Ocean Muse
Port Stephens, NSW, Australia
Sparklingly modern Australian beach home with sumptuous views over dunes and native bushland, 2 hours north of Sydney (sleeps 6-8)
With its eco-principles, innovative architecture and inside-out
design, Ocean Muse is a showcase for contemporary Australia. Built
in 2000, its two connecting pavilions have arched roofs which allow
light and air to flow freely, so there's no need for
air-conditioning. From every point, the views are sublime:
north-facing window-walls on the ocean side, a series of terraces
overlooking the native bush and adjoining National Park, and a
large garden with infinity lap pool for al fresco living.
There's a wonderful feeling of seclusion and privacy, yet it's only
5 minutes' walk down to the endless surf and sand dunes of One Mile
Beach.
Inside is an open-plan living-dining space, a fully-equipped
kitchen, three bedrooms, two large solar-powered
bathrooms and a billiards room - all you need for a top notch
holiday with family or friends. And if you want more space, there's
excellent hiking, fishing, diving, dolphin-watching, dune-driving
and horse-riding on your doorstep.
Reviewed by Nadine Mellor
Last updated 20 February 2012
Highs
- Innovative design and contemporary style
- Stunning vistas over bush, dunes and ocean
- Superb attention to detail, from underfloor heating to corian surfaces
- Wonderful location, with long sandy beaches and several National Parks to delight active types
- No other houses in view
Lows
- Anna Bay (the town) isn't particularly stylish - this is not Byron Bay - but you can get your basics here
- Located at the end of a suburban cul-de-sac - but once through the door you're in another world & you forget you had any neighbours
- Often booked up in summer
