Mulla Villa

My wife and I had one of our most relaxing weekends at Mulla Villa. The staff were friendly, professional, and knew their stuff, and the chef served high-quality meals that suited the countryside. If the Sheraton is what you're after, go there. For a more comforting and less predictable break, the villa is well worth a visit.

There was no safe drinking water in either the kitchen or bathroom. Chickens and other farm animals could wander into the bedroom and living rooms because there were no fences, so people with allergies should be aware. During our stay we also found extensive mould from damp, including on the wooden kitchen and cooking utensils, which may matter for anyone with asthma or lung problems. The owner kindly offered to replace the bedding and kitchen implements after they were contaminated with chicken poo and mould. The wifi didn't work while we were there, which the owner said wasn't unusual. Telstra and Optus had no phone reception indoors, with only patchy service from the driveway. It could suit someone wanting to disconnect from the city or hide from the authorities.

The cooked breakfast came with the room, and it was top notch. We also had an excellent steak dinner and enjoyed time on the lovely verandah, imagining 180 years of history passing along the Convict-built Great North Road. The colonial villa has a great atmosphere, and the hosts were friendly and accommodating. It's a good base for exploring the Hunter wineries. There are far too many cellardoors to fit into one weekend, so we're looking forward to coming back.

Jamie welcomed me warmly, and later Tabatha got the fire going and persuaded me to stay for dinner by it. I was spoiled from the moment I arrived for my overnight stay before a wedding. The staff were lovely, and it's a fabulous wedding venue. Thanks to everyone, I'll definitely be back. X