Hidden from all but the ducks on the dam and the brooks in the vines, the Lane Retreat it’s ideal for a romantic getaway in the Hunter Valley, one of Australia’s best wine regions.
We arrive at the property just off Palmers Lane in Pokolbin keen to start our long weekend of relaxation. We are early which means our room is not ready yet.
We’ll get a text and an email when it is.
While we wait, we check out the large half-wave half-sandstone walls of the nearby barn. This is a popular wedding venue and there is one being created now. we watch the staff as they rush to prepare for the afternoon ceremony.
Check out our quick walkthrough video of our cabin at The Lane Retreat:
Soon, the notification comes that our room is ready. We’re surprised – it’s still early days. But as we drive over the rise, the hustle and bustle of the wedding venue disappears and so does its serenity the Lane Retreat takes his place.
Scattered around the 14 acres (that’s about 10 football fields) are 60 elegant lodges spaced along the hillside.
On one side is a sparkling dam and on the other rows of vines. In the distance, the craggy peaks of the Broken Back Range make up the skyline. It’s a great setting.
The Lane Retreat by Bimbadgen, Pokolbin
Black and angular, with their flat pitched roofs covered in solar panels, these elegant chalet-style shelters dotted around the property look almost futuristic.
However, they blend in well with the outdoors, their low profile and angles mimicking the dark ridges of distant mountains.
We unlock the door with the code that came with the good news that our room is ready early (the lock is very nice by the way) and explore the room.
Our Studio Retreat
On one side we find the kitchenette: microwave oven, coffee maker, kettle and mini bar. The latter is stocked with beers, wine and even some delicious premix boxes using Bimbadgen spirits from Night Merchant Distillery.
There’s not much of a self-catering option here, although that’s not really the point of a romantic break in the Hunter, so.
Opposite the kitchenette is the bathroom, which is very spacious with two sinks and basins, and even a double shower so you can both be together.
The body wash and other personal care items are from the aptly named Hunter Lab, a wonderful Australian brand, which adds a luxurious boutique vibe to this beautifully designed bathroom.
Further into the haven, the bed takes center stage, a huge and incredibly comfortable king flanked by minimalist tables whose bedside lamps also feature a USB port.
At the end of the bed, two low chairs face out the sliding glass doors, perfect for viewing if it’s too hot (or too cold) to sit on the small deck beyond the thick, double-glazed doors.
Also in the room is a small dining table and chairs if you want to eat in or – God forbid – have work to do.
I guess the only thing our den is really lacking is hanging space. The wardrobe is quite small and there are not many hangers, and there are no drawers. Most of our clothes stay in our suitcases.
However, sacrificing a decent-sized closet gives you more space. There’s even room for the lovely Yvie and Millie from Hunter Valley Mobile Massage to set up two beds for the super relaxing massage for couples.
This is a real treat and the perfect way to start a romantic weekend in the Hunter. Recommended.
Around The Lane Retreat
The Lane Retreat concept is all about relaxing, unwinding and enjoying the area. Around the property, there are a few things worth checking out before (or after!) you take full advantage of being in some of the best wine regions in the world.
First, the pool.
Right in the middle of the property is a beautiful Palm Springs style oasis pool with shaded seating if you don’t want to get wet or lay on a lounger.
This is a perfect place to relax on a warm afternoon.
At the back of the pool building, there’s also an ice machine if you want to keep your Bimbadgen shiny and cold!
Less to swim more to explore—and walk if you want—is the barrier. This pond attracts birds and kangaroos, and is a great spot if you want a sunset outside your lodge.
There are also vines here on the edge of the property that have been here since the 1960s. Bimbadgen still uses the grapes from these vines so don’t get too close.
But a picnic next to them really cements the feeling of being in wine country.
Finally, if you feel like some retail therapy or need a coffee, The Lane Pantry it’s right up the hill.
Not only does it have a barista coffee machine and highly trained staff, but an entire room of fridges and shelves where you can restock your mini bar with beers, Night Merchant RTDs and wine.
The main room, however, is a boutique full of beautiful things, from hats to homewares, that are well worth checking out. And if you want to sit down to enjoy your shopping, there is seating outside too.
And best of all, you have some of the best wineries in the Hunter (ergo Australia) right on your doorstep. Check out our posts on which Hunter Valley cellar doors to visit here!
