Mulpha Australia continues Hunter Valley expansion with eco studio retreats

Property and hospitality group Mulpha Australia is continuing its Hunter Valley expansion, with construction commencing on 60 architect-designed eco studio retreats in the grounds of its Bimbadgen winery estate.

The Lane Retreat in the grounds of one of Bimbadgen’s 50 year old vineyards, has been designed to provide an accommodation option to complement the brand’s Palmer Lane wedding and events venue and also the winery and tourism offering at Bimbadgen’s home vineyard on McDonalds Road. Mulpha recently acquired the nearby Emma’s Cottage Vineyard boutique winery and accommodation.

Construction is expected to be complete by the end of winter, ready for guests in spring 2022.

The property already boasts three stunning gathering sites for ceremonies and celebrations, but The Lane Retreat guests will now have access to a new luxury swimming pool and amenities, along with a bespoke store and pantry and VIP access to all Bimbadgen tourism offerings.

Mulpha has appointed Sydney firms, Fenisi to design and construct the retreats, and Fidem to manage the site, earth works, pool and landscaping. Fenisi is an innovative building company using the latest technology and materials to produce building systems that are, easy to install and with low impact on the environment. The Lane Retreat will have in-built solar energy.

Mulpha’s General Manager of Hospitality, Belinda Stapleton, notes “as a group providing premium hospitality and experiences in blue chip locations, we are excited to be enhancing our Bimbadgen offerings while maintaining the integrity of the estate and environment.

“This will mean another great on-site accommodation option for events and weddings at Palmers Lane, as well as providing fantastic get-away retreats for people visiting the Hunter.

“In recent times people have rediscovered the joy of places and simple pleasures closer to home and are looking to treat themselves to short breaks in great locations, with great amenities.

“It’s hard to beat one of Australia’s premier food and wine regions just two hours’ drive from Sydney.”