21 luxury accommodation in the Hunter Valley

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Visit cellar doors for tastings, sample the region’s culinary delights and then book into the best luxury accommodation in the Hunter Valley.

Punch ‘luxury accommodation Hunter Valley’ into the Google machine and it will scatter pins like confetti around Australia’s oldest wine region. From classy boutique hotels and family-style resorts to elegant Airbnb listings that bring a new level of luxury to the Hunter Valley, there are now more reasons than ever to put a weekend aside and make the two-and-a-half-hour drive out of Sydney.

Booking a night in boutique luxury accommodation in the Hunter Valley means you don’t need a designated driver. You’ll even find accommodation options sewn into the patchwork of Hunter Valley wineries so you can savour the Hunter Valley terroir in situ. Here’s our guide on the best luxury accommodation in the Hunter Valley.

1. The Lane Retreat

For city folks, there is nothing quite like the spectacle of staying in luxury accommodation when visiting NSW wine country. The Lane Retreat was one of the most anticipated openings of 2023 in the Hunter Valley region. With a little planning, you can make the most of your trip to the Hunter Valley by building your itinerary around the luxury Bimbadgen Estate property, its restaurant, Esca Bimbadgen, and cellar door, where you can book an exclusive tasting.

the bedroom with glass doors and windows at The Lane Retreat

There are 60 luxurious studio retreats.

The retreat on Palmers Lane in Pokolbin features 60 luxurious studio retreats, a luxury swimming pool, bespoke store and pantry with the Broken Back Range as the backdrop.

the pool at The Lane Retreat

Relax poolside.

Address: 409 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin

2. Tower Lodge, Hunter Valley

The newly reimagined 14-suite luxury Tower Lodge beckons in the heart of the Hunter. The luxury lodge was first conceptualised by the late winemaker Len Evans in the 1990s and remains casually evocative of a hacienda under the helm of its new owners, the Hope family of nearby Hope Estate.

an aerial view of Tower Lodge, Hunter Valley

Tower Lodge has been reimagined as a 14-suite luxury hideaway.

Hole up in this five-star luxury Hunter hideaway, with its stucco tower and terracotta tiles, to enjoy world-class wines that hum of the Hunter. While first impressions of Tower Lodge might be that it’s an architectural anomaly, with its eclectic furnishings and palatial Spanish styling, it’s also somewhat of a secluded sanctuary.

a wooden outdoor tub at Tower Lodge, Hunter Valley

The secluded sanctuary features private hot tubs for guests.

Book dinner at Tower Lodge restaurant run by Hope Estate Group Chef Anthony Fullerton (Regional Chef of the Year in 2022) if you want to remain in a Basque Country bubble.

the pool at Tower Lodge, Hunter Valley

An oasis in the valley.

Address: 6 Halls Rd, Pokolbin

3. Little Orchard Cottage

Robert and Sally Molines are highly regarded restaurateurs in the Hunter Valley. And now, in line with the evolution of restaurants with rooms in regional Australia, the couple behind the much-loved Bistro Molines have opened the doors to a cottage that makes for a stylish sleepover nearby.

the living room at Little Orchard Cottage

Little Orchard Cottage is Robert and Sally Molines’ newest venture.

The light-filled two-bedroom Little Orchard Cottage has all the comforts of home just a short stroll away from the hatted restaurant with all the French flair we’ve come to expect from Bistro Molines.

a stylish bedroom at Little Orchard Cottage

The quaint cottage is full of provincial charm.

The cottage is gorgeous, styled just so by Sally and like the restaurant, a love letter written in flowing French script to the surrounding countryside.

