The new eco-friendly chalets in Blackheath are perfect for a relaxing winter break. Nestled among eucalyptus trees, all four chalets have bathrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and a wood-burning fireplace in the bedroom.
The colors and materials of the chalets are inspired by the surrounding landscape and textures of the canyon walls of the Grand Canyon, which is only moments across from the scenic Evans Observatory.
the passenger: Lisa Wagstaff
room: One bedroom chalet
Title: 394 Evans Lookout Rd, Blackheath New South Wales
Date: May 2022
Best for: A romantic weekend away, exploring the blue mountains and relaxing by the fireplace
signature factor
The large luxury shower has dual shower heads that are attached to a curved wall of sandstone terracotta tiles. Each shower has a rain shower and a detachable shower head. The clay tiles match the raised sandstone formations of the Grand Canyon.
concept
Opening in March 2022, the chalets in Blackheath were created by luxury accommodation enthusiast Angela O’Connell, who is also the resort’s general manager. The property is designed as sustainable and luxurious, using recycled and sustainable materials throughout the chalets. Mud, hemp, and stone are also symbolic of the valleys and ravines in the area around the property. Sandstone formations, eucalyptus trees, and caves inspired the soothing earthy palette.
“The Chalets at Blackheath are designed for the eco-conscious traveler without compromising style, luxury or comfort,” says Angela O’Connell.
There are currently four detached chalets surrounded by nature. Phase two will add six more chalets, including a larger three-bedroom option ideal for families or groups of friends.
Phase Two will also see three outdoor sensory experiences created centered around nature. around the worlds of “Welcome”; “Be comfortable”; Become an explorer.
First impressions
The walled entrance is adjacent to the expansive Blue Mountains National Park. We open the electric gates with a code sent via Whatsapp and walk to The Library to check in with a glass of Moët & Chandon on display upon arrival.
We take in the mass of rejuvenation of local plants. In 2019, the backburning process got out of hand and burned most of the original buildings and plant life. The only noise on the 17-acre property comes from hibiscus, parrots, and magpies. Deco granite trails guide us to the chalets and a huge communal outdoor fire pit.
the room
The chalets are ripe for romance with a king size bed in the center of the room. On one side of the bed there is a kitchenette with breakfast bar, dishwasher, Nespresso machine and Smeg induction hob. On the other side of the room are two armchairs and a wood-burning fireplace. High ceilings and glass windows fill the room with natural light and make the most of the north-facing side.
The large bathroom has two lofts, double vanity and double shower. But the real podium is the deep soaking tub that sits on the floor-to-ceiling windows. We fill it with the scent of eucalyptus salts and soak while watching the sunset behind the bush. After-shower time is just as rich with Frette’s bathrobes. Frette is the favorite linen and bedding of the Italian royal family, and I feel like a princess when I wear my robe.
on my plate
A free continental breakfast is served each morning in the library. The spread includes one of the best croissants I’ve ever had. Local produce is preferred with muesli from Wisk and Pin, apples, fresh sour cider from Megalong Valley, and pies and sourdough from Black Cockatoo Bakery in Katoomba.
Highlights from the minibar
Blue Mountains Gin and Archie Rose cheese pre-mixers are accompanied by chips, homemade chocolate, biscuits, and soft drinks. There’s also a Sub Zero wine fridge for filling your favorite rums and Riedel glassware.
I wish I could go home…
Cosmic black granite bench top in the kitchen. It has stunning crystal accents and a luxurious leather finish.
stay in
Luckily I was immune to a rainy weekend in Chalets in Blackheath. My partner and I opened a bottle of red and enjoyed taking a shower before finishing the bottle by the fireplace. As the sun came out of the clouds, we rode complementary e-bikes to Evans Head, also a perfect spot for the sunrise. We grilled steaks from Blackheath’s epic at Weber’s al fresco restaurant for dinner while admiring the stellar night sky.
You can also share outdoor seating around the fire pit with other guests, visit the original edible garden and stretch as the sun rises or sunsets with yoga and meditation on The Deck.
Out
There are many exciting Blue Mountain hikes around Blackheath. We visited Govett’s Leap Lookout which has hiking trails to George Phillips Lookout and Horseshoe Falls. Across from Blackheath is Centennial Lands Walk. This 30 minute walk took us to the point to see a waterfall flowing through a small gorge. The Blue Mountains is also home to many great antique stores.
We dined of local cuisine at the newly opened Blaq Restaurant in Blackheath which has its own produce garden. Grilled fish with crispy fries and house salad is divine.
Read: Beyond Skyway is a new heart racing experience in the Scenic World Blue Mountains
Only if…
Once the plants grow taller and twigs around the individual chalets, they will become even more special.
Where to find cabins in Blackheath
Blackheath chalets are located in the Blue Mountains, in the beautiful Alpine village of Blackheath.
chaletsblackheath.com.au
