Tonic is inspired by the great Aussie shed. But don't get the wrong idea, these sheds have style - bucketfuls of it - and a setting to match. From its 8 contemporary-chic rooms, big picture windows and verandas look out onto the dams, endless valleys and rich wildlife of the northern Hunter valley. From the moment you arrive, your soul feels restored.
Tonic's original founders, Tom and Nic, gave up life in Sydney to create their ideal hotel, with their own (lack of) rules; and the current owners Ian and Janelle have stayed true to this approach. So: no formulaic hotel breakfasts - instead, your maxi-bar is bursting with all the ingredients for your perfect start to the day. No strict check-in times - instead, you choose your entrance code and let yourself in and out when you want. Expect an eclectic mix of modern and vintage furnishings, gloriously comfortable beds, underfloor-heated bathrooms, a slinky swimming pool, a funky lounge, kangaroos and black swans on your doorstep. It's all wonderfully refreshing after the trad-fad of other Hunter hotels.
Highs
- We loved the contemporary, innovative and proudly Australian design
- Utter peace and tranquility - you need never speak to another soul in your entire time here
- There's a lovely Italian restaurant nearby, and some great wineries too
- Guests rave about waking up to chirping birdlife, or watching lightning storms from their balconies
- Charming hosts, who are happy to advise and arrange, but also to leave you alone if that's your wish
Lows
- Not in the heart of the Hunter, but it's much more peaceful than Pokolbin, which is only 15 minutes away
- Don't expect staff or catered meals; this is more for self-sufficient types (though Ian can offer advice)
- The rooms aren't large but they are perfectly formed
- No children under 15 - this hotel is designed for couples
- A power line goes through the valley but you soon don't notice it
Best time to go
Easter is very popular as it's harvest time, with misty mornings, cloudless days and vines turning the copper colours of Autumn. May is the Lovedale Long Lunch period when all the local Lovedale wineries and restaurants join together to do the long lunch. Bank holidays get booked up too. Spring (October and November) is another ideal time, with lots of food and music festivals. Winter (June-August) can be rainy, but you don't need hot weather to go wine-tasting! Book ahead if you want to come on a weekend.
Our top tips
Book a pasta- or sushi-making class at Sandalyn in nearby Lovedale: they're great fun, and end with a yummy 2-course lunch al fresco. If you really want to impress your partner, book a helicopter tour - it lands on the hotel grounds, then takes off for a scenic flight round the Hunter Valley.
Location
Tonic Hotel is in the Lovedale area of the Hunter Valley wine region of New South Wales, Australia. It's 170km northwest of Sydney.
By Air:
Cessnock (12km). A 25-minute flight from Sydney with local airlines. A private transfer can be arranged with the hotel when you book. Sydney (170km). Click on the links below for a list of airlines.
From the Airport
By Car:
Most people will arrive by car - it takes approximately 2 hours from Sydney. We'd recommend driving to explore the region - see our car rental recommendations.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.
More on getting to Australia and getting around
Airports:
- Sydney Kingsford Smith 170.0 km SYD
- Cessnock 12.0 km CES
Other:
- Beach 30.0 km
- Shops 10.0 km
- Restaurant 5.0 km