Densely-packed tall eucalypts
A wedge-tailed eagle flying above Rock Lily Cottages

ROCK LILY

Rock Lily is a 100-acre bush block property located on the fringes of the Wadbilliga National Park.  The rock lily (also rock orchid) — Dendrobium speciosum — is native to the area and can be found on sheltered rock outcrops across the property. It flowers from August to October.

Our Cottages

Your Hosts

Stephen Collins and Alli Denny-Collins are keen outdoors people — living in and near the wilderness we love was part of the motivation for buying Rock Lily in early 2021 and relocating from Canberra. Alli’s brother, Craig, who is deafblind and has an intellectual disability, lives with us.

We are passionate lovers of food, wine, coffee, whisk(e)y, tea, and live music. If you’re lucky, you’ll visit on a weekend when Stephen is firing up the smoker for some American-style BBQ!

Originally from Tasmania, Stephen, Alli, and Craig are from rural families with roots in farming, forestry, and exploration. Alli is a palawa woman from northern Tasmania.

We look forward to sharing Rock Lily with you.

Allison and Stephen photographed at the Deni Ute Muster

The BEGA VALLEY AND SAPPHIRE COAST

The Bega Valley and Sapphire Coast are rich in history and major Australian tourism destinations. There is no shortage of places to explore, things to do, and fantastic food to taste. We have connections to many local cafes, restaurants, and experience providers and are happy to offer you recommendations.

The environment on Rock Lily is mostly remnant endangered Brogo Vine Forest, where the rock lilies grow wild! We would love to show you around and introduce this unique ecological community.

We are just 4km from the Brogo Dam, ideal for bass fishing and water sports where you can swim, kayak, and paddleboard.

The region has several beautiful towns where country pubs, cafes, antiques, and markets are easily accessed. Bega is just 25 minutes to the south. The beach at Tathra is just 40 minutes away. Narooma, Bermagui,  Central Tilba and Tilba Tilba, and Cobargo are just a little way to the north, and south of us lie Merimbula, Pambula, and Eden, the former hub of the once-thriving whaling industry in Australia (and home of the fascinating Eden Killer Whale Museum).

Coming from major cities, Canberra is 3 hours away via the Monaro Highway and Snowy Mountains Highway, Sydney is 6 hours via the Princes Highway, and Melbourne is 7 hours via the Princes Highway. Our nearest airport is at Merimbula, 45 minutes away, with daily flights from Sydney and Melbourne taking around an hour.

If getting into the bush is your style, there are several NSW National Parks in the region. Some are presently restricted or closed due to damage following the 2019-20 bushfires and subsequent La Niña period, while others are open to various extents. It’s worth checking before you go.

We encourage you to learn more about the Traditional Owners of the land we share – the Djiringanj People of the Yuin nation. The Yuin nation extends north, south, and west of us across the region and is centred on Gulaga above Central Tilba and nearby Mumbulla/Biamanga. Several local First Nations groups offer guided experiences in the region, where you can learn about the long and rich history of the Yuin people.

Tathra photographed from the Tathra Wharf

Finding Rock Lily

We’re about 9km back from the Princes Highway. The maps on your smartphone know where we are.

Turn off the Princes Highway (left if coming from the south, right if from the north). Follow Warrigal Range Road 6km to the end of the bitumen and then continue along the dirt road for about 3km. Shortly after you pass Eagles Nest Road on your right, Rock Lily is signposted, also on the right.

Warrigal Range Road is winding, so driving carefully and to the conditions is advised.

"Mountain Cottage at Rock Lily is a true delight. Fantastic views, very comfortable bed, spotlessly clean, and filled with so many thoughtful touches. We had a wonderfully relaxing time, loved the breakfast items provided, and even our dog was able to stay with us on this pet friendly property. Would definitely recommend and can't wait to get back someday soon! Thanks Steve, Alli and Craig for your hospitality."

Daria, Tasmania

"Out of all air bnb's I have stayed at, this one exceeded our expectations. Amazing hospitality, amenities and one of the most amazing views in Australia. Brogo Dam is down the road and has amazing bass fishing. The host also puts a couple of special little touches of the experience. We will definitely be visiting again. Hands down 5 out of 5."

Steven, NSW

"Just a perfect place to sit back and relax in nature. If you’re looking for a cute and cosy cottage with a great view that you can recharge in, then this is a must visit destination."

Ross, ACT

"This is one to not miss!! The pictures don’t do it justice to how incredible the view is and the house. All the hard work these guys have done to make it so welcoming is worth everything and more. For us the hosts and the small touches made it that more special! Can’t wait to come back with friends and family!!"

Hollee, NSW

"Comfortable cottage, fully equipped and a generous hamper. We were grateful for the host's care and attention and quick communication. Beautiful views and very restful. Nearby Brogo Dam is worth visiting."

Judy, ACT

"This would have to be one of the best places we have stayed so far in all our travels. We can’t praise enough the peaceful setting and so many environmentally sensitive thoughts and things to educate the public. Well done and look forward to returning."

Jeff, NSW

"Stephen, Alli and Craig are wonderful, caring hosts. It was so special to walk into a beautiful rustic, clean and welcoming little cottage. We were so impressed with the comfy bed beautifully made up, yummy breakfast and so many other little touches such as shampoos, goodies in the fridge, coffee pods and everything you might need. Loved the steep walks to the valley, the native animals and stunning bush scenery. Great hospitality. Thank you!"

Ada and Henk, ACT