Chakola - Group Retreat Kangaroo Valley NSW

Kangaroo Valley is a stunningly beautiful valley surrounded by steep escarpments, nestled between the white beaches of the South Coast and the Southern Highlands in New South Wales. It is reputed to be one of only seven fully enclosed valleys in the world.

 

Less than 5kms from the town centre lies the property of Chakola (Aboriginal word for Lyrebird). Chakola is an 80-acre wildlife refuge managed by Conservation Volunteers Australia.

 

Chakola specialises in catering for group getaways, including special interest and school groups, educational and training sessions, family getaways, yoga weekends, bushwalking retreats and corporate meetings and events. Most importantly, CVA uses Chakola as a conservation volunteer base to make a long-term difference to the ongoing preservation of the area’s flora and fauna.

 

Flora and Fauna

On arrival you will be struck by the peace and quiet of this special nature retreat. Chakola is home to a number of iconic native Australian wildlife species, such as kangaroos, wallabies (including the endangered brushed tailed rock wallaby), bats, wombats, possums, and a resident lace monitor lizard. There is also a large variety of native birds including kookaburras, rainbow lorikeets, cockatoos, and of course lyrebirds.

A flora survey conducted in 1999 identified seven different vegetation types the Chakola property, this included 4 plant species of National Conservation significance and 46 plant species of Regional significance. Chakola has 15 types of Pigmy Orchids and 80 different types of flowering plants.

 

Accommodation and Facilities

There are 15 small rustic cabins on the property which can accommodate up to 40 guests. Cabins are basic but comfortable, and range in size from single, twin share and double to 4-share dormitory-style rooms. Bed linen is supplied to groups upon request for a small additional cost. Amenity blocks with showers and toilets are a short stroll from the cabins.

A commercial kitchen and dining room can cater for up to 40 guests.

 

Facilities include:

 

  • BBQs
  • Commercial grade kitchen stocked with all cooking utensils
  • Shower and toilet blockss
  • Dining area for up to 40 guests
  • Table tennis, board games and dart board in communal recreation area
  • Wood heater with comfortable seating
  • Training and Education Room for up to 40 people
  • Access to DVD and TV
  • Campfire

 

Activities

At Chakola, a variety of beautiful bushwalks are available and it’s only a short drive to National Parks, scenic lookouts and waterfalls. Morton National Park provides a number of walks in the Southern Highlands. A trip to Fitzroy Falls and interpretive visitor centre is well worth the time.

 

Other activities available in the area include:

 

  • Historical villages of Kangaroo Valley and Berry
  • Local arts and crafts
  • Golf available in Kangaroo Valley
  • Guided bushwalks and special programs suitable for all ages with the National Parks and Wildlife Service
  • Night walks
  • Tours with local operators in Kangaroo Valley including canoeing and white water rafting

 

 

Where to Find Us

Located on the Southern Highland and Illawara Region of New South Wales, Kangaroo Valley is approximately 2 hours by road from Sydney and Canberra.

 

 

Who Can Book?

Chakola is the perfect group retreat and designed specifically to cater for group needs from small family and friend gatherings to school and corporate groups, specialised tours, yoga retreats and bushwalking clubs.

 

Accommodation Rates:

Overnight rate for CVA members - $40 per person, per night

Overnight rate for non CVA members - $50 per person, per night

Overnight rate for Groups - $40 per person, per night

Linen hire - $7 per person

  • Minimum booking and payment is required for 10 people.
  • Discounts available for large groups. Please contact us for further details.
  • Exclusive use of the property is available upon request. A minimum booking and payment for 30 people is required.
  • Check in times after 2pm on arrival, 10am upon departure

By choosing to stay at Chakola you are helping Conservation Volunteers Australia and the ongoing conservation of this important site.

 

Bookings and Information

Freecall in Australia 1800 032 501

Phone: + 61 3 5330 2600

Email: bookings@conservationvolunteers.com.au

 

Site Inspections

If you would like an inspection of the property you may do so by contacting CVA's Chakola managers Michael and Camille Delmenico.

Ph: 02 4465 2430

Email: chakola@conservationvolunteers.com.au

Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA)