-in times so we can meet you and cover the health and safety of all wood-fired facilities. You will not be able to light them until we cover our H&S upon check-in with you. If you are late for check-in then you will have to wait until the next day to meet up and show you. Your safety and ours is a priority.

Crias and those little Autumn jackets

What Does Cria Mean?

"cria" originates from the Spanish cría, meaning "offpring/baby." In the world of alpacas, a cria refers to a newborn alpaca. These adorable little creatures require special attention, particularly when it comes to keeping warm.

Cria sometimes wears dog coats to help regulate their body temperature, particularly in colder weather. Unlike adult alpacas, crias don’t yet have a fully developed fleece, making them more vulnerable to cold, damp conditions and temperature fluctuations.

First and foremost, we provide safe, sheltered spaces to protect the mother and her cria from wind, rain, and cold. Inside the shelter, we create a cozy environment with a straw-covered floor, a generous supply of high-quality lucerne hay for the dam, and oaten chaff for extra nourishment. We place a small battery-operated light outside the shed to ensure the cria can see its mother and continue to nurse through the night.

To keep the cria warm, we use dog jackets in various sizes, tailored to fit snugly. These jackets help maintain the cria's body temperature, and we make sure they don’t interfere with the important bonding process between mother and baby. The jackets are typically removed in the morning and put back on later in the afternoon, depending on the weather, for the next few days. This extra care helps the cria thrive in those crucial early stages of life.

Tip: Dogs' coats are not waterproof, so ensure they stay dry and undercover in a good size pen. If it's raining and you have difficulty keeping the cria undercover, grab some bubble wrap as a last resort and wrap it around the cria middle section.  

We ensure that the tail and top of the cria’s head are left uncovered so the mother can smell her baby. This is important for bonding, as alpaca mothers use scent to recognise and nurture their cria.

We are located in the Hunter Valley, New South Wales. Autumn is the best time for cria births, while winter can be quite cold. Summers can either be wet or uncomfortably hot. To prepare for this, we always ensure that our maternity pens are ready. You may not need jackets if you are in a humid or warm location but we always recommend that you have pens and shelters available for the alpacas.

More about this will be discussed at our next alpaca workshop in the Hunter Valley.

Learn all about alpacas with us at Little Valley Farm

Well that was certainly a sweet moment, watching these two adorable cria’s.

Welcome to our alpaca farm in Australia!

We're so excited to share with you the beauty and joy of raising alpacas. In this video, we'll take a closer look at two crias (baby alpacas) interacting on the farm. We'll also talk more about cria care at our upcoming alpaca workshop in the Hunter Valley.

Why choose our alpaca workshop?

  • We're passionate about alpacas and committed to providing people with the best possible education.

  • Our workshops are taught by experienced alpaca farmers and breeders.

  • We offer a variety of workshops to suit all levels of experience.

  • Our workshops are held in a beautiful location in the Hunter Valley.

We hope you'll join us at our next alpaca workshop!

In the meantime, please feel free to browse our website to learn more about our farm and our workshops. We look forward to seeing you soon! Daniela

Alpacas hearing dog barking

We’re currently by the creek paddocks with the alpacas, and we’ve just heard a dog barking. This video captures the alpacas on alert, all looking in the direction of the barking. They stay close together, attentive, waiting to see what will happen next.

You can observe how erect their ears are and the intensity etched on their faces. Once the threat passes—since the dog isn't going to cross the creek—they relax, and you can notice a change in their demeanour.

We don’t have dogs, nor do we allow dogs on our property, as part of our strict bio-security policy. It’s great to see that the potential threat is gone, and they are already back to relaxing.

If you have dogs and alpacas, you can introduce them slowly, and hopefully, they will become great companions. Many of our clients have successfully facilitated this friendship.

We have also addressed the relationship between dogs and alpacas, including the issues posed by wild and roaming domestic dogs, on our blog and in our videos.

Yes, you can keep your (trained) pet dogs with the alpacas or separate them using appropriate fencing and paddocks. However, I’m always concerned about dog attacks on livestock in our valley, especially in the Hunter Valley. These attacks can involve goats, sheep, and other alpacas, primarily due to wild dogs or stray domestic dogs. This is a significant issue for me, and I would like to stress that a pack of dogs is no match for alpacas, and the alpacas will be severely injured or, worse, killed. I am the alpacas guard. More about this at our alpaca workshops in the Hunter Valley.

