32 Old Pioneer Crest, Berry NSW 2535

With its wide verandahs, French doors and high beamed living room ceiling, South House has a definite touch of Hamptons style. The views, however, are quintessentially Berry hinterland - rolling green pastures, forested hillsides and a big open sky.

Nestled in a peaceful valley accessed from Berry via a pretty country lane, South House sits on five acres with a lovely aspect across a natural ampitheatre up to Drawing Room Rocks. The house itself was designed as a weekender and built in 2009 to meticulous standards by local building firm Strongbuild.

It's a house designed for relaxed living, with a great indoor/outdoor flow. There's a big open deck as well as sheltered verandahs that allow the whole house to be opened up even when it's raining. Inside, South House features three bedrooms, with a built-in wardrobe and large ensuite bathroom with heated floor in the master bedroom ensuite. There's also a large family bathroom. The open plan kitchen features a polished granite island bench, a large pantry, quality appliances and ample storage space. The airy open-plan living area features recycled Oregon beams and a stone fireplace for cosy evenings.

The current owners live in Sydney and have enjoyed their time at South House with their young children, family and friends on weekends.

"We love the open plan kitchen, dining and living area, especially in winter with the fire blazing," say the owners. "Our three-metre dining table seats 10 and we've had many long lunches and dinners with family and friends. It's so much easier to have get-togethers here than in Sydney.

"The master bedroom is spectacular, with two French doors that open out onto beautiful views of a eucalypt forest. It's a lovely space."

"The kids have loved their time here. There's always plenty for them to do. In summer they jump on the trampoline and cool off in the pool, or wander down to the creek and rock hole that borders the property. A hike to the top of Drawing Room Rocks is also a favourite activity."

The whole family has also enjoyed being among the abundant wildlife that shares the property, from Eric the Echidna, to wombats, black-tailed swamp wallabies and the kookaburras and galahs that nest in an old gum tree behind the house.

"South House has been very much a place for us to relax," say the owners. "We watch the sunset from the verandah, tend the raised vegetable garden, and often have our friends over for a relaxed evening. We love the peace and privacy here and also enjoy popping into Berry for some shopping or driving to Gerroa, where there's a lovely beach only 15 minutes away."

FEATURES AT A GLANCE

* 2 hectares with creek

* Three bedrooms, master suite with built-in robe and ensuite

* Large main bathroom

* Kitchen with granite island bench

* Stone fireplace

* Polished timber floorboards

* Wrap-around verandahs and deck

* Swimming pool

* Large water tank