Summer at The Place is everything a lake holiday should be. Nestled amongst palm trees and tropical gardens on the shores of beautiful Lake Macquarie — the largest saltwater lake in the Southern Hemisphere — this is the kind of property where the days are long, the water is warm, and nobody wants the holiday to end.
Dive straight into the private pool, grab a kayak and paddle out onto the lake, cast a line from the foreshore, or simply stretch out in the sunshine with a cold drink. The Place has been set up to make the most of every warm-weather moment, with outdoor entertaining, water access and wide open spaces for the kids to run free.
Step out the back gate and you'll discover one of the property's hidden charms — a peaceful reserve and creek running behind the property, with a little wharf where you can while away a morning feeding the ducks. It's a simple pleasure that the kids absolutely love, and one of those details that makes The Place feel genuinely special rather than just another holiday rental.
The upstairs deck looks out over the creek, palm-lined reserve and lake beyond — fire up the barbecue and enjoy alfresco dining with one of the best backyard views you'll find anywhere on the Central Coast. It's equally special at sunrise with a coffee, or at dusk as the light fades softly over the bay.
The newly renovated front yard is another outdoor highlight — a fully fenced, private lawn area framed by lush tropical garden beds with a firepit at its heart. On warm summer evenings it's the perfect spot to gather round the fire and finish the evening the right way.
The house itself is big enough for two families or the extended family, sleeping up to 10 guests across four bedrooms. Downstairs has been set up with the kids in mind — a cupboard full of games and toys and an Arcade Machine for when you need a break from the sun — while upstairs is very much for the big kids, with a bar area and large TV perfect for evenings in. Two living areas means everyone has space to spread out and relax.
When you're ready to explore, Gwandalan delivers. Lake Macquarie is one of the best fishing destinations on the NSW coast — drop a line from the foreshore or head out on the water at first light. The kids will love the local skate park, climbing play area, and basketball and netball courts just a short stroll away. For something more adventurous, the fire trail walk at Point Wolstoncroft rewards you with spectacular views of the lake — one of those quietly brilliant local secrets that guests always wish they'd discovered sooner.
Just a short walk from the property, the Gwandalan Bowling Club is a genuine community hub worth at least one evening of your stay. Overlooking the lake with a bistro serving fresh seafood and classic favourites, barefoot bowls, live entertainment, trivia nights and a great beer garden — it's relaxed, fun and very much part of the Gwandalan experience.
Further afield, the options are excellent. A private Hunter Valley minibus tour departs right from your door for a day of world-class wine tasting. Newcastle's Darby Street is perfect for a leisurely lunch and some browsing, and the ocean beaches at Caves Beach and Catherine Hill Bay are well worth the short drive.
Sleeping arrangements
• Bed 1 – Upstairs master king with ensuite and balcony access
• Bed 2 – Upstairs room with 2 single beds
• Bed 3 – Downstairs queen bed
• Bed 4 – Downstairs double bed and single bunks
The kitchen & laundry The fully equipped kitchen includes oven, microwave, dishwasher and fridge, plus plastic ware for the kids and serving ware for entertaining. The pantry is stocked with essentials — tea, coffee, hot chocolate, sugar, sauces, herbs, spices, oil, cling wrap, foil and paper towel. The laundry has a washing machine, dryer, iron and ironing board.
Bathrooms All bathrooms include soap, hand soap and toilet paper. The downstairs bathroom has both a separate bath and shower. Bed linen and bath towels are provided.
Comfort year-round Ducted air conditioning upstairs keeps the house cool on warm days. Gas heating and fans downstairs ensure comfort whatever the season.
A few important notes We have a strict no parties or events policy — this is a quiet neighbourhood and we ask that all guests respect that. This includes hens/bucks nights, schoolies, end-of-season sporting groups and birthday celebrations. If you're unsure whether your booking falls into this category, please enquire before booking. Non-compliance may result in additional charges, bond forfeiture and/or eviction.
All bookings are subject to owner pre-approval. We aim to confirm your booking status within 24 hours.
Our prices include all fees — no hidden surprises.
Please Note: All bookings are subject to the owners pre-approval and we endeavour to notify you of the status of your booking within 24hrs.