Along the Harvest Trails and Markets on the ABC Radio

Hello everyone! I had the pleasure of chatting with Simon once again during my monthly segment on harvests and farmer’s markets. Here’s a SREENSHOT of our conversation from this morning, so you can explore the wonderful farmers markets, pick-your-own events, and farm visits happening throughout the Sydney Basin. Enjoy!

Markets 
Northside Product Markets North Sydney 

Saturday 2nd November 2024

8 am to 12 noon 

Peaches - Australian Anzac Peaches 

For fans of the Australian Anzac peach, farmer Yuri will have them at his Produce From Orange stall. 

Released in 1915 and named in honour of the Anzacs, this early-season, old-style freestone peach is white-fleshed, juicy, sweet, and aromatic. The skin has a deep pink blush over a cream background.

Sounds like peach perfection!

Also, look out for the new season.

Garlic - Spring garlic, also called green garlic 

Spring garlic is grown without chemicals and sprays. Grown in Braidwood and the surrounds thanks to their frosty winter mornings and hot summer days, brings out the best in garlic flavours.


Carriageworks Farmers Market 

Saturday 2nd November 2024

8 am to 1 pm 

60+ stallholders are ready and rearing to go with wonderful Aussie-grown spring fruit and veg from across the state and brunch options to get your weekend off the perfect start. Check out the full list of stallholders: https://carriageworks.click/stallholders

Camden Fresh Produce Market

Open Every Saturday 7 am - 12 Noon 

Camden Town Farm 4o Exeter Street Camden

https://www.camdenproducemarket.com.au/

https://www.facebook.com/camdenfreshproducemarketarket

Central Coast

Mangrove Mountain Farmers and Artisans Market  

Sunday, 3rd November 2024, is run the first Sunday of every month. 

9 am to 2 pm

Local fresh produce from the Central Coast surrounds. 

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555652790681

Gosford City Farmers Market

is on Sunday 7 am to 1 pm 

The Night Market scheduled for last night has been rescheduled to Friday, 6th December 2024, at the Newcastle Showground.

https://www.facebook.com/gosfordcityfarmersmarket

Organic Food Markets

Hosted right across Sydney - Organic Food Markets that are held on Saturdays or Sundays. 

From the Innerwest to the Northern Beaches. 


When you buy your weekly fresh food at the markets, you can buy just as much, or as little, as you need…which means you always get fresh produce and there's no food (or money) wasted!


Leichardt, Saturay, 8 am to 1 pm. 

Marrickville, Sunday, 9 am to 3 pm. 

Seaforth Sunday 8 am 1 pm. 

Mona Vale Sunday 8:30 am to 3 pm. 

https://www.organicfoodmarkets.com.au/

November is Urban Agricultural Month. 

A celebration of urban agriculture across Australia. 

Happening right now across backyards, community gardens, laneways, schools and markets across Australia’s towns & cities – connect with the people and places that nourish your community.

A great way to connect with local people to share, learn and celebrate through food.

Head over to the event map to find the urban farm, workshop or experience for you

https://urbanagriculturemonth.org.au

PYO EVENTS

TNT Produce Pick Your Own

Sweet and juicy Cherry Season has begun! 

Keep an eye on their website for cherry updates as its early in the season with limited PYO. 

Entry to farm $20 per person you can eat while you pick!

Children 3 to 12 years $15

Children under 3 free

Cherries $25 kilo 

Strawberries $20 kilo 

153 Kurts Road Bilpin

https://tntproduce.com.au/

Bilpin Fruit Bowl 

There are lots to pick from this weekend

Strawberries, yellow flesh peaches, apricots and white mulberries.

PYO Open 

Saturday 2nd November from 10 am-2 pm and

Sunday 3rd November from 10 am-2 pm

Plus, they have the biggest PYO strawberry farm in Sydney.  We have over 2 acres and over 70,00 strawberry plants grown above ground in 2 separate hothouses.  

Available for picking this weekend:

Strawberries $20.00/kg

Apricots $12/kg

Peaches $6/kg

Mulberries $30/kg

Bookings are not necessary; you can just turn up and get in.  If you want to book: 

https://bilpinfruitbowl.com.au/pro.../pick-your-own-booking/

Eat all you want while in the farm

Entry fee: Adults $20.00 per person

Children $10.00 per person

Glenbernie Family Farm 

PYO Sunflowers 

Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd November 2024 

No Bookings Required!

