"You were only supposed to blow the bloody doors off." I should have been outside looking for exotic birdlife, exploring the district's many walking tracks or jumping into a kayak. But instead I pumped for a re-run of The Italian Job.

The owners of Crystal Creek Meadows seem to have thought of everything. There were fresh scones, jam and cream waiting in the cottage when we arrived, a fridge was full of provisions and local masseuse was on standby.

Crystal Creek Meadows also has an excellent DVD library. My weekend break began with a kip in a bed the size of an ocean liner. It was about the most energetic thing I did that day - apart from being lured outside for croquet by my 12 year old son; the score ended 86-4 in his favour.

Nestled amid some of the state's most ravishing countryside ... the district is bursting with things to do; including bush walking, kayaking and horseriding.

Mark Chipperfield - The Sydney Magazine