The Best Luxury Accommodation In Orange NSW For A Lavish Getaway

Fine food, cool-climate wine and vineyard views for days: there’s luxury aplenty to be had in Orange and a range of accommodations to suit the mood.

From boutique hotels and heritage homes in town to vineyard villas and country cottages dotted among the region’s wineries, those looking for luxury accommodation in Orange NSW are spoilt for choice. So, whether you want to stay in town or go remote, we’ve rounded up our pick of the bunch.

1. Basalt Orange

The modern exterior of Basalt. (Image: Monique Lovick)

Basalt Orange is the newest luxury accommodation to open in this pocket of the Central West sitting just below the extinct volcano of Gaanha bula (Mount Canobolas).

The quaint property has three private studios, each with its own personality and perspective. Chaser is for the dreamers, Drifter is for the wanderers and Yonder is a nod to our childhood adventures, where the great outdoors was our playground.

Each studio sleeps two and features a freestanding bath with views over the owner’s cherry orchard, an internal fireplace, an outdoor firepit and a telescope for stargazing. Basalt has also partnered with local businesses to offer exclusive experiences for its guests to immerse themselves in the best of the Orange region.

One of the bedrooms at Basalt in Orange — The cocooning bedroom is an idyllic spot to unwind.(Image: Monique Lovick)

Address: 1100 Pinnacle Rd, Canobolas
Price: From $550 per night.

2. Sona Molong

Sona Orange accommodation facade. — The charming facade belies the modern interiors. (Image: Pip Brett)

This newly opened luxury accommodation has quickly made its mark on the region. Sona is the brainchild of Pip Brett, owner of popular Orange shop JUMBLED, who transformed an old bank into this incredible accommodation that’s infused with character and history.

Located in the cute village of Molong just outside of Orange, embrace a slower pace at Sona. The bold interiors take influence from the building’s original Art Deco architecture, and it effortlessly blends its history with modern luxury. An indoor fireplace and outdoor firepit guarantee a cosy stay no matter where you while away the hours.

Gather your nine closest friends and family, because this funky stay sleeps 10.

Sona Orange accommodation — The design-led interiors make for an elevated home base. (Image: Pip Brett)

Address: 68 Bank St, Molong
Price: $1600 per night (sleeps 10).

3. The Horned Cow

The exterior of Horned Cow accommodation in Orange. — Enjoy a luxury escape you won’t forget.

If a secluded farm stay is your cup of tea, look no further than The Horned Cow in Lucknow, on the outskirts of Orange. The five-bedroom house is blessed with views of the one-hectare property from all angles, and the rural chic interiors combined with innovative amenities (hello Smeg) make this a luxury stay to remember.

Don’t be afraid to brace an Orange winter; The Horned Cow has zoned heating, a fireplace, an outdoor firepit and underfloor heating in the bathrooms is a special touch. Private chefs are available if the thought of cooking ruins your holiday buzz.

Horned Cow accommodation in Orange — Enjoy bucolic views from the comfort of your sofa.

Address: 4646 Mitchell Highway, Lucknow
Price: From $750 per night (sleeps 10).

4. Ultimate Wine Escape at Rowlee

Rowlee Orange accommodation — Spend a peaceful afternoon on the verandah. (Image: Pauline Morrissey)

Rowlee Wines in Nashdale is an Orange winery making the most of its idyllic setting by offering superlative onsite accommodation. The Ultimate Wine Escape at Rowlee is a two-night stay in a private, luxury guesthouse surrounded by established vines and gardens and overlooking a croquet court, no less. Sleek but cosy, it has a master bedroom with a large and indulgent ensuite complete with underfloor heating and a freestanding stone bathtub.

There are further designer touches throughout – from the Ralph Lauren couch made for sinking straight into, to the 1200 thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets and feather pillows. A larder is packed full of food and beverages including a bottle of Rowlee wine – enjoy it on the verandah on a sunny afternoon.

Rowlee accommodation in Orange — Experience true relaxation in the freestanding bath. (Image: Pauline Morrissey)

Address: 19 Lake Canobolas Road, Nashdale
Price: $795 per person for two nights (sleeps 1-2).

5. Yallungah Boutique Hotel

Yallungah Boutique Hotel exterior in Orange NSW — Yallungah Boutique Hotel blends the city’s rich history with its contemporary edge.

Stay at this design-driven boutique hotel in the heart of Orange for an experience that blends the best of the city’s rich history with its contemporary edge. This upscale offering is comprised of a beautifully restored three-bedroom homestead juxtaposed with a bold and colourful 19-room modern wing.

The signature room, The Yallungah Suite, in the heritage wing, is all light and charm and tonic tones of blue and coral. Embodying the building’s strong sense of place, it has a sumptuous king-size bed and statement headboard, fireplace, separate lounge area and large private balcony overlooking the garden.

A two-course à la carte breakfast of local produce is served downstairs each morning in the Yallungah Dining Room.

Yallungah Boutique Hotel Yallungah Suite in Orange NSW — The Yallungah Suite is light-filled and charming.

Address: 62 Byng St, Orange
Price: From $360 per night.

6. Lakeview Luxury Retreat

Purpose-built as a couples’ retreat, Lakeview Luxury Retreat is all about providing guests with the space to relax and reconnect, and the means to pamper and indulge themselves. It features three award-winning, secluded and eco-friendly penthouse villas spread across a tranquil bush setting in the Canobolas Valley, slightly south-west of Orange.

The living area at Lakeview Luxury Retreat — The spacious open-plan living and dining area.

Each villa is supplied with a generous gourmet food hamper packed with local fare, large picture windows for taking in the scenery (and kangaroo-spotting), a deep tub for soaking in and underfloor bathroom heating.

