Planning accommodation for a large family reunion or group getaway can be harder than it sounds.

Many venues claim they welcome groups, but in reality people often end up spread across cabins, hotel rooms or different buildings — which means far less time actually spent together.

For most groups, the goal is simple: being in one place where everyone can reconnect, share meals and create memories.

After hosting hundreds of groups at Berrima Retreat, we’ve seen what works best when choosing accommodation for 20–50+ guests.

What Works Best for Large Group Accommodation

When planning accommodation for a large group, the most successful stays usually include:

• Exclusive use of the venue

• Space for everyone to stay together

• Plenty of onsite activities for all ages

• Comfortable sleeping arrangements for 20–50+ guests

• Shared dining and social areas where everyone gathers

These factors often make the difference between a group simply staying somewhere and a group having a truly memorable experience together.

1. Choose a Venue Where Your Group Stays Together

One of the biggest frustrations with typical accommodation is how groups are divided.

Hotels, motels and cabin parks usually place people in separate rooms or buildings. Families end up scattered, social time becomes limited, and people often only see each other occasionally instead of sharing the experience together.

For events like family reunions, milestone birthdays, weddings, church retreats or corporate gatherings, the experience is completely different when everyone stays within one private venue.

Large group properties that provide exclusive use allow everyone to gather around the same dining table, play games together, watch movies, and enjoy shared experiences throughout the stay.

2. Look for Exclusive Use (No Other Guests)

One of the most common questions large groups ask is whether they will be sharing the property with other guests.

Many accommodation providers accept group bookings but still host multiple unrelated groups at the same time. That means shared facilities, strangers onsite and far less privacy.

At Berrima Retreat, groups frequently say the biggest reason they choose the property is simple:

“Your group has the entire Mansion and Retreat exclusively to yourselves.”

There are no other guests onsite, which means:

• Complete privacy

• No shared facilities

• A relaxed atmosphere where everyone can enjoy themselves

For reunions and celebrations, that exclusivity makes a huge difference.

3. Ensure the Property Can Comfortably Sleep Large Numbers

A common challenge for big groups is finding somewhere that actually accommodates everyone comfortably.

Many properties advertise large capacities but rely heavily on sofa beds or cramped arrangements that aren’t ideal for longer stays.

At Berrima Retreat, groups of 20–55 guests can stay comfortably across 11 large rooms with flexible bedding options including:

• King beds

• King single beds

• King beds that can split into singles for flexible arrangements

This flexibility works particularly well for:

• Multi-generation families

• Groups with couples and singles

• School or church groups

• Corporate retreats

Everyone can sleep comfortably while still staying together as a group.

4. Make Sure There’s Plenty to Do Onsite

Large groups usually include different personalities and age groups, so the best venues offer activities everyone can enjoy.

At Berrima Retreat, guests often spend as much time enjoying the property itself as exploring the surrounding Southern Highlands.

Outdoor Activities

• Swimming pool

• Kayaks on the dam

• Bikes to ride

• Kangaroo jumping pillow

• Trampoline

• Giant chess

• Sandpit

Indoor & Group Activities

• Massive media room for movies

• Pool table

• Table tennis

• Volleyball

• Battle ropes

• Hundreds of DVDs, streaming TV and WiFi

This mix of activities keeps both kids and adults entertained throughout the stay.

5. Seasonal Experiences Make Group Stays Even Better

Different seasons create very different experiences for large groups.

Summer Highlights

• Swimming pool

• Kayaking on the dam

• Outdoor games and activities

Winter Highlights

• Gathering around the massive fire pit

• Toasting marshmallows

• Relaxing with a glass of wine under the stars

These shared seasonal moments often become the most memorable parts of the stay.

6. Make Catering and Groceries Easy

Another practical challenge with large groups is food logistics.

Instead of bringing carloads of groceries, many guests take advantage of home delivery from Woolworths or Coles, which can be delivered directly to the property.

This removes the hassle of:

• Transporting large amounts of food

• Keeping groceries cold during travel

• Unloading everything on arrival

With a single delivery to the door, the group can start enjoying the getaway immediately.

7. Think About What Really Makes a Group Stay Memorable

When people look back on family reunions or group retreats, it’s rarely about the individual rooms.

What people remember most is:

• Shared meals

• Late-night conversations

• Games with the kids

• Laughing around the fire pit

• Relaxing together without distractions

That’s why properties designed specifically for large group gatherings create far more memorable experiences than traditional accommodation setups.

At Berrima Retreat, many guests say the biggest takeaway from their stay is simply:

Being able to spend uninterrupted time together in a private setting.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right accommodation for a large group isn’t just about beds — it’s about creating a place where everyone can connect, relax and enjoy time together.

Venues designed for exclusive group stays allow families, friends and teams to enjoy:

• Privacy

• Space

• Shared activities

• Comfortable sleeping arrangements

• Memorable experiences year-round

For groups planning a family reunion, milestone birthday, wedding stay, church retreat or corporate getaway, choosing a private venue designed for large groups can turn a simple trip into an experience people remember for years.

Plan Your Next Group Getaway

Berrima Retreat accommodates 20–55 guests with exclusive use of the entire property.

Perfect for:

• Family reunions

• Milestone birthdays

• Weddings

• Church retreats

• Corporate getaways

Check availability or enquire about your dates to start planning your next group escape.