Spicers Tower Lodge

With a glass of Spanish sparkling in hand, and notes of apple and citrus dancing on the palate, the sights, sounds and flavours of Basque Country fill your senses. As you relax by the water feature in the hacienda style central courtyard, awaiting your evening meal, it’s easy to imagine that you’re wandering the alleyways of San Sebastian. This unique retreat will leave lasting memories as you indulge in the finest gifts of regional Spain and the Hunter Valley.

In the impassioned tradition of an authentic Basque Country village, Spicers Tower Lodge intimately draws people together in a vibrant celebration of epicurean discovery. With its striking stucco tower and warm terracotta tile plaza as a charming backdrop, here you’ll discover that the love of good food, bold conversations and strong friendships are central to a life well lived.

The grand and palatial Spanish styling of this iconic property – originally opened and operated by the incomparable Len Evans – is reminiscent of the architecture found in the hills outside Pamplona. The art deco stonework, shuttered mullion windows, trickling water feature, earthy brick patterns and ornate pillars all combine to suggest the guest has been transported to another world.

Quintessential Basque pintxo finger food meets a modern, avant-garde thematic in the Spanish and French influenced restaurant Sebastian, and its seasonally based menu is inspired daily by what is fresh and available locally. Whether that’s a winter game and forest exploration of Cod Kokotxa, pil-pil sauce and Berkshire pork, or a summer seafood delight of grilled tear drop peas with razor clams and salsa verde, every dish honours the very best of Hunter Valley produce.

The spacious 14 guest suites are an exotic adventure in classical Spanish regional aesthetics, with soaring ceilings, textured flooring, elegant lighting and thought-provoking artwork. Several suites also feature a private fireplace, while the expansive Premium suites boast a hot tub, plus a separate living room and bedroom. Modern, sumptuous bathrooms feature marble bench tops, tiled walls and giant bathtubs, providing the guest the ultimate sanctuary.

Guests can indulge in a wide range of experiences at Spicers Tower Lodge. Leisurely pursuits include archery, bike riding, reading by the fireplace in the stunning library or lazing idly on the cool tiles of the courtyard pool. Wine tasting in the marble bar area and garden tours take place throughout the week, and bespoke vineyard experiences in partnership with five local cellar doors and breweries are available, including hosted walks and tours, tastings direct from the barrel, and the discovery of exclusive wines.

The attentive, intuitive staff at Spicers Tower Lodge ensure that every stay is a pleasure. Their commitment to the little touches, the small details and genuine care for the guests’ experience is the perfect combination of relaxed Australian hospitality and European passion.