Becoming accustomed to four and five-star luxury is not always a good thing when travelling with kids. When we decided to travel across the Blue Mountains on a road trip I was a little apprehensive. Where would we stay? Would the kids cope with a motor inn or cabin after spending much of summer in high-end hotels on our Californian adventure? Level headed T reassured me that all would be fine. He had researched Bathurst and knew the perfect place. So I left it to him.
Some of you may be unaware that Bathurst is holy land for motor enthusiasts across Australia. It boasts Mt Panorama and the National Motor Racing museum. I shouldn’t have been surprised when T gleefully informed as we headed along the Great Western Highway that we were staying right on the Conrod Straight.Yes, T had gone all out and booked a King Suite on a high floor at Rydges Mt Panorama. After my initial eye rolling I was delighted by the space, the kitchenette, the extra toilet and the spa. It was more than enough for our family of four.
So what did I think? I was very impressed. Rydges Mt Panorama is a mere 2 kilometres from central Bathurst and would certainly be the best hotel in the area (it currently ranks #1 on TripAdvisor). The room was huge and everything had a clean, new feel about it. I think it’s the little things that actually make the hotel one to consider if staying in the area and Rydges had everything covered.
Each evening, while we were out for dinner, housekeeping made up the sofa bed for the kids. With T and I in the King and the kids on the double (or was it queen?) we were all certain a good night sleep. The pillows were firm but the mattress on the King bed was super comfy. I loved that the sofa bed faced away from the bed too.
The bathroom was magnificent. All four of us could shower together if so desired. The 2 person spa was sparkling new and was used every night for the kids. I loved reading that the spa is washed and the jets cleaned after each stay via a removable sticker across the jet buttons. Toiletries were refreshed daily: Lemon grass soap, shampoo, conditioner, spa gel and a shower cap and the towels were big and fluffy.
Whilst WIFI was initially slow, a quick fix by reception with the provision of a HUB and we were able to connect our phones, iPads and Mac with no problem. All of them (that’s five devices)!
I was pretty chuffed to find the kitchenette was stocked with all the utensils, plates, cutlery, pots and pans we would need to make breakfast or a quick meal when we couldn’t be bothered heading out. A cook top and oven made frying eggs and bacon a possibility (thanks for that brekkie in bed T!) whilst a dishwasher did mean there was no need to spend time washing up. With a fully stocked fridge and room service available, some families may choose never to use this option but it’s there if needed.
The Rydges restaurant, Chicane, is well reviewed on TripAdvisor too. Add free parking and 24 hour reception and the Rydges Mt Panorama has all the hallmarks of the perfect family retreat. I believe it even has a pool!
You will find Rydges Mt Panorama on 1 Conrod Straight, Bathurst, NSW. We booked our stay directly. I joined Priority Guest Rewards prior to booking which provides an instant discount. I think we saved $20-30 a night by doing so. Reservations are easy although the site does book out at least a year in advance when the motor racing is scheduled.