RURAL STAYCAY
From a cedar hot tub and antique bath to an outdoor kitchen, this secluded little love nest has everything you need to escape the rat race
A TINY home on the doorstep of Springbrook National Park is seducing soul-worn travellers with the romance of rural life.
Palmer and Gunn – Wee Tiny, as the name suggests, was a labour of love for its creators, Austinville Valley’s Fiona Gunn and fiance Clancy Palmer.
“We designed and built it ourselves based on all the things we love,” Ms Gunn said. “Clancy is an engineer and was also lucky enough to work alongside his father Barry, who is a carpenter extraordinaire. I’m a vet nurse by trade and through the restoration process of our own home – an original timber slab hut from the 1930s settlement – I was forced to become a jack of all trades.
“We love all things old and have used reclaimed materials, vintage fittings, antique doors and windows, not to mention a beautifully curated collection of antique furniture and trinkets to create the most enchanting space.”
The home welcomed its first guests in August.
“They booked another stay with us before they had even checked out just so they could come back and stay a little longer,” Ms Gunn said.
“The response from guests has been amazing – turns out they love it too.”
Palmer and Gunn – Wee Tiny boasts high-pitched ceilings, a queen bed dressed in French linen, and a veranda with an outdoor kitchen.
“My favourite features have to be the cedar woodfired hot tub, the antique cast-iron claw-foot bathtub, and sitting by the fire on the veranda overlooking the creek,” Ms Gunn said.
“Our place really is all about not doing too much at all. You know those days filled with creek swims and picnic food, afternoon baths with a cup of tea and a good book, followed by nights by the fire with a something delicious to nibble and sip on.
“It’s the type of place that really forces you to stop and check out of the rat race.”
The attention to detail extends to just-picked arrangements of flowers grown onproperty, with guests encouraged to pack a posy when they leave.
While the couple live on the property, travellers staying at the off-grid, solar-powered hideaway are guaranteed privacy with a secluded setting and contactless check in
“We both have a love for nature, which is why we designed and built the wee tiny with the intention of it being a sustainable space for people to enjoy without imposing heavily on the environment,” Ms Gunn said.
“We are so fortunate to be on the doorstep of the beautiful World Heritage-listed Springbrook National Park.
“We recommend a walk followed by something delicious at one of the local cafes.”