From the privacy of guest suites, to the social hubs of the Homestead, the resort's design makes good use of the Valley's spectacular scenery below. The main building was designed by architect Dominic Bennett (Turner & Associates) and was built by local craftsmen. Beautifully furnished, the property exudes a real sense of old colonial times.
The Heritage Homestead was built in 1832 and has been restored with great attention to detail so it appears today as it did when Charles Darwin first visited the Wolgan Valley in 1836.
Restoration work was carried out under ICOMOS Burra Charter Guidelines, which state that the original fabric and components of the building must be preserved and re-used where possible. This ensured the end result retained much of the character and craftsmanship of the pioneers.
The building had to be jacked, braced and manoeuvred back into its initial form, after which then concrete footings and new timber base sections were attached to the old, termite-damaged posts. All replacement timber was milled on site, using weathered local wood of a matching quality. The result is a stunning centrepiece that tells the story of Wolgan Valley through its rooms, and offers fascinating insight into the local traditions, culture and ecology.
Outside, the Homestead's fully restored and functioning kitchen garden provides the resort with organic produce and sets the scene for authentic Australian barbecues with stargazing and storytelling.
The Valley Bar & Terrace is a welcoming area with an expansive terrace to enjoy in the warmer months; whilst an open fireplace provides a cosy nook when it's cooler. Perfect for observing the comings and goings of the Homestead, it's the place to enjoy a morning coffee or afternoon tea with some freshly baked damper, or sip an interesting vintage from the adjoining wine cellar. It's the meeting place from where most excursions set off and subsequently return to at the end of each incredible day.
