Quiet Private Cottage near Manly Sustainable Habourside Stay in Sydney
Welcome to The Rangers Cottage Manly, Quiet Sustainable Harbourside Stay, your peaceful, private home away from home near Manly.
Tucked away in a quiet leafy cul-de-sac, with native bush on one side and calm harbour beaches at the end of the street, the cottage offers a rare combination of nature, comfort and convenience while exploring Sydney.
Guests often describe it as a “hidden gem” a place to relax, unwind and feel at home from the moment you arrive. Many return again and again for its peaceful setting, thoughtful touches and consistent experience over time.
The Space
This beautifully refurbished, self-contained cottage is compact, cleverly designed and fully equipped for short or longer stays.
You’ll have: • Private entrance and your own outdoor courtyard • Comfortable king bed (can be split into two singles) • Double sofa bed for additional guests • Quality linen and a restful, quiet bedroom • Fold-down desk and fast Wi-Fi (great for remote work) • Smart TV and comfortable seating • Air conditioning and ceiling fans
The cottage is designed to feel easy, practical and welcoming, with many guests commenting that it has “everything you need”.
Kitchen and Living
The well-equipped kitchenette makes it easy to prepare meals during your stay:
• Induction cooktop and bench-top oven, rice cooker, hot water warmer • Microwave, fridge, freezer and dishwasher • Coffee maker, kettle and toaster • Cookware, crockery, glassware and essentials • Dining table for up to 4 guests
The living space includes books, games and thoughtful extras for a relaxed, home-like stay.
Bathroom and Laundry
• Walk-in shower • Heated towel rail and heat lamp • Washing machine, drying rack, iron and ironing board, outdoor clothes line.
Outdoor living
• Private courtyard with seating for four • Electric BBQ for outdoor meals • Quiet garden setting surrounded by greenery and soft grass.
Location and Lifestyle
The location is one of the standout features of The Rangers Cottage.
You’re just: • 8-minute walk to Forty Baskets Beach (safe harbour swimming spot) • 30-minute scenic walk to Manly Wharf • 3-minute walk to a popular local café • 1-minute walk to bus stop (Manly & Sydney CBD access) • 10-minute walk to shops, supermarkets and restaurants
You’re also right on the famous Manly to Spit coastal walk, with bushland, harbour views and swimming spots right outside your door.
It’s the perfect balance, close to everything, yet quiet and residential.
Sustainability
The cottage has been thoughtfully set up as sustainable accommodation.
Some of the steps we’ve taken include:
• Fully electric home powered by solar and supported by a home battery • Composting and recycling systems (optional for guests) • Rainwater collection • Refillable and low-impact cleaning and personal care products • Reusable water bottles and coffee cups
Sustainability is built in quietly, without compromising comfort.
Suitability
• Ideal for couples, small families or longer stays • Family-friendly (cot, and toys available) • Not suitable for pets • Strictly no smoking
A warm welcome!
We live next door and are available if needed, while always respecting your privacy.
We warmly welcome guests from all backgrounds and aim to create a space where everyone feels safe, comfortable and at home.
A little history
The cottage opened in 2012 and has welcomed guests from around the world for over a decade.
Over the years it has been described as: “a hidden gem”, “a home away from home”, and “a peaceful retreat near Manly”.
Many guests return again and again, which we think says everything.
The Rangers Cottage has a rich local history, originally built over 100 years ago as part of a small farm overlooking Sydney Harbour. Over time, it has evolved into a peaceful retreat while still retaining its connection to the land and surrounding bush.
The cottage is also part of the childhood home of Australian artist Brownie Downing, adding a creative and cultural layer to its story. Today, you’ll find a blend of old and new, with thoughtful renovations, local artwork and handcrafted details that reflect both its history and its ongoing story.
Natural Beauty
Set beside bushland, the cottage is surrounded by native birdlife. Don’t be surprised to wake to the sound of kookaburras or spot rainbow lorikeets, pelicans and lizards as you explore the nearby beaches and walking tracks.
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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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses solar energy, plus a grey water recycling system and eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
Property Registration Number PID-STRA-17870, 2093
About the area
Sydney
Located in Balgowlah, a neighbourhood in Sydney, this holiday home is near a water park and near the beach. Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House are notable landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Circular Quay and Overseas Passenger Terminal. Travelling with kids? Don't miss Taronga Zoo and Luna Park Sydney. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with ecotours and hiking.
