Escape Into Five-Star Luxury At Osborn House

A stay at Osborn House in Bundanoon, NSW, is a lesson in slow luxury.

Nestled deep in the Southern Highlands of NSW, you’ll find Osborn House . The five-star, luxury accommodation offering is a guest-driven experience, with everything you need (and more) to relax, rest and rejuvenate, all in one place. It’s one of those sublime stays that, once you arrive, you’ll never want to leave.

Osborn House in Bundanoon, Southern Highlands, NSW — Osborn House is nestled in the small town of Bundanoon.

Location

Osborn House can be found in the small Southern Highlands town of Bundanoon in regional NSW on Gandangara Country. If you’re coming from Sydney, it’ll take you roughly one hour and 45 minutes by car to arrive.

Bundanoon is also just under an hour’s drive from Goulburn and around two hours from Canberra. Trains also run from Sydney’s Central Station and Canberra Railway Station. However, some routes may require a changeover.

Style and character

The atmosphere at Osborn House is an expertly concocted balance of upbeat modernism and relaxed luxury. Every detail has been masterfully curated but effortlessly styled, from the lobby to the dining spaces and rooms.

The main house dates back to the late 1800s and resembles a museum of eclectic yet sophisticated decor. After valeting your car, you’ll enter a homely lobby with potted plants, comfy couches and a wall pockmarked poetically with room keys.

Go deeper into the heritage house and you’ll find a masterful fireplace sits in the centre of the dining room, which blazes throughout the winter months. Come summer, the space opens up onto a large balcony boasting ample dining space and mountain views.

The dining room is awash in deep navy blues, mustard yellows and olive greens, which are seamlessly blended with sky blues, terracotta browns and blush pinks. Rattan textures are paired with wooden features and gold accents that dance together under striking original artworks by Jai Vasicek. Jai did an Artist in Residence stint at Osborn House back in June, and his distinct paintings are sprinkled throughout the property.

The multifarious play on colour and style seeps into the accommodation options at Osborn House, particularly the exclusive Forest Lodges. While a little more muted, the palette inside perfectly matches the mood the room instils. The primary pop of colour comes from a plush red couch, which is surrounded by soft browns, blues and greys. Freshly cut flowers, small book stacks and low-lit lamps all work in relaxation’s favour.

Outside, the grounds are faintly reminiscent of a manor in the English countryside. But there are subtle nods at each corner that remind you where you are. Like the ancient craggy pines that mingle with old eucalyptus gums. Kangaroos lazily munch on the grass next to dainty cream narcissus in full bloom. The paradox brings Osborn House into a league of its own, heightened even more so by the luxury lodge’s exclusive offerings.

Facilities

Osborn House is one of those places where, once you arrive, you really don’t have to leave until check out; everything you need is onsite. Breakfast, lunch and dinner can all be had just a stone’s throw from each room, plus your mini fridge is stocked with snacks and drinks.

Keen to get active? There are well-maintained tennis and pickleball courts outside. You can also head to the gym, which includes weights, pilates equipment and Peloton bikes for unlimited guest use. Or simply go for a stroll around the gorgeous grounds.

If you’d rather relax, the onsite spa is a must. Treat yourself to a luxurious massage or facial featuring luscious LaGaia products. Or grab your current read and head to the library room in the main house. In the cooler months (and let’s be honest, all year round), the sauna, steam room, heated lap pool and spa are also non-negotiables.

For those staying in a Forest Lodge, you’ll also have access to the new Forest Bathing Deck. Hidden up in a woodland of pines, away from the rest of the property, this secret setting is the ultimate in mindful luxury.

Featuring a sauna, jacuzzi, ice bath, yoga platform and fire pit, the deck overlooks nearby Morton National Park. Open to just two guests at a time, it’s the perfect way for couples to rejuvenate and reconnect with themselves and nature.

Rooms

Just 27 suites make up Osborn House – 15 in the main house and 13 Forest Lodges. Inside, there are the main suites and premier suites, as well as the Highland Suite, Garden Terrace and Premier Garden Terrace.

But the real stars of Osborn House are the Forest Lodges. At first, there were just seven onsite, but five new, elevated Forest Lodges have recently been added to the collection.

These divine dens are fitted with a king-sized bed, cosy fireplace, mini bar (with complimentary non-alcoholic beverages) and separate bathroom with a double-headed rain shower. The stand-alone outdoor bath on your private balcony is a highlight, too.

Additional amenities include a large skylight above the bed, a Smeg kettle with tea and coffee provided, LaGaia products in the bathroom, a wall-mounted TV, a Sonos speaker, luxurious bathrobes and air conditioning. There’s also firewood at your door, which is restocked daily.

To celebrate the five newly built Forest Lodges, a handful of new all-inclusive packages are being offered at Osborn House. Available for two-, three- and five-night stays, the packages include a range of different inclusions.

Think bubbles on arrival, dinner daily (plus breakfast and lunch, depending on the package), excursion experiences, twice-daily room services, daily mini-bar restocking and, of course, private access to the Forest Bathing Deck.

Food and drink

There are two onsite restaurants at the property. George’s is a more relaxed, laid-back dining experience where guests can have breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. The menu is paired back but packed with flavour. Think slow-cooked lamb pasta, dry-aged grass-fed sirloin, tuna crudo with finger lime and basque cheesecake for dessert.

For something a little (or a lot) more fancy, head to Dinah’s. Open for dinner between Wednesdays and Sundays, the menu here is set and prepared to be shared. Guests will love the Gundagai lamb backstrap, Musset Holdings salad and slow-cooked pineapple granita.

Both restaurants mainly use fresh produce from the Southern Highlands and offer extensive beverage lists featuring local makers. Oenophiles can sip on both regional and international wines, while cocktail lovers will enjoy the signature Osborn Sour, a take on the iconic Peruvian/Chilean drink.

Does Osborn House have access for guests with disabilities?

All dining rooms and facilities throughout the main hotel (including the spa, bathrooms, steam room, sauna and gym) are wheelchair accessible. The three Garden Terrace suites are all accessible, too.

Is Osborn House family-friendly?

As Osborn House aims to provide its guests with a safe and quiet place to relax and rejuvenate, children must be over the age of 12 to stay and must be supervised by an adult at all times.

Details

Best for: Couples or small groups looking for a luxurious escape immersed in nature.

Address: 96 Osborn Ave, Bundanoon, NSW

Phone: (02) 4883 6027

Cost: The new all-inclusive Forest Lodge packages are priced between $3500 (two-night stay, two guests) and $8399 (five-night stay, two guests). General room rates at Osborn House vary depending on dates but are accessible online.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney . The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea .

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.

Escape into five-star luxury at Osborn House