Little Valley Farm to showcase La Sierra Alpaca Knitwear and Living  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESS RELEASE

Little Valley Farm to showcase La Sierra Alpaca Knitwear and Living  

Wollombi Valley, NSW – [9 April 2025] – From a shared love of alpacas and textiles, Little Valley Farm is proud to announce its bringing a curated selection of ethically made alpaca knitwear and living to its boutique farmstay and online store thanks to La Sierra. 

Alpaca: A Sustainable Luxury

Naturally lightweight, breathable, and long-lasting, alpaca fibre is one of the world’s most sustainable materials. Beyond its everyday benefits, it contributes to a healthier planet, offering a natural, biodegradable, and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fibres.

Why La Sierra?
Little Valley Farm has always made use of the fleece from their alpaca herd, but local production has often been slow and challenging. So when founders Euan and Daniela met Sophia, the creative force behind La Sierra, a brand that shares their values of ethical craftsmanship, sustainability, and slow living, the connection was instant.

La Sierra offers a direct link to Peruvian artisans, supporting community impact through education, fair wages, and improved living conditions. It’s more than just a brand—it’s a purpose-driven collaboration built on meaningful connections.

La Sierra was born from Sophia’s own journey to find something truly special: luxury with meaning. While travelling through South America, she discovered the unmatched softness of alpaca fibre and the remarkable artistry of Indigenous makers who have honed their craft over generations.

Inspired by timeless quality, sustainability, and a slower, more intentional lifestyle, Sophia set out to create beautiful, investment-worthy pieces that resonate deeply with those who wear them.

More than just knitwear, La Sierra represents conscious luxury—each piece tells a story, and you’ll feel that story every time you wrap yourself in it.

A New Level of Comfort at the Little Valley Summerhouse

From Autumn/Winter 2025, guests staying at the Little Valley summerhouse will be welcomed into a new level of warmth and luxury with the introduction of alpaca knitwear and living throughout the space.

To enhance the experience, the summerhouse now features a curated collection from La Sierra—including soft alpaca cushions, elegant bed throws, cosy beanies, and a one-of-a-kind handwoven Peruvian alpaca rug.

These natural, ethically sourced pieces bring an added layer of comfort and authenticity to the off-grid retreat, creating a tranquil haven where the beauty of alpacas can be felt in every fibre.

It’s alpaca luxury - redefined.


Shop Online & Become a VIP at Little Valley Farm

Guests and alpaca lovers can also shop fleece, yarn, and alpaca knitwear and living through the Little Valley Farm online store. 

Visitors can sign up as VIP members via the website for exclusive open-day invitations and special offers.

For more information, visit www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au or contact Daniela Riccio. dani@littlevalleyfarm.com.au 0407 224 150 

### ENDS ###

Photo credit Jade, Heart and the Sea photographer

Photo Euan Wilcox

Photo credit Jade of Heart and the sea lifestyle photographer

Photo La Sierra alpaca beanie and knitwear

The Art of Slow Living: A Retreat in the Hills

A beautiful feature by Jade of Riparide

Adventure in Laguna, Hunter Valley, NSW, AU

Winding our way through the countryside, we took the scenic route, passing through lush valleys and rolling farmland. The anticipation built as we arrived at the most beautiful house, perched elegantly above a tranquil dam teeming with silver perch. Beyond the water, alpacas and donkeys roamed freely, while the golden light of the setting sun dipped behind the distant hills, painting the sky in warm hues.

The Summer House itself was a masterpiece—its stunning architecture seamlessly blending with the natural surroundings. Designer touches were evident throughout, from the carefully curated interiors to the warm timber finishes that gave the space an inviting feel. The bedrooms, adorned with comfortable bedding, promised restful nights, while large windows framed breathtaking views of the countryside.

