Architectural Elegance Meets Luxe Comfort
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Orange region, Basalt offers a luxurious escape for those seeking a weekend getaway filled with wine tasting, delicious food, and breathtaking country views. And great sleep ins, of course.
Perched atop a family-owned cherry orchard, Basalt comprises three architecturally striking studio suites designed by award-winning Mudgee-based architect, Cameron Anderson. Each of the suites is minimalist and pared back to beautiful but simple forms, using a palette of polished concrete, rammed earth, steel and glass.
Duvet Cover in Tobacco, Linen Sheet Set in White
Once inside, warm wood panelling and captivating views of the central tablelands make this incredibly private spot feel panoramic yet cosy. In fact, eastward-facing windows offer the perfect vantage point to admire the sunrise from the comfort of a king size bed adorned with none other than C+G linens.
Designed specifically with ultimate relaxation in mind, each self-serviced studio at Basalt features a spacious concrete bathtub, complete with a large bifold window that allows a soak with a view.
Duvet Cover in Tobacco, Linen Sheet Set in White
Basalt's commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience is evident in the thoughtful touches found throughout the property. Including C+G linens to sink into throughout the property and an in-room iPad pre-loaded with useful guides, including the best local cafes, walking trails on the property, and info on the local artists whose work graces the studio walls.
Linen Duvet Cover in Olive, Linen Sheet Set in White, Linen Shirt in Sand, Linen Pants in Sand
Before you book yourself a weekend away at Basalt, catch our chat with owner Simon below. Then, get ready to unwind, take it slow, and experience the unparalleled comfort of Carlotta + Gee linen amidst the beauty of the Orange region.
C+G: How did Basalt, Orange come to life? Can you give us a snapshot of the background?
SB: The idea for Basalt, Orange really took off after a family camping trip in April 2020, not long after the initial COVID lockdown. We had been considering doing something with the Basalt block for a number of years, but we weren't sure what. After deciding to move forward with the project in April 2020, it took another six months or so to finalise a clear vision for Basalt.
C+G: You have a long connection with the area and the land where Basalt is built. Can you tell us about that?
SB: My family moved to the area in 1979 when my parents decided to leave Sydney and raise their young family in the country. My mom was a midwife, and my dad was an engineer, so purchasing a rundown orchard in Orange was quite a surprising move for them. They quickly cleaned up the overgrowth and transformed the place into a thriving fruit production property. Initially, the property didn't include the Basalt site, which was owned by our neighbours, the Donatos. It was only after Bob Donato decided to exit orcharding in the early 2000s that my parents purchased the property, including the acreage that now houses Basalt.
C+G: All three studios have been architecturally designed. Can you paint a picture for guests to understand what they can expect?
SB: The view from the Basalt site is so mesmerising that you can't help but be transfixed by it. Our architect's brief was simple - celebrate this incredible view both day and night, and make sure guests never lose sight of it, no matter what they're doing in the studio. The sunrise takes it to another level; you have to experience it to believe it.
C+G: We know you offer extra activities for guests during their stay. Can you give us some insights into these for people wanting to visit?
SB: Apart from the familiar (and wonderful) food and wine experiences that travelers typically associate with Orange, there are unique characters with interesting stories to tell and physical experiences to share. Here's a snapshot of a few such activities we hope our guests will enjoy at Basalt:
- Watercolour art class with renowned nature-based artist, Daniel Cooke
- Indigenous Cultural Adventure & bush tucker with proud Juru man, Gerald Power
- Stargazing with celebrated astronomer, Rod Somerville
- Mushroom foraging in the nearby state forest with OG Orange foodie, Robbie Robinson
Linen Duvet Cover in Olive, Linen Sheet Set in White
C+G: Of course, we are thrilled that C+G linen bedding is in the cabins. What is your favorite color combination?
SB: The Olive / Olive Stripes combination is a real standout!
Images by Monique Lovick & Pip Farquharson