Hermitage Lodge, Hunter Valley

When it comes to romantic getaways, there's nothing quite like the wide open spaces of the country, with fresh air and log fires to make you fee like cozying up with your significant other. There are a number of options just a few hour's drive from Sydney, with the picturesque Hunter Valley a perennial favourite. It's an escape which has it all; acres of vineyards, famous wineries, top chefs preparing food at high end restaurants, and plenty of great accommodations. And when it comes to activities beyond those which can impact on your waistline there's horse riding, ballooning, golf, and places to indulge in spa treatments. 

For a boutique luxury experience which ticks all the boxes, Hermitage Lodge is ideal for anyone who enjoys keeping to themselves with the flexibility of self-catering and going out for dinner. Located in Pokolbin on 25 acres of pristine land, it is close to the area's wineries, tourist attractions, and the glamorous Château Élan at the Vintage, including its famed championship golf course. Although you'll feel like you're a world away at this boutique lodge, everything you could possibly want to amuse yourself in the Hunter Valley over a long weekend, or an entire week, is right at your doorstep. It's up to you to choose what to do for your romantic getaway.

The Rooms:

The lodge is a mix of contemporary modern and traditional when it comes to design, with 20 studios, rooms and suites, all featuring a private deck or veranda from which to savour the property's views including the Shiraz vineyard and a lake. Some of the accommodations feature spa baths, while others have kitchens, or a mix of king and single beds ideal for families or groups.

Our room for the night was a Premier Suite - The Bimbadgen - one of two at the far end of the property enjoying sweeping views of the vineyard. It is a two-story property akin to a town house in size and design, and equipped with everything you could need for a luxury romantic stay with plenty of options. Enter the suite and you're in a contemporary open plan space with a fully equipped kitchen, which flows into a dining area and sitting area. Off the dining area are steps out to the natural open garden, with tables and chairs to enjoy fresh air and the expansive views, while off the sitting area is a lower deck with a table and two chairs facing the vineyard; it's a lovely, cozy spot for enjoying a glass of wine at sunset. 

The decor is lodge style, with plenty of rich warm wood, including the floors, plush orange couches, and Aboriginal artwork on the walls. There's a gas fireplace too, ideal for winter when the nights are chilly. The dining area comfortably accommodates six, and the kitchen has all mod cons including a large fridge, dishwasher, microwave and plenty of plates and cutlery. There is Austar, a welcome breakfast pack in the fridge containing juice and locally made museli, and a small bathroom off the living area with a toilet and shower. 

Head upstairs and you'll discover an open plan bedroom with a comfortable king sized bed, a walk-in closet and a huge bathroom featuring a spacious walk-in shower and a range of quality toiletries - you can leave your shampoo and body wash at home. There's no bath, but a major bonus is that on the outdoor deck off the sleeping area there's a large, deep spa bath facing the vineyard with a privacy screen. The bedroom decor follows the same as the rest of the two-level suite, with rich warm wood and plenty of splashes of colour. There's a large flat-screen TV in the bedroom, and the bathroom has beige marble vanities and earth tones in the floor tiling, with heated towel rails. Conveniently, parking is just outside and there's free Wi-Fi so you can post your photos to Instagram or Facebook.

Other Facilities:

A highlight of the lodge is the Il Cacciatore restaurant, which specialises in Northern Italian cuisine and is open for dinner every night from 6pm. It also holds regular cooking classes. Other guest facilities on site include a salt water pool when the weather is warm, and there's also a laundry for anyone enjoying a longer stay.

The Verdict:

Hermitage Lodge offers a Hunter Valley experience with a bit of a difference. If you enjoy luxury accommodations but prefer a very low-key resort, where you can go out as you choose, dine on site or enjoy snacks and meals on your own veranda, it's ideal. It is also well situated to access all the premier Hunter Valley tourist sights. 

(We have a fantastic holiday competition where you have the chance to win two nights at the Hermitage Lodge, Hunter Valley.)