Wide open spaces, gorgeous landscapes, and plenty of peace and quiet—that’s what being away in the country means to most. And in Australia, there certainly is no shortage of fantastic country homes and villas to choose from when you’re in need of some R&R. Take a look at some of these beautiful country estates close to Sydney that are filled with all the creature comforts you’re likely to need along with a generous serving of outback magic on the side.
Seidler House
Set on the edge of a rugged rock escarpment and blessed with unparalleled views of the Southern Highlands, Seidler House is a place where you can relax into the country life. And yet, you’re just 90 minutes from the centre of Sydney. This architecturally designed home features three bedrooms, large balconies and viewing decks, and an outdoor swimming pool. Blending modern comforts and functional, spacious living areas, Seidler House is bound to be a favourite escape from the city.
Loggerheads Homestead
With 220 acres of vineyards, orchards, and an established Paul Bangay garden on your doorstep, Loggerheads Homestead is your luxurious base for exploring the delights of the Hunter Valley wine region. Offering an impressive seven-bedroom residence with spectacular views as well as multiple outdoor and indoor entertaining areas, this property is a haven for weary city dwellers. It also features a heated swimming pool, a state-of-the-art stone kitchen, and cooled wine cellar.
The Residence
The Residence is as grand as it is luxurious and a stay here is bound to leave you feeling refreshed and renewed. Nestled within 5 acres of landscaped gardens, on the New South Wales Central Coast, this amazing holiday home is the perfect spot to get away from the city. It’s only 90 minutes from Sydney CBD, making it an ideal escape for the weekend. Enjoy the nearby beaches of Terrigal and Wamberal, or choose to stay within the property and spend the day swimming in the pool, playing tennis, or sharing stories in the heated spa. With 6 bedrooms in this home, there’s enough space for everyone.
Whitevale Estate
Escape the city with friends or family and head to the picturesque Hunter Valley and into the luxurious country retreat of Whitevale Estate. This ultimate Hamptons-meets-Hunter-Valley holiday home boasts seven bedrooms, a large pavilion and in-ground swimming pool, a fully equipped kitchen, and a games room. Partake in the bounty of the Hunter Valley by visiting nearby world-class wineries, concert venues, national parks, and quaint shops for some cultural and retail therapy.
Wilburra
In Australia’s Kangaroo Valley, 40 hectares of private bushland is filled with kangaroos, wallabies, and other native wildlife. This is the setting for Wilburra, a stylish and modern retreat designed for travellers with discerning taste and a penchant for the outdoors. Here you can enjoy golfing or horseback riding, or spend the day strolling through the quaint shops in the town centre. Guests can also head to the nearby beach, swim in the pool, meander through the gardens, or simply savour home cooked meals in the spacious indoor and outdoor areas.
Degen Estate
Take a break in Australia’s oldest wine country and breathe in the fresh air at the luxurious 9-bedroom holiday retreat of Degen Estate. Stepping into this Hunter Valley home, which accommodates up to 20 guests, allows you to unwind in complete luxury. Settle in the main house or either of the two cottages before reconvening at the fully equipped kitchen for some snacks, or the pool and terrace alfresco dining area. An onsite cellar door means you don’t have to travel far to savour the region’s wine offerings.
Hunter Valley Lodge & Retreat
Your cabin in the wilderness just got upgraded. This beautiful and private retreat in Hunter Valley is set on 11 acres of land and manicured gardens and boasts 11 bedrooms. Rugged and rustic, the lodge is reminiscent of a Canadian chalet that’s decked out with the finest of amenities and is every bit the relaxing retreat. Enjoy the views from the sundeck and the swimming pool, or play a game of Bocce, croquet, or outdoor chess on the expansive lawn. On cooler days, warm up in the jacuzzi, or head to the games room and home cinema for family fun.
Waldara Farm
Rolling greens as far as the eye can see, a rustic but contemporary country house, and a placid lake close by — that’s the scene of the perfect respite at Waldara Farm in the Central Tablelands region. Here, the air is fresh, the two guest houses are bright and comfy, and the large living areas and vast gardens are perfect for celebrating milestones with the family. Spend your time whipping up meals in the gourmet kitchen (if you feel like that on your holidays) or swapping stories with family and friends on the shaded verandah. Then, after a day of activities, retire into your private master suite with a luxe queen bed and ensuite bathroom.
Bonn Abbey
Relax and reconnect in one of the Hunter Valley’s premier accommodations. Sitting secluded on a stretch of verdant plains, the property commands spectacular views of the pristine gardens and surrounding wilderness. Wine lovers will rejoice as they explore the many world-class wineries and vineyards in the region whilst enjoying the gourmet offerings of nearby restaurants. Back at Bonn Abbey, rest in one of the 4 luxury bedrooms and soak in the clawfoot tub. Or plonk down in the spacious open-plan living and dining areas, which feature a magnificent open fire, a 50-inch plasma TV with an entertainment system, and a large oak dining table.
Millfield Homestead
Sometimes all you need is the quiet expanse of the country and the ample views of the sky to daydream and unwind. Located on 5 private acres in the breathtaking Hunter Valley, Millfield Homestead is a fantastic estate that will take your mind off the stresses of the city. Go visit some of the best cellar doors in the region, or dine in one of the acclaimed restaurants in Pokolbin. In between your trips, relax on the verandah or by the fireplace with a good book or take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool.
These luxurious country homes are perfectly suited for family get-togethers and milestone occasions. Which one would you choose to stay in?
Mat Lewis is Co-Founder & CEO of View Retreats. View Retreats is a boutique travel agency featuring handpicked, luxury accommodation across Australia & New Zealand.
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