Glenbernie Family Farms, 610 Bells Line Of Road, Kurmond

 Entrance Fee:

- Adults: $10

- Children (4-12): $5

- Kids 3 and under: FREE

Flower Prices:

- Sunflowers & PYO Flowers: $6 each

- Iceland Poppy: $3 a stem

Snapdragon: $6

https://glenberniefamilyfarms.com.au/

Photo credit ABC Weekend Mornings

A huge shoutout to Simon Marnie from ABC 702 AM radio! Don’t miss out—download the app now to catch all the exciting moments from the show.

Where do alpacas sleep? Answers from an alpaca farmer

Good Morning from Little Valley Farm! 🌅 It’s Daniela here, and today I’m answering a question I get asked all the time: Where do your alpacas like to sleep? 🦙💤

Well, our alpacas have their preferences! Their top two choices are grass and dirt. They absolutely love to roll in the dirt or lie down on a soft dirt patch. Our alpaca shelters have dirt floors, which makes them super cozy when they head inside for a rest. 🌾 If you take a look at the video, you’ll often see them lounging around on the grass enjoying a peaceful nap or enjoying a dirt patch in the sun. 

If there isn’t a dirt patch available in the paddock, don’t worry—they’ll create one themselves by rolling around until they’ve got the perfect spot. On hot days, you might notice them laying on the dirt to cool off, but they definitely won’t sleep on a bed or anything fancy like that. 😉

During the colder, rainy winter months, we make sure to spread hay or straw on the shed floors to keep them extra comfortable. 🐾 However, our shelters are already pretty cozy, so it’s not much of a problem. They don’t care for concrete floors because they can be quite chilly, but a layer of straw does the trick to keep them warm and happy.

So, whether it’s dirt, grass, or a comfy spot in their shed, our alpacas always find a way to rest in style here at Little Valley Farm! More about this will be discussed at our alpaca workshops in the Hunter Valley. 

Our alpaca workshops are held monthly in the Hunter Valley, just 90 minutes from Sydney and one hour from the Central Coast. Visit our website at littlevalleyfarm.com.au to check the available dates and book your spot online. We also offer a wonderful alpaca manual that you can purchase online or buy during your visit to our farm for the workshop.

We look forward to seeing you at Little Valley Farm to share our passion for alpacas!

Alpaca Etiquette Tips from Little Valley Farm | Hunter Valley Alpaca Farm

Good Morning from Little Valley Farm! ☀️ It’s Daniela here, and today I’m sharing some helpful tips on how to get to know our alpacas, along with a few etiquette guidelines to make sure you and our alpacas have a wonderful experience together.

Alpaca Etiquette: The Do's

- Approach Slowly and Gently: Our alpacas don’t know you yet, so it’s important to move calmly. They’ll appreciate your gentle energy.

- Speak Softly: A calm, soothing voice goes a long way in helping alpacas feel comfortable around you.

- Use Flat Hands: When touching an alpaca, always keep your hand flat and gently pat with the back of your hand. Grabbing their fibre might make them feel threatened, as it mimics a predator’s grip.

- Pat in the Right Spots: Stick to safe areas like their back, shoulders, and the sides of their neck. These are the places they enjoy being touched.

- Ask About Their Personality: Every alpaca has its own quirks and preferences. Ask the owner what each alpaca likes or dislikes so you can bond more easily.

Alpaca Etiquette: The Don’ts

- Don’t Feed Without Asking: Always check with the owner before offering any treats. Their diet is carefully managed.

- Avoid Sensitive Areas: Alpacas don’t like being touched on their head, hindquarters, tail, or toes, so it’s best to avoid these spots.

- No Grabbing or Hugging: While tempting, alpacas may feel frightened or confined by hugs. Remember, they’re still getting to know you!

- Don’t Stand Behind Them: Alpacas can kick if startled, like many animals. For your safety, always stay where they can see you.

- Avoid Sudden Movements: Alpacas are sensitive to quick motions. A calm and steady presence will help them feel secure.

Enjoy your time with alpacas! Watching them roam the paddocks is such a peaceful experience, and don’t forget to snap some photos—you might just fall in love with them like I have. 🦙💚

Join us for our next alpaca worship in the Hunter Valley.

Little Valley Farm located in Laguna only 90 minutes from Sydney and one hour from the Central Coast.

Alpaca as guards animals

Meet Vinkie: Little Valley Farm’s Top Alpaca Alarm caller.

