Strolling through the vineyards, arm in arm with your partner, fingertips brushing the delicate vine leaves, you suddenly feel a wave of ardour wash over you. Indoors, a crackling fire and an exquisite bottle of wine awaits, and time dissolves as you reconnect with your loved one. Set on eight acres of vineyards, with twelve luxurious suites, a renowned restaurant and rejuvenating spa, Spicers Vineyards Estate is undeniably the Hunter Valley’s home of romance. 

With its very own private estate of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlo grapes reaching gracefully upwards to meet the main guesthouse, Spicers Vineyards Estate invites guests to revel in the best of the Hunter Valley. Intimate and idyllic, this secluded retreat captures the very essence of indulgence, and fans the flames of love, passion and desire. 

Gloriously reminiscent of the French countryside, the architecture is enchanting; the atmosphere refined; the mood relaxed. Exquisite gardens and shaded courtyards provide quiet sanctuary, while the light filled lounge and dining rooms bring people together to enjoy fine food, wine and conversation. 

It’s not entirely a European ambiance however: a delicious breakfast of ‘little soldiers’ and fresh juices on the terrace while a herd of kangaroos skip through the vines is quintessential Australia. 

The luxuriously large guest rooms entrance their occupants, making it seemingly impossible to contemplate departure. For those that do wish to go further afield, an endless list of fine winemakers, distilleries, chocolatiers and gourmet food producers are waiting to be uncovered nearby. And whether you’re starting your journey of wine discovery or you’re a connoisseur, every taste is catered for, and the retreat’s expert team is always on hand to help guide you on your adventure. 

Restaurant Botanica is a favourite of visitors and locals alike. Its heartfelt take on simple, robust French Bistro and modern Australian cuisines, with a hint of English complexion, results in a menu that is at once familiar and rewarding. A thematic of rustic home cooking is felt throughout – imagine coq a vin, beef stroganoff and roasted lamb breast – whilst playful dishes such as sourdough ice cream with vegemite caramel and a famous lobster roll have all featured and add a touch of intrigue. 

The adventures and experiences at Spicers Vineyards Estate are relaxing and rejuvenating. From quietly reading a book in the garden to an indulgent treatment in the onsite Spa Anise, from a dip in the sensual pool to a catered picnic in the hills overlooking the valley, there’s plenty of ways to ease the mind and re-connect with a simpler pace of life.   

In the guest suites, luxurious, tranquil textures and furnishings create a sea of calm, with the soft colour palette reflecting the hues of the surrounding vineyards. All five ground floor King Spa rooms feature French doors opening onto a verandah, while three first floor rooms boast sweeping vineyard and mountain views. The four Luxury Spa Suites feature separate living areas with bluestone fireplaces and the option of a private courtyard or balcony with stunning views. A separate four-bedroom home features a spacious lounge with fireplace, full kitchen and dining area, and private pool.