Spicers Sangoma Retreat

Spicers Sangoma Retreat

Spicers Sangoma Retreat sits on the eastern edge of the Blue Mountains above the Nepean River delta, its address at 70 Grandview Lane in Bowen Mountain a long way from the harbour bridge and the aquarium that its Sydney listing implies. It runs to seven suites, each with a bathtub, an indoor fireplace, a minibar and slippers, built for slow weekends rather than a night on the way through. The property is adults only, so nobody under eighteen is at breakfast beside you, and it holds an eco-certification, an uncommon pairing for a retreat in the ranges. A sauna, a massage room and a spa center are on site, though treatments need booking ahead of arrival rather than on a whim. Outside there's a garden, a terrace, a sun deck and an outdoor pool, plus a library and a picnic area for anyone who'd rather read than swim. Hikers can walk straight out from the grounds into the mountains instead of driving to a trailhead. A restaurant and bar cover meals, breakfast is included, and packed lunches are made up for longer walks. Free parking, free Wi-Fi, an elevator, a concierge desk and airport transfer take care of the logistics guests would rather not think about. This isn't a base for museums, nightlife or a large family gathering; with only seven rooms, it won't hold a group. It suits two people looking for quiet in the Blue Mountains, not anyone chasing the harbour bridge and the aquarium, which belong to a different Sydney altogether. Seven adults-only suites above the Nepean River in the Blue Mountains, each with a fireplace and a bathtub, plus a sauna, a spa and a library. Listed under Sydney, it's a long way from the harbour bridge. Book the spa ahead; the quiet is the draw.