Must@Coonawarra Hotel Review
Four and a hours from Adelaide lies Australia’s premier red-soiled Cabernet sauvignon wine region – Coonawarra. Experiencing somewhat of a renaissance, the region is reinventing itself. Looking outside of traditional varieties – Cab Sauv and Shiraz – and beyond the defining style of the 80’s and 90’s where “bigger and bolder was better”, different varietals are being planted and experimented with. A return to the styles of the 70’s which were lower in alcohol, higher in acid.
A good home base is needed.
Usually I would go for a cosy historical B&B but they were all booked out. Fitting then that I should find a modern, eco-friendly alternative in A MUSt@Coonawarra.
Eco-friendly hotel units. Photo: Willunga Wino
Location
Right on the main street, just meters from the town centre of Penola, the location is perfect. Fear not, the main street location does not mean it is busy or noisy. Accommodation is tucked off the road front, and Coonawarra is a quiet country region. You are well within striking distance of wineries, be that on foot, bicycle (for hire at reception) or car.
View to the road of the front units. Photo: Willunga Wino
Lobby
Reception is a small office at the front. Neat and functional.
Service
We’re greeted with a smile and check in is immediate. No fuss, we are in our room within minutes.
Rooms
We stayed in Luxury Studio Apartment number 4.
Little touches make it extra special. A throw rug on the couch to keep your legs warm. Electric blanket on the bed. Thoughtful, interesting and tempting mini-bar offerings. Corkscrew, beer glasses, wine and sparkling wine glasses.
They even use eco friendly cleaning products and “Who Gives A Crap” toilet paper that provides sanitation for people in need.
Breakfast is continental and includes cereal, juice, toast, spreads and milk.
Continental breakfast provisions. Photo: Willunga Wino
Rooms are tastefully appointed in a modern style. Everything looks new and fresh, with the whole apartment being spotlessly clean.
The bathroom has plenty of room with an oversize shower, and large vanity with storage under and on bench.
Sparkling bathrooms. Photo: Willunga Wino
A cooktop means you can whip up a feast if you like. There is a lounge and coffee table, as well as a small dining table and chairs. DVD player in case you want to watch a movie, a luggage rack and large storage cupboard for hanging clothing.
You will feel right at home. Photo: Willunga Wino
Views
From the rooms, out over the car spots to native landscaping.
View to the native garden landscaping. Photo: Willunga Wino
Restaurants
No onsite restaurants.
Facilities
There are bicycles to hire, and a communal use BBQ area.
Lovely communal use BBQ area. Photo: Willunga Wino
Value
Very good – with added feel good factor!
Overall
A lovely place to stay that is very central to wineries and the Penola township.
Pinnable Image:
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