At first impressions, the idea of spending $1,000 for a night at the Zoo which is a 20 minute walk from home is not particularly appealing. As a Friend of the Zoo we can visit any time, so why bother staying at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga?
So when our good friends suggested that we join them at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga my first reaction was a polite ‘No, thanks!’. However, sometimes you need to look beyond the sticker price. After a little bit of Googling this looked like an interesting opportunity, so we were in.
The Wildlife Retreat is the latest addition to Taronga Zoo and has only been open for a month. It has positioned itself as an upmarket eco-friendly destination and did not disappoint.
In this post:
A welcome call from Wildlife Retreat
The day before we were due to arrive we received a courtesy phone call explaining check in and asking the time we would like to have dinner. This style of service is usually reserved for First Class passengers (you get a call from Qantas before flying First) so we were off to a great start!
Arrival and the N’Gurra Lounge
We were greeted by staff at the entrance and again within the retreat. They directed us to take a seat in the large N’Gurra lounge area overlooking the sanctuary and zoo. There were sweeping views across to the bridge and city. While seated the staff provided a refreshing cold hibiscus tea welcome drink. They explained the activities over the next 24 hours and the time we were scheduled for dinner.
At that stage we could have headed out to the zoo, spent some time in our room or just enjoy the ambience. We choose the latter and organised some drinks until our 4pm tour started.
The lounge is a great private area only available to residents. They have a well stocked bar and library, we spent time there both before and after dinner. A great place to spend the evening. Watching the sunset and the lights of the city.
Later that night while having our nightcap the wallaroos came up to see us and we even went outside to spot the platypus.
What’s included in the Wildlife Retreat price?
You get more than just a room when staying at the Wildlife Retreat.
For starters you get up to two days access to the zoo (usually $47 per person, per day). The day you arrive and the day you leave. Essentially your room key gives you direct access in and out of the zoo. On departure they will store your bags so you can spend even more time enjoying the zoo.
There is also complimentary parking. While you can drop your bags off, its just a short walk from the car park. On departure you are given a pass for the car park.
Restaurant quality two course dinner and full breakfast are also included.
Three ‘Meet The Animals’ Tours of the Zoo
On the day of arrival you get to see the wildlife “sanctuary” which the three accommodation blocks surround. You get to meet the fabulous staff who give you an introduction to the area. You can touch a diamond python, see wallaroos, echidnas, koalas, feed eels (yep) and potoroos, all up close. There was also a <I forgot> in the area but they are very quiet and we did not spot them.
On day two we were able to do the early 6am tour. They had tea and espresso coffee available in a keep cup (that you return) with a home made Anzac biscuit ( so good I had two!). Outside the lodge the platypus were out and about, chasing the ducks out of their pond! By the time the regular visitors turn up they will be back hiding in their dens.
Daniella our guide took us to see the cassowaries, tortoise, meerkats and seals. Again all very active before the day visitors turn up. While it was scheduled for 45 minutes we took an hour and it was worth every minute.
Our third walk was scheduled for 7:45am. Which gave us the opportunity to return to our room and enjoy watching the koalas from our sofa! This walk went through the Blue Mountains walk with all the birds, rock wallabies and yabbies. We also saw red kangaroos on the way to the Tasmanian Devil display . This area has been closed off for the past two years while the retreat was under construction and its still not open to the public. The devils did not need much coaching to come out once some food was placed in the enclosure. They are fascinating to see and the largest carnivorous marsupial.
Me Gal – Fine Dining Restaurant
Me Gal restaurant has a spectacular view across the city. The food was first class, while the service is still trying to work out some of the small details. Our group of six thought this was one of the best meals we have eaten and the only way you can get to eat there is as a guest.
You have a choice of a two course a la carte menu with the option to upgrade to three courses. It was hard to choose between the courses and in the end we were evenly split for mains between the WA barramundi and scallops. We stopped at two courses as we planned to head back downstairs for a nightcap.
Wine prices worked across the spectrum from the $48 Tyrells to Penfolds Grange.
Breakfast was also first class with an omelet bar, local mushrooms, tomatoes and more. As we had breakfast after our walk we were able to linger all the way to check out time. As its only available to guests the breakfast is also memorable.
The food heroes Australian ingredients. Whether that is the wattle seed butter with the sourdough for dinner or the wild citrus jam at breakfast.
The Wildlife Retreat Rooms
We choose the wildlife room mainly because you can get water or bush views at plenty of other places (including my own Airbnb). The rooms exceeded expectations. Organic amenities, fully stocked fridge and tea and coffee making facilities.
The highlight was the large sofa at the end of the bed that looked over the wildlife. At the end of the day the koalas are at their most active. Jumping from branch to branch and moving along the ground. All from the comfort of your own room and at eye level.
What’s the difference between Wildlife Retreat and Roar and Snore?
The Wildlife Retreat experience is akin to a safari lodge with restaurant quality a la carte meals and luxury accommodation. Roar and Snore is a glamping experience with tented accommodation, shared bathrooms and shower and buffet meals.
Both offer behind the scenes tours of Taronga Zoo and excellent interactions with the animal residents.
Wildlife Retreat starts at $998 for two, whilst Roar and Snore starts at $648 for two (both using February 2020 dates).
Summary: I believe the Wildlife Retreat represents great value. You don’t need to jump on a plane to have a magical trip away. It’s in our front yard. The accommodation, meals, access to zookeepers and tours make this a special occasion must do.
