Summer escape for the whole family, just an hour from Sydney

These summer school holidays, trade the screens for sandy toes on the Hawkesbury River. Just an hour from Sydney, Wisemans Retreat sits on 40 acres of riverside estate at Wisemans Ferry, with room to roam, plenty to do, and nowhere you need to be.

Here's how we'd spend a perfect, unhurried family day.

Morning: Coffee, fishing and a slow start

Start the day slowly with a quiet coffee by the river while the kids grab a rod and try their luck fishing off the riverbank. There's no rush and no schedule, just the sound of the water and the odd excited shout when something bites.

Late morning: Games, the pool and lunch under the palms

As the day warms up, rally on the tennis court or get a game going on the volleyball court. Then cool off with a splash in the pool and a picnic lunch beneath the palms.

Afternoon: Bushwalks and paddling the river

In the afternoon, the adventurers can head off on a bushwalk through the surrounding Dharug National Park, spotting wildlife along the way.

Prefer to explore by water? Hire a kayak from our neighbours at Hawkesbury Houseboats, just down the road in Wisemans Ferry. Single and double kayaks are available for the whole family to paddle the calm waters of Webbs Creek and the Macdonald River. It's one of the best ways to see the Hawkesbury up close.

Dusk: A riverside wander

As the light softens, take a riverside walk at dusk while the kids roam the lawns one last time. It's the golden hour the Hawkesbury is known for.

Dinner: Gather round at Long Table Farm Restaurant

Then, when everyone's happily worn out, settle in for dinner at Long Table Farm Restaurant, our beautiful new restaurant serving seasonal, share-style food made for the whole table. Pass the plates, swap stories from the day, and enjoy the perfect end to a long, unhurried day.

Plan your summer escape

Make these school holidays the ones the kids remember. Book your stay at Wisemans Retreat and reserve your table at Long Table Farm Restaurant to make sure you don't miss out.

School holidays. Summer, sorted.