Is The Hideout Right for Your Retreat or Family Gathering?

We get asked this a fair bit “Is The Hideout the right spot for our group?”

The short answer? If you're after something fancy and polished, probably not. But if you want a place where you can slow down, let the kids run wild, cook together, laugh around a fire, and hear the river bubbling in the background, then yes, this is your kind of place.

The Hideout started off as a few old fisherman’s cabins, tucked along the lower Howqua River. We’ve added to it over the years, but kept its simple charm. It’s not flashy, it’s honest, real, and full of character. And over time, we’ve learnt all the little secrets that make it perfect for group stays.

Why Groups Love It

• It’s all yours. No sharing, no strangers, no interruptions.

• It’s flexible. Whether you’re hosting a yoga retreat, 50th birthday, or family reunion, you can spread out, set up how you like, and make the place your own.

• Nature’s the main event. You’ve got river access right out front, open skies, towering gums, and the kind of calm you only get in the bush.

  
  

Our Favourite Spots 

Want to know what really makes The Hideout work for groups? It’s the little corners that don’t look like much at first, but somehow become the heart of your weekend.

• The Fire Pit Area Built from old reclaimed timber and stones we’ve collected over the years, it’s big enough for everyone to take a seat, pull up a camp chair and sit under the stars. Some of our best yarns, marshmallow roasting sessions, and late-night music have happened right here.

  Insider tip: sneak down early in the evening and watch the light change on the river as the fire gets going, pure magic.

• The Treehouse Dining Spot Not up in a tree, but nestled around one, this spot is a big open-air dining space that seats up to 100. If the weather’s kind, it’s hands-down the best spot to share a long meal, surrounded by fairy lights, or you can even host a casual workshop. There is truly no other place like it. 

  Insider tip: set up a craft table for the kids or a game night, there’s plenty of room for whatever fun you’ve packed.

• The Hidden Creek Bend Just past the main river access, if you wander through the garden you’ll find a curve in the river with some rocks perfect for perching on.

  Insider tip: this is our go-to for quiet moments, reading a book, morning yoga, or just soaking it all in.

• The Big Lawn We call it the “kid entertainer”, they run, roll, chase each other for hours. It’s also where the cricket bats come out, the gumboots get tossed, and the grown-ups kick back with a can or wine and a few snacks.

Insider tip: chuck down a picnic rug and just let the arvo do its thing.

What You’ll Need to Bring

It’s a self-catered stay, so don’t forget the essentials:

• Food, drinks, tea/coffee, condiments

• Bedding, towels, and toiletries

• Firewood (we leave a load, but you’ll want more if you're staying a while or if you are known for loving fires)

  
  

We’ve got the gas, power, and water ready to go for you when you arrive, and if it's your first time at the Hideout, we’ll be there to show you the ropes.

Who It’s Best For

• Retreat organisers looking for peace and flexibility

• Big family groups and reunions wanting space and connection

• Groups who are happy to bring their own gear and don’t need everything done for them

• Anyone who values nature, simplicity, and a bit of bush magic

So, is The Hideout right for your group? If you love the bush, a fire, some river time, and letting the days run slow and full, then yes, it probably is.

Check it out here: https://www.lhcescapes.com.au/the-hideout 

And if you're still not sure, send us a message,  we’re always happy to help.

Hope to see you soon,

Kellie and Charlie