Its confluence of natural beauty and oenophilic and epicurean delights make Orange the ideal destination for a weekend—or even mid-week—getaway. Less than a four-hour drive from Sydney, the township—located in the Central Tablelands region of New South Wales—has become known for its cool climate wine and rapidly emerging dining scene.
Centrally located on Byng Street, Yallungah Boutique Hotel is both steps from the action and a quiet respite away from it. Housed within a 1896 homestead designed by architect William Lamrock, it combines original features with well-executed contemporary design. Here, original stained glass windows and cedarwood detailing are in consonance with a vibrant colour palette, swathes of contemporary art, and steel lattice work detailing.
Read on for our full review of Yallungah Boutique Hotel.
The lowdown: Yallungah Boutique Hotel
The hook; why stay at Yallungah Boutique Hotel?
Centrally located on a quiet, leafy street in the heart of Orange, NSW, Yallungah Boutique Hotel seamlessly blends old-world charm with exuberant modern flair.
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The late 19th century building designed by architect William Lamrock has been restored to its former glory, with the heritage façade belying the newly added contemporary extension. The latter sits in harmony with the original structure, defined by intricate steel lattice work that filters natural light into the curved common area, the shape of which echoes the contours in the heritage wing. In the heritage wing, original features—think arched entryways, stained glass windows, and a carved wooden staircase—are retained, with a flamboyant colour palette and thoughtful decor uniting old and new.
Its prime location on Byng Street means Yallungah Boutique Hotel is within walking distance from many of the township’s standout restaurants, cafes, and shops, and a leisurely drive away from the region’s must-visit wineries.
How to get to Yallungah Boutique Hotel
Yallungah Boutique Hotel is located on Byng Street in the township of Orange in New South Wales. The drive from Sydney to Orange takes 3 hours and 45 minutes, with the route passing through the Blue Mountains.
Rooms and suites
Yallungah Boutique Hotel is home to 22 rooms and suites, spread across the heritage wing and contemporary new addition.
In the heritage wing, colour-drenched interiors reign supreme. The Steeple Suite, Beech Tree Garden Suite, and Yallungah Suite sit within the original heritage building and each take on a distinct colour scheme. We were accommodated within the Beech Tree Garden Suite, which saw cobalt blue walls play host to vibrant interiors defined by an abundance of colour. The padded headboard was adorned with a paisley-style geometric print, while a separate lounge area was appointed with an emerald green lounge and yellow accents that complemented the aforementioned cobalt blue.
Our suite overlooked the gardens and was fronted by the namesake beech tree; the only complaint was that the two small windows in the bedroom meant that even during the day, the suite was somewhat lacking in natural light. However, the charm of the heritage building and the cosy sitting area more than makes up for it.
The sitting area has a compact benchtop with tea and coffee facilities. There’s ground coffee by Seven Miles (and a French press to make it in) and English Breakfast, Earl Grey, and peppermint tea by Remy & Max.
Bathroom products?
Bathroom products are by natural Australian brand Grown Alchemist. Expect to find shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body lotion, and a hand soap bar by the bathroom sink. Products are individually packaged in single-use plastic; as always, we’d prefer to see refillable bathroom products over these.
Comfort factor
As mentioned, our Beech Tree Garden Suite was generously sized, with a separate lounge area. The king bed was plush and comfortable and temperature control was good. The bathroom was well proportioned and the shower had good water pressure (not to mention, some rather striking green tiles).
Food and drink
Served in the vibrant, light-filled Yallungah Dining Room, breakfast is a two-course a la carte offering that spotlights local produce at every turn. The first course is juice and local yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits, followed by your choice of hot item from a concise menu (predominantly variants of eggs on toast, with options like smash avocado and mushroom ricotta being standouts).
Spa and facilities
The Yallungah Boutique Hotel is a heritage hotel located in a former homestead, so there’s no dedicated spa or pool facilities. However, a guest lounge holds court in the middle of the contemporary extension; fitted with a fireplace and laden with design-led coffee table books, it’s the ideal place to relax in the afternoon (ideally in between a wine tasting and dinner!). There’s also an outdoor garden space adjacent to the Yallungah Dining Room.
The service
Service is friendly and unpretentious, as is befitting of a country homestead hotel. The young staff at the breakfast service were friendly and attentive without being obtrusive, and when there was a minor issue with the toilet in the room, this was swiftly resolved by the staff on duty.
AR Verdict
The seamless blend of heritage and modernity, coupled with its prime location on Byng Street, make Yallungah Boutique Hotel a compelling stay for a weekend away from the city.
Yallungah Boutique Hotel is open for bookings, with rooms priced from approx. $260AUD/night.
Address: 62 Byng St, Orange, NSW, Australia
Words by T. Angel