Address: 749 Mount View Road, Mount View

4. Emma’s Cottage

If you’ve done your homework, you will have heard of Emma’s Cottage, surely one of the prettiest boutique Hunter Valley accommodation offerings available. Why rush a tasting at Alter Wines’ newly renovated cellar door when you can spend the night nearby in two-, three-, four-bedroom cottages or the five-bedroom guesthouse?

the property exterior of Emma's Cottage

Emma’s Cottage is a stone’s throw from the Alter Wines cellar door. (Image: Bryce Noone Photography)

Emma’s Cottage will take your wine-country weekend in the Hunter Valley to the next level. This luxury Hunter Valley accommodation is a participant in the progressive Lovedale Long Lunch, one of the most popular premium events held in the Hunter Valley each year. Don’t feel like catering? Head to The Larder to customise your own charcuterie board.

a spacious garden in front of Emma's Cottage, Hunter Valley

The boutique accommodation is located on the sprawling grounds of Alter Wines. (Image: Tim Pascoe Photo)

Address: 438 Wilderness Road, Lovedale, Hunter Valley

5. Yarrimbah Cottage

Yarrimbah Cottage is 100 per cent off-grid, making it a haven for the many Australian Traveller readers who aspire to enjoy a luxury eco-conscious stay in the Hunter Valley. The self-contained luxury Hunter Valley cottage accommodates up to two guests and is sited at Jindalee Estate.

the living and dining interior at Yarrimbah Cottage, Hunter Valley

Yarrimbah Cottage offers a luxury eco-conscious stay.

But there are also two additional accommodation options with gas fireplaces for cosy winters, which the best accommodation in the Hunter Valley will always include. Up to 12 people can stay at the estate, which affords 180-degree views of Broken Back Mountain and is an idyllic setting for romantics, families, and large groups. Foodies will appreciate the fact they can wander down the lane to The Mill Restaurant.

the bedroom interior at Yarrimbah Cottage, Hunter Valley

The main bedroom boasts picturesque views and an oversized bathtub.

Address: 140 Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin

6. Vico Monti

A soaring sandstone fireplace is the centrepiece of Vico Monti, a beautifully styled four-bedroom house with a one-bedroom studio located in the heart of the Hunter.

the pool at Vico Monti

The luxe stay also gives guests access to a pool.

Enjoy a good read or a good red while sitting around the hearth, which is central to the home’s identity regardless of the season.

empty seats inside Vico Monti

There are several places to gather as a group for feasting.

The Hermitage Road cycleway curls around the beautiful boutique accommodation, which was recently renovated.

The luxury homestead overlooks the Vico Monti single-estate vineyard that has been embroidered onto the earth around the valley. The homestead sleeps 13 and is perfect for a group getaway.

an al fresco dining setup at Vico Monti, Hunter Valley

Tranquil dining from the patio.

Address: 634 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

7. The Cook’s House at Corunna Station

The Cook’s House at Corunna Station is one of the most delightful places to stay in the Hunter Valley. Although the cottage was originally used by the station’s cook to prepare food for the hungry shearers working on the farm, everything about the historic boutique Hunter Valley cottage feels very now.

the door entrance at The Cook’s House

This historic boutique accommodation has been effortlessly styled to perfection.

For starters, it is kitted out in a very contemporary style that has been fine-tuned to meet the needs of everyone from millennials to couples and families.

a spacious outdoor deck at The Cook’s House

Groups can spill out onto the outdoor dining area.

Although the Cook’s House only sleeps four, there are more beds available in the adjacent country house and homestead. The cottage, which has a wood-fired stove, offers superb views of Broken Back Range.

the living room interior at The Cook’s House

Modern meets contemporary style at The Cook’s House.

Address: 59 Hermitage Rd, Belford

8. Château Élan, Rothbury

The Hunter Valley is known for its semillon and chardonnays and there’s no better way to enjoy the wines produced in this idyllic landscape than with a stay at the Château Élan, boutique Hunter Valley accommodation set amid rolling vineyards.

Get in the swing of things at the resort with a round of golf at the Greg Norman-designed 18-hole course, The Vintage Golf Club. Follow up with an afternoon of pampering at the award-winning spa.

Want to book a couple’s escape? Taking a loved one to Legends Restaurant is par for the course at this luxury Hunter Valley accommodation.