At Little Valley Farm, we take the safety of our herd seriously, and Vinkie, one of our trusted alpacas, leads the charge as our top alarm caller but not a guard. Why an alarm caller and not a guard? What is the difference?

Vinkie can sense when something is not right, hiding out in the bush, whether a dog, fox, snake, eagle, wombat or even a tiny echidna passing through the paddocks. Her sharp instincts are followed by the distinctive alpaca alarm call, and the herd knows to gather and stay safe. It's also an alert for us to get out on the paddock and double-check that everything is as it should be. At the end of the day, we are their guards! 

Not all alpacas make great guards, but some are great at alerting and making that particular alpaca alarm sound. I do not like alpacas being guards to sheep, especially if wild dogs are in the area. Dog and wild dogs severely injure or, even worse, kill the alpacas, as dogs are no match for alpacas. 

Other livestock make better guards than alpacas depending on what you are guarding, the size of the land and the number of animals you have. You must also make the judgment call: do you want the alpacas as pets or guards? Entire male alpacas do not make good guards, and they must be castrated at the appropriate age to avoid injury to small livestock such as goats and sheep. 

The best protection for your livestock is secure pens, excellent fencing and people nearby. This is my opinion, and other breeders may say something else. Wether alpacas (castrated males) may be helpful around your chickens from foxes, but it's just their sheer presence that may deter the fox or eagle. I have never seen an alpaca kill a fox here, and we have plenty of foxes; they keep an eye on each other by smartly avoiding one another.

What about your pet dog? 

To maintain the safety of our herd, Little Valley Farm has a strict biosecurity policy—no dogs allowed on the property. For those considering adding alpacas to a home where pet dogs are present, we’ll cover the best strategies for introducing your dogs to alpacas safely and in a controlled manner. Around 90% of our clients have successfully integrated their dogs and alpacas, whether by supervised interaction or by separating them with appropriate fencing. The other 10% are like us and don’t have dogs. 

We will also discuss the correct fencing and pens to set up on your farm for extra protection.

We hope this helps! If you have any questions, please email us. Join us for our next alpaca workshop in the Hunter Valley, where we will explore this topic further.

“While alpacas are great at deterring smaller predators, wild dogs/domestic dogs pose a much bigger threat. Sadly, alpacas are not a match for wild dogs, and encounters can lead to serious injuries or even death.”
— Daniela

Alpaca workshops are run monthly in the Hunter Valley and you can book in your dates for 2024 and 2025 via our Little Valley Farm website.


Eels in the wild

I know it's not alpaca-related but it is part of living in the bush, and the video is too good not to share.

Just another day at the Summer House! 

Euan and I were enjoying a peaceful moment on the deck when we spotted this magnificent creature gliding through the dam—an enormous, so relaxed and graceful eel. Watching it casually feed on the grasses beneath the water’s surface was mesmerising, moving so effortlessly. 🐍

Nature always surprises us, and this was one of those magical moments we love about living here in Wollombi Valley. We feel so lucky to share these special encounters with the wildlife that calls our farm home. 💚🌿

He is at least one metre long and not the only eel in the dam right now. This one is an Australian Long Fin Eel.

My curious mind had me googling Eels, so here are five interesting facts about Australian eels: 

1. Migration Journey: Australian longfin eels (Anguilla reinhardtii) are famous for their incredible migration. They travel thousands of kilometres from freshwater rivers and lakes to warm tropical waters to spawn.

2. Lifespan: These eels have a long lifespan, often living up to 50 years. Some eels may stay in freshwater environments for decades before migrating to the ocean to reproduce.

3. Feeding Habits: Longfin eels are opportunistic carnivores, feeding on a variety of prey including fish, insects, crustaceans, and even small mammals or birds that come too close to the water.

4. Habitat: They are found along the east coast of Australia, particularly in rivers, lakes, and streams from Queensland to Tasmania. They can tolerate a range of habitats, from freshwater to estuaries.

5. Cultural Significance: Longfin eels hold significant cultural importance for Indigenous Australian communities, particularly as a food source and in stories related to their migration and life cycle. 

These eels are fascinating creatures due to their long life cycle, adaptability, and epic migrations, now I need to see if we have any more Silver Perch fish left in our dam. 


#littlevalleyfarm #SummerHouseMoments #wollombivalley #NatureMagic #EelSighting #FarmLife #OffGridCabin #WildlifeEncounters #PeacefulLiving #slowliving #slowtravel