If you don't mind "rustic" then this is the place to stay in the Southern Highlands. This is not the Marriott, but it is so steeped in history, with amazing countryside views and serenity that it is hard not to feel relaxed here. Period furniture and furnishings add to the "old world" ambiance.

The lessee, Damien, is so friendly, accommodating and full of informationabout this estate that was the Governor's residence. It is clean and tidy. Linen and crockery / cutlery are provided, along with tea towels and washing up detergent.

Plenty of cereals, fresh milk, nudie orange juice, english muffins and condiments were supplied for breakfast. The rooms have a larger sized bar fridge, kettle and toaster. Washing up is in a small tub with water from the kettle.

You will most likely need to bring simple lunches/ dinners (eg. slow cooker, thermomix) or try some of the amazing restaurants and wineries the Southern Highlands has to offer.

The grounds have interesting sculptures throughout but we were more taken by the gardens and the breathtaking views across the valley to the hills on the eastern side of the property.

While we were there some visitors arrived to say that they had heard about the home and Damien was more than happy for them to wander the property and view the sculptures and gardens.

We will definitely be returning to this beautiful old home in the very near future.

Wow what can I say except that if you are looking for a different experience to your usual sterile hotel/motel room then try Hillview Estate. The rooms are huge and the beds are so comfortable. However it is an older hotel and there are some who may prefer modern facilities....not us though as we appreciated the history and features of the property. Where can you stay where ex governors have stayed.. The setting is superb with absolutely glorious views and a sculpture park and gallery which is a delight.Again you are in the country and there are the occasional millipedes etc. we were lucky enough to have a group stay of 11 and Damien the owner allowed us to have a formal dinner in the main house catered beautifully by Labarynth catering. It was a beautiful night in a lovely setting. Damien is a very relaxed and supportive host.

This is our second visit to Hillview and this time we brought our 2 German Shepherds. You are literally stepping back in time and the gardens and sculptures are wonderful. We were also shown the new Art Gallery recently created in the main house. The first time we visited this had all the original furniture and I was told that not many people used or saw it so the main building has been re-invented as an Art Gallery.
The continental breakfast gave us plenty to eat with muffins, cereals, fresh fruit, full bottles of orange juice and a whole litre of milk. The coffee was proper bags not instant.
There are 8 lodges or rooms and my wife and I will go back again to try another room.
Relax, unwind, enjoy how life used to be...