Introduction – Where it all began

Kimo Estate was one of the first off-grid EcoHut escapes in NSW and among the pioneers in Australia. As the tiny house movement gained momentum worldwide, owners David and Emelia Ferguson saw the potential of creating a retreat on a scenic hill. And so, JR’s Hut was born – a peaceful, unplugged escape, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Spanning nearly 7,000 acres in a stunning valley along the Murrumbidgee River in Gundagai, Kimo Estate is a beautiful slice of Australian countryside. David and Emelia returned to the farm in 2012, and by 2014, after mastering the intricacies of farm life, they began to expand into tourism and weddings alongside their traditional sheep and cattle operation.

The rise in off-grid, sustainable travel has been remarkable since the Fergusons set out on their journey. Driven by a desire to reconnect city dwellers with the countryside, they designed Kimo’s Eco Huts to provide a true break from everyday life. Large corporations have since followed suit, but as David observes, “You’ve got these large corporations offering ‘unique experiences,’ except they’re not unique. They’re cookie-cutter versions of what we’re trying to do. The mass production of boutique stays just doesn’t sit well with me.”

Despite this, the off-grid movement is here to stay, especially in Australia. David explains, “It’s not just about building sustainably but about giving people a place to fully unplug, relax, and reconnect with nature.” And that’s precisely what Kimo Estate’s Eco Huts deliver.

What Makes Kimo Estate’s Off-Grid EcoHuts the Perfect Retreat

“When designing the Eco Huts, we had to work with the landscape itself,” says David. “They’re remote, exposed, and breathtaking.” Architects Anthony Hunt and Luke Stanley designed the huts to suit the land’s natural features. Positioned high on the hills, the huts take advantage of the breeze, with large louvre windows to channel airflow. A small wood stove provides both warmth and a place to cook on rainy days, while the drought-proof garden outside is planted with native grasses that blend seamlessly into the surrounding paddocks and hills.

The huts’ minimalist design, inspired by the classic A-frame tent with unique roof cutouts, embodies the concept of “everything you need, nothing you don’t.” Panoramic windows pull the landscape inside, creating a beautiful interplay between shelter and the elements. Each Eco Hut offers a different experience: JR’s Hut invites visitors to watch cockatoos come home to roost, Fergo’s Hut overlooks a lagoon teeming with birdlife, and Sweeney’s Hut sits among a peaceful woodland sanctuary. Everywhere you look, you’re surrounded by endless rural vistas – yet you’ll rarely spot another person.

The Experience of Going Off-Grid

Technology has revolutionized our daily lives, but it can also intrude on our peace. Notifications, emails, and texts keep us constantly connected – often too connected. At Kimo, guests can experience a day without the digital distractions. No phones buzzing, no emails to answer, no notifications. Just pure, uninterrupted time to relax and enjoy the present.

Imagine sitting by the fire with a long-awaited book, or sharing a hot cup of tea with your partner as you talk about future dreams. Whether you’re with a loved one or on a solo retreat, this setting encourages a deep connection. In the evening, unwind in a wood-fired hot tub as the sun sets over the hills. In the morning, savor your breakfast as you watch the world wake up around you. The Huts are designed for pure relaxation, and the natural surroundings are your ultimate sanctuary.

Reconnecting with Nature and Each Other

Life is full of demands – family, work, social commitments – and it’s easy to feel disconnected. Kimo Estate’s Eco Huts are a place where couples can simply be together. Far from everyday distractions, far from traffic and noise, and even far from other guests, the huts offer seclusion and peace. Each one is positioned to provide total privacy, so much so that you might feel like the only people on the property.

Your stay at Kimo offers a sense of perspective that’s hard to find elsewhere. Under a moonless sky, you’ll witness a breathtaking starlit display that reminds you of your place in the vast universe. Wildlife moves to its own rhythm around you, as day fades into night and back to day. The simplicity and timelessness of nature bring a fresh appreciation of life.

Seamless and Contactless Experience

Kimo Estate provides a seamless, contactless check-in for a fully immersive experience. You’ll have everything you need, without needing to meet anyone. This system not only supports our operations but also enhances the sense of simplicity and solitude. You’ll find a guidebook with local attractions and mapped walking trails, and you’re free to explore at your own pace. Should you need assistance, we’re just a phone call away, but you’ll enjoy complete privacy during your stay.

Preparing for Your Stay at Kimo Estate’s Off-Grid EcoHut

To get the most out of your stay, bring a few essentials. Good walking shoes are a must – you’ll want to explore the property, and waterproof shoes are helpful in cooler months. Pack a swimsuit if it’s warm; our homestead pool is available to guests in summer. And don’t forget your camera! Our landscapes are unforgettable, and we’d love it if you’d share your experience on social media.

The huts are fully stocked with cooking equipment, cutlery, and board games, so you can travel light. Bring an evening meal to keep in the fridge, and we’ll provide everything for a farmhouse breakfast – the homemade baked beans are a guest favorite! Soon, you’ll be able to enjoy a meal at the new Homestead Restaurant, but that’s a story for another post.

Conclusion

Where possible, we encourage guests to book directly with small operators like Kimo Estate. Not only does it support local businesses, but you’ll also save on fees typically paid to booking platforms.

We look forward to not seeing you at Kimo Estate, where we’ve crafted a truly unique off-grid experience in our Eco Huts. Book today to discover why Kimo Estate is the ultimate escape.