Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I book Wildwood Lodge?
You can book directly through our website for the best available rate, or through Airbnb and Booking.com.
Is there a minimum stay?
Yes — we have a 2 night minimum stay as standard. A 3 night minimum applies on long weekends and a 4-5 night minimum applies over the Christmas and New Year period.
Is there an additional fee for more guests?
Yes — our base rate covers 2 guests. An additional fee per guest per night applies for stays of more than 2 guests. Full pricing is shown at checkout when you enter your guest numbers.
What is the cancellation policy?
For direct and Airbnb bookings, a moderate cancellation policy applies — full refund if cancelled at least 7 days before check-in. For Booking.com bookings, full refund if cancelled at least 14 days before check-in.
Do you offer a discount for returning guests?
Yes — if you've stayed with us before, get in touch directly at hello@thewildsretreat.com for our returning guest rate.
Are there different rates for peak periods?
Yes — rates vary for school holidays, long weekends, Easter and the Christmas/New Year period. Full pricing is always shown at checkout before you confirm your booking.
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How many guests does Wildwood Lodge sleep?
Wildwood Lodge sleeps up to 8 guests across three bedrooms — a master queen bedroom with private ensuite, a second queen bedroom, and a bunk suite with a double below, single above and pull-out single sofa bed.
Is the lodge self-contained?
Yes — Wildwood Lodge is entirely self-contained with a fully equipped kitchen, laundry, all bed linen, bath and spa towels supplied.
How does the bedroom allocation work?
To minimise linen use, water consumption and energy, bedrooms are secured until needed. The number of rooms opened is based on your confirmed guest numbers. Should your group size change, additional rooms are accessible via a secure lockbox with the applicable per-guest fee applied. Please ensure your guest numbers are accurate at booking.
Is there WiFi?
Yes — high-speed NBN WiFi is available throughout the lodge.
Are pets allowed?
No — to protect the local wildlife and conservation land, pets are not permitted at Wildwood Lodge.
Is smoking allowed?
No — smoking is not permitted anywhere on the property.
Is the lodge suitable for children?
Wildwood Lodge is well suited to families, but we do recommend that parents supervise small children closely. The yard is unfenced to allow wildlife to roam freely around the property, and there is a steep drop about 30m away from the deck. Inside, the bunk suite is ideal for children and outside the resort has a playground, lagoon, kayaking and plenty of open space for kids to explore.
Is there air conditioning?
Yes — the lodge has ducted air conditioning throughout as well as ceiling fans and a wood burning fireplace for cooler evenings.
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What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in is from 3:00pm and check-out is by 10:00am.
How do I access the lodge?
Wildwood Lodge has self check-in via a keypad smart lock. Your unique access code will be sent to you prior to arrival along with full check-in instructions.
Is early check-in or late check-out available?
Early check-in and late check-out may be available on request, subject to availability. Please enquire when booking.
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What wildlife can we expect to see?
Wildwood Lodge is surrounded by conservation land that has never been developed. Kangaroos and wallabies graze on the lawn at dusk, echidnas forage through the grass, goannas over three metres long move through the bush, and wedge-tailed eagles, kookaburras and a remarkable variety of native birdlife are regular visitors. Wildlife sightings are an everyday occurrence — not a highlight.
Can we use the fire pit year round?
No — the fire pit is not permitted during NSW bushfire season (1 October to 31 March) or when a fire ban is in place. Always check current NSW Rural Fire Service conditions before lighting any fire. Guests are responsible for any fire damage.
Can you arrange wine tours?
Yes — we can arrange private wine tours with direct pickup from Wildwood Lodge on request. Just let us know when you book.
What resort facilities are included?
As guests of Wildwood Lodge you have full access to all shared resort facilities including the saltwater swimming pool, championship tennis court, games room with pool table and table tennis, children's playground, freshwater lagoon with kayaking and fishing, 30km of bush walking and mountain bike trails, rainforest walks, outdoor gym and shared BBQ and picnic facilities.
Is stargazing good at Wildwood?
Exceptional. Away from city light pollution, the night sky at Wildwood is extraordinary.
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Where is the nearest supermarket?
Paterson township is approximately 20 minutes from the lodge and has a well-stocked supermarket. The village of Vacy is just minutes away with a café and pub for casual meals.
Is parking available?
Yes — on-site parking is available directly at the lodge for multiple vehicles.
How far is Wildwood Lodge from Sydney?
Approximately 2.5 hours north of Sydney via the M1 motorway. Newcastle is approximately 45 minutes away.
Are there security cameras on the property?
For the security of the property and the safety of our guests, exterior cameras are installed at the driveway, entry and side of the house. Cameras face arrival areas only — there are no cameras inside the lodge or facing any indoor or outdoor living spaces.
What should I know about the road to the lodge?
Moonabung Road is steep, winding and narrow in sections. Please drive slowly and carefully and be prepared to encounter oncoming traffic. Once inside the resort, kangaroos and wallabies roam freely and are often on or near the road — particularly at dawn and dusk. Take your time.
Still have a question? Get in touch at hello@thewildsretreat.com — we'd love to hear from you.