A Taste of the Hamptons in the Hunter

• Words Liane Morris

If you’re seeking a quaint country cottage full of style and luxurious comfort for your next getaway to the Hunter Valley, then Hamptons on Hunter House delivers a divine experience. Conveniently located just a five-minute walk from Cessnock's cafes and shops and a 15-minute drive from the vineyards, Hamptons on Hunter House feels like the rural holiday home you’ve always dreamt of.

Recently purchased by new owners Leearne and Nathan, the pre-war home is easily over 100 years old and has been completely renovated to a very high standard with original features such as dado panels and ornate cornices creating an effortless charm.

“As soon as I saw it, I knew my search was over,” said Leearne.

“I’d been looking for an investment property for over three years, and this one just felt right. It was already renovated and had that real Hamptons feel that I love, retaining the original character of the home and with luxury at its heart. It was done exactly the way I would; it even has the same bathroom tile we have in our house.”

Leearne works in the travel industry and was a producer on the TV program Getaway, so she knows what she’s looking for in holiday accommodation. Travel is her passion, and she has created the kind of home she wants to stay in on holiday.

“We’ve made sure that it doesn’t just have the basics. It’s got everything you need to be truly comfortable even if you were staying for a month – things like a slow cooker and a blender in the kitchen, smart TV with all the streaming services, queen beds, original fireplace with gas heating to ensure everyone stays cosy and of course, a fire pit, BBQ and wrap around outdoor entertaining deck out the back overlooking the fruit trees and veggie patch. The fire pit is a big hit with our guests at the moment.”

The home attracts guests all year round, sleeps six and is reasonably priced. It’s a firm favourite for wedding guests, concertgoers, girls’ weekends, couples and just about anyone visiting the Hunter Valley.

“The outdoor area is really popular. I’ve created a party atmosphere with a neon sign that references my grandmother’s name, which was De Vine. People love to take photos with the sign and share them on Instagram. It’s a lovely way to pay homage to her and is something just a little different that appeals to people with the play on divine and vineyards.”

The home's exterior features a front porch and a rose garden with a white picket fence on a large, quarter-acre fenced block. Inside is a gourmet kitchen any chef would be happy to use with a pressed tin splashback to add extra historical charm and character and a luxurious bathroom with a free-standing soaking tub that will have you rushing for the bubbles. It’s a beautiful, old country home with all the necessary conveniences. The finishing touches that add a warmth and homey vibe include artisan candles, premium toiletries, bathrobes, coffee machine, board games, puzzles, and even a bar cart.

“I’ve been told I’m running this with my heart, not my head, but I’m ok with that. This is our home too. We holiday here, and we love it. It feels like a special place with a beautiful energy. I want people to love it as much as I do and return time and again. There’s so much on offer here in the Hunter Valley, and I’m excited to be a part of that.”

Hamptons on Hunter House can be booked through their website, www.hamptonsonhunter.com or via Airbnb or Booking.com.