Sierra Escape, a luxury adults-only glamping retreat near Mudgee, has been recognized with the gold award for Unique Accommodation at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.
The accolade highlights the property’s dedication to combining sustainability, innovation, and high-end guest experiences in Australia’s growing glamping sector.
Founded in 2017 by Natasha and Cam D’Arcy, Sierra Escape started with a single tent on a remote farming property.
Over the years, it has expanded into a multi-award-winning retreat featuring five safari-style glamping tents, an outdoor yoga deck, and a swimming pool repurposed from a shipping container.
The property is designed to provide a secluded and luxurious escape while maintaining a strong focus on eco-friendly practices.
Cam and Natasha D’Arcy expressed their appreciation for the recognition in a report by TimeOut, stating, “We’re beyond honoured to take home gold at the Australian Tourism Awards.”
They emphasized their commitment to sustainable luxury and immersive nature experiences, adding, “As we celebrate, we remain committed to sustainable luxury and creating magical moments in nature.”
The win at the national level places Sierra Escape among Australia’s top-tier tourism accommodations, setting a benchmark for other glamping operators looking to elevate their offerings.
The Unique Accommodation category recognizes businesses that provide distinctive lodging experiences that go beyond traditional stays, catering to a market that values exclusivity, comfort, and environmental consciousness.
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality sector, Sierra Escape’s success underscores the increasing demand for high-end, nature-based accommodations. As more travelers seek unique and immersive stays, the industry has an opportunity to innovate by integrating luxury with sustainability.
From off-grid experiences to repurposed materials in construction, properties that strike the right balance between comfort and environmental stewardship are well-positioned to capture a growing share of the market.
With its location just 20 minutes from Mudgee’s town center, Sierra Escape also benefits from regional tourism trends that emphasize local food, wine, and cultural experiences.
The integration of luxury glamping with nearby attractions provides a model for operators looking to create a compelling destination that encourages longer stays and repeat visitation.
The Australian Tourism Awards highlight businesses that set industry standards, and Sierra Escape’s recognition signals a continued shift toward experiential, environmentally conscious travel.
For operators in the outdoor hospitality industry, the takeaway is clear: investing in sustainable luxury and unique guest experiences can lead to both industry recognition and long-term success.