Cooking Across 4 Generations

A recent rare weekend off saw us have an early breakfast and head south to the Southern Highlands. Before we left we did some quick research for accommodation. Quite a few hotels were booked out but we found Milton Park Country House Hotel and Spa in Bowral had a few rooms left so decided to head there.

Located on the outskirts of Bowral, set on 300 acres and perched high on a wood land hill with commanding views over the area, Milton Park was originally a country estate of the well, known Hordern family. The main house was built at the beginning of the 20^th century and features award winning gardens that are maintained as they were originally laid out by Mary Hordern.

After several owners, Milton Park was purchased by the Dobler Family in 1998 and subsequently refurbished the estate, the hotel and the gardens to their current magnificent states. It has recently been bought by a Chinese property trust with the Dobler family still managing the property.

The hotel contains 47 rooms, including seven suites, with the ambience of an opulent Victorian stately house. Garden Courtyard Rooms, Tower Suites and Forest Suites contain antique and period furnishings. Some suites and rooms feature gas log fires, ensuite spa baths, private terraces, four-poster beds and bay windows.

The Carriage House has also been converted into an option for a group of friends or a family as it has seven bedrooms, a spacious lounge area with open fireplace and an outdoor entertaining deck

Most of the common areas have a formal feel with a blend of genuine and reproduction Victorian furniture. Pastel shades have been used through out the interior, and portraits and scenic paintings are hung on the walls. Collectables from around the globe line the quiet corridors.

All the rooms have views overlooking bushland, rolling hills or the courtyard garden with large fountain.

Service was fantastic and very helpful. After checking in we had a little wander around and then in need of lunch, we made our way to The Orangery.

I chose a fettucine with spicy chorizo and tomato, and Mr. CA4G opted for the barramundi. A bowl of fat crunchy chips accompanied our meal and were really good!

A half bottle of Petit Chablis was a great drop to go with lunch.

The main bar is decked out like a gentleman club. Wood panelling, rich colours and a polo theme which gives it it’s name. Just behind the Polo Bar is the Snooker/pool room, so naturally we had a quick game.

After a quick siesta it was time to freshen up and get ready for dinner. Our accommodation package for our stay included a three course dinner in the fine dining restaurant, Hordern’s. The restaurant is elegantly decorated and furnished, with subtle lighting.

I love a cauliflower soufflé with cheese sauce and when I saw it on the menu I just had to have it.

Mr CA4G had grilled scampi with salad.

Our wine of choice for the evening was a Henschke Mount Edelstone, 1999 Vintage. Served in a crystal decanter.

For Mains Mr. CA4G stayed with seafood and ordered saffron risotto topped with juicy seared scallops.

I chose confit duck with sautéed spinach. Fell apart and had nicely crisped skin.

While desserts were tempting, we went for the cheese board which featured house made lavosh and local honey.

After a great dinner we headed to the Polo Bar for a night cap, settled in to a comfy sofa and watched the wood burning in the open fireplace.

We really look forward to going again when the weather is a bit warmer and the garden is dressed in it’s spring or summer finery.