Our first afternoon was spent getting acquainted with the animals on the farm. The alpacas, with their inquisitive gazes and soft coats, quickly won our hearts. As we settled into the house, we ran a warm bath and soaked in the view, watching in delight as baby alpacas frolicked, playfully chasing a wallaroo through the paddock.

The next morning began with a gentle drizzle, a soothing sound as we slowly awoke to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. We savored a wholesome breakfast before stepping onto the deck for a peaceful yoga session, breathing in the crisp country air. As the clouds parted and the sun emerged, we gathered in the breezeway, where the open kitchen and BBQ area seamlessly connected the main space. Together, we prepared a long, leisurely lunch, laughter and conversation flowing effortlessly as we enjoyed our meal with wine in hand.

The afternoon was a perfect blend of relaxation and fun. We played games, relishing the carefree moments, before settling onto the deck with a beautifully arranged platter. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the golden glow of dusk cast a magical spell over the landscape, wrapping up our day in pure serenity. As the sun left, we lit the indoor fire and cozied up with warm tea, enjoying the flickering glow and comforting warmth that filled the house.

On our final morning, we took a short trip into The Trading Post for breakfast and coffee, soaking up the cool Laguna vibe. The charm of the roadside gallery called to us next, where we browsed through unique art pieces before diving into a treasure hunt at The Forge Wollombi, sifting through old wares and hidden gems.

As we made our way home, we carried with us the warmth of our weekend—memories of golden sunsets, friendly alpacas, long lunches, the inviting comfort of the Summer House, and the peaceful embrace of the countryside.

Photo credit Jade for Riparide

Riparide Photos and story by Jade

Source: https://www.riparide.com/stories/2247-the-art-of-slow-living-a-retreat-in-the-hills

Co-escape features Little Valley summerhouse

Little Valley Farm’s Summer House Featured on CO-escape

We’re thrilled to share that our Little Valley summerhouse is now showcased on CO-escape, a platform dedicated to Australia’s best architectural stays—perfect for those seeking a unique escape from work life. Handcrafted by Euan and designed for sustainable off-grid living, our summerhouse blends comfort with nature, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of Wollombi Valley. 

Check out our feature on CO-Scape and plan your next rural getaway!

Don’t forget to book directly and enjoy special rates and treats. 

Source: https://www.instagram.com/p/DF_KjRVTI0c/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Incidental Architecture Little Valley summerhouse

A huge thank you to Incidental Architecture for featuring our summerhouse! Their article beautifully highlights the design and sustainability behind our eco-retreat in Wollombi Valley.

See the full article on Incidental Architecture here.


It is a working Alpaca breeding farm with some accommodation for guests. This project involved the design of a linear two-bedroom guest pavilion looking North over the beautiful dam and paddocks, with the singular intention of connecting the inhabitants to nature. 

To this end, everything in the project is consciously about connection to, and preservation of, the environment. The environment is joyful, yet also harsh at times. Summers can be hot, winters can be cold. There is a lingering background risk of bushfire as with all naturally vegetated areas. 

The house is small (115m2), sits off the ground so water can flow under, yet low enough below the approach to appear inconspicuous and private. Entry is through a central breezeway with a floor that steps down to the North with view over the dam and a deck which hangs out over the edge. Cool air is drawn up off the water to help passively moderate the temperature. Eels, turtles and fish inhabit the dam. North orientation is an obvious, yet critical move. Large overhangs shade windows in summer and let winter sun into all rooms. Large eaves also protect the building and allow windows to be open in most weather. 

The house is entirely off grid for power, water and sewer. Electricity is generated on site. There is no AC. All rooms have ceiling fans, and there is a slow combustion wood stove in the living room. The house is divided into small zones that can each be heated individually. 

The house is largely a timber building.  A variety of hardwood species have been used according to availability and purpose. Doors and windows are all recycled blackbutt. Feature grade stringybark floors were salvaged from a builder’s auction. Cladding and linings are all in locally sourced White Mahogany. 