Address: Vintage Dr, Pokolbin

9. Spicers Vineyard Estate

You will feel right at home in the Hunter when you book a luxury stay at Spicers Vineyards Estate. That is of course if your home resembles a five-star retreat. The retreat offers all the amenities you’d expect of the Spicers brand – such as a lap pool and swanky spa – and Restaurant Botanica is just a short stroll away.

lavender flowers in front of Spicers Vineyard Estate

Lavender blooms by Spicers Vineyard Estate.

Order the tasting menu and then sit on the winery’s serene verandah or your private balcony to enjoy views over the valley.

a couple dining by the vines at Spicers Vineyard Estate

Dine by the vines.

The retreat is too cool to keep quiet about. Book a girls’ weekend away in the Hunter Valley to coincide with one of the region’s annual events such as the Hunter Culinary Association Food Fight.

pool with sun beds at Spicers Vineyard Estate

Sunloungers offer a serene spot by the pool to watch the sunset.

Address: 555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

10. The Convent, Pokolbin

The Convent Hunter Valley is hugely popular with discerning oenophiles who return to the luxury Hunter Valley hotel each year at harvest time so they can wander around the estate’s vineyards, help harvest the grapes and of course taste the wines the property produces.

an aerial view of The Convent, Pokolbin

The former nunnery has been transformed into a luxury retreat by the vines.

The Escarpment Group hotel is housed in a former nunnery and has a relaxed feel about it with sink-right-in sofas, vineyard views, and suites that have been set up in a cosy, contemporary style that also reflects the building’s history and heritage. The Convent is also an especially lovely place to stay thanks to its proximity to Circa 1876.

the premier room balcony at The Convent, Pokolbin

Stylish details give the stay a sophisticated feel.

Address: 88 Halls Rd, Pokolbin

11. Greystone Estate

Greystone Estate is your go-to if you want to escape for a group getaway with family and friends. The luxurious property is flooded with light and has carefully curated interiors: we love the soaring cathedral ceilings and wide parquetry floor in the cottages, and the raw timbers and natural textiles in the adjoining heritage homestead, Gow House. While the fireplace works for chilly evenings, the pool is an oasis on a hot day in the Hunter. The property has 15 bedrooms, 17.5 bathrooms, a games room, and about three hectares of manicured lawns and gardens. There’s also a sister property in Lovedale.

the living room with windows at Greystone Estate

Greystone Estate exudes a quaint yet charming countryside appeal.

Address: 617 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

12. Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort

If chasing a little white ball around is your idea of fun then you will find your happy place at Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort, which was included in the Golf Digest list of Top 100 Golf Courses in the world. But the iconic 40-hectare property is also a perfect jumping-off point to explore some of the region’s premium wine producers, such as Audrey Wilkinson, Brokenwood, Pokolbin Estate, Tamburlaine and Roche Estate.

a living room with a fireplace at Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort

Guests have access to various communal spaces at Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort.

In addition to the golf course and country club, there are two bars, two restaurants, three pools and two tennis courts. You will find the one-, two- and three-bedroom villas set against a stunning backdrop of the Broken Back Mountain Range.

a cosy bedroom with balcony at Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort

The oversized villas feature private balconies overlooking the golf course.

Address: 15 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin

13. Voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has installed Tesla charging stations in the car parks of all of its Crowne Plaza hotels in Australia and New Zealand, which makes the voco Kirkton Park hotel a popular detour for drivers of electric vehicles. Recharge yourself in the pool or voco spa or over dinner at Locavore, where the menu follows the seasons.

The hotel is in Pokolbin and overlooks the Broken Back Range and surrounding countryside, which changes colour with the light and the seasons.

Address: 336 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin

14. Anita’s at the Vines

Anita’s at the Vines was one of the first Airbnb properties on offer in the Hunter Valley. And it proved so popular that its interior decorator owner Anita Ellis added Pollyanna and Nomad’s Nest to her listing. The charming country stays are perfect for couples or wine lovers looking for luxury Hunter Valley accommodation that has a bit of personality.

The main bedroom at Pollyanna Airbnb Hunter Valley

Pollyanna blends charm with personality.

