Grand Saddles Lodge brings 20 private suites to the Hawkesbury

Twenty private suites set in 28 acres of Hawkesbury bushland, with five-course dining and a guided art collection from John Singleton’s personal holdings

The Grand Saddles Lodge opens on 2 November 2026 at Mount White, NSW – an intimate 20-suite retreat within the Saddles Mount White precinct on the Central Coast, 45 minutes north of Sydney. Conceived by John Singleton and designed by Michelle Leslie Studio with White + Dickson Architects, The Lodge sits among 28 acres of eucalypt bushland opposite the acclaimed Homestead restaurant, and is structured around a minimum two-night stay that encompasses most meals, sommelier-matched wines and a program of curated experiences across the Hawkesbury and surrounding landscape.

The suites

The Lodge’s 20 suites are distributed individually through the bush in three categories. The Gardens open onto secluded garden terraces with super king beds oriented toward the tree canopy beyond. The Classics feature a private heated circular plunge pool, while the most spacious option, four Signature Suites, offer larger private plunge pools, freestanding baths and generous terraces with sun lounges.

All suites feature separate living spaces, open fireplaces, fine linens and hand-selected vinyl collections. Interiors draw from the equestrian heritage of the Saddles precinct, layering rich timbers, leather and tactile fabrics with custom carpets, sofas and joinery, alongside artworks by Central Coast artists and craftspeople.

Upon arrival at the property, guests enter beneath a glass-domed foyer with materials on show including Hawkesbury sandstone, spotted gum and warm brass. Blacksmith Saul Thompkins produced the maître d’ station, hearth work and bespoke metalwork across the property.

Facilities include a communal infinity pool and pool bar overlook the surrounding treetops, with a fully equipped gym and The Spa also on site.

Dining

A two-night package includes breakfast each morning at The Homestead restaurant at Saddles, daily lunch with house beverages at The Hawkesbury – The Lodge’s signature fine-dining restaurant – pre-dinner drinks at Ned’s piano bar and a five-course dinner with paired wines each evening. An in-room minibar, stocked with local treats and premium drinks, is also included as standard.

Head Chef Phillip Roberts leads the kitchen at The Hawkesbury. Roberts’ career includes time at ARIA in Sydney and Oncore by Clare Smyth, and his produce-driven menu draws on local seafood, estate-grown herbs and vegetables, and premium meats and poultry. The menu changes daily with season and produce availability. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday lunchtimes, The Hawkesbury opens for dining beyond Lodge guests, with a dedicated tasting menu showcasing the kitchen’s full range.

Art Deco-inspired piano bar Ned’s offers cocktails and live music in the evenings.

Experiences and the spa

Two signature experiences are included in every stay, with return transfers in The Lodge’s Mercedes Sprinter fleet. Options include a cruise on the Hawkesbury aboard The Grace Kelly – The Lodge’s private vessel – visits to nearby oyster farms, guided walking trails, fishing with experienced guides and a trip to Glenworth Valley to witness the running of the horses. A guided tour of John Singleton’s personal art collection – featuring works by Arthur Boyd, John Olsen and Sidney Nolan – is also included.

The Spa at The Grand Saddles Lodge features five treatment rooms and a hydrothermal suite comprising a Finnish sauna, domed steam room and cold plunge. Developed in partnership with Synthesis Organics, treatments combine certified organic Australian skincare, native botanicals, aromatherapy and gemstones.

“I’ve only ever had one rule: if it’s not the best in the world, you won’t find it here,” Singleton said. “Mount White has been home for more than 25 years. I hope people arrive for a weekend and find it hard to leave. I still do.”

Reservations are open now for stays from 2 November 2026. A minimum two-night stay applies. Rates are available on enquiry at grandsaddleslodge.com.au