You don’t need to book a trip to Bordeaux when South Australia has its own world-class food and wine scene. While the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale are the state’s most well-known wine regions, the Adelaide Hills is perhaps its most underrated. Located just 20 minutes from the city centre, this cool climate region is home to charming villages, world-class wineries, lush forests and five-star stays. One such gem is Sequoia Lodge – an exclusive adults-only lodge, sitting atop the misty Adelaide Hills.
Why stay at Sequoia Lodge?
This ultra-luxe property is everything your adult dreams are made of. The 14 plush suites boast a large bathtub with panoramic views of the valley, a spacious private balcony, a sunken lounge room with a toasty fireplace, and a moon window for stargazing before bed. Your luxury getaway also includes 32 complimentary perks, like daily breakfast, a fully stocked mini bar, an inviting infinity pool, an artesian hot pool experience and morning yoga. Say no more!
What are the rooms like at Sequoia Lodge?
Each of Sequoia Lodge’s 14 suites is identical, meaning you’ll experience luxury at its finest, no matter what your room number. The moment I stepped into my suite, I was immediately struck by the panoramic views overlooking the fiery foliage of Piccadilly Valley below. Whether I was lounging on the plush king bed, relaxing on the comfy L-shaped sofa, stretching out on the expansive daybed outside, or soaking in the bathtub (after retracting the Chromecast TV and bedhead), the stunning scenery was always within reach.
As for the decor, each stylish suite features an original oil painting of native flora by resident artist Stephen Trebilcock. My room’s floral hues complemented the warm wood and stone accents, creating a calming atmosphere. Plus, the fully automated lighting adjusts to suit different moods and times of day, instantly setting the perfect tone for relaxation.
Perhaps my favourite feature of the room was the light-filled bathroom, complete with a free-standing bathtub, a multi-directional shower (imagine water massaging your back from five different angles), and a stone-walled courtyard with a trickling water feature. After a warm bath, I relaxed in the sunken lounge room, where the stone-clad gas fireplace would be the perfect companion on a chilly winter’s evening.
What are the best places to eat/drink nearby?
With sparkling views of the Piccadilly Valley, breakfast in the Sequoia Lodge lounge is the perfect way to start your morning. Daily breakfast is included with every stay, featuring everything from acai bowls and eggs Benedict to avo toast and banana pancakes. Everything is made from scratch, including the sourdough, English muffins, spreads and granola – and if it’s not made in-house, it’s sourced seasonally from local suppliers. The lodge also serves lunch and dinner, with the option to enjoy every meal available from the comfort of your suite.
While you’re there, be sure to dine at Mount Lofty Estate’s award-winning Hardy's Verandah Restaurant. Opened in 2017, it’s easily one of Adelaide's finest restaurants, with a 175-year-old cellar and a wine list boasting more than 1,300 labels. Other options at the manor include Martha Hardy’s Restaurant, which is exclusively open to house guests from Friday to Sunday, or Hardy’s Bar and Arthur Water Lounge for drinks in a relaxed setting.
What is the service like at Sequoia Lodge?
I couldn’t fault the hospitality at Sequoia Lodge if I tried. Venue manager Parth Tantry and his wonderful team treated me like a VIP from the moment I walked through the door. They whisked away my suitcase, offered me a warm towel to freshen up and escorted me to the lobby for a seamless check-in. This standard of service was sustained throughout my stay.
Although I was the only guest to sign up, the team happily organised complimentary morning yoga and a stargazing session in the evening. Another highlight was the turndown service, where the staff prepped everything for bedtime – think: blinds drawn, bedhead lifted, towels replaced and even handmade truffles left on the table.
What is the spa like at Sequoia Lodge?
Located in a charming historic cottage just next door, Gatekeeper’s Day Spa is the epitome of luxe. Their holistic spa menu offers a range of facials and massages, all using Adelaide’s very own Jurlique products. I experienced their classic 60-minute relaxation massage, and dare I say, it was the best massage I’ve ever had. My wonderful masseuse worked wonders with Swedish-style techniques, targeting all my stress points, and I floated out of the spa feeling lighter and brighter.
What is the pool like at Sequoia Lodge?
Of Sequoia’s 32 signature inclusions, the artesian spring-fed hot springs are a serious highlight. Guests can reserve the pools for private 60-minute sessions, where all your worries simply melt away. End with a dip in the infinity pool overlooking the spectacular Piccadilly Valley or a sweat session in the infrared sauna.
What’s the area like around Sequoia Lodge?
Located just 25 minutes by car from the city centre and 15 minutes from Hahndorf, Sequoia is the perfect staycation in the Adelaide Hills. The luxury lodge sits atop the stunning Mount Lofty, offering sweeping views of the Piccadilly Valley.
There are plenty of hikes and cycling routes in the surrounding national park, with many of South Australia’s top attractions just a short drive away, including Beerenberg Farm, Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, Jurlique Farm, Cleland Wildlife Park and Penfolds Magill Estate, among many other world-class wineries. It’s the perfect place to stay if you just want to get away from it all.
Why you should you book a stay at Sequoia Lodge?
Like its impeccable service, it’s hard to fault my stay at Sequoia Lodge. Whether you’re after a romantic escape, a getaway with the girls or a solo retreat, this luxury property ensures you’re well and truly looked after.
Address: 1 Mawson Drive, Crafters, SA, 5152
Price per Night: From $1,498 per night
Closest Transport Link: The closest bus stop is the 25 Summit Road - East side, approximately a five-minute walk from the lodge.
Book Now: https://www.sequoialodge.com.au/
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