While Pollyanna is one of the prettiest Airbnbs to add to your wish list when on a winery weekend, Nomad’s Nest is a favourite for those looking for something a bit quirky. The accommodation is housed within an old Nissen Hut, a prefabricated steel structure originally used by the military as barracks. It sleeps four guests and has a large backyard.

the bedroom at Nomad's Nest in Anita’s at the Vines

Nomad’s Nest is housed within an old Nissen Hut for a quirkier stay.

15. Wild Edge Retreat

So you’re searching for accommodation in the Hunter Valley for a special occasion? Want to spend long evenings around the fire with your new flame? Wild Edge Retreat is couples’ only accommodation that is as far away from the everyday as it gets. In fact, we’d recommend doing a tour of the wineries before checking in so you can flop and drop here and drink in your surrounds. Each of the four pavilions has a pool and spa and is designed with privacy in mind on the edge of the Wollombi wilderness. Oh, and there’s no need for range anxiety: there are Tesla charging stations onsite.

Address: 260 Craft Rd, Wollombi

16. Rydges Resort Hunter Valley

One of the greatest luxuries at the Rydges Resort Hunter Valley is the fact it’s located in Lovedale. The fact the four-star hotel is family-friendly also earns it a few brownie points.

the lounge of Rydges Hunter Valley

The hotel ambience evokes contemporary and country-chic.

It’s near to wineries for the adults, has a waterpark for the kids, and an 18-hole golf course and spa to help you reset and rejuvenate. Book a double room with pool access for its open-air terrace furnished with sun loungers. Or book the two-bedroom villa so you can self-cater in the kitchenette. In addition to the swimming pool, there’s a restaurant, bar and gym onsite at the 414-room resort.

one of the rooms at Rydges Hunter Valley

Bed down in one of the contemporary rooms with pool access.

Address: 430 Wine Country Dr, Lovedale

17. The William Arnott Hotel, Morpeth

The William Arnott Hotel is a slice of authentic Australian history in Morpeth, on the fringes of the Hunter Valley. While the walls of The Historic Arnott Bakehouse display old signs and artefacts from the former Arnott’s factory, where Australia’s favourite biscuit brand began, the rooms in the boutique hotel are pared-back and contemporary, befitting of a hotel that ranks on our listicle of Unique Places to Stay in NSW.

the Morpeth sourdough in Arnott Bakehouse

The Historic Arnott Bakehouse is home to Morpeth sourdough.

Start the evening with dinner at Boydell’s before retreating back to your SAO Suite for a Tim-Tam slam dessert. The bakehouse is now home to Morpeth sourdough, where you can join an artisan baking class.

Address: 148 Swan St, Morpeth

18. Estate Tuscany

Sit on your breezy patio overlooking the rolling hills of the Hunter and fantasise about your next trip to Tuscany. Estate Tuscany has a lot of hotel features worth noting, not least of which is the fact it presents the ideal location for a wedding in the Hunter Valley.

Whatever the occasion, Estate Tuscany is sitting pretty in the foothills of the Broken Back ranges in Pokolbin and offers a multitude of reasons to stay and play. Take a cooking class, burn along the Hermitage bike track or dine in the vines at The Mill restaurant. Take up the offer of a Tulloch Wine Package and you’ll be going home with six bottles of premium Hunter wine.

Address: Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin

19. Elysia Wellness Retreat

Long bush walks, yoga, meditation, massage, nourishing meals. This Hunter Valley wellness retreat offers a range of programs and packages designed for personal development.

the balcony overlooking the sunset at Elysia Wellness Retreat

Elysia Wellness Retreat boasts scenic views over the valley.

Whether you want to reset your circadian rhythms or start an exercise program in a safe, friendly space, Elysia Wellness Retreat is designed to help you be the best version of yourself.

a group doing an exercise program at Elysia Wellness Retreat

A range of wellness sessions are on offer.

Choose from a range of low- and high-intensity activities, from Pilates to fitball, bocce and tai chi, designed to promote wellness and wellbeing. The minimum stay at the resort is three nights which is ample time to restock your stores of cheerfulness at the restaurant, relaxation lounge, and resort-style pool.

the pool at Elysia Wellness Retreat

The retreat pool offers a quiet space to relax.

