Built between 1880 and 1903 by a Sydney businessman as a health resort incorporating three buildings, it has superb views of the unspoilt and quite spectacular Megalong Valley.
A popular romantic getaway for Sydneysiders, it recently completed a multi-million dollar refurbishment to restore its original glory. Towering ceilings, polished wooden floors and furniture in the style of the period gives its public areas all the hallmarks of a gracious retreat. It has often been described as an Edwardian folly with a touch of Art Deco.
The hotel is at the start of two major bush walking trails and rents out mountain bikes for more energetic guests who want to enjoy the clean mountain air. There is a swimming pool, two tennis courts and a croquet lawn. At some 900 metres above sea level, the area is considerably cooler than Sydney from autumn (fall) through to spring so all 63 rooms are centrally heated.
Available with a choice of King, Queen, double or twin beds, rooms overlook the hotel's beautifully well kept gardens or the Megalong Valley. They are tastefully furnished in the style of the period in which the hotel first opened.
Meals and drinks are served in the Grand Dining Room and the Megalong Room overlooking the valley. The Hydro Lounge boasts an open log fire in cool weather.
The hotel also has a roadside bar beside the highway and away from the main building, which is a popular stopping place for passing tourists.
The Hydro is a one-of-a-kind property in idyllic surroundings, providing high standards of comfort without 'high-tech' frills. Its away-from-it-all location makes it an ideal small meeting venue.