About Us
Our Story
Carly and Adam Bussenschutt have explored just about every inch of Kangaroo Island.
Carly is the third generation of her family to live on the Island, growing up on a farm on the outskirts of Parndana. The ‘mainland’ beckoned for school and university studies and employment as an agronomist, before she returned to Kangaroo Island and a farming career. As a prime lamb producer, Carly spent time abroad on a Nuffield Farming Scholarship in 2013 and has travelled extensively overseas on numerous personal trips.
Adam grew up on a broad acre cereal farm on South Australia’s beautiful Yorke Peninsula. A builder by trade, Adam has hand crafted many of the quality finishes featured throughout the Stowaway retreats. When he’s not managing his flock of 2,500 Merino sheep, Adam takes care of maintenance at Stowaway.
Carly and Adam are fun, enthusiastic, salt of the earth types and generous hosts. Relaxed and laid back, they will go that extra mile to ensure that your stay exceeds expectations – nothing is too much trouble. They are passionate about sharing this breathtaking part of the world with you – and letting you in on some of the more undiscovered secrets of Kangaroo Island.
The Stowaway Kangaroo Island concept is an extension of Carly and Adam’s passion for exceptional travel experiences and a way for them to share their love of the Island and authentic Australian hospitality with guests from across the globe.
Luxury at its best
Amid the rugged and dramatic landscape of South Australia’s iconic Kangaroo Island, sits Stowaway Kangaroo Island, the ultimate luxury destination to connect with nature and each other.
Tucked away in a very special corner of our farm on the stunning north coast of the Island, and just a short drive from the covert Stokes Bay, Stowaway is nestled beside Lathami Conservation Park which is home to the rare Glossy Black Cockatoo and an abundance of other native Australian flora and fauna.
With uninterrupted panoramic views to the ocean and headland across native bushland and rolling hills, Stowaway is ideally situated in a central location to explore Kangaroo Island’s spectacular natural attractions and indulge in memorable epicurean experiences.
Stowaway History
Stowaway Kangaroo Island is located on part of a farm that has been owned by three generations of Carly’s family.
After serving in World War II, Carly’s grandfather, along with her grandmother, moved to Kangaroo Island to manage the neighbouring farm, ‘Calana’. During this time, they began to clear ‘Thurso’, the property that is now home to Stowaway Kangaroo Island.
Stowaway Kangaroo Island is located on the final 250 acres of Thurso to remain in the family, after being purchased by Carly and Adam following the passing of Carly’s grandparents. It is a working farm, but the Stowaway paddocks are only stocked occasionally (to manage grass going into fire season).
The Stowaway Concept
In 2013, Carly travelled to Dundee, Scotland as part of her Nuffield Farming Scholarship. It was there that she met Caroline Millar of the Hideaway Experience and the concept of Stowaway Kangaroo Island was conceived. Caroline generously provided mentorship, knowledge and expertise throughout the establishment of Stowaway to ensure that the guest experience is unparalleled
When it came to constructing the Stowaway retreats, Carly and Adam had a clear vision of what they wanted to create: an authentically Australian sanctuary where guests could be at one with nature without compromising on luxury.
The buildings have been designed by Carly to take full advantage of the dramatic views, while sitting comfortably in the landscape. Local builders Kuchel Building Contractors have been engaged to complete the bespoke development.
With natural finishes, contemporary sustainable design and unsurpassed comfort, the resulting retreats offer genuine seclusion and a visceral sense of place.
Stowaway With Us
Commanding stunning ocean, farm-scape and native bushland views, Stowaway Kangaroo Island is a shining example of effortless indulgence.
Offering the luxurious facilities expected of a world class boutique hotel, in a relaxed, uniquely Australian setting, Stowaway is the ultimate couples retreat.
