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I think it’s when I’m onto my second Negroni, armed with a plate of snacks (warm pita, creamy taramasalata, lemon-spritzed asparagus and salty prosciutto), watching my colleagues-turned-friends in our tennis grand final (I was robbed), the sun starting to turn pastel, that I think: team retreats can’t get much better than this.
We’re staying at McGuigan House – a sprawling, enchanting Hunter Valley estate located 20 minutes from Pokolbin and two hours from Sydney – for a team getaway. Lucky ducks. Quack quack.
Built in the 1980s as the home of fourth-generation winemakers Brian and Fay McGuigan, the historic property was reopened in September 2025 by its new owners, Meg and Luke Berry, after years of planning and renovations, as a luxury retreat and stunning wedding venue.
And it really is stunning. Set on 10 acres of manicured, English-style gardens and a private vineyard, the estate looks like it’s been ripped from the pages of Vogue Living, Kylie Jenner’s property portfolio, or the daydream of every diamond ring-wearing bride-to-be.
There are verdant green lawns, sweeping views of the Brokenback Ranges, a magnesium turquoise pool, a tennis court (where I lost), and an outdoor fire made for golden-hour cheese platters and red wine. If you’re getting hitched, there’s a huge space for a marquee, bar and dance floor.
Inside, you’ll find generous (read: massive) living spaces, comfy couches, long tables for delicious dinner parties and a marble conservatory-style bar that’s made for cocktail hour (Negronis, Pineapple and Coconut Margs and Beaumont Spritzes, for us).
The estate features a sun-splashed, beautifully decorated six-bedroom main residence, each bedroom with its own ensuite, and a separate cottage, sleeping up to 12 guests in total – making it ideal for group getaways, big birthday celebrations and cosy Hunter Valley weekends with your favourite people.
If you’re searching for a spot to host a Hamptons-style wedding in a charming setting, McGuigan House is the place – catering to both intimate gatherings of 25 and grand soirées, including weddings and events, for up to 250 guests.
“McGuigan House has quickly become known for weddings, but what makes the property special is its versatility,” says Meg Berry.
“It can be the backdrop for a luxury wedding, a private corporate retreat or a wellness-led escape.”
Despite its sense of tranquillity, McGuigan House is a cracking base for exploring the best of the Hunter. Cellar doors, tasting rooms and vineyards are minutes away, so you can spend your day hopping between the vines. While you’re there, be sure to make a booking at the award-winning EXP. Restaurant, enjoy snacks and vino at Iron Gate Estate, sip banging fizz at Usher Tinkler Wines, and spend an afternoon pretending you’re somewhere in Europe at Bistro Molines.
Whether you’re after a luxury country stay, an offline weekend surrounded by crisp Valley air, a magical wedding or a team retreat like the one we’ve just enjoyed, a couple of nights at McGuigan House will stay with you long after you wave goodbye to the vines. Just start practising your serve now.
Find out more and book your stay here.
Address: 982 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
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