Hidden Valley Escape
In the true spirit of the Nige MC, I went on a solo run to Hidden Valley Escapes – a motel & bunk style country retreat situated on Willow Tree Rd, Merriwa. Basically, from Gosford you head up to Cessnock, onto the Golden Hwy through to Merriwa, turn right into Coulsens Creek Rd and then about 25km onto the establishment. About 280km from Gosford, though, the last 17km is unsealed, dirt road (see photos) which though, not unbearable, may not be suitable to all riders and their bikes? However, you can use an alternate entrance taking the New England Hwy to Willow Tree (turn left) and you’ll experience a beautiful ride with only 5km of dirt, though, this section is a bit more twisty and you’ll need to be careful as the gravel is loose (watch out for the ‘Roos as well – I avoided two bounding in front of me at 10am). Don’t get me wrong, whichever way you go you’ll have a truly scenic ride, you’ll just have to be prepared to travel slowly and put up with a dusty bike at the end.
Once you get to the residence it is well-worth the travel. Good motel style accommodation, comfortable and clean with ensuite (& warm shower), tea & coffee in each room. They also have bunk style accommodation which will sleep a multiple number of people with shared toilet/shower again clean & comfortable. Guests have access to pool, BBQ – courtyard, lounge (TV) & dinning room – outside log fire in a beautiful country setting with under-cover, secure parking for your bike. All very reasonably priced with friendly hosts, Michael & Penny. Would be a perfect weekend away, particularly for those of you on road/trail hybrid bikes!
Scrounger
