The Hunter Valley is rightly synonymous with wineries.
Visitors both local and abroad regularly descend on the Hunter to meander through cellar doors and sample drops from the area’s prestigious winemakers like Tyrrell’s, Tempus Two and Brokenwood Wines.
But with its picturesque rolling hills backdrop and peaceful atmosphere, a new kind of tourist has also begun to find their way into town.
Looking to escape the bustle of the city, they’re discovering a different side to the stunning region located a stone’s throw outside of Sydney.
One such destination to lean into the retreat getaway vibes is the cosy and nostalgic Château Élan at The Vintage in Pokolbin.
It’s a place already well known to avid golfers thanks to its location on-site The Vintage, an 18-hole golf course designed by Australian golf legend, Greg Norman.
But it’s not just a destination solely for golfers or wine connoisseurs.
This resort is home to an award-winning spa that’s increasingly being frequented by weary city folk who are eager to escape and unwind.
The Spa at Château Élan is a quiet sanctuary that offers weary city folk the chance to escape and rejuvenate
The Château Élan resort and its Day Spa are tucked within the grounds of The Vintage in Pokolbin. Avid-golfers would be familiar with the 18-hole golf course designed by Australian golf legend, Greg Norman
Tucked quietly away behind the manicured golf course is The Spa at Château Élan, a sanctuary that offers the chance to rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit.
The serene day spa boasts 17 beautifully appointed treatment rooms offering dedicated private spaces for facials, massage and a range of skin therapies.
For those looking to soothe tired muscles, there’s relaxation massage, therapeutic massage, volcanic warm stone massage or a pregnancy massage, with prices ranging from $175 to $325.
To enhance the experience further, there’s the option of Balneotherapy, which is a private bath infused with opulent essential oils and soothing botanicals.
A range of iKOU organic facials are also on offer, with the option to choose for treatments that are designed for hydration, rejuvenation or glow. Prices start from $165.
But if it’s a full zen out experience that you’re after, the long and luxurious rituals spa experiences are just the ticket.
The Spa Ultimate Ritual ($720-$830) is a five-hour-long immersive experience that includes a full-body exfoliation, body wrap, soothing scalp massage and treatment, aromatherapy-infused spa bath, facial and relaxing massage a.
This mammoth spa day experience is accompanied by a glass of bubbles, chocolates and a Hunter Valley cheese plate to end the day. Sheer decadence!
The Spa at Château Élan’s Hydro Lounge boasts two glorious heated outdoor ocean mineral spas that are available for the exclusive use of spa-goers
The Spa guests are offered use of the spa’s relaxing quiet spaces to unwind pre and post treatment
If you don’t have quite that much time to chill, there’s shorter – but still comprehensive – ritual options.
Many of the rituals and treatments can also be offered as a shared couples experience.
Whatever spa route you choose – and let’s be honest, there’s no wrong choice – every treatment comes with complimentary access to The Spa’s relaxing Hydro Lounge and Deck area.
The open-air Hydro Lounge boasts two glorious heated outdoor ocean mineral spas.
The warm and bubbling plunge pools are designed with health benefits in mind, such as detoxification, reducing muscle aches and promoting wellbeing. Slip in and soak your troubles away!
For those that prefer to turn the heat up, the Hydro Lounge is also home to single-person infra-red saunas.
Adjacent to the Hydro Lounge are a number of relaxing quiet spaces that are perfect for unwinding pre or post treatment. (You can even arrange to have exclusive private use.)
And if all that chill time leaves you peckish, staff are on hand with a wholesome menu of beverages and refreshments that can be enjoyed within the calming space.
There are a number of accommodation options at Château Élan, including these spa suites
Château Élan is a resort located within The Vintage golf course grounds. The resort’s inviting foyer (right) sets the tone for a relaxed and comfortable overnight stay
If the thought of the long drive back home is unbearable – then just don’t leave!
Instead, head down-the-hall and check-in for an overnight stay at Château Élan resort.
The boutique resort offers accommodation options of spa suites as well as one and two bedroom villas.
All rooms feature a stunning private balcony or terrace that overlooks either The Vintage fairways or the Hunter Valley hills.
You won’t even need to hop in the car for a bite to eat. On-site is Spike Bar, which offers a casual lunch or in-room dining fare like burgers, steak sandwiches and charcuterie platters.
There’s also the Legends Restaurant located in the club house, which offers a modern menu focused on seasonal produce.
Their selection of flame grilled steaks served with seasonal sides like broccolini and pomme puree are food for the soul. (Just save room for dessert!)
Legends Restaurant also offers a daily breakfast buffet in the mornings that has all your morning favourites.
All rooms feature a stunning private balcony or terrace that overlooks either The Vintage fairways or the Hunter Valley hills
Feeling hungry? The on-site Legends Restaurant (left) offers a buffet breakfast in the mornings and a seasonal modern menu at dinner time. Save room after dinner for the desserts!
If you’re feeling a little more active, grab your clubs and arrange to venture onto the golf course, take a dip in the inviting outdoor swimming pool, hit up the gym or just take a stroll around the lush surroundings.
And keep your eyes peeled for adorable wallabies roaming the area!
Before you know it, the time will have slipped away in the Hunter – and you won’t even be upset that you never had the chance to set foot in a winery.
