Paradise found: Dream trips to Bali and Sydney

Refreshed after breakfast, I set off for the Hunter Valley. A two-hour drive north of Sydney, it is home to some of Australia’s most distinctive winemakers. Mesmerised by the rolling vista, I arrived at the stunning Spicers Vineyard in Pokolbin. This five-star guesthouse is the epitome of unabashed luxury. My villa was bigger than my London apartment and there is no better sight after a long car journey than a bottle of chilled champagne waiting for you on your balcony.

Once settled, I was led to its in-house spa, Spa Anise, where I was taken on a sensory journey with the Princess massage, which was indeed fit for royalty. All tension from the drive was kneaded out of me and I smelt delicious thanks to the concoction of locally produced aromatherapy oils.

That evening, I dined at its acclaimed restaurant Botanica and feasted on a delicious five-course tasting menu, which features ingredients from its own kitchen garden and vintage wines from the local vineyards.

After a peaceful night’s slumber, I was picked up by Rowena Hawkins of Bespoke Hunter for a wine tour, where I was bowled over by the spine-tingling views of the Brokenback Mountain Range and kangaroos hopping freely. First on our tour was Tyrrell’s – famed for its semillons. The vineyard is beautiful to walk around and it is fascinating to see the old oak vats and cellar still in operation.

Lunch was at EXP, at Oakvale Winery, where head chef Frank Fawkner has created a menu to die for. I would travel thousands of miles for another chance to try his warm blue cheese brioche with honey.

And there was more excitement to come. Rowena had arranged for a koala to be brought to my hotel after hearing my disappointment that I had not yet seen one of my favourite animals. All the other hotel guests were as excited as I was, eagerly crowding around for a stroke.

I drove back to Sydney the next day, this time checking into the QT Sydney hotel, which features a dazzling blend of kitsch, Art Deco and old-school Hollywood glamour, from the bellboys to greet you on the door to quirky guest suites. 

After enjoying a few hours sailing around Sydney Harbour breathing in fresh sea air, I was ready to try cocktails and dinner at the hotel restaurant Gowings. I could see why it is quickly becoming a favourite of Sydney’s hip and trendy youngsters.

On the last day, I was treated to an off-the-tourist-guide tour of Sydney from My Sydney Detour. I learnt about so much of the city I didn’t know, like secret coves and areas of Aboriginal art. After a walk along the famed Bondi Beach, I ended my trip with a glass of chilled white Australian wine at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar. Looking out at the waves crashing on to the white sands, I thought to myself – views or holidays don’t come much better than this.

Sarah Robertson