The start of autumn welcomes luxurious new lodgings, therapeutic experiences and a sweet delight in the Hunter Valley. Stay in a rustic cottage in the Snowy Valley or a five-star hotel in Wagga Wagga; throw clay on the Barrington Coast; and indulge in a chocolate and dessert-wine pairing at one of the Hunter's top wineries.

FOOD AND DRINK

Coastal fare at The Beach

The iconic Merewether venue The Beach Hotel has officially reopened, after the completion of its three-phase restoration. The beloved beachside venue now offers classic coastal pub fare in the main bar; an elevated restaurant, Peregrin; and retro fish and chip shop, Larrie's.

ACCOMODATION

Contemporary digs in Newcastle

Newcastle is the latest city to get a Little National Hotel, opening in April. As with its chapters in Sydney and Canberra, the Newcastle outpost offers affordable luxury in a convenient location. Located on Honeysuckle Drive, each of the 181 rooms feature super-king-sized beds, wall-to-wall windows, mood lighting and luxurious bathrooms.

Luxury in Wagga Wagga

Just a stone's throw from central Wagga Wagga is the new, five-star St Hugh Hotel. Suites in this contemporary stay offer premium amenities including king-sized beds, custom artworks, rain showers and minibars stocked with local goods. 

Lush lodges

Set within a private bush retreat, the new architecturally designed lodges at Bells at Killcare each boast a private pool and ocean views from their decks. Included in the bookings are full breakfasts and nightly dinners at the property's restaurant, The Wildflower Bar & Dining, a champion of local produce.

Moonshine in the Snowies

A new three-bedroom cottage is available for bookings in Tumbarumba, in the Snowy Valleys region. Located at the Ladbroken Distillery, Moonshiner Cottage overlooks a creek and lush garden but is near the centre of town. With a cosy fireplace, wraparound porch and vintage aesthetic, it's an ideal autumn escape.

EXPERIENCES

A sweet life

Award-winning Hunter Valley winery Audrey Wilkinson has launched a new product, the Sweet Indulgence Experience. With six dessert wines matched to handmade local chocolates from Cocoa Nib, it's the perfect after-lunch treat. Each guest also takes home an etched wine glass and a handmade chocolate.

Seeing clearly in the Clarence

Australia's first Eye Fitness Retreat will be held from 9-12 May, with a variety of activities on offer to help guests relax as well as improve their eye health and vision. Located in Seelands, funnily enough, guests will soak in the serenity of the Clarence River and surrounding countryside while they learn how to improve their eyesight.

Clay and play

Visitors to the Barrington Coast will be able to get their hands dirty at Myall Street Studio in Tea Gardens. A creative studio offering pottery lessons, school holiday clay camps, wine and clay nights as well as workshops in painting, macrame and jewellery making, it's ideal for beginners.

Rejuvenation on the Sapphire Coast

A new wellness space, Safir House, has opened in Merimbula, focusing on contrast therapy (use of an ice bath and infrared sauna together) and lymphatic drainage massage. The chic space combines luxury and evidence-based services to leave guests feeling serene.

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