Sydney Harbour National Park - 12 min walk - 1.1 km
Manly Beach - 5 min drive - 3.1 km
Manly Wharf - 5 min drive - 3.1 km
Getting around
Sydney North Sydney Station - 12 min drive
St. James Station - 15 min drive
Sydney Airport (SYD) - 41 min drive
Restaurants
Two Siisters Pantry - 3 min drive
Maroo Sushi - 12 min walk
Effie's - 13 min walk
Effie's Boatshed - 14 min walk
Fish Cafe - 12 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Quiet Private Cottage near Manly Sustainable Habourside Stay in Sydney pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Quiet Private Cottage near Manly Sustainable Habourside Stay in Sydney?
As of 27 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Quiet Private Cottage near Manly Sustainable Habourside Stay in Sydney on 10 May 2026 start from NZ$271, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Quiet Private Cottage near Manly Sustainable Habourside Stay in Sydney?
There is free parking nearby.
What time is check-in at Quiet Private Cottage near Manly Sustainable Habourside Stay in Sydney?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Quiet Private Cottage near Manly Sustainable Habourside Stay in Sydney?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Quiet Private Cottage near Manly Sustainable Habourside Stay in Sydney located?
This family-friendly Sydney holiday home is located by the sea, within 3 mi (5 km) of Manly Wharf and Manly Beach. Taronga Zoo and Balmoral Beach are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We had a fabulous time at The Ranger's Cottage. It's a great set-up, fantastic location and Felicity is a wonderful host; nothing is too much trouble.
Christina K.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 26 January 2023
Thank you for your lovely comments. Always so nice to welcome guests back to the cottage. We are so happy that you enjoyed your time here at the cottage. - See you next year?
We spent two weeks in this cottage whilst visiting family and friends over Christmas. It was outstanding in every way. There is ample space for two people and the cottage is exceptionally well equipped and thoughtfully furnished. The location is fantastic right in the middle of a coastal nature reserve, and the neighbourhood has a friendly and relaxed vibe. Shops and amenities are close by. We found it useful to have a car, and parking is never a problem. Felicity was away during our stay but she was always available to answer queries and made an effort to make sure we had everything we needed. We will certainly stay here again on our next visit and recommend it unreservedly.
Nikolaus D.
Stayed 14 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 January 2026
Thank you for your lovely review. We are so happy that you enjoyed your holiday in Sydney and all the cottage and our location has to offer. Thank you for looking after the cottage and we look forward to welcoming you back to stay with us another time.
Lovely property in a delightful location. Perfect for a couple seeking peace and quiet. Close to the beach and the coastal trail and walking distance from all other amenities. Charming host who couldn’t have been more helpful.
Felicity B.
Stayed 14 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 15 January 2023
Many thanks Felicity for your kind words we are so happy that you enjoyed your time here with us in Sydney - Wishing you all the best with your remaining travels and look forward to welcoming you back another time.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Angela W.
3 March 2015
A perfect retreat
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Rangers Cottage. The amenities were first class with a lot of thoughtful extras. The cottage was peaceful and private with a great location near to Forty Baskets beach. We will definitely will return.
Angela W.
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2022
Angela lovely to meet you and thank you for coming to stay with us. I am so happy that you enjoyed your time here. We look forward to welcoming you back again all the very best from us - Felicity
Felicity is a warm and caring host. Her property is clean, comfortable, perfectly maintained and accurately presented. The neighbourhood is quiet, walkable and scenic. She went out of her way to ensure we had everything we needed and extended many kindnesses to us. We enjoyed our stay and would highly recommend the cottage to discerning travelers. Thank you Felicity.
Linda B.
Stayed 18 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 September 2025
Thank you for your kind words. We are so happy that you enjoyed your stay and found everything you needed and we look forward to welcoming you back to stay another time.
Archival
8/10 Good
Michael and Avril B.
4 March 2015
Our lovely Manly Holiday
Lovely cottage in beautiful surroundings, we had a most enjoyable stay, perfect for a rest full holiday and to recharge your batteries. And with easy access to Manly. Would definitely recommend. Best wishes to you and your family.
Michael and Avril B.
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2022
Thank you for your kind words, it was lovely to meet you and have you come and stay with us. We are so happy you enjoyed your time in the cottage and Manly. Have a great year and we look forward to seeing you another time.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Kate F.
