A Fantastic Farmstay in the 'Lost World'
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and head for the hills for some fresh country air and a true digital detox! A Farm stay is a great mini break for the little people where they can experience a true working farm and participate in all the activities associated with it. Not to mention getting them off their screens and into nature.
After a bit of research of Farm stay options we chose the Historic 'Cedar Glen' and couldn't have been happier with it. Situated in the Scenic Rim at the edge of the Lamington National Park this beautiful part of the world sets a picturesque backdrop for our stay. The elder O'Reilly lived his last years in this area and named it 'the lost world' in his writings.
As we drive through Beaudesert and into Darlington the stresses of city life begin to melt away as we find serenity in the beautiful countryside, spotting all the animals grazing in the paddocks and slowing down for cattle lazily crossing our path.
When we arrive at the homestead I run into our delightful historic cottage to hide the TV remote controls and iPads to be sure we get the most out of our stay. This meant the kids naturally went outside looking for something to do. They were thrilled to be met by Hillary the friendly fat farm cat, then they were back inside getting apples and carrots to feed the horses Marco + Polo. From then on the kids felt comfortable with their larger than normal backyard and found their way into all the activities on offer.
Twice a day there was the highlight of animal feeding, egg collecting and milking the cow. I've been to Farm stays before where there were surprisingly few animals but not at Cedar Glen. This farm is bursting with a happy and harmonious selection of animals to feed including ducks, hens, roosters, peacocks, sheep, cows, horses and pigs. Lots of babies too including one week old lamby!
waiting for the pony ride
feeding the chooks
cuddle with a chicken
milking the cow
Other great activities at Cedar Glen are taking part in the stock-whip cracking and boomerang throwing, taking a picnic and heading to one of the many watering holes along the Albert River, having a dip, swinging on the ropes and some fishing. You can experience a one-hour trail ride through the foothills of the 'lost world' and picturesque Albert River or a 20 minute led pony ride for the little ones.
In the evenings there's the opportunity to sit down to an authentic home-cooked country meal in the homestead dining room, where all the food is cooked on site and the produce comes fresh from the farm!
After three days of experiencing country life we are happy to head back into the city. We feel a delightful boost to our physical and mental well being and have made a pact to do more mini getaways and adventures that balance out the plugged-in online and indoor world we battle with.
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