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Home / Travel

Staying at Spicers Guesthouse, Hunter Valley

By Anne-Marie de Bruin
NZ Herald·
27 Mar, 2019 06:00 PM2 mins to read

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Photo / Supplied

Photo / Supplied

Anne-Marie de Bruin checks into Spicers Guesthouse, Hunter Valley.

Getting there: I was picked up from the airport by Georgia, our host from Destination NSW. The plane had been delayed due to bush fires and a dust storm over Australia. The drive from the airport took about an hour.

Check-in experience: Smooth and easy with no problems and we were shown to our room.

Room: King deluxe room, bed and breakfast and Wi-Fi.

Price: From $280-$490, depending on the dates you're looking at.

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What's so good about this place? Quiet and relaxing luxury, views, location in Hunter Valley.

And the bad: The location is remote but this is something you'd obviously realise if you booked here — you're coming to relax, not to go clubbing.

What's in the neighbourhood? Many quality wineries and restaurants — part of the charm.

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Toiletries: Refillable large dispensers of soap, shampoo, conditioner, body wash and lotion.

Food and drink: Breakfasts are continental or a la carte and included in the room rate. We had dinner at Eremo restaurant, with multi-hatted executive chef Cameron Matthews in charge and the food and wine were good.

The bed: Premium king-size bed, it had big pillows and very comfortable.

A room with a view? The vista of scenic, surrounding hills went for miles.

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Bathroom: En suite, it had a rain-head shower and towel rails were heated.

Wi-Fi? Was free and no connectivity issues.

Noise: It was very quiet at night. The only thing I could hear was the high winds that rattled the window shutters.

Room service: I didn't try room service.

Value for money: Very good value, the grounds are lovely, there's a decent restaurant and luxury rooms.

Exercise facilities: There isn't a gym, but complimentary bicycles are available. There is a nice-looking infinity pool and spa.

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Contact: spicersretreats.com/retreats/spicers-guesthouse

Perfect for: Couples or singles who want to get away from it all in a quiet setting. The location is good for anyone who wants time out.

The bottomline: This is a boutique getaway and is a great place to unwind if you've been seeing the city sights.

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