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Explore Lake Macquarie and Newcastle!

Lakefront cottage in Newcastle with kitchen

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Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Outdoor dining
Smart TV
Beach nearby
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4646 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor Space
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Belmont South, NSW
  • Place, Lake Macquarie
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Belmont Golf Course
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Place, Blacksmiths Beach
    ‪14 min walk‬
  • Airport, Newcastle, NSW (NTL-Williamtown)
    ‪43 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Newcastle

Located in Belmont South within a 5-minute walk of Lake Macquarie, this cottage is within a 15-minute stroll of Blacksmiths Beach. The cottage includes a kitchen, a private yard, and a refrigerator.
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What's nearby

  • Lake Macquarie - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Belmont Golf Course - 12 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Blacksmiths Beach - 14 min walk - 0.8 miles
  • John Hunter Hospital - 18 min drive - 10.8 miles
  • Newcastle Beach - 24 min drive - 13.4 miles

Getting around

  • Kotara Station - 17 min drive
  • Newcastle, NSW (NTL-Williamtown) - 45 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Belmont 16s - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Guzman Y Gomez - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Big Mamma's Pizza - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Good One Coffee & Things - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪The Yoga Place Cafe - ‬4 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Explore Lake Macquarie and Newcastle!

Weekly and monthly discounts available!

Named after the native Australian birds that often chatter on the fence, Willie Wagtail Cottage is modern and light filled, with refreshing coastal breezes on the hottest of days.
Comfortably sleeping 4, Willie Wagtail Cottage is great for couples or a family looking for some fun and adventure.

PETS
Your furry friend is welcome to come, the yard is fully fenced and secure. We just ask that you be respectful - please clean up after your pet, and if they do come in to say hello, keep them off lounges and out of the carpeted bedrooms.

THE COTTAGE
The cottage has a social open plan kitchen, dining and living room, bathroom/laundry and 2 bedrooms with very comfortable queen size beds. We pride ourselves on keeping the property clean, and with all bed linen and bathroom towels supplied guests can turn up and enjoy a very relaxed and convenient getaway. There is off-street parking and we are located in a quiet friendly neighbourhood.

LOCATION
Just 2 hours north of Sydney, this is the perfect escape where you can explore the amazing Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and Hunter Region.
Willie Wagtail Cottage is just 250m walk to Belmont Bay, Lake Macquarie which has grassed areas, picnic tables, paths, playground, boat ramp and is home to pelicans and black swans.
If you love the beach you won’t be disappointed. Blacksmiths Beach can be accessed by foot, or within 10 minutes drive you have the spectacular Caves Beach to the south, popular Redhead Beach to the north, or pretty Naru Beach situated within the lake.
If you enjoy heading out for a meal - a café, restaurant, pub and yacht club are all walking distance, with many more takeaways and cafés available just a 3-5 minute drive away in Belmont or Swansea. Here you will also find major grocery stores, chemists and other shops.
If you’re bringing the boat we have ample off-street parking and it’s only a quick drive to multiple ramps to launch with access to the lake, channel or ocean. A padlocked shed is on the property for storage of your surfboards, bikes, golf clubs or other gear.
Choose to relax, or keep yourself busy! Enjoy walking or bike riding on the Fernleigh Track or in many of the close by bushlands, have a round of golf with ocean views at the local course, go fishing or kayaking, or even brave skydiving with Lake Macquarie Airport just a few minutes away.
If you want to explore, Newcastle with its famous harbour and beaches are just a 30 minute drive, and the Hunter Valley Wine Region is just an hour drive.
You will love your stay in this great quiet location, with convenience to everything you could possibly want!
The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and space to spread out with 2 bedrooms. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a private yard, and an electric kettle.

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Property grounds

Ducks Bungalow- Lake Macquarie

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Free WiFi
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, 232 reviews
$219 nightly
The price is $219
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Total with taxes and fees
Ducks Bungalow- Lake Macquarie

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking includes off-street options

Kitchen

  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Games
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Yard

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total (up to 55 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Location highlights

  • Near a hospital
  • Near the sea
  • On a lake

Things to do

  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 646 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM
Contactless check-in available

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs only
  • 2 total (55 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
  • Service animals exempt from fees
  • Note from host: Allowed inside except on carpet if house trained.

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 2:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
Property Registration Number PID-STRA-46542, 2280

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do within easy reach of this cottage?

This cottage is situated in Belmont South, just steps from Lake Macquarie. You'll also find Blacksmiths Beach and Belmont Golf Course less than a mile away.

Is there parking available at this cottage?

No, there isn't parking available at the cottage.

Is this cottage associated with a casino?

No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this cottage?

No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Explore Lake Macquarie and Newcastle!?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this lakeside cottage include a kitchen and a smart TV along with a garden.

Does Explore Lake Macquarie and Newcastle! have a hot tub?

No, this cottage doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this cottage provide breakfast?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this cottage allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cottage.

Does this cottage have connecting rooms?

No, this cottage doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

What is the closest airport to this cottage?

The closest major airport to this cottage is Newcastle, NSW (NTL-Williamtown), which is 28.6 mi away (45 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Explore Lake Macquarie and Newcastle!?

No, there aren't any accommodations with balconies at Explore Lake Macquarie and Newcastle!.

Explore Lake Macquarie and Newcastle! Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 32 out of 35 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 35 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 35 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 35 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 35 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Emma M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Clean property, great yard for toddler to play in, comfortable beds
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

hayley l.

