Last -and Least - Day in Darwin

 181 leanyer drive, Urban Retreat Hipcamp, Darwin 

We had plans to go riding in the local area today. Unfortunately my body had other ideas. I appear to have been struck by food poisoning, probably from the oysters on the cruise. Had a very rough night last night so the only riding was Mark riding to the chemist...

The highlight of the day was Mark playing his songs from his new album that he is doing on this trip. Sounding good. 

Mark playing his new songs on our ‘bougainvillea’ site at the Hipcamp 

Just a note on the Hipcamp as you might be wondering what one is. In essence it’s Airbnb for camping. So private citizens who allow people to camp on their property. As mentioned previously, this is apparently an exceptionally good one - according to the awards. Here is my brief analysis: 

Pro’s:  very well set up with a pool (small but sufficient), the swishest bathrooms we’ve come across (and with the most rules!), and we have power and water in our own dedicated and very private site. The ‘hip’ bit is shown by colourful streamers and fairy lights, the information about various trees, and a deliberate plan to cultivate wildlife (which seems very successful - at night when I walk across to the bathroom there are lots of frogs and other things rustling in the bushes). It’s easy and quick to book via the app, which is also helpful as some places you need to call. 

Pictures of how the site looked ten yrs ago

Personal box for each site with information

Tiny pool - classified as a dam because the property is considered rural, so no kids are allowed on the camp as the ‘dam’ is not fenced 

Cons: perhaps the main downside is that we are a bit of a way from the CBD which has meant lots of Ubers. And perhaps you also miss out on facilities in a big camp like bistros with cocktails! 

Overall very good experience and would try one again.