The Hideaway, Vincentia review: Trip throws up a surprise

Though the main attraction has a day off, Andrew Clennell finds the bush setting is soothing and the beach sensational.

It was a perfect day, not a cloud in the sky at Jervis Bay and we had the chance to do something I hadn't done before – go whale watching – with a couple of friends. I knew it was risky – heading out with a hangover after a raucous birthday dinner (mine) the night before – but I figured it would be worthwhile because we were assured that 11 whales had been sighted the previous day.

Our boat trip proves explosive. Even before the catamaran leaves the heads, seven people begin filing to the lower deck and proceed to fill their complimentary sick bags or, charmingly, lean over the edge next to us. These conditions don't help two of our party of four. As I turn green, I curse the fact the whales have decided to take a day off.

The most curious part is seeing a young bloke, who had spent the entire ride clutching his full sick bag, line up to get his free return ticket as compensation for not seeing the great mammals.

We head to Jervis Bay because we want a three-day winter break from the city and don't want to see crowds or any sights in particular. We are looking to rest and read and we don't want to drive for hours.

We leave Sydney at 10am and arrive at Huskisson three hours later, and our first stop is the Husky Pub for one of its famous – and massive – burgers. Our accommodation, the Hideaway in Vincentia, is about five minutes' drive from here.

It's a huge, modern two-storey house that could quite easily accommodate 10 people – two, or even three, families. The house backs on to Jervis Bay National Park and is set off the road, so it feels peaceful without having to be in the middle of nowhere, even though there are homes on either side of the property. It's just a two-minute walk to the lovely Greenfields Beach.

The Hideaway has four bedrooms: three upstairs and a self-contained garden suite downstairs. Upstairs is a queen bed in one room, a double bed in another, two sets of bunk beds in the third room, which sleeps four people, and a big bathroom with spa bath. There are built-in wardrobes in all rooms, including the garden suite, which has its own ensuite, lounge area with flat-screen TV and DVD player and a pull-out sofa for extra house guests.

The kitchen, dining area and lounge are upstairs and are surrounded by floor-to-ceiling sliding doors. Beyond is a wrap-around veranda with a large gas barbecue, two sets of tables and chairs and an outdoor heater. This looks on to the backyard, which is essentially the national park. At ground level is another outdoor setting and barbecue. The modern kitchen is well equipped, and features a great espresso machine with easy-to-follow instructions. The kitchen is perfect for a big Saturday and Sunday breakfast fry-up.