Yulefest magic in the mountains

Toasty fires, roast dinners and puddings, decorations and Santa: it may not be Christmas just yet, but in the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region it's all about the winter wonderland! The magical Yulefest celebrations see this unique landscape transformed into an icy winter retreat as the many great hotels, motor inns and guest houses,restaurants and cafes become warm havens with roaring fires, hearty meals and hot drinks to retreat from the chill.

The history of Yulefest in the Blue Mountains goes back about 30 years to a small group of Irish visitors relaxing in front of a fire after enjoying the crisp, clear winter climate. They commented on how the conditions and atmosphere reminded them of Christmas celebrations back home so a savvy hotelier offered to re-create a similar festive atmosphere and meal for his nostalgic Celtic guests. That first Yulefest was a hit. Word spread throughout the region and before long, St Nick was doing the rounds twice a year.

Mountain Heritage Hotel and Spa Retreat, Katoomba is popularly regarded as the ``Home of Yulefest’’ in the region, and this year the hotel will be having celebrations on Saturday June 30th and July 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th. Pre-dinner drinks will be served from 6pm in the lounge followed by a five-course dinner and entertainment, a visit by Santa, a souvenir photo and after dinner treats. It's a special experience that locals and visitors alike all love. 

Cost: $149 adults, $66 children (5 – 12 years), $15 children (0 – 4 years). Accommodation packages available. For bookings and details email  contactus@mountainheritage.com.au or phone (+61) 2 4782 2155.

A 'Spring Renewal' at Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa

Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa rates high on our list as one of the very best  luxurious, conservation-based eco resorts in Australia. Located three hours from Sydney, nestled between two National Parks and bordering the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, this international award-winning carbon-neutral resort features 40 individual suites reminiscent of traditional country homesteads. And all on 4,000 acres of property, where guests can spend their days living a true Australian wilderness experience. Go horseback or bike riding, spot the kangaroos and wombats, indulge in the luxurious Timeless Spa or feast on delicious regional produce. It's a true treat for the senses, letting you get back to nature without forsaking any of the creature comforts you would expect from a luxury getaway.

And right now is a great time to head to Wolgan Valley, as the days warm up and Spring sets in. Lucky for us, they have just released a two night 'Spring Renewal' package for the perfect post-winter getaway!

Valid until 19th December 2011, the 'Spring Renewal' all-inclusive package includes two nights accommodation in a luxurious double Heritage Suite with private swimming pool, gourmet breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, all non-alcoholic beverages and selected local wines and beer with meals, wireless internet and two nature-based experiences per person each day, for just $1,450 per person twin share, representing a saving of $500. Guests will also be treated to a complimentary Taste of Wolgan Gourmet Pack or Timeless Spa Pamper Pack to take home and continue their spring rejuvenation.

And for those who stay two nights or more from Sunday to Thursday inclusive, a 60-minute spa treatment per person is also offered, representing an additional value of $330 per couple.

To book, you can contact the Wolgan Valley Reservations team on 02 9290 9733 or email reservations@wolganvalley.com.