Superb, secluded luxury owner, writes Jane Evans
THERE is no mobile reception at Stonebarn, which is perfect. We arrived at the Boutique Hotel and Truffiere mid afternoon and did not leave for two whole days.
It is easy to lose yourself there, if you want to. The secluded, luxury property on the edge of the Warren River 20 minutes from Pemberton, opened its doors in October 2008.
It was recently selected as one of only three properties in the State included in the exclusive Mr and Mrs Smith Hotel Collection.
Six luxurious suites occupy the beautiful stone and timber structure, each with a private balcony overlooking the dam.
The interior is characterised by a blend of South African antiques – belonging to the owners – and beautifully designed, contemporary pieces that create a warm, rustic fit-out. So striking is the interior, by Parisian-based Australian architect Aviva F Shpilman, it was nominated for the 2009 Australian Interior Design awards.
But the beauty of Stonebarn extends beyond its surroundings. On arrival, we were greeted by manager Greg Cusens, a South African expat who has recently taken over the day-to-day running of Stonebarn.
Guests can interact with Greg as little or as much as they like during their stay.
In our case, we became friends. When my partner jokingly requested a ‘midnight snack’ on the arrival form, a platter of cheese, crackers and strawberries arrived discretely outside our door at 11.55pm.
After a guided tour of the 150-acre property, which includes an 1800 hazel and oak tree truffiere, on Greg’s mule (a vehicle not an animal) and a walk along the river, the afternoon presented a perfect opportunity to indulge in a bush bath.
A few hundred metres from the house, privately screened and surrounded by towering karri trees, is a porcelain bathtub with hot running water.
Again, a bottle of champagne and chocolates inconspicuously made their way to the tub for us, completing our surreal date with nature.
In-house chef David Butler may be just 22 ,but the well-travelled English cook knows his craft. Scrumptious winter meals are served with hot French breadsticks, straight from the oven. An extensive wine and spirit list accompanies the changing daily menu.
While part of Stonebarn’s allure is its intimate setting, the owners recognise the potential to expand the property to include more accommodation.
An investment opportunity currently exists to part-own the established business and the property on which the business operates.
Stonebarn is a truly special place, unlike anything else in Western Australia, and will not disappoint even the most discerning of travellers.
For more information on the investment opportunity, contact owner Dion Range at dion@stonebarn.com.au and for general information about the hotel visit www.stonebarn.com.au n