Stay in the Emerald Gem Villa for utmost seclusion and privacy or the Natures Haven Villa to keep cosy in front of a gas log fire; the Twin View Villa , meanwhile, is ideal for two couples and each bedroom has its own bathroom.

Address: 57 Stanford Rd, Canobolas
Price: From $355 per night.

7. Dragonfly Cottages

Ten minutes from Orange in the rural locale of Borenore, these two bold and contemporary cottages sit lightly on the landscape surrounded by twisted gums on the grounds of a working farm. Views of vineyards and Gaanha bula in the distance make for spectacular sunsets.

You’ll find a bottle of wine and a selection of local produce waiting for you on arrival and breakfast supplies in the morning. The Dragonfly Cottages boast king beds, thoughtful, artistic touches throughout and private decks.

The exterior of Dragonfly Orange — Stay in a modern cottage with scenic views.

Guests are invited to explore swathes of the property including its bubbling creek and cider apple orchard, with the region’s wineries an easy drive away. This is a truly peaceful place where your only neighbours are native wildlife and farm animals.

Dragonfly cottages in Orange — The soothing tones in the bedroom mimic the country surrounds.

Address: 92 Heifer Station Lane, Borenore
Price: From $325 per night.

8. Nashdale Lane Glamping

Nashdale Lane is a family-run winery and vineyard just a short drive out of town in the sleepy locale of Nashdale, a traditional fruit growing hub. The boutique property offers onsite accommodation by way of two luxury glamping cabins , Rustig (meaning quiet/calm in Dutch) and Kalmte (serenity/calm).

Nashdale Lane Glamping Orange — Get comfy in this cosy tent.

Well secluded from each other, both cabins are decked out stylishly with a four-poster queen-size bed, hardwood floors, bathroom with monsoon shower and wood fire. Details like Australian designer merino wool blankets and throws add further luxury touches and outside you’ll find a built-in deck with a sunken lounge and a barbecue. Pick up a bottle of wine after your tasting at the property’s cellar door – based in an old apple-packing shed – and enjoy it on the deck while the sun goes down over the shiraz vines and patchwork of farmland in the distance.

Nashdale Lane Glamping in Orange — The “Kalmte" tent comes with a kitchenette.

Address: 125 Nashdale Lane, Nashdale
Price: $315 per night (plus cleaning and Airbnb fees).

9. Borrodell Estate Accommodation

Set on the volcanic slopes of Gaanha bula, Borrodell Estate is one of the Orange region’s highest vineyards and home to fruit orchards, a trufferie, a great cellar door experience and a must-visit restaurant, Sister’s Rock. You’ll also find vineyard accommodation including two three-bedroom cottages, Chardonnay and Truffles, and The Cider Suites – designed as the ultimate romantic retreat for couples.

Borrodell Accommodation in Orange — The accommodation is situated on the picturesque slopes of an extinct volcano.

These split-level, sustainable and modern studio spaces have king-sized bedrooms, cosy fireplaces, heated concrete floors, spa baths and floor-to-ceiling windows that take in views across the valley. Celebrating an extra special occasion? Enhance the Borrodell experience with a pamper package to guarantee all the epicurean delights you could wish for plus an in-house masseuse.

Address: 298 Lake Canobolas Rd, Orange
Price: From $395 per night.

10. de Russie Boutique Hotel

With 25 luxurious rooms, de Russie Boutique Hotel is set within a striking brick building on a tree-lined street in central Orange, a short stroll from the Central West city’s must-visit shops and restaurants.

Opt to spend the night in a Studio Suite , where each one opens up to a romantic Juliet balcony and some come with a spa bath in the ensuite bathroom stocked with L’Occitane amenities. Or up the ante in The Blue Room , a decadent space with a four-poster bed, velvet accents, an oversized bath and a terrace for stretching out on.

De Russie Boutique Hotel in Orange — The hotel is conveniently located just off Orange’s central business district.

Address: 72 Hill St, Orange
Price: From $269 per night.

11. Strawhouse Wines Vineyard Apartment

Strawhouse is a small, sustainable and family-run vineyard in the Orange region with boutique accommodation onsite. This one-bedroom, self-contained retreat is architect-designed and contemporary but blends into its setting among a stand of mature eucalypts. It has a bedroom with a queen bed, two armchairs and a spacious bathroom, plus books and games.

Strawhouse accommodation in Orange — Enjoy a peaceful stay at Strawhouse.

The adjacent cellar door space has a kitchen, dining/tasting table, window seats and chairs to curl up in in front of the wood fire. There’s no television or wi-fi here, encouraging you to really switch off and reconnect, but 180-degree of the Strawhouse vineyard, Gaanha bula and the Boree Creek Valley will hold your attention instead. Order a picnic hamper of local produce to enjoy on the deck and book a private wine tasting or dinner with the winemaker to make the most of the experience.

Address: 116 Boree Lane, Lidster
Price: From $225 per night.

12. Mayfield Vineyard Cottages

Check into one of the five cottages on the historic estate at Mayfield Vineyard , located just 10 kilometres from Orange and offering the ultimate in rural tranquillity. Based in a variety of interesting buildings, its cottages come in all shapes and sizes.

The Homestead sleeps 10, The Overseers Cottage sleeps six and four guests can stay in The Rose Cottage, The Garden Flat and The Settlers Cottage.

The Settlers Cottage is over a century old, built in 1886, and is one of the oldest cottages in Australia. These days the cottage is newly renovated, retaining its heritage bones but elegantly appointed with creamy, natural tones and a rustic twist. It has a north-facing, sun-soaked verandah, original polished floorboards and a gas fireplace.

Address: 954 Icely Road, Orange
Price: From $224 per night.

This article was originally written by Imogen Eveson with updates by Emily Murphy.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

The best luxury accommodation in Orange NSW for a lavish getaway