Reviews of Sanctuary Lakes Fauna Retreat

We really enjoyed the aquatic life (birds and turtles) here. The lakeside setting is absolutely gorgeous and one-of-a-kind. However, the cabins are in serious need of renovation. Very old furniture and a sad-looking, threadbare comforter on the bed. The floor in our room was not clean when we arrived. We really wanted to love this place but it's in need of some touch-ups. Everything was serviceable (wifi, aircon, hot water) - so you may well enjoy staying here, as long as you know what you're getting into.

Deborah and Rod, During our 2 night stay Rod entered our accommodation (with our belongings) with two other people without our knowledge or presence. The only reason we were made aware of this entry and why we left a paper review with Deborah and Rod was because my parents were staying in the cabin opposite and happened to be sitting on their deck, witnessing the entry. Rob calling out if anyone was in the cabin, and then entering without phoning, emailing or telling us face to face is highly unprofessional and the opposite of trying to get in contact with me. At no point prior or during our stay was there any attempt made to contact me about the cabin being for sale and potentially having buyers look through during our stay. We have only found this out after reading your review on Airbnb. This event was a breach in our privacy. Had my parents not been there we would have never known you had entered our private getaway space for the weekend. We will not be staying again, despite loving the location, as we do not feel comfortable or trust that our privacy will be respected.

I stayed here for 1 night only in a one bedroom villa. The instructions as to how I could find and access my villa were comprehensive and easy to follow. My villa was almost at the end of the roadway in so it was reasonably quiet, and I drove past all the lovely lakes this accommodation is known for. The villa was spotlessly clean and nicely presented. A large TV with access to streaming services, you could either sit on one of the comfy chairs to watch or lie on the bed. A small kitchenette with a full size fridge. A nice surprise was finding the box of Roses chocolates in the fridge, and the frozen peas in the freezer...to feed the turtles. The bathroom doubled as a laundry with a washing machine and dryer, not that I needed it but good to know for a longer visit. The bed was very comfortable and I had the best night's sleep. The villas are alongside the lakes that are full with turtles and bird life. I also saw a bat colony over the other side of the lake, far enough away not to be a problem. The location is fabulous being walking distance to the Botanic Gardens, the Urungan Pier, and close to shops and restaurants by car. A lovely spot to stay and different to your usual accommodation with nature so close. I'd stay here again.

The cabins were basic but had what you needed for a few nights stay. It was a spectacular location surrounding the lake which was full of ducks and turtles. The place could do with a bit of a renevation but at the price it was a lovely stop for a few nights.

Not knowing what to expect before our arrival, ultimately we were very, very Very happy with a decision to spend three nights at Fauna Sanctuary at Hervey Bay. Being 1/2 of a couple of 2 nature lovers, we had a great time feeding the ducks, and the turtles with the small bags of petting food that are provided for you from the reception. The general manager Deb had a lot of information to impart on us about the wildlife at the sanctuary and Took the time to explain exactly why and how the animals should be treated. Children would find this place unreal. It's like a petting zoo 247. Being surrounded by nature Was a very rewarding experience for my fiancee and I who both come from the big city. We had a great time, and we do believe that we may have in facan see our first born child together here at the Fauna Sanctuary. I hope you have the time of your life!! Ps. The in-ground pool built towards the back of the retreat is absolutely amazing for an early morning swim!!! JOHN BOSS