A new accommodation option has recently launched just outside Bathurst to attract city slickers [singles and couples] looking for an intimate 'farm stay' getaway.
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Wilga Station opened for business in November last year, and the luxury rural retreat has already seen a wave of visitors looking to experience what the Central West has to offer.
"We initially forecasted a 40 per cent occupancy rate for the first few months being a new offering in the region, but we're already seeing a 100 per cent occupancy rate," Wilga Station owner Hamish Keith said.
"Most of our visitors are from Sydney and Canberra, however 30 per cent of our bookings to date have been local guests, which was unexpected and most likely due to COVID."
Wilga Station launched with the one-bedroom offering 'The Farmers Hut', an off-grid, intimate cabin with bedroom, bathroom, BBQ and kitchenette facilities, as well as a glass alcove to view the scenic Evans Plains landscape.
Mr Keith said the hut was constructed using repurposed material from the surrounding farm, which has been in his family for three generations.
"The hardwood is around 60 to 70 years old and used to be part of the sheep yards, and the curved, grass roof was designed to enhance the beauty of the rolling hills nearby," he said.
"We have another offering in the works making use of the old shearers hall, a five-bedroom offering which we envision will be ideal for entertainment and events, as well as a way to tell the story of our family."
The venue also focuses on the promotion of regional produce, stocking food and wine from Bathurst, Orange and Mudgee-based producers.
Coming out of COVID-19, Mr Keith said there's real potential for farm stays to grow as a high-demand tourist offering.
"I see this as a secondary business venture for many farms as more visitors start to look for a quality regional getaway," he said.
The venue is situated on the Mid-Western Highway. For more information, visit wilgastation.com.au.
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