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.

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".

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.

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.