Fancy a glam country getaway within easy reach of Sydney? Somewhere you can don a cowboy hat and ride off into the sunset, but return to a blissful bed, seductive spa and gourmet dining? Rustic retreat Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa in the Blue Mountains is one of boutique hotel collection Mr & Mrs Smith’s top spots for escaping the city in style.
Imagine a luxury lodge crossed with Jurassic Park, and you’ll come close to channelling the eco-chic Wolgan experience. Set amid 4,000 acres of pristine wilderness, towering escarpments and sun-kissed canyons, this 40-room hotel blends a conservation area with the latest in high design and creature comforts.
Soak it all up from the privacy of your standalone suite, where in-room swimming pools come as standard. If you’re travelling à deux the one-bedroom Heritage Suites are the best bet, but families or groups of pals can spread out in the larger two-bedroom Wollemi Suites or three-bedroom Wolgan Suite. All feature king-size beds, walk-in dressing rooms, baths with views and private verandas. The look is updated Federation style, with soothing wood, stone, leather and natural materials. Killer valley vistas add to the vibe.
When you’ve skinny-dipped to your heart’s content in your own mini pool, wander to Wolgan’s main outdoor swimming pool for larger scale lounging. Then go pamper-crazy at the sauna, steam room, gym or state-of-the-art Timeless Spa. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head for lunch at the informal providore-style Country Kitchen or dinner upstairs at the homestead’s Dining Room, where the menu is seasonal, local and organic, with a wine list as extensive as the views. In summer, head out on the veranda and work those loose linen separates. Rustic panoramas ensure this is a top spot for a sundowner.
Charles Darwin visited this valley twice in the 19th century, so take a leaf out of his book and check out the area’s natural wonders. The resort’s savvy guides will take you wildlife spotting by day or night – look out for the albino wallaroo, a ridiculously cute Wolgan regular. Colonial and aboriginal heritage tours, mountain biking and horse riding are also a must, and the nags at the equestrian centre are top notch.
The resort is located in the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage area, north west of Katoomba. If you’re feeling flush rock up by helicopter (it’s just 45 minutes by chopper from Sydney airport), or drive as Wolgan is only three hours by car from Sydney, also home to three Smith boutique hotels if you’re combining a city stay with rustic play.
To book online visit www.mrandmrssmith.com or call the expert Travel Team on 1300 89 66 27.