Sequoia Lodge – Review

Perched high on Mount Lofty in the Adelaide Hills, Sequoia is the romantic getaway you’ve been waiting for. With only 14 suites, the property is underpinned by a sense of privacy and intimacy. Whether you visit local wineries or explore the Hills via helicopter, unwind afterwards with a soak in one of the hot pools before enjoying a decadent dégustation at the three-hatted Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant.

Where is Sequoia Lodge?

Sequoia sits on Mount Lofty – the highest point in the southern Mount Lofty Ranges – a 35-minute drive from Adelaide airport. It borders the Cleland National Park and is moments away from some of South Australia’s best wineries, including Deviation Road (a 10-minute drive away) and Penfolds Magill Estate (20 minutes away).

Room types

Each of the lodge’s 14 Mid-Century-Modern-inspired suites is oriented to face the Piccadilly Valley, with floor to ceiling windows that let you watch the sunrise from bed. The split-level design divides the sunken leather lounge, stone-clad fireplace and balcony from the bedroom, while the generous bathroom (complete with freestanding tub and a shower with multiple settings) is a separate, private space.

Everything at Sequoia has been inspired by the best of South Australia. You’ll find ceramics supplied by the local makers at JamFactory, full-sized Jurlique products in the bathroom, R.M. Williams vests in the wardrobe, as well as original artworks by South Australian artist Stephen Trebilcock. There’s even a bottle of Sequoia sparkling wine from the estate’s own vineyards waiting in your minibar.

Restaurants and bars

Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner within the main lodge itself or in your suite. The modern Australian menu changes with the seasons and dishes might include silver whiting ceviche with ginger, apple and crème fraîche followed by steak with cognac mustard.

For a more dressed-up experience visit triple-hatted Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant, just next door at Sequoia’s sister property Mount Lofty House. The four- or seven-course dégustation includes seasonal dishes such as cod and abalone drizzled in black vinegar or Wagyu brisket with scallops and pearl onions. With more than 900 bottles on the award-winning wine list, ask your sommelier to help you select the perfect pairing or simply add the matched wine offering to your meal.

Travel for work

Fast wi-fi is available in all suites and the main lodge but coverage can be inconsistent while roaming the grounds. There are no dedicated business facilities at the property.

Spa and gym

You won’t find a gym here. Instead, head outdoors on a daily guided walk through Cleland National Park with one of the lodge’s guest experience hosts or for a sunrise yoga session (organise this during your pre-visit call).

Soak your worries away in one of three artesian spring-fed hot pools at the lodge. Reserve one of two 38℃ pools for a private bathing session, or head for the third larger pool whenever you’d like.

The Gatekeeper’s Day Spa upholds the local-first ethos of the estate – only Jurlique products are used and the brand’s biodynamic and organic farm is just 20 minutes away. Choose the Recovery Escape for a head-to-toe reset that includes an invigorating hot stone massage and a refreshing citrus scalp treatment.

What you need to know

Sequoia’s guest experience hosts can organise almost anything, from a bespoke helicopter tour of the best local wineries to a drive through the Adelaide Hills in a Ferrari F8 Tributo and much more.

SEE ALSO: 15 Glamping Experiences in South Australia You Must Try Now