Notably, the building work and the joinery was all done on site by the owner, using only local trades where needed. 

One of the most profound questions that arose in the design process is that of what is ‘really necessary’. What things could be removed from the building that may paradoxically lead to greater joy and connection to the environment ? 

For information and accommodation visit https://www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au

Project Team: Matt Elkan, Sam Horspool, Owen Kelly, Lauren Maley 

Builder: Euan Wilcox (Owner Builder)  

Structural Engineer: Mike Jefferiss 

Landscape: Lindy Hulton Larson 

Photographs: Milou Hofman https://www.milouhofman.com

Little Valley Farm summerhouse, Wollombi Valley. Laguna.

Source: https://www.incidentalarchitecture.com.au/13471207-little-valley-alpaca-farm#0

Co-architecture Little Valley summerhouse

In the media.

We are thrilled and grateful to be featured in CO-architecture's recent article highlighting our Little Valley Summerhouse.

Escape - Australian Holiday Homes

Little Valley Summerhouse

A serene off-grid retreat in Wollombi Valley, The Summerhouse at Little Valley Farm, offers a genuine farm stay experience. Designed with sustainability in mind, this two-bedroom stay blends harmoniously with its bushland surroundings, inviting guests to relax and connect with the land.

By Cassidy Kay Co-architecture

Little Valley summerhouse Wollombi Valley

Little Valley Farm is a working alpaca farm and homeowners Euan and Daniela are beyond proud to open up their quiet pocket of the Wollombi Valley to guests seeking a genuine and humble holiday retreat. Little Valley Summerhouse is just about the most authentic getaway experience you can imagine.

The 50-acre farm occupies a secluded portion of the Wollombi Valley, bordered by pristine bushland and Watagan Creek. The site features both bush and creekside paddocks, which are home to a herd of alpacas, miniature donkeys  and native wildlife. The farms main activity is breeding coloured Huacaya alpaca for small farm and acreage holders around NSW, as well as conducting alpaca workshops for new owners. They also spin alpaca yarn and make products like duvets & throws. Guests are invited to experience the down to earth reality of country life in a remote valley with a thriving local community.

This connection to landscape and environment is carried throughout the home, which was designed by architect Matt Elkan of Incidental Architecture and built by owner-builder Euan, with a clear intention of remaining conscientious to the fragile bushland of Wollombi Valley which envelopes the stay. The home is entirely off-grid, reflecting a mindful commitment to reducing both the consumption of energy and water. The home's layout is designed on  sustainable principles, with a breezeway design opening onto a body of water to beckon in cool breezes and circulation throughout the home, whilst deep overhangs and double-glazed windows are designed to moderate temperatures. Air-conditioning is not relied on; there are ceiling fans in each room and the home is specifically oriented to make for comfortable living in both summer and winter.

The home operates entirely from solar power, engaging a range of passive solar principles to manage temperatures year-round, maximising the homes gorgeous setting and minimising damage to the remote and raw landscape it resides upon. Large north-south fibre-cement blade walls help to channel views, create privacy and assist in guiding summer breezes and winter heat traps.

Timber is a key feature of the homes design with locally sourced White Mahogany cladding inside & out. Large feature windows were crafted from recycled Blackbutt and all floors are beautifully finished feature-grade Stringybark rescued from a builders auction. The homes furnishings are primarily created or recycled by the owners, as an added commitment to reducing consumption and ensuring a unique and tailored experience for all guests.

The Summerhouse itself is a simple two-bedroom home, suited to couples or small friend groups looking to unwind in the beautiful Hunter Valley wilderness. The open plan living and fluid indoor/outdoor dining space beckons guests to sit and entertain, whilst drinking in the native sounds and sights of the farm. The entertaining spaces open directly onto a body of water, which is a thriving home for local wildlife including fish, eels & turtles. Year round, the sun sparkles across the water, casting glittering patterns on the homes ceiling. Connection to wildlife is an integral part of the Summerhouse experience, with the farm being frequented by an abundance of fauna that naturally reside in the National Parks and State Forest which surrounds Wollombi Valley.

