McLaren Flat’s Gemtree Wines unveils plans to install two eco-friendly CABNs

These eco-friendly, off-grid cabins are already installed in mystery locations across Adelaide. Now, a McLaren Flat winery could be the next spot to embrace the CABN trend.

‘Matilda’ is one of five CABNs already installed in mystery locations across Adelaide. Picture: Isaac Freeman

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Tiny cabins could become the next big thing in tourism in the southern wine district.

Gemtree Wines, at McLaren Flat, has unveiled a plan to install two of the eco-friendly “CABN” cabins with the State Government’s development panel.

A report lodged with the State Commission Assessment Panel (SCAP) said the cabins would enhance the natural character of the area as they are intended to celebrate and not deteriorate nature environments.

“The cabins will enhance the appeal of the area by offering a different accommodation type to

those existing in the immediate and greater locality, increasing opportunities for different

types/groups of visitors to stay overnight and visit the many businesses in the region,” the report said.

Each CABN can accommodate up to four guests.

‘Jude’ was the first CABN in South Australia. Picture: Isaac Freeman

The solar-powered CABNs have kitchen, dining, cooking and bathroom facilities.

The report to the SCAP said guests at Gemtree would not be permitted to stay on site on days deemed to be of extreme or catastrophic bushfire risk, due to the winery’s location.

There are five CABNs already installed in mystery locations across the McLaren Vale region, as well as in Kuitpo and the Adelaide Hills.

Guest are not told the exact locations until after they book a stay.

The cabins, which have a total size of just 12sq m, can be booked out up to six months in advance.

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Costs range between $400 and $740 for the minimum two-night stay.

The report said the CABN ethos focused on locally sourced materials, sustainability, minimalism and encouraging people to disconnect.

“Guests are encouraged to remove themselves from technology and enjoy the natural

environment around them,” it said.

“The cabins have been designed to minimise their physical impacts on the landscape and enhance their guest’s appreciation of natural environments.”

The plan is open for community consultation until Thursday.

Originally published as McLaren Flat’s Gemtree Wines unveils plans to install two eco-friendly CABNs