Hunter Valley's Ben Ean estate set to gain super luxe resort

A new retreat is coming to the Hunter Valley, and it’s set to redefine the meaning of five stars.

Hunter Valley is a well-known and loved wine region in Australia, but many will agree that while its accommodation options are wonderful, there has definitely been a gap in the ultra-luxury offering. Not for long. HVL Hotels has announced a new five-star-plus offering coming to Ben Ean Estate , the oldest vineyard in the country.

The 65 architecturally designed suites of this development, in partnership with Figure 8 Capital, will be set on the grounds of the original Lindeman’s Estate within Ben Ean. Each will be spacious, between 49 and 58 square metres, with stylish features including a sunken lounge area and panoramic views of the vineyard.

“We believe the hotel will set a new benchmark in luxury hospitality in Australia," said HVL Hotels’ CEO, Mr Dominic Lambrinos.

pool deck render of proposed luxury accommodation at ben ean estate — A 25-metre lap pool will be just one of the ways to relax.

The $120 million hotel and tourism complex will also feature wedding, conference and outdoor event facilities. The group has a design philosophy of integrating “with the natural landscape and existing vineyards" to ensure a visually stunning result with minimal disruption to this historic site.

But it’s not just the rooms that are meant to inspire relaxation. An on-site, two-storey spa will be designed for total rejuvenation, modelled after European style.

Upstairs will be the dry area, with special spa treatments incorporating some of the world’s best treatment machines (designed in Germany and popular in Europe and the Middle East, this will be the first time these machines are in Australia).

Downstairs is the wet area: find Finnish and infrared saunas, plus steam, salt and snow rooms. For the brave, there will be a “super ice bath".

couple holding hands and walking thropugh vineyard at hunter valley nsw — And all with stunning views of the vineyard. (Image: DNSW)

There will also be a magnesium pool, which, in another Australian first, will be able to be used indoors and outdoors. Outside the spa, find a gym and a 25-metre swimming pool.

Stay on dry land by exploring the planned large-scale outdoor sculptures and contemporary art installations by renowned artists Gillie and Marc.

And what is wellness without a satisfied belly? The hotel’s restaurant, White, will offer a poolside cocktail bar by day, turning into a nightlife space after dark – DJ and all. What’s more, there’s an 80s theme brewing, with specialty food carts coming back to guest tables. This vision will be led by celebrity chef Justin North.

“Justin will be managing nine food outlets, including a signature restaurant, with specialty food carts brought to the tables of guests," added Lambrinos.

render of proposed luxury accommodation at ben ean estate — The accommodation is set to take up 6558 square metres.

And all this while winemakers Brian McGuigan and Col Peterson continue to operate their award-winning vineyards at Ben Ean Estate.

“We have put together a first-class team, including wine experts Brian, Col and Jon Osbeiston, as well as former Managing Director of Spicers Retreats, David Assef as head of Hotel Operations and well-known restaurateur Justin North," finished Lambrinos.

No open date has yet been set, though building is planned to begin in June 2025. But when it is, be ready for the ultimate Hunter Valley getaway with these incredible wineries and our top pick of local restaurants.

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

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