A retreat with real intention - connection, mindfulness and serenity is what you'll discover at Little Valley Summerhouse. Humility oozes from the inside out, with a focus on promoting thoughtfulness and gaining an authentic understanding of a working alpaca farm, of native wildlife and of the importance of maintaining our stunning landscapes. Guests will leave with a deeper understanding of simple living after experiencing this exceptional retreat in Wollombi Valley.

To book a stay at the Little Valley Summerhouse at Little Valley Farm, you can head over to their website. You can also check out the Little Valley Farm Instagram to stay up to date on all the news and updates at the ever-evolving property.

Read the full article and see more images on co-architecture

Source: https://site.co-architecture.com/escape/little-valley-summerhouse/

Experience a serene new retreat on the ‘wild side’ of the Hunter Valley little valley 'summerhouse' 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

PRESS RELEASE

Experience a serene new retreat on the ‘wild side’ of the Hunter Valley little valley 'summerhouse' 

NSW Australia – New in 2025 – Nestled in the remote and historic Wollombi Valley, the wild side of the Hunter, Little Valley 'Summerhouse' was created for independent and adventurous travellers to experience a sophisticated stay immersed in nature's beauty. 

This new space shows the trend in sophisticated design for the short-stay market, embedded in nature and rooted in sustainability. 

An Architectural Gem 

Designed by architect Matt Elkan and crafted over two years by owner-builder Euan Wilcox, Little Valley 'Summerhouse' epitomises a modern, stylish home with strong connections to timber huts hand-milled in the area. The design is centred around the open breezeway with views of a sparkling pond where fish and wildlife thrive. 

“I have always wanted the challenge to make a beautiful building, and living out here has given me that chance. Over 2 years, I think we have crafted something quite special,” shares Euan Wilcox 

The open-plan living area flows seamlessly into indoor/outdoor dining spaces, creating an atmosphere perfect for enjoying meals with friends or a quiet evening with loved ones, all while surrounded by the captivating landscape of the 50-acre working alpaca farm. 

A Unique Retreat for Nature Lovers 

Little Valley 'Summerhouse,' is an immersion in the serene native bushland and manicured farm full of autumn colour. Guests can witness wildlife, including local wallaroos, friendly alpacas, and miniature donkeys. 

With floor-to-ceiling windows, the interior is bathed in natural light—offering warmth in winter and a respite from the heat of the summer months. The home operates entirely off-grid, reflecting a mindful approach to sustainability while providing all the comforts typically found in city living. 

A Celebration of Authentic Beauty 

Guests will experience what some might call luxury—featuring a sumptuous French cast-iron fireplace and 100% alpaca wool duvets—however the owners prefer to describe Little Valley 'Summerhouse' as a space that celebrates beauty, thoughtfulness, and serenity. 

About Wollombi Valley 

Over 170,000 acres of wild Hunter Valley bushland containing two beautiful tiny villages, 1 hour from Sydney’s outskirts & Newcastle suburbs. This remote and historic valley is surrounded by National Parks and State Forest. 

Be immersed in this beautiful remote area, the wild side of the Hunter Valley, with quality food and stays you’d expect without the mainstream crowds. 

Just one hour from Sydney's north and with an average of 1 resident for every 170 acres, Wollombi Valley is a haven for small farms and nature-based stays. 

_________________________________________________________________________________

For more details, please contact Daniela Riccio mb: 0407 224 150 or Euan Wilcox 0409 988 457 

www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au Back Story on the owners and farm: https://www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au/about Entire Image Library (web & hi-res): https://milouhofmanphotography.pixieset.com/littlevalleyfarmalpacafarm/ (credit photographer when using). Book direct or AirBnb: https://www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au/littlevalleysummerhouse