There is also a range of day spa experiences you can book in the Hunter Valley if a three-day retreat isn’t quite right for you.

an aerial view of Elysia Wellness Retreat

Elysia Wellness Retreat from above.

Address: 165 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin

20. Casa La Vina Pokolbin

Sante Fe in the state of New Mexico is a long way from Pokolbin. But somehow this Pokolbin ponderosa doesn’t feel out of place. And in fact, the pueblo-style Casa La Vina villas make for a carefree base where relaxation and escapism are the name of the game.

a jacuzzi at Casa La Vina

 Casa La Vina features a private jacuzzi. (Image: Muse Photography)

While there are a number of fantastic luxury places to stay in the Hunter Valley, the beauty of this couples’ retreat is its tranquil bush setting. It’s also right in position, just minutes from some of the major concert venues and best places to eat and drink in the Hunter. The Grand Spa Villa is the go for a romantic escape to the Hunter as it features an outdoor spa and indoor gas log fire.

the bedroom at Casa La Vina

Check into the Pueblo-style Casa La Vina villas. (Image: Muse Photography)

Address: 657 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

21. Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens

The No. 1 reason people visit the Hunter Valley is to sip and sample wine. But there’s plenty more on offer in addition to the vineyards and rolling hills. Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens caters to all comers, not just those into a weekend of wineries. Yes, it’s in the heart of NSW’s wine country.

the outdoor setting at Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens

Well-manicured gardens surround the property.

And while it’s not over-the-top luxe, the resort has had a soft refurbishment and is a great launching pad from which to experience the best things to do in the Hunter Valley.

the bathroom inside the family room at Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens

The family suite has a separate bath and shower.

Book a hot air balloon ride. Dine at a hatted restaurant. Pick up gourmet provisions and a few bottles of plonk. And take a stroll around the resort’s theme park gardens.

the pool at Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens

Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens features a large pool.

Address: Cnr Broke And, McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

For more insider tips and must-do experiences, read our Hunter Valley travel guide.
Carla Grossetti avoided accruing a HECS debt by accepting a cadetship with News Corp. at the age of 18. After completing her cadetship at The Cairns Post Carla moved south to accept a position at The Canberra Times before heading off on a jaunt around Canada, the US, Mexico and Central America. During her career as a journalist, Carla has successfully combined her two loves – of writing and travel – and has more than two decades experience switch-footing between digital and print media. Carla’s CV also includes stints at delicious., The Sydney Morning Herald, and The Australian, where she specialises in food and travel. Carla also based herself in the UK where she worked at Conde Nast Traveller, and The Sunday Times’ Travel section before accepting a fulltime role as part of the pioneering digital team at The Guardian UK. Carla and has been freelancing for Australian Traveller for more than a decade, where she works as both a writer and a sub editor.
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A Hunter Valley stay with lakeside views, wine and a gourmet pantry

    By Katie Carlin
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    The Lane Retreat gives guests VIP access to two of the region’s best wineries, an award-winning restaurant, an alfresco pizzeria, and an onsite gourmet pantry for a foodie-fuelled weekend that is low on fuss and big on value.

    I’m watching kangaroos graze in the last light of day from the deck of my Lakeview Studio at The Lane Retreat, wine in hand. I arrived a couple of hours earlier with my husband for a two-night stay at the Hunter Valley’s newest winery accommodation.

    I’ve been travelling to the Hunter Valley wine region for over 20 years, and I would like to think I’m well-versed in how to do it well, but one thing I’ve found it has often lacked is access to diverse accommodation options. That’s been slowly changing in recent years with the opening of unique affordable glamping sites, luxury stays in renovated vintage train carriages, and the new five-star-plus hotel planned for Ben Ean Estate.

    The 60 lakeside studios scattered alongside the historic Palmers Lane vineyard at The Lane Retreat are the newest addition to the region, and I’ve heard nothing but good things since it first welcomed guests at the end of 2023. Now, I finally get to test it out firsthand.

