E_deliciou_S

Going up to the Blue Mountains in the wintertime is one of the things that we always like to do. To feel the cold air, put on layers, go for bush walks and most importantly a glass of wine in front of a fire. It’s a relaxing getaway! 

During the coldest times, when temperatures are low and there is moisture in the air, you might even get a touch of snow which can turn towns in the Blue Mountains into winter wonderlands. Winter time is also festival time, with two big events that attract visitors from all walks of life, the Winter Magic Festival in June and Christmas in July.

During our recent visit we stayed at the Waldorf Leura Gardens Resort nestled on 4.5 acres of landscaped grounds, away from the main strip but only minutes to all the attractions by car. We scored a discounted deal from booking.com usually $199 for a standard double to $127 a night including a full buffet style breakfast. 

Check in was breezy, only one signature was needed. Our room was located on the second level overlooking the gardens with mountain and district views. Fully refurbished and well appointed, warm with fully functional and quiet air conditioning. Bed and pillows were comfy, the crisp sheets and linen made us feel welcomed and ready for a good night’s sleep. There are additional pillows and a quilt in case you need extra body warmers. It also has a working desk space, flat tv, bar fridge, tea/coffee maker and free wi-fi.

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Bathroom has it all, high shower head, nice towels, quality toiletries and a hair dryer all in a practical and spacious layout. There’s a huge wardrobe along with an iron, ironing board and safe.

The only set back was both USB ports located in the lamps bases didn’t appear to work, so we were unable to charge our gadgets that way, so we ended up using our own chargers which is always the back up plan!

A combination of fresh air and peace, mornings in the mountain are revitalising! It was a crisp and frosty start to the day, just four degrees, very quiet around the car park, garden, and the outdoor swimming pool. Native birds were chirping along with Laughing Kookaburras in the many trees. 

The breakfast was served at the Olive Tree Restaurant with lovely views of the gardens. That morning the attendants of the restaurant were students of the Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School doing a live learning experience as part of their course. 

The restaurant was inviting and had a homely country vibe, as we entered food aromas wafted through the air, the tempting smell of coffee as it poured into waiting cups. Bread being toasted and other hot and cold tasty selections awaiting the attention of hungry guests. 

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The breakfast buffet area was divided into different stations with coffee making machines, continental breakfast items, fresh fruits, cured meats, and a hot food area. Great choices all round, a nice brekky to kick start the day. We did a few trips with different combos and settled for a finale of freshly squeezed fruit and vegetable drinks.

After breakfast we toured the garden, since it’s winter it’s mostly leafless except for few evergreens. We can only imagine how this garden will look like in spring and through the summer months.

Our verdict. For the rate we paid for our overnight accommodation with breakfast, WiFi, convenient parking and great location. I think this is one of the best value breaks for a home away from home. Either way you choose to stay, its a great place.

WALDORF LEURA GARDENS RESORT 20 – 28 Fitzroy Street LEURA NSW 2780 Tel: 02 4784 4000 

Email: leurares@waldorf.com.au

E_deliciou_S paid for this accommodation.