Early in 2019 we stopped overnight in Loch on our way back from Wilsons Prom. A few people had recommended we visit for its charm, boutiques and delightful cafes and they were right. This tiny town in Gippsland, only a short drive from the CBD, fast became one of our favourite places.

When the opportunity arose to stay at Loch Paper Scissors, we jumped. Or rather, we organised a weekend with my parents who drove from NSW to visit us and together we settled into this spacious yet cosy airbnb on a wet weekend in spring. The weather could have been better but we had no complaints about Loch Paper Scissors (I love a play on words) with its fine attention to detail, blossoming orchard and veggie patch.

The cottage is located a hop, skip and jump (quite literally) from Loch’s main street. And so when we weren’t relishing in the luxurious beds, bath-with-mountain-views, marvellous kitchen or comfy longe area, we donned raincoats and gumboots and walked around the corner to Olive at Loch, Udder + Hoe or Loch Distillery for brunch or lunch, coffee or gin. And when the sun came out and tummies grumbled, we lit the outdoor oven and made our own pizzas, garnished with herbs picked straight from the abundant garden.

Loch, Paper, Scissors is the ideal space for a family getaway, a weekend with girlfriends or  an extended family reunion. It’s simple and spacious with three bedrooms, a large lounge/dining area and two bathrooms. The studio space is perfect for craft, art or photography workshops and the garden is huge; let the kids run wild while you enjoy the pizza oven and fire pit under the grapevine arbour.

If you’ve got kids and you’re looking for an easy getaway, Loch will tick all your boxes. You can literally park the car at the house and spent the rest of your weekend walking around the village; from the amazing kids playground at the end of the street to the suspension bridge and back home again.

But to be honest with you, Loch Paper Scissors couldn’t be more perfect for a weekend getaway with your best girlfriends. Head to Olive at Loch and Udder + Hoe for breakfast, coffee, morning tea and lunch, shop at Smallforest Shop for all your handmade, slow fashion needs and pop into Loch Distillery for an afternoon gin. And then? Return to the house for a lazy afternoon and evening made memorable by the best company in the most beautiful setting.

This year, as we navigate a world very much dictated by climate change, prioritising experiences over consumerism is paramount. And so I encourage you to take the lead for your family and friends; suggest weekends away in lieu of birthday or anniversary gifts. Collect fond memories instead of unnecessary clutter.