The Chalet Fontanelle

WINNER 2008 BLUE MOUNTAINS TOURISM AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE. FINALIST NSW TOURISM AWARDS (WINNER TBA NOVEMBER 2008), RATED NO.1 OF B&Bs ON TRIPADVISOR IN WENTWORTH FALLS.

A grand heritage mountain estate, Whispering Pines' Chalet Fontanelle is a world class, luxurious country retreat EXCLUSIVELY FOR COUPLES, standing right at the head of the majestic Wentworth Falls, overlooking the beautiful Blue Mountains, only one and a half hours drive from Sydney. Perched on a stunning cliff-top, the Chalet Fontanelle sits secluded in four acres of tranquil gardens & fountains. This majestic location is just steps from the natural wonder of the World Heritage listed Blue Mountains National Park and just seconds from lookouts and the start of some of the most spectacular walking trails in the Mountains. The Chalet Fontanelle has the privilege of being the only Blue Mountains property recommended by Conde'Nast Johansens.
A stone's throw from lookouts and walking trails,Whispering Pines’ Chalet Fontanelle offers a blend of luxury, privacy, spectacular views and quiet hospitality in two grand executive apartment wings.

The Chalet Fontanelle Accommodation

Charles Darwin Stateroom:$390 to $490 per night
Grand King Spa Suite
Judged most spectacular suite in the Blue Mountains by independent travel agents. 140 sq metre suite whose exclusive verandah & private observatory overlook the stunning vista of Mt Solitary & the Jamison Valley. Hide away by the fire in the spacious lounge room with DVD, CD & TV, or relax in the amazing bathroom – underfloor heating & corner spa. Another fireplace in the king bedroom completes this indulgent experience. A Honeymoon paradise. Sleeps 2

Gordon Childe Executive Suite:$290 to $390 per night
Luxury Treetop Suite
A wonderful light filled apartment nestled amongst the treetops. Enjoy the birdlife and valley views from the privacy of the sunny sitting room with fire, DVD, CD & TV. The large bedroom & both sitting rooms overlook the gorgeous fountains & extensive gardens. A Birdlovers paradise.Sleeps 2

Paul Sorensen Garden Studio:$190 to $290 per night
Opens directly into the garden with verandah, kitchenette, queen bed & ensuite. Very private & cosy. Sleeps 2

We also have self-catering cottage accommodation available with all necessities supplied for couples and groups (see Whispering Pines Holiday Cottages on this site).

The Chalet Fontanelle Heritage and Location

Whispering Pines Chalet Fontanelle stands on the escarpment at the point where the Wentworth Falls plunge 1000 feet into the majestic Jamison Valley at the end of Darwin's Walk (named after Charles Darwin). Its grounds adjoin the National Park and the old home has sweeping mountain views that are both totally Australian and totally unique.

The house was built for the Childe family of North Sydney in 1898 as a Blue Mountains summer house and was home to Vere Gordon Childe, Australia's most eminent prehistorian.

During its 108 years, Whispering Pines has been many things - summer house, family home, guesthouse, headmaster's residence and boarding school. Sadly neglected and left open to the elements during the 1980's, it was purchased in 1991 by its present owners and has undergone total restoration.

What is now a beautifully restored fine old house stands in 1.6 hectares of the sort of gardens that only a grand vision and a century can produce. Towering oaks, cedars, dogwoods and pines add dignity to a splendid rain garden with a focal point of formal roses on one side, and on the other an elegant fountain in keeping with the home's original name. Croquet on the rose terrace is evocative of the property’s heyday and a striped blazer and straw boater wouldn’t be at all astray here.

"The character, attention to detail and remarkable setting all make this an unforgettable experience." - Australian Country Style