3 March 2015
Fantastic location,self contained,really lovely
My dad & his wife had the pleasure of staying here when visiting in Jan. Felicity is really lovely & welcoming. The place is wonderfully compact (perfect for a couple) & clean. It is really nicely done out & perfectly situated very close to north harbour reserve & just a small walk to 40 baskets beach. The buses to manly are easy or it's a really enjoyable 30 min walk with amazing views. They loved the local cafe & the quiet street. Would highly recommend :)
Kate F.
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2022
Thank you Kate for your kind words. It was our pleasure to have your family stay with us. We are so glad they enjoyed there visit and all the surrounds had to offer. We look forward to meeting them again one day!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Markus F.
1 May 2015
Simply wonderful
We are a German Expat family living for some years in Hong Kong. This Christmas it's been our second time in Felicity's Cottage and it has been again simply wonderful. The Cottage is so cozy and clean, situated close to national parks, beaches and an amazing walkway to Manly. The kids love the garden and the playgrounds nearby. And Felicity took really care of us, letting us feel like being at home. For us, the best of our Expat-time in Asia: Holidays in Felicity's Cottage!
Markus
Markus F.
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2022
Markus thank you for your lovely reivew. We loved having your family come and stay with us and we were so flattered that you wanted to come back to your little Australian Home. Perhaps we will see you again one day with a more grown up family! Thank you again for coming to stay.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
William H.
2 March 2016
Perfect in every way
My husband and I stayed for two weeks in November. Everything about the Rangers Cottage was perfect. It was a complete home from home. Everything you needed was catered for (even beach towels and beach bag!). I would give the cottage 100% in every category - location, cleanliness, layout, facilities, everything was thought of. Felicity was a delight - so helpful and thoughtful. I would recommend the cottage to anybody travelling to Australia - we hope to be back as soon as possible. A complete treasure in the most beautiful part of the world!
William H.
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2022
Thank you for coming to stay with us and we are so happy you found all that you needed in the cottage and had a wonderful Holiday here in Manly. Wishing you all the best and we look forward to welcoming you back again some time in the future.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Cathleen D.
21 January 2016
Exactly as depicted in photos on site; clean, homely, comfortable; all the little things catered for
Felicity greeted us as we arrived at 6pm and made us feel most welcome - a truly warm and friendly person.
The cottage was all that we had hoped for and more - the breakfast supplies were as promised and the cupboards were filled with everything that you require for a holiday away - you just need to buy the food and drinks and all the condiments and wraps that you require are supplied for you.
A lovely beach is within a 5 minute walking distance and public transport is close to hand - this is the best way to get around /Manly/Sydney as parking is a hassle.
Great restaurants close by to walk to, in a lovely bush area with parking outside the cottage and if you ever need anything, Felicity is more than happy to assist.
Homely, wonderful, pleasant and most of all, a great place to make as a base to visit the sites of Sydney or just to relax with a wine and cheese platter sitting on the garden setting provided reading a book and relaxing.
Thank you Felicity :)
Cathleen D.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2022
Thank you for your kind words. We are so happy that you enjoyed your time here staying at the cottage and enjoying Manly. Thank you for coming to stay with us and we look forward to seeing you again. all the best Felicity
Archival
8/10 Good
Liz S.
17 October 2015
Fabulous - beautiful suburb of Manly
We were so glad we chose to stay out of the city of Sydney and enjoy a small suburb in Manly. As a family of four the Rangers Cottage was perfect with all we needed. Its a lovely property and area close to Manly and the Rangers Cottage has been very well thought out as far as what you may need, very impressive. The local buses are wonderful which can take you to the local shops or Manly on the hour and then connect with ferrys to Circular Quay. We did this 4 out of 7 days and loved the trip. The scenery around Manly and even of the bus trip to and from Balgowlah is beautiful and well worth it.
We found we didn't need a car the public transport was perfect for us which also contributed to a very relaxing week for us. 10 mins to Manly and 30 minutes by ferry to Sydney. Felicity's knowledge and guidance was invaluable for us as tourists! Thank you so much and we wouldn't hesitate to recommend your accommodation. The bridgeclimb will last in the boys memory forever!
Liz & Michael, Melbourne
Liz S.
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2022
Thank you for coming to stay with us at the cottage. We are so happy that you enjoyed your time here in Sydney and made some great memories for your family. We look forward to seeing you again some time.
