Coolangatta Estate, NEW SOUTH WALES
Airing Date: Oct 18th, 2004
The Coolangatta Estate is nestled on the foothills of Coolangatta Mountain overlooking the ocean and river at Shoalhaven Heads, on the pristine South Coast of New South Wales.
Settled in 1822 by Alexander Berry and Edward Wollstonecraft, Coolangatta Estate is the site of the first European settlement on the South Coast of NSW. They obtained a grant of 10,000 acres and 100 convicts and built their settlement on the foothills of a mountain named 'Coolangatta', an Aboriginal word meaning view. Today, the estate offers a unique experience in a picturesque setting overlooking the ocean and surrounded by vineyards.
In 1947 Colin Bishop purchased his first couple of hundred acres of farming land at Coolangatta. He began dairying here in 1950 and the idea of one day restoring these buildings soon developed. In 1971 major restoration work began to convert the original convict-built village into a resort complex, and one of Australia's historic jewels was preserved for future generations to enjoy.
The unique accommodation at Coolangatta Estate ranges from convict-built to modern country heritage, providing accommodation for singles through to large family suites, and no two rooms are the same. All the accommodation has ensuite bathrooms, colour televisions, direct dial telephones, tea and coffee making facilities and mini bars featuring estate wine.
Visitors can dine at Alexanders, a fine dining restaurant featuring regional produce and estate wines. For something a bit more relaxed try the James Busby Vineyard Marquee, which has costal views. For a night of singing, dancing, live music and great food head down to the Bush Banquet at the Winery.
Coolangatta Estate also produces award winning wines, made from grapes grown on the property in the Hunter Valley by Tyrell's wine maker Andrew Spinazi. They specialise in white varieties.
The facts
Rooms at Coolangatta Estate start from $100 for a Village Room and $128 for a Village Suite
Coolangatta Estate
Tel: 02 4448 7131
Qantas and QantasLink fly to Sydney. One way, online prices start from $95 ex Melbourne and $222 ex Perth. Prices available online only and include charges/ taxes.
Qantas
Tel: 13 13 13
Suggested reading material: Lonely Planet
Prices correct at 18/10/04
