In or out? The answer isn’t immediately clear. Dusk is approaching as we’re making our way through one of Australia’s premier luxury resorts. There, just off the trail, is a bare-nosed wombat. When the faint-hearted marsupial spots us, he holds his position, as if to escape the glare and the cameras. After a few seconds he scurries toward his burrow and goes in headfirst and stays there until the coast is clear. This is just one of the natural encounters that await the guests of the One&Only Wolgan Valley.

Set within a 7,000-acre wildlife reserve within the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area a few hours’ drive from Sydney, a stay at the One&Only Wolgan Valley is as close to an all-encompassing Australiana experience as you can get and although the wildlife immersion is perhaps its biggest attraction, the landscape is incredibly picturesque too. The bushland is framed by towering jagged cliffs that change colour according to the position of the sun, and as day turns to night, it’s as if someone switches on the twinkling lights. The endless open sky is majestic and a stargazers paradise on a clear evening.

When it comes to the heritage of this area, it’s worth mentioning that the name Wolgan Valley comes from the Aboriginal word ‘wolga’, a word that’s used for a local vine and commonly referred to as Old Man’s Beard.  The valley’s settlement history can be traced to one of the early pioneer families led by William Walker. His farmhouse still located on the property today, named the 1832 Heritage Homestead after the year it was built. In 1836, Charles Darwin visited the Homestead during his trip to Australia whilst staying as a guest of the Walker family. So taken was he by the sheer rock formations and scope of the land, the naturalist’s great-great-grandson, who makes his home in the region, suggests that Darwin’s evolutionary theory first took shape not in the Galápagos but in the primeval Blue Mountains.

Among the Wollemi Pines – some of Australia’s most prehistoric trees, trees that survived the dinosaur ages is where you’ll find the five-star ultraluxe retreat. There are 40 luxury villas, each boasting its own private plunge pool and expansive terrace. Guest will opt between the one-bedroom Heritage villas, the two-bedroom Wollemi villas, or seek complete refuge and privacy in the three-bedroom Wolgan Villa – the only self-contained villa and one that’s nestled in a secluded corner and provides spectacular panoramic views of the valley beyond.

Each one of these carbon neutral offerings has been designed and decorated with a ‘private haven’ approach in mind. The federation style architecture features natural wood and stone that’s been sourced from the region and these elements are complemented by earthy tones in the furnishings and high-end facilities like the luxurious skylight shower and double vanity, elaborate walk-in dressing room, double-sided fireplace, and spacious sitting area.

The heated plunge pool with bi-fold doors that can be opened, and the breath-taking valley views are a photographer and nature lovers’ dream as are the visiting kangaroos that often make their way into your ‘backyard’ at dusk and in the wee hours of the morning. Each villa is kitted out with binoculars, Wi-Fi and a full minibar. Guests are able to traverse the retreat acreage on foot, with the provided bicycles or can make use of the buggy transport provided by the property.

The Wolgan Dining Room in the main house serves world-class and inspired culinary offerings. It’s a warm, comfortable space in which to enjoy an evening meal. Breakfast is served here too, and while the buffet is compact, the a la carte offering is more substantial and starts the day in the right way.

The Valley Bar & Terrace, also in the main building and just off the dining area, is the ideal spot for a pre-dinner cocktail or after-dinner nightcap, while the Country Kitchen is great for a lazy lunch or midday snack. As an aside there are also private dining options that allow you to dine in your favourite resort location with on-site wait staff at your beck and call.

Guests are spoilt for choice with recreational activities including a luxurious resort pool and Jacuzzi to enjoy, and any one of a number of epic outdoor adventures to tackle, including horse safaris, nature tours, stargazing, glow worm experiences and Conservation Hour, which provides guests the opportunity to contribute to preserving the valley by assisting with tree planting and animal/plant surveys to name a few. There are also tennis courts and a full gymnasium.

Considered one of Australia’s most luxurious landmark properties, guest will find friendly hospitality, local appeal and immersive luxury guaranteed at the One&Only Wolgan Valley.  As the saying goes Down Under, this is Dinky Die Australia or as others would refer to as the Real Deal, and it’s a must-visit destination when you’re next in that part of the world.