Why this Blue Mountains hotel is where you want to be this summer
Well off the coastline and surrounded by a fairy-like secret garden, a poolside haven so enchanting awaits — and it’s a find like no other.
Sometimes you stumble upon an experience so enchanting, almost like another world; it stops you in your tracks.
Perhaps it’s a hotel room that opens out onto a view you didn’t expect, or a location that far surpasses any expectation.
For me, it was a recent visit to an 1800s residence surrounded by a fairy-like hidden garden on the cliff tops of the Jamison Valley.
With our room surrounded by songbirds and cicadas that call the Blue Mountains home from dawn until dusk, it was an experience unlike anything I’d experienced in the region.
The mountains have long been a popular place to visit during the winter months, but come summer — the steamy bushland surrounds often pushes holiday-makers into coastal townships instead.
But visiting just before the festive season launched, I was swept up in the mountain air — and given a glimpse into why this corner of NSW — just 90 minutes from Sydney — is a place to visit year round.
Like stepping into another world
Lilianfels has long been a popular winter escape for generations, but as a summer stay — the grounds, rooms, spa and of course infinity pool also make it a hidden retreat to escape the heat just outside of Sydney.
Pulling into the stone-covered drive leading to the main building of the hotel, it’s hard not to be swept up by the towering pines, clusters of hydrangea and quaint reading nooks dotted around the hotel’s 15-acres. And that’s not even taking into account the sweeping escarpment of the Valley that frames the perimeter of the hotel.
Walking through the gardens at sunrise, just before the summer sun bares down in the late morning, it almost feels like walking through an English garden of a private estate.
Filled with little nooks, hidden pathways, ample flowers and stone fountains — there’s a real romance walking the grounds before the world wakes up.
Inside the 89-room hotel, the common areas (which are beautifully decorated for the festive season if you snag a stay over Christmas) has an old-world charm throughout with patterned curtains, wrought-iron beds, fireplaces and sunken bathtubs.
The restaurant on-site, Darleys, is fine dining at its best. With epic views over the valley and housed within the heritage listed, original homestead of Sir Frederick Darley in the 1880s, the sixth Chief Justice of NSW.
The restaurant is a tribute to a bygone era, renowned for its fresh, local produce, fine wines, leadlight windows and crystal chandeliers.
Dining here doesn’t come cheap, with a two-course children’s menu at $65 while adults will set you back $145 for a three-course dinner.
But the feast won’t disappoint, with the ‘Wagyu Tri-Tip’ and ‘Tathra Place Heritage Lamb’ being the two standout dishes on the menu.
Outside, the infinity pool is where you’ll want to spend all your time when the heat bears down and the hiking trails become a little too warm to conquer.
Surrounded by lush greenery, plenty of comfy deckchairs and the crystal clear waters — it’s easy to lose half a day poolside. And if that’s not enough to relax you, the on-site spa has ample treatments for all desires — from intensive facials, to relaxation massages and scalp treatments.
As for the rooms, they are roomy and comfortable with the standout feature being the uninterrupted views across the hotel’s courtyard and outwards to the Jamison Valley.
And if you are visiting with little ones in tow — there’s a Kids Stay & Eat Free package for the duration of the summer school holidays.
For the little ones
The summer season, and with those never ending school holidays, is the perfect time to check out some local attractions while in the region.
Scenic World is a perfect little stop, especially with all that’s happening over the warmer months.
Dinosaur Valley was an epic experience at the foot of the world’s steepest railway, with a boardwalk taking guests through the floors of the Jamison Valley under the canopy of a lush rainforest.
Giant lifelike dinosaurs have been positioned throughout the walk, making it feel as though you have stepped foot into a forest 100 million years ago.
The kids (and adults too, let’s be honest) will lose their minds as they explore and interact with Triceratops, Pterodactyl and a group of noisy velociraptors all while surrounded by the calm, tranquil surrounds of the valley floor.
Tickets aren’t cheap — with kids from $32 and adults from $54 — but the experience can go for as long or as short as you like. Take your time and spend a few hours on the valley floor, or whip through in an hour — the journey is all yours.
A moment to reflect
If you’re in the mood to sit quietly and indulge in some sweet treats, a glass of champagne and uninterrupted views of the famous Megalong Valley — a short trip up the mountain to the Hydro Majestic in Medlow Bath is a must.
The hotel, which spans along a cliff top with unparalleled views of the majestic Megalong Valley, offers up one of the most memorable high-tea experiences I’ve ever had.
From finger sandwiches, to rose petal scones, strawberry tarts and duck liver pate — the three-tiered experience is indulgent and delicious.
I enjoyed the Louis Roederer Premium Pink High Tea Experience, which started off with a cold glass of pink Louis Roederer Champagne, followed by a selection of savory bites — like Pork & Fennel Sausage Roll and a Moroccan Roasted Lamb mini wrap — alongside delicate finger sandwiches, and handcrafted pastries (with the Ruby Chocolate Yuzu Gateaux being an absolute standout).
You’ll walk out feeling like absolute royalty.
This writer visited the Blue Mountains as a guest of Lilianfels and Salter Brothers Hospitality
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