There’s a new player in the Australian luxury scene that may redefine your perception of the perfect weekend getaway.
Meet Basalt Luxury Accommodation: three distinct studios that take you 1100m above sea level and right into the heart of a working cherry orchard, just 10km outside the bustling hub of Orange, New South Wales.
Basalt is the product of thoughtfully designed architecture that pays homage to the age-old orcharding practice of grafting – and award-winning architect, Cameron Anderson, has achieved a rare feat, making these stunning structures seem as if they were always a part of this picturesque landscape.
However it’s not just the exterior that impresses. Walk into any of the three studios—Yonder, Drifter, or Chaser—and you’re met with a sense of bespoke luxury. Each studio, though similar in layout, offers a unique aspect and a comforting warmth that is hard to resist – especially when it rains for 48-hours straight.
Here, indulgence meets practicality, with an array of luxury inclusions: from a king-size bed donned in quality linen, to a concrete bathtub boasting bifold windows that open up to some stunning views. The most underrated feature though has to be the inclusion of an indoor and outdoor fire place.
And if it’s privacy you’re after, the only real concern is a mob of curious kangaroos.
But Basalt doesn’t stop at providing you with just a place to rest your head. Their approach is holistic, focusing not just on accommodation, but the entire experience of your stay. Collaborating with local catering favourite, Racine, mealtimes are covered too. That said, you could do far worse than taking a short drive into town to enjoy a meal at Charred, which boasts a wine list that needs to be seen to be believed.
Extending far beyond the walls of the studios, Basalt also offers a host of personalised experiences that introduce you to the region. A tour of the cherry orchard, guided walking trails, indigenous cultural adventures, and hosted night sky viewings are on the cards should you be so inclined. For the wine aficionados, personalised wine and food tours through the district and visits to the local wineries are a nice touch. Do yourself a favour and head into Printhie Wines Cellar Door for a taste of the Swift sparkling range.
As for the mornings, grab yourself a yoga mat, power up the Down Dog app on the complimentary iPad for a pilates session right on your deck. For breakfast, there’s fresh coffee and a continental breakfast—comprising freshly-baked bread, an assortment of jams, and muesli.
But perhaps the most indulgent of all the extra-curricular experiences on offer is the helicopter transfer that picks up and drops you off right at your studio’s doorstep. It’s these thoughtful touches that elevate Basalt from just another luxury accommodation to an unparalleled experience.
The journey to Orange is a scenic, 3-hour and 40-minute drive from Sydney or there’s direct flights from Sydney with Qantas four times a week, or catch a weekday flight with Regional Express.
Prices start at $1100 for a minimum two-night stay.
This author travelled as a guest of Basalt.
