Spicers Sangoma Retreat: The luxury retreat nestled in a Jurassic wonderland

Travel News from Stuff - 21-08-2023 stuff.co.nz

I've woken up in a Jurassic wonderland crafted by nature over millions of years. In the distance, the first soft pinks of the day begin to glow over Sydney. But I feel a world away from that.

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I'm in the Blue Mountains, part of a sprawling National Park that’s listed as a World Heritage site. The scent of eucalyptus is a constant companion, and these remarkable trees are what give this region its name. The eucalyptus releases a fine mist of oil, which from a distance, gives off a blue haze.

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Nestled on the eastern slopes of these mountains, you'll find one of Australia’s most romantic retreats.

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Spicers Sangoma Retreat is named after the Zulu word for 'healer' and embodies that through tranquil buildings, astounding natural beauty and spectacular service. It's a place to rejuvenate the soul.

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The resort has just eight sprawling suites across a large footprint, giving it a luxury honeymoon-style atmosphere.

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Each suite is lavishly appointed, and includes a wood-burning fire, underfloor heating, a two-person bathtub, rain shower, plush robes, slippers, and a Bose sound system.

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The resort operates on an all-inclusive basis with breakfast, lunch, a decadent dinner, beverages, and an extensive mini-bar all included in your stay.

If you’re looking to get even closer to nature, there is also a tent suite, where you’ll feel even more immersed in the forest – without sacrificing any luxury.

True to its name, the retreat offers an array of healing and rejuvenating experiences. This includes the Spa Anise, which is found in a luxury tent. Here, you'll be treated to a world-class treatment while listening to the symphony of the wilderness.

The standout feature is the resort’s infinity pool, overlooking the rainforest, with Sydney's skyscrapers in the faint distance.

The retreat's Amara restaurant is headed by Garth Edas, who was previously the executive chef for one of the wealthiest families in the world, and his skills are astounding.

Each evening, you'll be treated to a five-course meal which is an adventure for the taste buds. Ours started with miniature doughnuts with apple gel and salt-baked celeriac, and ended with perfectly-cooked beef scallions.

Just over an hour's drive away, you'll find , an iconic natural adventure park. It features the world's steepest railway, a glass-bottomed Skyway suspended 270 meters above ancient ravines, and majestic walks. You'll enjoy unparalleled views of the National Park and its world-famous Three Sisters.

The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden also has an impressive high-altitude collection of plants and flowers from around the world – and it’s free to enter.

One of the most romantic relaxation retreats Australia has to offer. And best of all, it's less than two hours’ drive from Sydney.

Air New Zealand and Qantas flies to Sydney from Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown. Jetstar has services from Auckland and Christchurch. LATAM and Air Asia fly between Auckland and Sydney. The Blue Mountains is a 90-minute drive from Sydney or a two-hour train ride.

From A$1799 (NZ$1935) a night, all-inclusive. See:

Scenic World Discovery Passes from A$53 per adult and A$31.80 for children. You can enjoy as many rides as you like on the Scenic Railway, Cable Car and Scenic Skyway. The Beyond Skyway cable car rooftop walk starts from A$349. See ; .

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