Liked: Cleanliness
lovely property very clean, lots of useful appliances.
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Colleen S.

Liked: Cleanliness

CA

Great place and location would use again
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brad O.

Liked: Cleanliness

Very clean and tidy

Very comfortable little holiday, few games to play with kids, was good to get away and just relax
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Liz L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Richard E.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great little beach house

The house is perfect for a beach-house type of holiday for two couples or a small family. Neat, clean, comfortable and well-appointed. The secure yard for the dog was very handy. Just what we needed for a two-day stay in Newcastle.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Angela K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fantastic Stay

Cath, the host was very easy to communicate with. The place was very clean and had everything we wanted. The fenced garden was great for our dog and toddler. They loved exploring. The house is well located. It is a short drive to beaches, playgrounds, cafes and restaurants. We would stay here again and recommend it to others.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jill D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Quiet retreat

Clean, modern and quiet - exactly what we were needing. Thank you for a wonderful stay. Will definitely be looking you up again in the future. Thanks for a peaceful weekend.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Neil

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This lovely place had all we needed to have a great holiday. It was well equipped with all the essentials and a nicely fenced of yard for the dog. Hosts were very helpful and the place was very clean. Would definitely recommend staying here.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sue G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great little getaway

The house was very clean, exactly as photos showed. Very thoughtful in all the things that were provided, all we needed to bring was our food and clothes. Close to beaches, lake and shops. Highly recommend
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brian D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Comfortable and dog friendly

A sensor light covering the front steps and front door entry is needed for safety, especially in wet weather conditions. The rain makes the front steps very slippery. We would recommend the house to others.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alison M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Immaculately clean, close to lake and beach

Adorable and modern, perfect for a couple or young family. Great location, short walk to lake or short drive to beach. Can walk to shops and a short drive you have almost any shop or service you want. Took my pups and lovely and flat for walking and taking in the scenery. Note: lots of barking dogs in the neighborhood, may have been tourists but some barked for extended periods of time including the immediate Neighbour. Fenced yard was great with perfect lawn. Kitchen had everything you needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Janet S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Quiet and comfortable

The cottage was perfect for our short stay everything we needed , comfortable beds and best of all it was so quiet . Our host was brilliant in her communication and kindly offered a late check out . Would definitely recommend this property and it’s location close to the lake and the fernleigh track .
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tiffany G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely cottage

Great location near Lake Macquarie, with parks, shops and a lovely cafe in easy walking distance. Lovely cottage and being able to bring a pet is wonderful.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful Little Cottage

I really enjoyed my stay at this charming little cottage :) Thanks very much to Cath for the later checkout as well
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Samantha V.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place in every way.

Great location, everything is at your feet. Perfect fully fenced yard with bbq and privacy.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

8/10 Good

Ruth C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Other

Enjoyed the stay and good for short term accommodation. Would like to have had coffee machine, iron, more hangers and wifi given we stayed 7 nights
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Neil P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing Belmont south nook

The place was absolutely beautiful and also very clean, my partner and myself we had an amazing time while visiting family and friends in the area
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brian M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice Stay

Located near shops and short walk from lake and beach. Small yard for pets.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michele A.

Liked: Cleanliness

Short Stay away from Home

We enjoyed our short stay. The cottage was very comfortable and clean. Had most of the requirements needed for our 5 nights. Our 5 year old grandson had a wonderful time and the property was safe for him and our 2 fur babies. Owner loaned us a child's kyack unfortunately we didn't get to use it. Would not hesitate to recommend this property and will stay again in the future.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kim C., Sydney

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfection

My husband and I had a brilliant weekend. The yard was perfect for our 2 fur babies and the house is beautiful and very comfortable. We were even greeted by a Willie Wagtail upon checking in. Such a great location, we hope to be back again. Thank you Cath :)
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Hana K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Willie Wagtail Cottage is a gem

When we set out to find a place for a short break, we were keen to locate accommodation: a) close to Sydney, b) spotlessly clean, and c) run by hosts that would allow our furry baby, a little Bichon Frise, to come with us. And in Willie Wagtail Cottage we found all that and more! Even before we got there, Cath kindly helped us with planning a birthday outing, with her tips giving us plenty of eateries to try. And indeed, the food at Table 1 Expresso Cafe for lunch or the Canon Cafe for dinner in Warners Bay was just wonderful. The cottage itself is located in a quiet street, favoured by a very cute family of neighbourhood ducks. It is pristinely clean, with crisp white walls and fabulous high ceiling in the living area. The beds are marvellously comfortable and the place is homely and just right for a trip away from home, with beaches a short drive away and the lake just around the corner. So nice is the place that we are already liaising with Cath about our next booking! Thank you Cath and Brett for a nice stay. We are already looking forward to staying at your cottage again!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

6/10 Okay

Pat & Stewart m.

Liked: Cleanliness

Family getting together

All was good except no servicing spoons or salad dishes. Could have a larger saucepan.I purchased a crockpot to cook dinner Saturday nights.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tracey H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Mini break

We came up for our daughter's football match. It was perfect for what we needed and a great location which was a short drive to the ground We loved our stay and would happily return
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tony G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Quiet and Relaxing

Just a few days needed from the busyness of work and family. A great place to explore Lake Mac both by foot and driving. Our beaglier appreciated the break as well. House was cosy - all day sun and well appointed. A great place for our short stay of 3 days.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023