It was a very auspicious moment when I discovered that the ‘River House’ an eco-friendly retreat at Ninderry Cove, was opening their doors to the public right in time for me to review it for our green bliss edition! In fact the more I heard about this funky retreat house with absolute river frontage, the more I fell in love with it! No phones...tick.... no TV..... tick.... and no deadlines ......double tick! In fact, hosts Mike Middleton and Vivienne Coleman explained that they didn’t have standard check in and check out times, so I could arrive and leave at my leisure. Wow! That beats 9am check out times! What’s more, this retreat is not way out in the sticks, it’s just a hop, skip and a jump from Yandina or Maroochydore.

The Riverhouse is the only farm stay accommodation on the Sunshine Coast located right on the water’s edge. This makes it the ideal spot for the angler with plenty of plate sized Bream and Mangrove Jack, so bring along your tinnie! There is also a launch site for kayaks and canoes and with summer just around the corner, it’s ideal for refreshing swims anytime of the day.

The boat house styled retreat is off the grid and the ultimate in sustainability, utilising solar power, gas and rain water. The separate Oriental styled bath house has a plunge bath for your submerging pleasure and added to the Zen qualities of the house. Even the composting toilet was stylish and free from odours and there were plenty of organic and green personal care and cleaning products to be found.

I also give the River House my triple tick of approval, as it is eco, pet and people friendly. Mike and Vivienne’s passion for connecting with people and caring for the environment was palpable. I was very quickly made to feel like one of the family yet I was left in peace with absolute privacy, surrounded by 18 acres of farmland. I was even able to bring my cheeky Border Collie who was far more adventurous than me, taking several swims in the river but thankfully refraining from rounding up the jumping fish.

A highlight for me was the sublime Yacht cruise on the Maroochy river at dusk on board Mike’s pride and joy, ‘Maid of Paynt’. Our guide’s comprehensive knowledge of the river, its history and ecology was mesmerising as the river and sky seemed to tell a story of their own. Mike mentioned that 120 species of bird life, some of which are found nowhere else in the world, frequent the river banks. Mike’s Hartley yacht effortlessly and quietly glided through the River. I felt peaceful and one with the land and it was indeed the most memorable nautical adventure I have ever experienced.

The next day, I woke to the sound of fish jumping as I looked out over the glistening river. At the same time, I noticed the streams of light coming through the windows and bouncing off the octagonally shaped ceiling, creating an almost ethereal ambience. I decided that this was the perfect time to cook myself a gourmet, organic breakfast with condiments picked from the lovingly nurtured organic herb garden at the doorstep. I enjoyed a fine feast, al fresco and in total seclusion which allowed me to take in more of the lush scenery. Then I meandered down the path to the tropical Ninderry Nursery and quirky Cafe’ Botanica Organica (which are also owned and operated by Mike and Vivienne) for a chai tea and chat. Although it wasn’t long before the river called me back to take a few more last minute glimpses.

Then it was time to go....it was pretty hard to peel myself off the tree slung hammock and think about returning to the world again to face my impending November deadline, after such a rejuvenating experience. Although, I’ve decided that I will return very soon, perhaps to start writing a book or just to sit in silent reverie at the best kept secret on the Sunshine Coast.
For more information visit their website - www.maroochyriver.net or call 07 5446 60835

The Riverhouse is the perfect romantic getaway, honeymoon destination or place of inspiration for artists and writers. You can even hone your creative skills with a one on one session with acclaimed artist Blair McNamara who is available to teach on site.