Lovedale Country Views

The peace and views were nice, and the kangaroos doing the groundskeeping brought a smile to my face. But the place felt like an abandoned resort, despite its beautiful location. It seems the owners can earn income without putting money back into upkeep. It has had plenty of potential, but now seems to have very little. I hadn't read the reviews before booking, but I can see why there are so many one-star ratings. I'd find it very hard to recommend.

We were promised a refund when we checked in and refused to stay, but a week and a half later it still hasn't arrived. That's unacceptable after paying $400 a night. Finding the cabin was difficult, and no staff were there to help us check in. When we finally got inside, it was filthy and unsanitary, as though it hadn't been properly cleaned in years. Both beds had visible, repulsive stains of faeces and what looked like bodily fluids, a serious health and safety hazard. The toilet was visibly soiled, the bathroom was disgusting, and the hand towel was dirty. This falls far below the hygiene standard anyone should expect in paid accommodation. The lack of communication and missing refund made an already disgraceful experience even worse.

The villa was overpriced for such a run-down place calling itself a resort. We booked Vineyard Hill "Resort" two months ahead because it was the only place available for one night. It's near wineries and has lovely views, but the website photos are deceptive. The Two Bedroom Villa wasn't fit for habitation and had health and safety problems. The power socket behind the sofa by the sliding door had come off the wall and someone had tried to fix it with gaffer tape. Dusty floors and shabby couches left us sneezing all night, and there was a musty smell. Most towels and hand towels were stained. The balcony door was hard to open, and the screen door had come off its tracks. The kitchen exhaust fan was so noisy we couldn't sleep. We had to ask for the pool cover to be removed and the pool cleaned, and there was no spa despite it being advertised. Service was poor too. A cleaner begrudgingly let us use another room to change while waiting for our room to be ready at 12pm, but when we returned, reception had given our room to another guest. A Google rating of 2.9 is far too generous.

The setting was good, and there were plenty of kangaroos to watch, but it wasn't worth the money. There's no concierge on site, so you have to call for help. The cabins are basic, with dated furniture and fittings. For four people there wasn't enough shower wash, no face cloths, and only one small long-life milk. When we unplugged our phone, a power point came out of the wall. The hot water came through almost instantly, but it was brown in the washbasin. At best, this is suitable for backpackers, not a resort.