by Janelle (
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I like to participate in life rather than be a spectator. Music, dancing, theatre, travelling, food, cycling and walking are some of my passions. Writing is an enjoyable pastime that allows me to share my experiences.
Peace is the key here, there are no streetlights, no passing traffic or close neighbours and the ambient sounds are the wind in the trees, the lowing of contented cows, croaking frogs and birdsong. But don't worry, civilisation in the form of Hunter Valley hospitality is only a short drive away.
The homestead on the hill (image JW)
is a home away from home in the Hunter. The three bedroom 120-year-old home is very comfortable and nicely furnished. The friendly hosts, Neil & Bernadette Stevens, are the producers of Glen Oak wines, and you will find a complimentary bottle of their wine in the fridge. In the afternoon we enjoyed relaxing with a delicious Glen Oak Chardonnay on the verandah.
Vineyard views (image JW)
The kitchen is stocked with all the necessary equipment as well as food items for a continental breakfast, bread, butter, milk, cereals, jams and Vegemite. There is a full-size fridge & oven, a microwave, electric frypan and outdoor gas BBQ.
The fully equipped kitchen (image JW)
There is a large bathroom, two queen bedrooms, one king bedroom, a dining room, and a central lounge area. The house has an air conditioner, overhead fans in all the rooms and the wood burning fire was ready to go, There is a small TV, a CD player, DVD player and a selection of DVDs and board games.
The comfortable main bedroom (image JW)
There is a dirt road into the property off Marrowbone Road just past Ivanhoe Wines. The Stevens live on the hill to the right of the homestead and are only a phone call away. The carport is large enough for two cars and the yard is fully fenced and a good size for backyard games. If you want more views you can walk up the steep hill behind the homestead, just watch out for the wildlife.
Enter via the back door (image JW)
It is fantastic for star gazing as it is very dark at night and city dwellers would really appreciate the fresh air and country sounds. I want to return in a different season when the region has received some much-needed rain and the dry brown is replaced with lush green or the jacaranda tree is in bloom.
