Business Details
24 Years
experience
Luxury Hunter Valley Accommodation with Private Recreational Facilities
Established in 2002, Banjos Bushland Retreat has become a multi-award-winning luxury retreat nestled within 20 acres of pristine bushland in the Hunter Valley. Our three architect-designed lodges - Brumby's Run, Clancy's Lodge, and Swagman's Rest - offer 4.5-star AAA Tourism-rated accommodation with uninterrupted bushland views from every room. We specialise in providing exclusive experiences for couples, families, and large groups seeking tranquility amidst native Australian wildlife. Our commitment to environmental sustainability has been recognised through numerous accolades, including the 2016 Environmental Excellence in Business award. The retreat features purpose-built recreational facilities including a full-size tennis court, indoor recreation centre, and wildlife education programs.With 9 bedrooms across our lodges, all featuring ensuites and premium amenities, we cater to milestone celebrations, corporate retreats, and leisure stays. Our property's unique location offers direct access to bushwalking trails while remaining just two hours from Sydney and minutes from Hunter Valley wineries. The onsite recreation centre with spa, sauna, and games facilities ensures year-round enjoyment. Our team's extensive hospitality experience ensures every guest receives personalised attention to detail, making Banjos a trusted choice for discerning travelers seeking authentic Australian bush experiences combined with modern luxury.
Services
Luxury Lodges
Recreational Facilities
Group Bookings
Wildlife Encounters
Event Hosting
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- Multi-award-winning retreat with 30+ industry accolades since 2002
- Purpose-built accessible facilities catering for guests with disabilities
- Exclusive use recreational complex with tennis, mini-golf and indoor games
- Wildlife education programs with daily native animal encounters
- Eco-conscious operations with solar power and sustainability initiatives
Associations and certifications
- AAA Tourism
- Environmental Excellence in Business
What people say
Magical wildlife encounters
Spacious family-friendly lodges
Excellent recreational facilities
Peaceful bush setting
Eco-conscious operations
Services
Luxury Lodge Accommodation
Our three architect-designed lodges offer 4.5-star luxury with private ensuites, gourmet kitchens, and bushland views. Each lodge sleeps 6-10 guests with flexible bedding configurations. Modern amenities include reverse-cycle air conditioning and wood-burning fireplaces. The self-contained design suits romantic getaways, family holidays, and group celebrations.
Recreational Facilities
Exclusive guest facilities include a tennis court, mini-golf course, indoor spa, and games room. Children enjoy adventure playgrounds while adults appreciate the sauna and billiards table. All facilities are maintained to high standards and designed for multi-generational enjoyment in a natural bush setting.
Wildlife Experiences
Daily interactions with native Australian wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, and kookaburras. Educational resources help guests identify local species. The property's conservation efforts create authentic bush experiences while protecting natural habitats for ongoing visitor enjoyment.
Event Hosting
Ideal for weddings, milestone birthdays, and corporate retreats with capacity for 20+ guests. All-inclusive packages combine accommodation, recreational facilities, and event coordination. The natural setting provides memorable backdrops for ceremonies and celebrations amidst Australian bushland.
Eco-Tourism
Environmentally conscious retreat powered by solar energy with comprehensive sustainability practices. Guided bushwalks explore local flora and fauna. Educational materials promote ecological awareness. Conservation initiatives protect native wildlife while providing authentic eco-tourism experiences in the Hunter Valley region.
People
Jenny
Owner/Host
Co-founder with over 20 years hospitality experience. Manages guest relations and sustainability initiatives. Known for personalised service and deep knowledge of local ecology.
Malcolm
Owner/Host
Co-founder responsible for property development and maintenance. Combines practical expertise with environmental stewardship. Ensures facilities meet high accessibility standards for all guests.
Questions
What accommodation options are available at Banjos?
We offer three luxury lodges sleeping 6-10 guests: Swagman's Rest (2 bedrooms), Clancy's Lodge (3 bedrooms), and Brumby's Run (4 bedrooms). Booking all three provides exclusive use for groups up to 20 guests.
What recreational facilities are included?
Guests enjoy tennis court, mini-golf, indoor recreation centre with spa/pool table, children's playgrounds, and bushwalking trails. All facilities are included except sauna coin-operated for safety.
Is Banjos suitable for families with children?
Yes! We provide child-friendly facilities including adventure playgrounds, games room, and wildlife encounters. All bedrooms accommodate extra beds and cots are available at no charge.
Can I host special events at Banjos?
Absolutely. Our lodges accommodate weddings, milestone birthdays, and corporate retreats for up to 20 guests. Exclusive use packages include all three lodges and recreational facilities.
What sustainability practices are implemented?
We use solar power, practice water conservation, and maintain eco-friendly operations. The retreat has won environmental awards and provides educational resources about local flora and fauna conservation efforts.
What's the location accessibility like?
Located 2 hours north of Sydney in the Hunter Valley. Close to Vacy village, Paterson, and Barrington Tops National Park. Full directions provided upon booking as the retreat is nestled in secluded bushland setting.
Reviews (6)
Michelle Polias
Jan 10, 2022
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Peaceful , beautiful views , great place to relax & enjoy nature , great facilities , owners were extremely friendy ,
Clau Podesta
Nov 22, 2021
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Beautiful place in the middle of the forest 🌳, a precise place to rest from the noise of the city, my family and I are very exciting to return, we 💯 % recommended this place.
Aidan Hall
Nov 11, 2021
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Stayed here for 2 nights. Amazing location, it's definitely well worth the drive out. The house and rec room were immaculate.
Ileana Hatton
Feb 07, 2021
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Beautiful space. We went for a weekend away with friends and kids and Banjos exceeded all of our expectations. Stunning house, fully equipped kitchen, everything well organised and laid out. The owners take exceptional care to make sure their guests are looked after. Wonderful holiday!!
Mylee Liddy
Oct 13, 2019
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Amazing trip away with our family! Banjos had everything we needed and the facilities are amazing ☺️ our girls can’t wait to come back and neither can we! 100% recommend for all
Mylee Foster
Jun 11, 2019
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We loved our stay at Banjo's Bushland Retreat! They have everything you need and Jenny was so helpful throughout our booking process. The Recreation Centre was so much fun we had daily trips to the Spa, Tennis court, Table Tennis and many of Putt Putt Golf Tournaments. The Little Park was perfect for our 18 month old. Our girls enjoyed feeding the birds on the balcony (the Kookaburras especially) . We will be back soon for more relaxation and a wildlife enjoyment :)
