SLOW STAYS

Set within a 60-hectare registered wildlife sanctuary on Kangaroo Island, everything about Ecopia Retreat has been considered with the earth in mind. Two rammed earth villas – designed and built by hand – are the bones of this off-grid escape. Beautiful, solid 300mm walls and double-glazed windows and doors almost negate the need for the wood heater while vents in the floor allow cool air to flow in and hot air to escape through remote-controlled highlight windows in the warmer months. Walls are hung with a beautiful personal Indigenous art collection, collected over 20 years. In many instances, owners Rob and Yael sat next to the artist as they painted their Dreaming. And while completely luxurious, careful thought was given to every practical detail – right down to the impact of each appliance. (The coffee machine switches itself off after nine minutes to conserve power.) After you work your way through your welcome pack of sticky figs, fudge, olives, and wine, grab a map of trails to explore down by the river which flows through the property and spot glossy black cockatoos flocking to the native trees, many of which Rob and Yael have planted over the past 10 years.