One&Only Wolgan Valley Resort
Just 190 kilometers, or a three hour drive from Sydney in New South Wales, Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa is remarkably accessible, yet feels a world away. The quaint antique and curio shops of the surrounding Blue Mountain townships are all close-at-hand, as are attractions such as the Zig-zag Railway, cable car, Three Sisters and Jenolan Caves. The Wolgan Valley is approximately 26 kilometers long, and varies in width from six or seven kilometers at its widest points before it narrows to a bottleneck of just one kilometer where the Wolgan River cuts a deep gorge through the sandstone. Tall, almost vertical cliffs, contrast with the gentle curve of the Valley floor and a private road branches off the Wolgan Road to follow the river through to the property. Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa is located at the southern end of the Valley, at the foot of Mount Wolgan and Donkey Mountain.
Using world-leading conservation measures, the original Homestead has been carefully restored to its former glory. Encompassing 40 free standing luxury suites, each with its own private terrace and swimming pool, the luxury resort was built using today's cutting edge technology and yet perfectly echoes the original heritage architecture, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the vastness and dramatic beauty of Australia's Hinterland terrain. Recreating the rustic style of the Federation Period, the resort's buildings offer a range of unique spaces in which to enjoy quiet moments with a good book or a drink, or catch up on the events of the day with friends in a luxurious setting.
Wolgan Valley's 36 Heritage Suites are ideal for single guests, or couples looking for luxurious surroundings on a romantic break. Each has a private aspect, offering those it shelters stunning views of the valley beyond. A private pool features its own deck surrounded by a garden of native plants and shrubs, and a spacious verandah adjoins it. Inside, a central, double-sided fireplace of local sandstone separates the bedroom from the lounge. Great attention to detail has been paid to ensure the fixtures and fittings are reminiscent of the Federation period; right down to the last hinge, light switch and glass blown shade. Warm, earthy tones and thick, neutral linens, are complimented by locally-crafted wooden furniture that typifies the lodge's timeless style and elegance. Suites feature the latest in entertainment and Internet technologies, while thoughtful extras, such as binoculars, let you get up close and personal with the wildlife without having to leave the deep-cushioned comfort of the sofa. A luxurious ensuite bathroom features twin sinks, separate shower and bath, while the indulgent Babor bathroom therapies are 100 per cent biodegradable.
An ideal family retreat or two couples, each of the three Wollemi Suites presents as a private lodge. With a large living room, separate lounge and dining areas and two spacious bedroom suites, Wollemi Suites offer guests the convenience of two ensuite bathrooms. There is only one Wolgan Suite and, with a total area of 410 square meters it is the epitome of space and luxury. A totally self-contained lodge, the Wolgan Suite is set away from the main resort, amidst a huge and richly landscaped garden with private terraces and swimming pool.
Wolgan Valley's food philosophy is based on the seasonal, regional, and organic produce of local boutique farms, private growers and vintners, whilst his culinary skills showcase Australia's exceptional fare with such specialties as Ormiston free-range pork, kangaroo fillet and Coffin Bay oysters, as well as a selection of delicious local cheeses. Wolgan Valley's provedore-style Country Kitchen is open from dawn to dusk in the main Homestead building. Throughout the day, it serves a tempting selection of light meals and snacks, with the ingredients displayed before being prepared. Breakfast and dinner are served in the Homestead's spacious Wolgan Dining Room, where the choice of seating is indoors, perhaps by the fireplace in winter, or out on the huge terrace overlooking the reserve during the warmer months. The Valley Bar & Terrace offers guests the chance to unwind and relax, regardless of the time of day. The atmosphere is comfortable and informal, both inside the bar and al fresco.
Wolgan Valley's Timeless Spa offers a huge choice of treatments using only the best quality products and specialist techniques. The outcome is an enhancement of wellness, relaxation and healing, bringing out the inner beauty of individual guests. During winter months, a massive stone fireplace lends to the cozy atmosphere, while in summer, huge doors open to invite the outdoors in. Six double treatment rooms enable guests to share the spa experience; each room has its own changing area and private bathroom featuring a shower and a Japanese-style soaking tub to complete the luxurious experience. For those guests keen to maintain their exercise regime while on holiday, there is a fully-equipped gymnasium onsite; with floor to ceiling windows which present inspiring views of the dramatic Blue Mountains scenery. Although each guest suite has its own plunge pool, there is also a larger communal pool for all guests to use along with a spa pool, sauna and steam room.
The resort's Field Guides are able to offer a variety of inspiring suggestions by which to see Wolgan Valley and the surrounding Blue Mountains region. Guests can choose from outdoor activities such as hiking nature trails, exploring the countryside on horseback, touring by four-wheel drive, mountain biking through forests, or stargazing in the dead of night. These are just some of the many adventures awaiting those with a love for Australia's great outdoors.
One&Only Wolgan Valley Resort is a member of exclusive Virtuoso travel network. Book online or contact our Virtuoso Travel Advisor [email protected] for more details.
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