Balgowlah was a mystery when we booked, “sort of near Manly” we thought. Little did we know it’s adjacent to national park reserves and superb little beaches in the heart of Sydney harbour. The Rangers Cottage is a comfortable little self contained residence best suited to a couple but comfortably accommodated our family of 4. Our host Felicity was very welcoming and supported our stay very well. We would be happy to stay again.
Gregory B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 13 January 2022
Thanks Greg and Fiona for coming to stay. We are so happy that you enjoyed your time here in our quiet part of Sydney. We look forward to welcoming you back again. All the best
The Ranger Cottage was our perfect little getaway, it contained everything we needed including a high chair and cot. It is located in a wonderful position close to beaches, walking trails and a lovely cafe. Felicity was a great hostess, very friendly and approachable.
Samual S.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
Thank you Samual for coming to stay in the cottage. It was lovely to meet you and your family we are so happy that you enjoyed your time here.
A little Gem of a property - no hesitation in recommending.
A small private cottage in a quiet suburban area offering easy street parking, situated within a delightful 25 min walk to Manly Ferry past spectacular beaches, and a 2 min walk to a super local beach, great cafe and good transport.
The kitchen is well equipped with everything you would need, the cosy lounge is perfect for a couple to relax in after a days sightseeing. The king sized bed is really comfortable, the bedroom peaceful, warm and has plenty of hangers and space for your suitcases so you can keep the small but perfectly styled room uncluttered. The shower is a good strong and hot, very modern and spotlessly clean.
The owner has given this fantastic property a great deal of thought and care for her guests comfort and enjoyment, and we have no hesitation in recommending this property.
Great little touches which were very appreciated such as milk, bread, and fresh fruit on arrival, not to mention a couple of OPAL cards for your transport needs.
We found Felicity (your host) a very kind, welcoming and considerate person who will go out of her way to ensure you are happy.
D B.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 15 January 2023
Thank you for your lovely words we are so happy that you enjoyed your time at the cottage and found everything that you needed for your stay and enjoyed the surroundings - We look forward to welcoming you back another time!
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Jackie v.
10 June 2019
Perfect for some R&R
Great cottage filled with everything we needed and more. Lovely and warm and private, yet close to so much. Lovely to walk some of the nearby Manly to Spit walk. Really comfy bed and pillows. Well equipped kitchen. Very helpful friendly host.
Jackie v.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 15 January 2023
HI Jackie
Many thanks for your lovely review we are so happy that you enjoyed your time here at the Cottage and exploring our local area. We look forward to welcoming you back another time.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
2 May 2019
Spacious holiday cottage near coastal path
A light, freshly decorated and fully equipped holiday cottage in a quiet residential neighbourhood close to the popular Manly - Spit Head coastal path. We loved the walk into Manly Cove and we stopped en route for a swim at family-friendly Fairlight beach. A car is helpful here, especially on the first/last day if you have suitcases but otherwise we used the buses to travel around the North shore and into the city. We walked up to the main road where the city service was plentiful so it wasn't too much of a problem.
Verified traveller
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
Thank you David and Sara for coming to stay with us. I am so glad you enjoyed all the native beauty the area has to offer and found all you needed for your holiday in the cottage. You had fantastic autumn weather and it sounds like you made the most of it. Wishing you all the best with your travels.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Jo M.
28 October 2014
Rangers Cottage
I had the best stay at the Rangers Cottage! The property was immaculate, Felicity has thought of every home comfort you could possibly need and was a fabulous host. I would recommend the Rangers Cottage to anyone and everyone. Suits families or couples. Situated in a lovely suburb, approximately 25 mins walk along beautiful coast line (with young children in tow!) to Manly where you catch the ferry into Sydney Harbour - no better way to see the City! Lovely walks and National Parks on the doorstep and so close to the attractions of the city.
Jo M.
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2022
Thank you it was a pleasure to have you come and stay with us. We are so happy you enjoyed your selves and found all that you needed for your stay! We look forward to seeing you another time.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Jeffrey G.
14 July 2014
Fantastic Stay in Balgowlah!
The Ranger's Cottage is one of the nicest rentals in the North Sydney area. My wife and I stayed there with our two small children and very much enjoyed the quiet neighborhood, the natural beauty, and its close access to shops, attractions and playgrounds. While the beach was a little bit of a walk, the Manly-Spit Walkway is so stunning in both directions we were absolutely enthralled by the clear waters, friendly people, and mild weather of Sydney's North Harbour.
