Not simply somewhere to sleep, newly opened Basalt is a luxurious stay primed for a weekend exploring Orange and the Central Tablelands.
Set on a hillside, overlooking more than 30 hectares of cherry orchard, the accommodation offers three studios, Chaser, Drifter and Yonder, each with its own personality (and vantage point).
Owner Simon Rollin worked with Mudgee-based architect Cameron Anderson to create the luxe spaces, which pay homage to the nearby dormant volcano Gaanha-bula (Mount Canobolas). The Rollin family has owned the orchard for over 40 years and chose the name “basalt” after the volcanic rock that enriched the ground for planting. “We owe our entire livelihood to the soil on which we reside and it seemed a fitting name to give to our new studios,” he says.
Each studio has a large timber-framed sliding door on entry, which opens to polished concrete floors, rammed-earth walls and spotted gum interiors. At just 43sqm each, the studios have clever design to include a king-size bed, dressed in French linen from Carlotta & Gee (one of Broadsheet’s favourites), a kitchenette with a bar fridge, dishwasher and induction cooktop; a walk-in rainfall shower, plus a separate toilet and vanity; an oversized (and ultra-sinkable) loveseat and a dining table for two. There’s a concrete bathtub with bifold windows that give quite the view. And high ceilings add a light and airy feel to the space.
The countryside charm is heightened by thoughtful creature comforts, such as an internal woodfire heater and an outdoor fire pit, as the temperature can dip quickly at 1100 metres above sea level. There’s also a telescope for stargazing, linen robes for lounging, a smart TV and Bluetooth speaker, and even a couple of yoga mats tucked under the bed.
But the details of this stay go beyond the accommodation. You’re about 10 kilometres out of Orange, which isn’t far, but is far enough once you’ve settled into your own little world in cherry country.
Rollin has partnered with a number of local businesses to help make guests feel as “at home” as possible. Racine, a favourite in town, offers ready-made meals that can be pre-ordered and delivered to your studio. Choose a lasagne to pop in the convection microwave on your first night or a grazing box to share over sundowners. There’s also a complimentary mini bar and fixings for continental breakfast waiting on arrival.
Guests are encouraged to book additional activities – from scenic heli-flights (which can also be used as a transfer to a number of local wineries, including Printhie cellar door and restaurant, to art classes, fly fishing and stargazing.
“We want guests to leave relaxed and recharged, but also inspired. We see Basalt as the ideal place to explore our wonderful region,” Rollin says. “You can easily venture out but you always have this ‘oasis’ of sorts to gravitate back to and enjoy all over again.”
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