'Everyone thought I was in Spain but I was actually just two hours from Sydney.'

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I think I just stayed in the perfect pad for your next group getaway.

My nearest and dearest were convinced I'd jetted off to some exclusive Spanish villa. The rendered walls, the sprawling vineyard views, the endless blue skies — it had all the hallmarks of a European escape.

But, I was actually just two hours from home. And I'm already planning my return.

But first, here are your must-pack travel essentials. Post continues after video.

The location: Iron Gate Estate, Hunter Valley.

Allow me to introduce you to Iron Gate Estate in the Hunter Valley. This sprawling property is about a two-hour drive from Sydney, located amongst the rolling hills of Pokolbin.

If you live in Sydney, it's that sweet spot where it feels like a proper getaway, but without the admin of airports or the exhaustion of a really long drive. You're far enough from the city to feel like you can properly switch off, but close enough that you can convince even the most reluctant friend to join.

Iron Gate Estate courtyard. Image: Supplied.

Let me talk you through the actual house. Or should I say, villa. Because this isn't your typical three-bedroom holiday home.

There are a whopping seven bedrooms, four bathrooms, multiple indoor and outdoor living and dining spaces, and a generous kitchen stocked up with everything you need for entertaining and catering to large groups.

The bedroom at Iron Gate Estate. Image: Supplied.

Plus, the indoor and outdoor spaces flow seamlessly. When you step outside, you'll find a massive pool that becomes the natural centrepiece of the home, surrounded by expansive lawns that seem to roll on forever. And importantly, the beds are super comfy — I honestly haven't had a better night sleep in months.

The pool at Iron Gate Estate. Image: Supplied.

The best part though? It's walking distance to a winery, which is ideal for a long lunch with your best mates. Because what's a group getaway without one?

Iron Gate Estate winery. Image: Supplied.

The food and drinks: The Iron Gate Kitchen.

Look, in my humble opinion, if you're planning to stay at this amazing property, it's best enjoyed in two ways: by soaking up the amenities and local produce via a poolside dinner party, and swinging by the aforementioned neighbouring winery and restaurant, Iron Gate Kitchen.

The Mediterranean vibe of the villa continues on the menu at Iron Gate Kitchen. Head Chef Lara Hagan is at the helm, championing locally sourced produce as much as possible. The restaurant opened in May, and offers indoor and alfresco dining options which overlook the picturesque vineyard below. And, with 130 seats available, there's plenty of space for large groups to comfortably dine.

True to Spanish-style eating, the menu's been designed for sharing, and features dishes like the lamb shoulder with salsa verde, patatas bravas, heirloom cauliflower with marcona almond and yellowfin tuna steak with chimichurri. Can't decide what to order? May I suggest opting for the set menu and leaving all the decision-making to the experts instead. 

It's elevated but relaxed, the kind of place where you can settle in for a proper long lunch and not feel rushed to leave. It's also nailing Spanish-inspired brekkies that'll cure any tired mind you might sustain staying up late sipping on wine with your mates.

Why Iron Gate Estate in Hunter Valley work well for groups.

Here's where it gets really good for group holidays — they've thought of everything. Ping pong and pool tables for the competitive types, a kitchen that's genuinely set up for entertaining. We're talking proper bench space, quality appliances, and enough room for multiple people to cook together without feeling on top of each other. It's the kind of kitchen that makes you want to plan elaborate dinner parties and actually follow through with them.

Because here's the thing about group holidays — they're either absolutely magical or a complete disaster.

At Iron Gate there's enough space for everyone to spread out when they need alone time, but the layout naturally brings people together in the common areas. The pool becomes the social hub during the day, the kitchen transforms into party central for dinner prep, and those outdoor dining areas are perfect for the long conversations that stretch well into the night.

Plus, having the winery restaurant so close means you can have the best of both worlds — home-cooked meals when you want that cosy, intimate vibe, and restaurant-quality dining when you want to be looked after.

If you've been trying to organise that group getaway that everyone keeps talking about but never actually books, Iron Gate Estate might just be your answer. It's close enough to Sydney that it's not a massive commitment, beautiful enough that everyone will feel like they're somewhere special, and practical enough that it actually works for a group of friends who want to eat, drink, and be merry together.

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Feature image: Supplied.