Although only 75 minutes from the city, Camden is – as the ‘Welcome to Camden’ sign says – “still a country town”. With sprawling urban growth on its outskirts, the town somehow manages to maintain its mix of historic character and modern convenience. No place more so than the Camden Valley Inn – an institution for locals, lovingly dubbed ‘the CVI’ – and a place that blends country charm with contemporary chic.
Set against rolling green hills and local farmland, the Camden Valley Inn offers the kind of laid-back luxury that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It’s where locals gather for long lunches and visitors linger over craft cocktails while soaking up live music.
This is the kind of place people come to see, stay for hours and visit more than once. Whether you’re mingling with mates, watching the kiddies pet the goats or gazing lovingly into the eyes of your significant other, it’s easy to lose an afternoon or even a whole day sitting under the umbrellas and fairy lights in this country paradise.
Built in the early 1930s as the original ‘Camden Vale Inn’, this heritage-listed spot first opened as a humble milk bar promoting the milk of Camden Park. After securing its tavern licence in 1989, it evolved through many chapters to become what it is today – a refined yet relaxed destination for dining, live entertainment and luxury boutique hotel-style stays.
Set on five picturesque acres, the Camden Valley Inn has always drawn a crowd – locals, day-trippers, and weekenders alike. But after a $15 million refresh in 2019, it’s stepped confidently into a new era. Today, the multi-purpose venue boasts multiple bars, a revitalised dining area, seriously luxurious accommodation, a beer garden and a covered terrace, all the modern touches you’d want, without losing an ounce of its country soul.
The Accommodation
The tudor-style white brick lodges at the bottom of the stunning Razorback Mountains are the epitome of countryside elegance. Tucked among climbing vines and framed by meticulously kept rose gardens, the setting has a touch of Queenstown magic.
The Executive King Room with a fireplace and spa bath is our luxury pick! The room is generous in size, with a king bed, desk for the business traveller, minibar and comfortable armchairs for two. The front door opens out onto a balcony overlooking farmland and rolling green hills – the perfect spot to sit and sip a sundowner, whilst watching cows graze in the field and kookaburras perched atop the arbour.
Staying during the warmer months? You can keep cool with a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool (for guests of the accommodation only), lounge on the sun-soaked deck chairs with a drink in hand, or simply relax under the shade of the surrounding trees while soaking up the peaceful country atmosphere.
If you’re lucky enough to lock in the Executive King room or King Spa room then you’re absolutely going to want to take advantage of the two-person spa with neck pillows, whilst sipping a glass of crisp Tatachilla Brut. Afterward, slip into the plush white robes, sink into the calm, order some room service and let the quiet elegance of the space wash over you.
Or, if you’re in the mood, you could wander over to the bar, bask in the afternoon sun, explore the diverse cocktail menu, and ponder which dishes from the mouth-watering seasonal menu you’ll try for dinner.
Food & Drink:
The vast courtyard overlooking the farmland is a gorgeous sun-filled spot for a leisurely lunch. Perch yourself under one of the umbrellas and take in the views whilst hoeing into a Southern Fried Chicken Burger. Or sip a glass of sparkly whilst watching the sunset and enjoy a sumptuous bowl of the home-made Spicy Vodka & Crab Pasta.
If you’re in more of a snacking mood and want some share plates for the table, we recommend the smoked mozzarella and basil arancini, baked brie board and a side of hot, crispy wedges.
For something light and fresh, choose from a range of wholesome salads. If you’re dining with little ones, there are smaller bites to keep them happy – or opt for a wood-fired pizza to share with the whole family.
Lovers of wine – you’re also in luck! The Camden Valley Inn offers a generous double pour, so you can settle in, savour your favourite drop, and make the most of those long, lazy afternoons overlooking the rolling hills (without having to wait in line for a top-up)!
If you’re staying the night, there’s also a full breakfast menu and barista-made coffee available from 7am, so you can load up on caffeine before exploring the town of Camden, only a 5 minute drive away.
Events:
There’s never a dull moment at the Camden Valley Inn, because there’s always something to celebrate. From fun seasonal themes (think Back to Bedrock) to beautifully decorated events for special occasions like the Melbourne Cup or Mother’s Day, the CVI knows how to bring people together for a good time.
The venue also caters for all types of functions – big and small. From intimate birthday parties and baby showers to elaborate wedding receptions or corporate events, they have a range of unique spaces available and have also recently extended the car park to accommodate.
Camden Valley Inn is countryside luxury personified – a weekend (or midweek) escape so idyllic that it feels like it could be hours away, but really only a hop, skip and jump from the city.
