Basalt Orange – Accommodation Review

High on a hilltop just outside Orange, Basalt’s well-appointed studios overlook a family-run cherry orchard and the town beyond. A straightforward drive from Sydney, this stylish retreat puts you in close proximity to some of NSW’s best vineyards and top-notch eateries, making it ideal for a romantic getaway or relaxing weekend. Read on for the full review.

Where is Basalt?

A short 10-minute drive south-west of Orange in the neighbouring shire of Canobolas, the private entrance to Basalt lies on a scenic road leading to Mount Canobolas and Federal Falls, two of the region’s most well-known natural attractions. The drive from Sydney takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes, while the flight takes less than an hour. From town, it’s easy to get an Uber or taxi to the property. 

What’s near Basalt?

Although the vistas from the property are spectacular in their own right, the sweeping views from Pinnacle Lookout are less than a 20-minute walk away (or two minutes’ drive, for those who wish to save their energy). The summit of Mount Canobolas is a 13-minute drive and walking tracks to some of the region’s landmarks are also moments away, including Federal Falls (an impressive waterfall along a challenging 4 kilometre loop walk that starts from the campground car park on Towac Way) and The Walls Lookout, a short stroll from another car park further down Towac Way.  

There are a slew of wineries and cellar doors in the area too – it’s a three-minute drive to Brangayne of Orange and another three minutes to get to Ross Hill Wines. The cellar door at Philip Shaw Wines is just eight minutes away. Or head the other way for See Saw Wine, Printhie Wines and De Salis Wines – the closest is 10 minutes’ away and the furthest 17 minutes. Check if they require bookings if you’re after a wine tasting.

Room types

There are three self-contained studios at Basalt: Chaser, Drifter and Yonder. Each offers uninterrupted views of the countryside and are spaced far enough apart for private outlooks – so you can take full advantage of the freestanding bath by the window. All of the studios have the same amenities and set-up; Chaser provides the easiest access, Drifter has a slightly more open outlook or choose Yonder if you’d prefer to be tucked away at the end of the row.  

Inside each retreat you’ll find king-size beds with luxurious sheets, an extra-large armchair that’s verging on love seat, quaint dining setting, wood fire and a telescope for stargazing. The kitchenette includes an induction cooktop, microwave, toaster, kettle and plunger, so you’ll have all the essentials you need (there’s even a smoothie blender) to whip up a simple meal or leisurely breakfast. To maximise the cosiness, there’s also linen robes, plush Citta towels and crockery and natural Salus toiletries (the full-length mirror is inside the cupboard door). 

Not into brewing your own coffee? There are vouchers for the roasters in town and a minibar stocked with locally sourced treats and drinks. But if you’re after the full rural experience there are marshmallows available for toasting over the fire pit outside. 

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Restaurants and bars 

While there isn’t a restaurant on the property, the hosts have set up a convenient in-studio dining offering, incorporating chef-cooked meals from renowned local chef Michael Manners and the team at Sweet Sour Salt in Orange. Order your dishes before you arrive and have them delivered ready-to-eat – the perfect way to end a day of wine-tasting or if a late arrival is on the cards. 

The in-studio iPad has plenty of suggestions for dining in town, from sunny courtyard cafes to inviting gastropubs with fireplaces. Indulge in fine dining with a view at Printhie Wines Cellar Door, a playful tasting menu at Charred, food truck treats and craft beer at Badlands Brewery and satisfying share plates at Schoolhouse Restaurant at Union Bank (don’t skip the potato scallops).

For coffee and a bite, hit up Academy Coffee or Factory Espresso or make your way to Groundstone or Byng Street Local Store for a full brunch affair. Those with a sweet tooth won’t want to miss Racine bakery or Spilt Milk Bar for gelato. 

Sustainability

Rammed earth construction and double-glazing makes for well-insulated accommodation that can handle the varied temperatures of the Central Tablelands so you’re cool or cosy no matter when you stay. Basalt also uses refillable containers instead of single-use plastics for toiletries and encourages guests to recycle and separate their coffee-grounds waste.

Accessibility

Car parking is right beside each studio, with a small step up to the entrance deck which is surrounded by stone chips and gravel. Inside, the studio itself is level and well lit and there are only a few items that are highly placed such as the glassware and microwave. The separate water closet and showers are not large enough to fit a wheelchair but the bath is in a wide, open alcove. Access to the orchard itself is via uneven ground.

Travel for work

Think remote work retreat rather than conference venue; business travellers are close enough to town while being far enough away to soak up the countryside. The Starlink internet makes being able to fire up all of your devices and maintain a video call while looking out over the tops of the cherry trees a breeze. 

Spa and wellness

One of the hosts is a trained massage therapist and Basalt is planning to offer appointments for guests from early 2024 onwards. 

What you need to know

There’s a chance to view the cherry blossoms if you’re lucky enough to book at the right time (they usually bloom from mid- to late-September until mid-October), but if you miss the blossoms, you can always aim to arrive when the cherry harvest is in full swing (late December-January). While cherries are ripe, you’ll find your hosts will have left you some in the fridge or you can wander down to the orchard and indulge in freshly picked fruit straight from the tree.

Finally, if you’re after some different activities to try while you’re in the area, ask your hosts as they have a few offerings available for guests to book. You might want to get outdoors and discover more about the local indigenous culture or learn about astronomy with a knowledgeable night-sky guide.

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