The cottage itself is cozy, warm, and clean, and the proprietors are excellent hosts. They were in close contact, and made booking and payment for the rental a breeze. In addition, we had everything we needed when we arrived after a long journey, and were comfortable to ask questions anytime during our stay. Considering the ideal location and top-notch hosts, we would recommend this rental to any traveler interested in seeing Sydney, Manly, or the Northern Beaches. Besides accommodating our family, it also has plenty of appeal for couples and privacy for the single traveler.
We especially liked the proximity to the Sydney ferries, the mall on Condamine Street, and the stores along The Corso in Manly. Most helpful was the formation kiosk at the ferry terminal, which pointed us to the bus line along Sydney Road, a godsend after a long day at the beach with small children. If you plan on staying near Sydney, we give The Ranger's Cottage our highest recommendation. Thank you, Felicity!
Jeffrey G.
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2022
Thanks Debbie and Jeff we are thrilled you enjoyed the cottage and so much of what the area and sydney have to offer. Lovely to meet you all and thank you for looking after the cottage for us.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
2 September 2019
Verified traveller
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2019
About the host
Hosted by Felicity Stevens
We are a family of four who are originally from New Zealand. We moved to this part of Sydney 20 years ago originally for 2 years and fell in love with all it had to offer and so we stayed. This is our family business and all the family are involved in some shape or form to make it work. I have a background in fashion and prior to that worked in Hotels. We enjoy welcoming guests from all over the world to our special enchanted corner of Sydney and hope we can make there time enjoyable.
Both Felicity and David are aware of the emissions and waste that are created when we travel so over the years we have taken steps to set the cottage up to create less. We have been inspired by many guests who over the years have cheered us on and taught us about what they do in their homes. We have done the heavy lifting in setting up the home and if you want to take further steps to join while you stay with us you are welcome to but we are also happy if you don't.
We love meeting guests from all over the world and sharing our special part of Sydney with them. Over the years, we have welcomed many guests who choose to come and live like a Sydney local and or to visit local friends and families, and we have had the privilege of getting to know more families in our neighbourhood.
Why they chose this property
When we set up the Ranger’s Cottage as a holiday rental, we thought about the kind of place we’d love to stay in as a travelling family—somewhere welcoming, comfortable, and practical, with everything you might need to feel at home. It’s not a fancy five-star hotel, but it’s clean, cosy, well-equipped, and full of thoughtful touches that our guests appreciate. Many have said it feels like a true home away from home.
We chose this area because we love living here ourselves. It’s peaceful, and we wake each morning to the sound of birdsong. There’s native bushland just across the street and even more to explore a little further around the corner. We often spot wallabies on our local walks—especially along the famous Manly to Spit coastal track, which we feel lucky to have right on our doorstep.
Despite the tranquillity, we’re also incredibly well-connected. You can walk to the heart of Manly in around 30 minutes, or hop on a bus and be in the middle of Sydney’s city buzz in about 45. And at the end of our street, two beautiful local beaches are just a short stroll through the bush.
Many of our guests tell us how much they love feeling like a local while staying here—and we couldn’t agree more. And since we live next door, we’re always happy to help if you have any questions during your stay.
What makes this property unique
It’s not every day you find a freestanding cottage so close to the beach in Sydney—and that’s just the beginning of what makes our place special.
The Ranger’s Cottage is part of local history. Originally the farmhouse for this area, it was once home to the talented artist Brownie Downing and her creative family. Over the years, we’ve heard wonderful stories from locals—like when the park ranger used the cottage while checking on nearby farms. There’s a lot of heart and history here.
Beneath its charming exterior, the cottage is double brick and fully insulated, which helps it stay cool in summer and warm in winter. And while it’s tucked in a quiet, leafy spot surrounded by native bushland and birdsong, you’re only a short walk to hidden local beaches and the famous Manly to Spit coastal walk—and just 30 minutes to the heart of Manly or 45 minutes into the city.
We’ve also worked hard to make the cottage a more sustainable place to stay:
We generate around 75% of our electricity with solar panels and buy the rest from renewable providers. Water-efficient fittings, energy-efficient lighting, and a reverse-cycle air conditioner help lower energy use. We’re phasing out gas and moving to fully electric for both environmental and health reasons. Refillable and bulk-bought cleaning and cooking staples help reduce waste. Guests are provided with composting, recycling, and thoughtful extras like reusable shopping bags, containers, and water bottles. If you're looking for a place that’s comfortable, full of character, and trying to do things a little better for the planet—you’ll feel right at home here.