We spent 3 nights at the Wolgan Valley Resort in march 2011. The resort was created by Emirates on an old sheep ranch to the west of the Blue mountains in New South Wales.
There are 50 or so luxurious lodges built to take advantage of the beautiful escarpment views. Our lodge, Red Wattlebird, typical, with large sitting room with real flame gas fire (it does get cold in this part of Australia in the winter), flat screen TV and piped sound system, a screened verandah with rocking chairs, the usual bar accoutrement and a Nespresso machine (!).
The bedroom also has large TV, and a dressing room which would have Carrie Bradshaw drooling.
If I ever win the lottery I want a bathroom like the one in the lodge with huge walk in shower, a bath with a view, double sinks etc.
And the piece de resistance – our own plunge pool. Just perfect. Each lodge is also provided with a couple of bikes for getting around the resort.
Meals are served either in the Country Kitchen – for lunches and coffee and cakes throughout the day, or in the Wolgan Dining Room with it's wide verandah and perfect sunset views.
The food was lovely, fresh and local where possible – a good choice of lamb/beef/fish, and inclusive wines which the wine waiters don't stint on pouring!
The resort has a spa, which we didn't use, and they organise activities such as wildlife tours, walks and can arrange golf etc. There is a lovely swimming pool with comfortable sun loungers, jacuzzi etc and a well equipped gym, sauna and steam room.
The staff are mostly young, from across the world, and are professional and friendly. Talking to the resort manager one evening, he told us he tells the staff to treat resort guests like good friends of their parents!
The highlights of our stay at Wolgan Valley were the lovely lodge, the incredible views and the perfect food and wine served in a perfect setting.
