Feel like a trip to the Amalfi Coast or Lake Como, but can’t afford the fares to Italy? Enter Guestlands, your little slice of Italian goodness closer to home, in Western Sydney – where Tuscan tranquillity awaits…
Just a 45-minute drive from Sydney’s CBD, the moment you drive into Guestlands you are transported to the other side of the world. A five-acre masterpiece, its giant wrought iron gates open and welcome you onto a gravel driveway leading to a small parking area over-looking the most authentic Italian pool this side of Bellagio.
This is no ordinary accommodation. There is no reception. Go searching for one and you’re more likely to find a warm pizza oven or sprawling walkway leading to your own custom lake or giant chess board. And who needs a reception when you have hosts Pete and Jen looking after you? From the second you arrive they welcome you as any Italian family would, making you feel right at home as you head towards your villa – one of only four.
As you pass a ’60s Fiat, bright red Vespa, iron chairs and Guestlands’ very own ‘florist’, you really have to remind yourself that you’re still in Australia. In the outdoor kitchen you’ll also pass a hand-written chalk board welcoming guests with a personal message, making you instantly realise why booking your stay at this unique B&B was such a great idea.
The villas themselves are spacious and extremely clean. Forget the giant plasma screen and desk you’re used to in a city hotel, at Guestlands these are replaced with beautiful European furniture, unique artworks and enough Italian books to keep you busy throughout your stay. And if you really must satisfy your Netflix obsession during your visit (though we’d discourage it) then Guestlands’ media room, despite what you might expect, houses a giant screen with a cosy couch that makes you feel like you’ve just hired your very own private cinema.
Hot tip – bring your best camera, because everywhere you turn presents another “Instagrammable” moment. This boutique B&B accommodation is simply a must-see.
Although Guestlands doesn’t house its own restaurant, Pete and Jen do surprise guests with frequent pizza nights in their wood-fired oven, followed by amazing gelato. And for breakfast, guests are invited to cook themselves in a private kitchen over-looking the main lane, making you feel like you are right in the middle of a morning stay on the banks of Lake Como. Of course, if you’d prefer to eat out, simply ask Pete for recommendations. Lunch at the nearby A Chef Secrets – a quick ferry ride from Borowra Waters Marina – offers fine food with an amazing view.
We cannot recommend Guestlands highly enough. Whether you’re after somewhere to send your parents on an anniversary date, or wanting your own Italian experience for a special romantic weekend (or weekday) away, you will not be disappointed with the incredible customer service, breathtaking gardens and authentic Italian aromas that Guestlands has to offer. And for an extra special treat, ask Pete to show you his man cave. Although not a traditional Italian experience, it’s one that will leave any discerning man inspired.
To book a stay at Guestlands or for more information, check out www.guestlands.com.au
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