The Lane is a chic new Hunter Valley retreat

The Hunter Valley is about to greet a new 60-studio eco retreat in the heart of the vineyards.

The Lane Retreat, on Palmers Lane in Pokolbin, is a new venture for Mulpha, the group behind Bimbadgen and Emma's Cottage, and sits on the edge of Bimbadgen's Palmers Lane vineyards.

Overlooking a dam that is visited daily by a local mob of kangaroos, Palmers Lane looks like the ideal spot for a gourmet couples weekend.

I was given a sneak peek at the new precinct last week - while the final touches were being added ahead of the opening in mid October.

The 60 architect-designed studios look very smart and will complement the winery and tourism offering at Bimbadgen’s home vineyard on McDonalds Road.

With its own gourmet store and pantry for those keen to self cater, the retreat was originally expected to be completed by spring 2022, but fell victim to Covid.

The Lane Retreat will have in-built solar energy and other environmentally friendly features.

Set on 15 hectares of 50-year-old vineyards and natural bushland, the retreat has commanding views of the Brokenback Range and boasts a shared swimming pool. 

The nifty studios have a rustic chic vibe and feature king beds, sitting space, dining/study table and chairs, bathrooms with rain showers, outdoor decks with vineyard or mountain views, kitchenettes with coffee maker, toaster, microwave and mini bar, daily gourmet breakfast provisions and free wifi. 

And if you arrive late fear not. On booking, guests will receive a confirmation email containing a link that provides all the details of your stay. Simply check in via the GOKI link prior to your arrival and as soon as your room is ready, you will receive a notification with your unique code to allow you access to your room. How very modern. 

For those with mobility issues, accessible studios are available. Both room categories start from $309 per night as an opening offer. 

“As a group providing premium hospitality and experiences in blue chip locations, we are excited to be enhancing our Bimbadgen offerings while maintaining the integrity of the estate and environment," said Mulpha GM Belinda Stapleton.

“This will mean another great on-site accommodation option for events and weddings at Palmers Lane, as well as providing fantastic getaway retreats for people visiting the Hunter.

“In recent times people have rediscovered the joy of places and simple pleasures closer to home and are looking to treat themselves to short breaks in great locations, with great amenities.

“It’s hard to beat one of Australia’s premier food and wine regions just two hours’ drive from Sydney.”

Guests can relax and sit by the communal swimming pool, or enjoy a glass of wine at one of two outdoor gathering areas before setting off to explore the many delights of the Hunter.

Fresh coffee, gourmet provisions, a selection of drinks and gifts are available daily at the Lane Pantry, with wine tastings and fine food at Bimbadgen’s excellent Esca Restaurant or Wood Fire Pizza, just a three-minute drive away. 

The group's Emma's Cottage cellar door, with its own Alter wine range, is also just a short drive away. 

Bookings with breakfast for two and a bottle of Bimbadgen wine from $309 per night midweek and $443 per night on Friday/Saturday nights, valid for stays from October 15-December 24. https://www.thelaneretreat.com.au/

# The writer was a guest of The Lane Retreat