    Location

    Aerial view of The Lane Retreat in Hunter Valley

    The studio retreats are nestled between vineyards and a lake with the Broken Back Range as its backdrop.

    Located on one of Bimbadgen’s award-winning vineyards on Palmers Lane in Pokolbin, The Lane Retreat claims the craggy mountain peaks of Broken Back Range as its backdrop, a picture-perfect lake frequented by paddling ducks and elegant black swans, plus kangaroos can easily be spotted bounding through the vineyards and grazing around the retreat. It’s an eight-minute drive to Polkolbin Village and is perfectly positioned for a visit to any of the region’s 90-plus wineries.

    Style and character

    External view of The Lane Retreat studios

    The design of the studio retreats reflects the beauty of the environment from every angle.

    The eco-conscious charcoal cabins (they’re fitted with solar panels and run on tank water) are designed to optimise access to the natural beauty of the property through the use of glass in the floor-to-ceiling windows, doors and panels. From the outside, the reflection of the mountains, vineyard and sky gives the illusion that the studios are blending into their surroundings. While inside, we’re treated to unbeatable Hunter Valley views – sunset and sunrise offer primetime entertainment. The 60 studio retreats, owned by the Mulpha Group, were originally built to offer onsite accommodation to complement the Bimbadgen Palmers Lane wedding venue. And if you’re lucky enough to be staying during a wedding, it makes for a lovely vibe on arrival, as the high energy and excitement of wedding guests are palpable.

    Facilities and services

    Bimbadgen Estate in the Hunter Valley

    A free door-to-door shuttle service is provided to guests.

    A complimentary door-to-door shuttle service transports guests between the group’s cellar doors for tastings and dinner reservations. A service we make use of on the first night of our stay for an early evening Signature Tasting at Bimbadgen Estate, followed by dinner at the winery’s pizzeria that connects to the tasting room via the Tuscan courtyard. It was such a treat not to force one of us to be the designated driver or pay extra for a shuttle service. While we also had access to the shuttle between Emma’s Cottage and the accommodation the next day, I decided I’d prefer to drive us, but booked the free service again for dinner that night at Esca back at Bimbadgen Estate.

    A gourmet platter with goods from the Pantry at Lane Retreat

    Pick up all manner of delicious supplies from the gourmet pantry onsite to enjoy back in your room.

    It’s a five-minute stroll to The Pantry for a barista-made espresso coffee in the morning. But it’s also perfect for picking up a bottle of wine, beer, mixers, soft drinks or Night Merchant gin. There’s a range of snacks, including lollies and chips, as well as locally made treats like Cocoa Nibs chocolates and all the provisions needed to make a delicious cheese platter. I enjoyed browsing the homewares and gifts for sale, too.

    View of the heated pool at The Lane Retreat

    Pack swimmers to enjoy the heated pool all year round.

    There is a heated swimming pool (that I wasn’t brave enough to use during my visit) at the heart of the retreat, and the metal water bottles supplied in your room can be refilled here with cold filtered water.

    The room

    Interior of Studio Retreat at The Lane Retreat in the Hunter Valley

    The king-sized AH Beard mattress provides unbeatable comfort.

    We stayed at No. 32 in a Lakeview Studio Retreat, and when it comes to standout features, I’m torn between the bathroom and the bed. The double showers with two rain shower heads are an indulgent touch given the size of the studio room, as are the double vanities, heated towel rails and toiletries by Melbourne natural skincare company Hunter Lab. The AH Beard king-sized mattress was extremely comfortable. Rarely do I prefer a hotel bed over my own, but this one delivered.

    Bathrooms of studio retreats at The Lane Retreat

    Oversized bathrooms are a much-appreciated indulgence.

    Soothing greens and terracotta feature heavily throughout the interiors – from the art to soft furnishings and the sofa. There is also a dining table for two and a kitchenette that includes a fridge, microwave, coffee machine and kettle, as well as all the basics: cutlery, mugs, plates, bowls and glassware.

    Food and drink

    Breakfast provisions at The Lane Retreat

    Delicious breakfast provisions are left for guests in the kitchenette.

