Elite Traveler January-February 2019

Wolgan Villa ONE&ONLY WOLGAN VALLEY, NEW SOUTHWALES

There’s nowhere on Earth quite likeWolgan Valley — it has a plethora of wildlife, tumbling waterfalls, engraved rock pagodas, snaking rivers and total and utter seclusion. One&OnlyWolgan Valley is flanked by two national parks, the Gardens of Stone andWollemi, and is Australia’s first luxury conservancy: It has planted 200,000 indigenous trees and food is sourced within a 99-mile range or grown in the resort’s own kitchen gardens. The 7,000-acre reserve in the Greater Blue Mountains calls out for adventurers, and the outstanding spa and peaceful environment offer respite after a day’s exploration. Hidden away in a secluded corner of the resort, Wolgan Villa is more akin to a completely private lodge. The 4,413-sq-ft, three-bedroom villa is built for family vacations with a spacious living and dining room, double- sided fireplace, fully equipped kitchen and butler service. The earth- toned interiors complement the far-reaching views of Wolgan Valley and the Greater Blue Mountains with moss-green furniture, timber- vaulted ceilings and four-poster beds. There’s also a pretty garden and courtyard, and pool with separate pool deck. Into the wild The choices here are seemingly endless. The surrounding landscape is best explored on horseback (visit the stables and choose your steed — we recommend Marshmallow, a gentle giant) and gallop off into the wilderness with an expert guide. There’s also a selection of guided hikes through Wollemi National Park (including the magical Glow Worm Tunnel) and off-track routes.

Rate from $7,300 per night Contact James Wyndham, general manager, reservations@oneandonlywolganvalley.com, +61 291 991 811, oneandonlywolganvalley.com

Elite Tip Check out Charles Darwin’s revolutionary findings in Australia; you’ll find a volume of his journal in your suite. Open to the page that details his visits to the valley in the 19th century. Use the magnifying glass to study the minute detail of the historic illustrations