Guest Reviews
"We would definitely recommend this little oasis on Pittwater"
Jenny | April 2025
​Robyn and Ian have thought of everything in this well-appointed very comfortable apartment, right down to fresh bread, eggs, milk, butter and conserves etc. The views are lovely and it was spotlessly clean. We would definitely recommend this little oasis on Pittwater
"We had such a relaxing and calm weekend"
Rachel | February 2025
The owners were simply wonderful to deal with and were so informative regarding all their local region has to offer. Their property is in a magical location with views north and south, offers thoughtful touches such as breakfast, coffee, chocolates and excellent quality furniture and bedding. We had such a relaxing and calm weekend. Thank you so much for your thoughtful hospitality. we have stayed in many places as this is one, we will remember.
"The loveliest Airbnb I’ve stayed in to date!"
Jeremy | January 2025
The loveliest Airbnb I’ve stayed in to date! Green & water views. Self-contained apartment with full kitchen amenities and washing machine. All sorts of personal touches like baked bread, extra towels if needed, games and puzzles, WIFI, aircon. It had it all! Robyn checked in and was responsive if we needed her. I highly recommend this place!
"Fantastic location - on hill overlooking Pittwater"
Andrew | December 2024
Fantastic location - on hill overlooking Pittwater (Clareville beach). You need a car really, as it’s a short drive but would be a bit of a walk from Clareville beach and shops. Area is lovely - nice bush and water views through the trees, nice feel to the area too. Apartment is more spacious than we had expected, with a large lounge and spacious bedroom. It was ideal for a weekend with our daughter. The Clareville beach area has great cafes and a funky feel. Robyn and Ian were very helpful - very prompt replies etc. Would definitely come back again.
"I should have booked for a longer stay"
Ian | November 2024
I loved the little things like milk, eggs, butter, bread available for use it was an unexpected delight. The location was exceptional being located on Taylors Point in Pittwater there were water views both North and South to the Pittwater with sailing boats aplenty. I should have booked for a longer stay! This location was awesome and so was the weather for our stay.
"Would highly recommend this property to anyone considering a weekend visit to the Clareville/Avalon area"
Claire | November 2024
We really enjoyed our stay at Refuge Cove, a lovely simply styled but homely feel to the property.
The location was fantastic, and we enjoyed the fabulous views from the two balconies overlooking the water. The extra homely touches provided by Robyn such as bread, eggs and sweet treats were very much appreciated. Would highly recommend this property to anyone considering a weekend visit to the Clareville/Avalon area
"The PERFECT holiday in our own city!
Michelle | Sydney, Australia | October 2021
I never give a 5 star rating because even when I stay in a place that is amazing I still want to leave an extra star for that time when I go somewhere that is beyond amazing - well, this is that 5 star place! As we arrived we were greeted by a beautiful sunset view from the deck and the sound of waves lapping on side of boats & lorikeets flying back and forth to their nest (which was only about 10m from the kitchen window). Every comfort was provided for! Quality linen and even beach towels. The pantry and fridge were well stocked and the homemade bread, fresh eggs & other breakfast supplies were a treat. I loved all the artwork and decor. I am often hesitant to stay at a place that is attached to the home of the owners. We had complete privacy and never saw the owners, but yet we felt they were always ready to offer assistance if we had contacted them. The view and comfort was so wonderful we often struggled to head out and explore the paradise that surrounded us. Each time we did head out we were never disappointed. 4 min walk to the water. Close to lots of great eating places, supermarkets and beautiful beaches. In Greater Sydney area yet a private sanctuary away from everything 😊 We look forward to staying here again
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"Hidden Gem"
Graham | Adelaide, SA | February 2021
Clareville, whilst only being a small part of the Northern Beaches is a hidden gem.
Amongst these delights, Refuge Cove has a spacious and relaxing ambience for sure.
Although from Adelaide, a little bit of envy crept in and could certainly see us returning.
"Beautiful and blessed"
Renata and Fernando | Australia | January 2021
Beautiful and blessed, we recharged our energies.
The accommodation makes you feel you’re so far away from the busy outside world.
"Beautiful place, relaxing with AMAZING views"
Wendy | Australia | January 2021
This place is beautiful - views front and back are wonderful - even washing the dishes was a pleasure!
Loved the plentiful towels, home baked bread and all the fruit provided.
Had lunch at the Newport, walked to the top of the lighthouse, even drove to Manly to go through the National Park for a fantastic view over Sydney Harbour.
Such an incredible area to explore and fantastic accommodation to go back to.
"Relaxed"
Kate | Australia | January 2021
From the moment we walked into Refuge Cove, we felt ourselves relax.
Thank you for the suggestion to walk to the public wharf as we spent 2 evening there watching the sunset and families play.
We had a fantastic lunch at the Sunset Diner, after a swim in the Avalon pool. Heaven!!!
So difficult to leave as we wanted to experience so much more.
"Perfectly located within easy reach of Sydney"
Katie and Alan | London UK | June 2019
This place has been perfect for us and our 5-month old baby. Thank you for providing all the appropriate equipment and toys, she loved them all. It is the most wonderful apartment and perfectly located close to everything. We will be recommendating your place to the rest of the family when they come to visit.
"14th visit to the Northern Beaches renting Holiday Homes"
Mike and Liz | Swansea, Wales UK | May 2019
Refuge Cove on Pittwater is by far, certainly the best with its glorious views and relaxed environment. We had everything we needed and more from this very well equipped flat with Robyn and Ian always there if neded. We suggest Ian goes into the bakery business - his bread is to die for!
"Fishing adventures at their best"
Pauline and James | Avonbridge, Scotland | November 2018
What an amazing place to spend a couple of days. So peaceful and relaxing, stunning scenery, great beaches, local jetty and successful fishing. We certainly had a beautiful stay in Avalon.
"1st year anniversary/honeymoon has been well spent there!"
Anthony and Sally | Adelaide, SA | November 2018
I stumbled across Refuge Cove and knew this was the place. My wife was surprised just how I planned it and our time there was fantastic. We utilized the option to cook and it had everything we could've wanted. The options to eat out were extremely good also (the Newport pub).
"Outstanding. Will recommend to others"
Sue | New Zealand | June 2018
Bed was lovely and comfortable. Views from all windows gorgeous. Lots of birdlife. Very quiet. Living area exceptional and lots of books, magazines and games. Fresh baked bread provided and lots of lovely breakfast food including fresh fruit.
"The best ever...truly memorable"
Lynne | Australia | May 2018
Everything was great. This was like a home away from home. Robyn and Ian are very generous hosts. Amenities superb. Location terrific. Local public transport very close. We will be back again and again and we have given details to our family and friends so expect lots of bookings Robyn and Ian. Thanks again. Lynne and Kevin.
"All the things you would ever want in an apartment! Highly recommend this apartment!"
Janine | Australia | April 2018
Great location and the views were picturesque, the apartment was spacious and very comfy, hosts were amazing, arriving to a fresh cooked loaf of bread, an Easter gift, milk, jam and butter, fruit platter and a pantry filled with essential cooking items. We would return in a heartbeat, loved it!!