Named after the Zulu word for healer, Sangoma is a secret haven of calm, restoration and seduction. Inside the retreat, a sultry atmosphere fills the air, while the soft lighting, deep black walls and silky, earthen textures gently stir the depths of your soul. In the privacy of your suite, you’re immediately romanced by the sheer luxury of your surroundings, and a flood of hidden desires bubble t
o the surface. Perched on the eastern edges of the dramatic Blue Mountain ranges, overlooking the fertile lands of the Nepean River delta below, Spicers Sangoma Retreat soars above all, and quickly takes your senses to equally dizzying heights. The hidden setting, endless indulgences, creative cuisine and refined service ignites the passion in every guest, and releases you from all responsibility, concern or care. In the main lounge, a hint of the retreat’s original South African soul arouses the curiosity. Animal-hide ottomans and rugs, safari chests and rustic wooden tables are dotted throughout, and tribal artwork and kudu horn sculptures provide accent to the theme. Floor to ceiling windows flood the room with light, and the generous deck surveys the plains below. Here nature whispers to you gently, with the soft song of cheerful birds filling the air. The colours of the native waratahs and the succulent filled gardens present a calming palette to the eye. In Restaurant Amara, the sophisticated dining room draws guests in with its soft lighting, high backed leather chairs, weighty, textured cutlery and generous bar. Its daily fresh harvest experience is based on only the freshest local organic produce available, and the intimate, personalised degustation takes the diner on a mouth-watering exploration of tradition, invention and playfulness. Vegetables take centre stage at Amara – think glazed leeks with purplette onions, artichoke crackers or a layered Vegetable Parmi – whilst technique driven ideas such as dehydration, foams and smoking all feature regularly on the menu. The eight private suites at Sangoma provide the ultimate romantic escape, where you can truly reconnect. Moody, muted and sensual, the soothing colours and textures of the décor heals tired spirits and the bold artwork, deep baths, warming fireplaces and polished concrete floors rejuvenate even the most weary. The luxury suites offer unique experiences – on the eastern side, city lights flicker on the horizon; on the western escarpment side, the sigh of the mountain creek below can be heard. Time at Sangoma moves slowly, although there is certainly no shortage of things to do. Spectacular nearby mountain walks in the Blue Mountains; gourmet excursions into Kurrajong and Katoomba; a couples massage in the indulgent spa tent; a wine and watercolour art class; an afternoon sipping cocktails by the pool – these can all be enjoyed at your own extravagant pleasure.
