I’m beginning to rediscover the coastal gem of Heyscape, nestled in the captivating scenery of Denmark, Australia. This hidden treasure has garnered international acclaim, proudly earning a spot among National Geographic’s Hotel Awards’ 30 global winners for 2025. The property is home to five unique off-grid cabins, strikingly designed to resemble little black Lego blocks, carefully scattered across the lush green expanses of Raintree Estate. This autumn promises even more, with ten additional cabins and a communal sauna set to welcome guests.
What’s a getaway without breathtaking views? The estate sprawls over 880 acres, a stunning mosaic of dense forests, tranquil freshwater lakes, and gentle hills that embrace the borders of William Bay National Park. This area is not only home to natural beauty but also some of the state’s most beloved attractions, including majestic karri forests and glimpses of the Southern Ocean.
However, with such exquisite surroundings, I find myself content to remain on the estate, particularly drawn to Heyscape’s charming two-bedroom cabins. Ideal for gatherings with friends or two couples, these cabins are connected by a private sauna and a lavish outdoor deck — a dream venue for any dining enthusiast, featuring a Heston Blumenthal-branded barbecue and an elegant dining area under the cooling breeze of outdoor fans.
The estate offers ample nooks for relaxation and connection, including two inviting outdoor baths that provide an ideal perch for soaking up the scenery.
As my friend and I settle into our assigned cabins, it’s clear that every detail has been carefully considered. Each cabin boasts a collection of local reads, gratitude cards on the bookshelf, and plush bathrobes that quickly become our second skin. The design, with its interplay of black and wood accents, features a kitchenette fitted with modern appliances. An elevated queen bed, draped in burnished orange 100% European flax linen, sits beside a massive window that frames the undulating forest — and at night, the twinkling stars above. Cabin fever? Not a chance.
We pass the afternoon between the bath and sauna, indulging in a grazing box filled with exquisite local artisanal treats. This is what life feels like at Heyscape.
Yet, in this stunning part of the world, the call to explore becomes irresistible. Raintree Estate, run by the Birbeck family, also houses The Dam, a contemporary Australian restaurant dedicated to seasonal ingredients, along with an amphitheater and a unique Cannabis Botanical Distillery. A visit here offers insight into the estate’s operations, including experiential hunts for marron — the local delicacy.
My encounter with owner Stephen Birbeck at the restaurant leads us to a hidden pond, where we indulge in a bit of fishing to catch marron while learning about the estate’s commitment to sustainable aquaculture practices.
“Everything we produce, we use here,” Stephen explains as he skillfully draws in a drop net from the murky water, revealing slender shells nestled within. Among the caught marron, one stands out — a striking blue specimen that resembles a playful toy. Giggling at its tiny claws, we ultimately return to The Dam to savor our catch, delightfully transformed into a saucy linguine.
For those seeking adventure beyond the estate, Heyscape offers complimentary e-bikes, making it easy to explore the natural beauty surrounding us. We cruise through verdant forests and traverse a segment of the renowned Munda Bindi cycling trail, whizzing past vibrant wildflowers. The sweeping vistas of lush greenery, pristine beaches, and the roaring ocean unfurl like a painter’s canvas.
Reaching the world-famous Green Pool beach takes less than half an hour from our cabin. Here, smooth granite boulders rise amidst iridescent waters, inviting a refreshing dip. Just a short stroll away, Elephant Rocks emerge — enormous granite formations that appear as ancient elephants retreating into a serene lagoon.
Further afield, another natural marvel awaits — the Valley of the Giants in Walpole-Nornalup National Park. This towering grove of ancient red tingle trees reaches heights of up to 75 meters, and while meandering the Ancient Empire Walk is free, the tree-top walk rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramas of the lush surroundings as it rises 40 meters high, weaving through the forest’s giants.
Upon returning to ground level, a wealth of other local delights awaits. From the award-winning vineyard, Single File, to the family-friendly beer garden at Boston Brewing Co, not to mention kayaking on the Denmark River or indulging in bites at Mrs. Jones — a beloved local spot housed in a quaint former butter factory.
Indeed, this version of Denmark is one to savor, offering an abundance of experiences to enjoy.
Checklist
Getting There
Fly directly from Auckland to Perth with Qantas and Air New Zealand.
Stay
Cabins at Heyscape Denmark start from $606 per night (minimum two-night stay) | heyscape.com.au
Experience
Marron Catch & Indulge experience is $431 for two people. See heyscape.com.au/locations/denmark.
Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk is $25 per person. See valleyofthegiants.com.au.
Prices are approximate and converted to NZD.
The writer was a guest of Heyscape.
