Earlier this year, the Michelin Guide unveiled its hotel equivalent of restaurant stars in Australia, awarding Michelin Keys to just 35 exceptional properties. I was lucky enough to stay at one of these two-key hotels – Spicers Sangoma Retreat – and after my first all-inclusive experience, I finally understand what it means to have a truly five-star getaway.
Hidden in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, just 80 minutes from Sydney CBD, Spicers Sangoma Retreat takes eco-luxury to a whole new level. I had big expectations for this all-inclusive retreat – think every meal catered, unlimited drinks and a complimentary minibar that’s restocked daily. Sure, those perks were appreciated – but in the end, it was the genuinely warm service, chef-hatted dining and premium amenities that made my stay memorable.
With just eight intimate suites across five room tiers, Spicers Sangoma has a truly boutique feel. Each bush suite seamlessly brings the outdoors in, with earthy tones, wood and stone accents, open-plan layouts and large windows that frame the surrounding forest and native gardens. Furnishings and fittings are as luxe as it gets: think private wraparound balconies, cosy fireplaces, freestanding baths, rainfall showers and Leif amenities. Suites also feature big flat-screen televisions and Bose sound systems, though guests are encouraged to disconnect and fully soak up the private, peaceful surroundings.
Restaurant Amara is the culinary heart of the retreat and is worth the trip alone. Every stay includes all meals: à la carte breakfast, share-style lunch with dessert and a five-course dinner, plus drinks. The focus is on seasonal, locally sourced produce from the Hawkesbury region, with a rotating three-day menu that changes depending on what’s fresh. Highlights from my stay include bite-sized potato hashbrowns with yuzu and gochujang – a playful Asian twist of wedges with sour cream and sweet chilli sauce, market-fresh fish in kombu broth, roasted asparagus with crème fraîche and black garlic gel, and pan-roasted duck with coffee carrots and Davidson plum. Dinner comes with optional wine pairings, and a curated selection of cocktails and spirits is also included. The service is so warm and personalised that by the second meal, the staff already knew my water preference and favourite coffee order.
The pool and spa at Spicers Sangoma are equally irresistible. With so few suites, I often had the solar-heated infinity lap pool all to myself. My favourite part? The sweeping valley views – on a clear day, I even caught glimpses of Sydney’s city skyline. And when the breeze picked up, I slipped into the warmth of the sauna, just steps away.
Checking out of Spicers Sangoma Retreat was bittersweet. I now fully understand what a five-star stay should be like and could happily spend all my annual leave at this bushland haven.