    There is no onsite restaurant, but The Pantry provides the perfect walkable option for snacks, coffee and drinks. Breakfasts are also taken care of with gourmet breakfast hampers included. We had Brookfarm muesli topped with Paris Creek Farms organic blueberry yoghurt, fresh sourdough with jams and butter and cold-pressed juice and milk.

    Pizzeria at Bimbadgen Estate

    Wood-fired pizzas are pumped out to happy customers in the Tuscan courtyard.

    Bimbadgen Estate has two dining options: the award-winning flagship restaurant, Esca, and a pizzeria. The estate is a short drive away (make use of the free shuttle service) and we dined at both during our stay. The pizzas were cooked to doughy perfection and a glass of the 2019 Signature Shiraz paired with it beautifully.

    Dessert from the autumn menu at Esca

    The menu at Esca changes with the seasons. (Image: Katie Carlin)

    Esca Bimbadgen delivered one of the best meals I’ve had in the Hunter. The award-winning fine dining restaurant’s menu changes with the seasons, and you can choose between the Signature Experience, which includes five courses and a wine pairing option or select from the à la carte menu. We opted for the latter and chose garlic buttered king prawns with romesco and capers; kingfish ceviche topped with sesame dressing, tomato water, strawberries and bonito flakes; and shared rosé panna cotta with candied pastry, rhubarb and macerated strawberries for dessert.

    The gourmet platters at Emma's Cottage

    Build your own gourmet platter to enjoy alongside a tasting at Emma’s Cottage. (Image: Katie Carlin)

    Emma’s Cottage, Bimbadgen’s other cellar door, serves up a build-your-own grazing platter to dine in or take away. The menu features Binnorie Cheese, salumi tuffle, Hunter Valley Foods quince paste, Pepe Sayo butter, Mount Zero mixed olives, as well as fresh baguettes, crackers, chutneys and more. But I’d recommend staying and enjoying your platter with a tasting of the Alter Wines, Bimbadgen’s alter ego; here, the winemakers get to be a bit more experimental with what they produce, with excellent results.

    Does The Lane Retreat have access for guests with disabilities?

    Yes. The Studio Retreat – Accessible features a fully accessible room and bathroom.

    Is the Lane Retreat family-friendly?

    Lakeside views at The Lane Retreat

    The lakeside views are pretty even in the rain. (Image: Katie Carlin)

    Families are welcome to book. The studio retreats are designed to sleep two and are more suited to couples or friends, but each studio is clustered together with three or four others, so you’ll be accommodated well when travelling as a group or for a multi-generational family getaway.

    Is the Lane Retreat pet-friendly?

    Dogs are welcome at The Lane Retreat for an additional fee per night. There are also terms and conditions to abide by.

    Does the Lane Retreat offer wedding accommodation?

    Yes. The Lane Retreat can accommodate up to 120 guests across 58 individual retreats. They also offer a Bridal Preparation Suite for the day, and if you host your wedding at Bimbadgen Palmers Lane venue, guests get a discounted rate for their stay.

    Details

    Friends by the firepit at The Lane Retreat

    Take advantage of the winter escape package.

    Best for: Romantic winery stays or Hunter Valley wedding accommodation

    Address: 409 Palmers Lane, Pokolbin, NSW

    Getting there: The Lane Retreat is a 2.5-hour drive north of Sydney. Newcastle Airport is a 50-minute drive from the Hunter Valley and direct flights are available from Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide.

    Price: The Lane Retreat is currently offering The Winter Escape Package, priced from $341 per night when staying a minimum of two nights in a premium studio retreat.  The package also includes breakfast provisions for two people, a bottle of Bimbadgen Shiraz, a S’mores Kit to toast by the outdoor fire pit, a wood-fired pizza lunch at Bimbadgen for two and a late checkout until noon. The offer is subject to availability, some blackout dates apply and is valid for stays until August 31, 2025.

    Check-in process: You check in online prior to arrival and receive a unique code to access your studio (twin share and fully accessible options are also available).

    Discover the best things to do in the Hunter Valley while you’re there.