Tonic Hotel

Innovative, romantic and restorative retreat in the north of the Hunter Valley, 2 hours from Sydney

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.

Convivial Tom and Nic Stanford, passionate about food and wine, gave up life in Sydney to create their ideal hotel. Nic felt hotel breakfasts had become too formulaic, so the maxi-bar is filled to bursting with her creations, plus all the ingredients for your perfect breakfast. Tom hated leaving his hotel room at 10am, so here there is no check-in / out; you choose your entrance code and, when you leave, just close the door behind you. An eclectic mix of modern and vintage furnishings (most of which you can buy), gloriously comfortable beds, underfloor-heated bathrooms, a slinky swimming pool and a funky lounge - it's all wonderfully refreshing after the trad-fad of other Hunter hotels.

Highs

• Contemporary, innovative and proudly Australian design
• Well-stocked maxi-bar full of Nic's delicious dishes and fine wines
• Utter peace and tranquility - you need never speak to another soul in your entire time here
• Bucolic setting - restful vistas, abundant birds and wildlife
• Lots to do in the vicinity, and no pressure to do any of it
• 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 and less developed here; plenty of wineries but you'll need to drive
• If you like lots of hands on service this isn't the place for you
• 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