Spicers Sangoma Retreat - Bowen Mountain, New South Wales

Kai S.

This was our third visit to Spicers Sangoma, and once again, it was an incredible experience. A big highlight for us is always seeing Jill, the housekeeper. She is an absolute gem — so warm, energetic, and genuinely caring. Jill goes out of her way to make sure we feel welcomed and comfortable every time. She’s a true asset to the team and really adds a personal touch to our stay.

We also want to acknowledge Ivy, the General Manager, who looked after us so thoughtfully throughout our stay. She was warm, attentive, and made us feel completely at home.

The rest of the staff are equally fantastic — always professional, friendly, and accommodating. The chef deserves a special mention too. They are incredibly considerate with dietary needs, and the food is consistently outstanding. Every meal is a highlight, and we’ve never been disappointed.

We’re already looking forward to our next visit!

Jonathan S.

After spending over $5,000 for two nights in the Chief Suite, I had high expectations—and I’m happy to say they were fully met. The room's decor was beautifully designed, creating an elegant yet cozy atmosphere. Despite being located next to the main house, the suite felt completely secluded, offering full privacy for a truly relaxing stay.

One of the highlights was the dining experience. Not having to choose meals at lunch and dinner was a refreshing change, and the set menus were both generous and delicious. The variety was impressive, and every dish was satisfying. Overall, an exceptional experience that was well worth it!

Londontripadviser

This definitely ranks within my top hotels I have ever stayed at and ticked all of my boxes. It is simply fabulous with only 8 rooms, but only four were occupied while we were there. Our room (bush suite no 5) was isolated, romantic and fantastic. Almost entirely open plan with massive sliding doors leading to a secluded veranda with a fantastic view all the way to Sydney in the far distance. The bath and shower were excellent and made you feel you were getting clean in nature.||The rest of the hotel was lovely with beautiful furnishings, but the real star of the show was the food. Breakfast, lunch and dinner were all nothing short of stunning. Delicious, healthy food imaginatively presented and combined and paired with delightful wines. My wife is a very health conscious vegan and absolutely loved the food and thoughtfulness that was given to her.||We had a couple’s massage. I’m a novice, but my wife rated it one of her best ever.||The final mention must go to the staff who were all excellent - attentive, friendly and professional.||This really is a stunningly great place.

Richard M.

We stayed here for our anniversary. The only room available was the Chief Suite at just under $3,000 per night. It is marketed as the premier room at the resort. FOH team was great, food exceptional, but when it came to the room, most expensive did not equal best.

Some examples:
1. when we arrived the hose was in the pool (switched off) and there was a dirty and smelly rag on the bathroom sink
2. the toilet light was flashing with a strobe effect to the extent that it was nauseating
3. the fridge handle was broken so we had to open it by prying the door with our fingers
4. the bathroom door was broken at the bottom
5. the handle on the kitchen mixer tap (pull out) was missing/broken
6. one of the two mirror lights in the bathroom and wasn't working
7. the screen doors were jammed up so we had to force them to open and close

The issues kept happening to the point where it was a recurring joke during our (one night) stay.

It took more than a week (and a follow up with head office) to get a response from management. Never received even an apology (except for the delay), but was told that housekeeping and maintenance had been notified.

I am guessing the other rooms were in better condition.

For the price (and indeed much less), there are much better options in that region (and other regions close by Sydney).

lovemyflipflops

The staff at Spicers are lovely and so helpful. Our stay was made better by the friendly and chatty ladies we saw everyday. Sadly the property needs some investment and some updating. It’s not quite 5 star. ||The main hotel building and restaurant area are really nice but our room (chief suite) needed a jolly good clean and some maintenance. There were lots of cobwebs under all the window blinds. Some windows don’t have any curtains or blinds so you are woken when the sun rises. Outside the main suite door was an old plastic crate and an unravelled hose pipe. Just not quite 5 star.||We enjoyed staying here and loved our walks in the blue mountains but we probably wouldn’t return to Spicers to stay.

SteveR552

Very cook / quirky hotel. Rooms are unique and very fun. The food was AMAZING!!!! WHAT A TALENTED YOUNG CHEF!!!! If we lived in Australia, I would return just for the food. A bit out there, so not necessarily close to activities we were doing but had a delightful stay.

Paul C.

I cannot speak more highly of the staff, food and premises. Everyone was so friendly and accommodating. We would definitely go back. The region is incredible a must do is the Botanical Gardens and Hawkesbury Look out. A very easy drive from Sydney and fantastic parking on site. The views are spectacular as is the garden. Jill the care taker does an amazing job!

WorthHaving

Spicers offer you the opportunity to get away from it all to a very quiet and relaxing environment. Hikes and other entertainment are 30 minutes to an hour drive away in the blue Mountains. Dining here is ridiculously great. Every meal is handcrafted by talented chefs, who deserve their own Michelin stars.It is a lovely getaway for a few days and the rooms are well equipped with seating, beautiful bathrooms, and if you are in the little bungalows, your own private deck to view the scenery. This is its own little world, so make sure that you bring your own entertainment and good company with you.