Deals of the day
Château de La Chèvre d’Or
Nature is everywhere at Château de la Chèvre d’Or. There are lots of different gardens filled with sculptures, fountains, waterfalls, flowers, herbs, trees and shrubs. The area is perfumed with the scents of jasmine, bougainvillea and roses. The magnificent colors create a framework that blends into the horizon and the sea…
Villa Belvedere Taormina
Hotel Villa Belvedere is a delightful and charming boutique hotel, located at just a few minutes from Taormina’s lively town centre and from the world-famous Greek-Roman Theatre, which are both reachable by walking through the inspiring and panoramic Duca di Cesarò Botanic Gardens. The hotel benefits of wonderful views over the sea, the bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. The hotel has always been…
Laucala Island Fiji
A private island refuge in the South Pacific, Laucala unites dramatic rainforest-laced landscapes and white sandy beaches with unparalleled levels of luxury and privacy. No expense has been spared at the exclusive tropical hideaway, where 25 Fijian-styled villas are set amid coconut plantations, beside deserted beaches and atop the island’s volcanic mountains, overlooking fertile coral reefs and endless jungle. Style and…
Mnemba Island Lodge
Steeped in culture and history, Zanzibar enticed adventurers, seafarers and traders from far and wide. Known as the spice island, from the centuries old trade of cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon, today the Zanzibar Archipelago is still bathed in the heady scents of spices and traditional dhows still drift across the horizon. A romantic hideaway, Mnemba Island is an exclusive paradise featuring twelve rustically chic beachside…
Piccolo Hotel Portofino
Hotel Piccolo Portofino, surrounded by the typical luxuriant vegetation of the Liguria Riviera, among the crystal clear water of Portofino and the blue sky, is a piece of art of the reception, unique of its kind. A hidden jewel, that has to be searched end discovered. Obtained from a refined period villa, today it is a boutique hotel, and from its generous terraces, a breathtaking view onto this exclusive stretch of coast…
Bawah Reserve
A gorgeous tropical paradise surrounded by a blue ocean, Bawah Reserve sits in sheltered seclusion 160 nautical miles (300km) northeast of Singapore in the remote Anambas Archipelago, Indonesia. This pristine and previously uninhabited marine conservation area is surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, which cater to outdoor adventurers looking to indulge as well as those looking to relax in paradise…
Cavo Tagoo Santorini
The exclusive Cavo Tagoo Santorini, twin of Cavo Tagoo Mykonos is located within walking distance from Fira and just a few kilometers from Oia, the resort offers luxurious suites, spectacular sunsets over the sea and a personalized service exceptional. All Suites are modern and feature a hot tub or private pool on the terrace style, design details, 43-inch LCD satellite TV, patio or terrace with stunning panoramic view…
Il Sereno Como
Il Sereno brings a new era of luxury to the banks of Italy’s iconic Lake Como. Awarded the title of “Most Anticipated New Luxury Hotel Opening in 2016” by Luxury Travel Advisor magazine, Il Sereno’s ethos of understated elegance presents a freshness to this well-established destination. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, Wallpaper* Magazine Designer of The Year 2015, the all-suite hotel promises modern style and an authentic…
Boutique Hotel Die Alpbacherin
The history of DER ALPBACHERIN began in the former Angelika house. Some time ago, in the middle of Alpbach, at house number 405, stood the small bed and breakfast “Haus Angelika”. Georg and Lisa ran them with a lot of love. The success proved you right and so the desire for a new place for more guests was born. A dream came true. Together with daughter Valentina and her boyfriend Thomas, plans, dreams and…
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris, a 5-star hotel in the centre of Paris, offers you a unique stay in a typically Parisian atmosphere. The building was built in 1907 by the Hennessy family, during the enchanting interlude offered by the Paris of the “Belle Époque”. Reflecting this magical era, our luxury hotel in Paris embodies a certain French art de vivre. La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris enjoys an idyllic setting and immerses you in the…
Juma Amazon Lodge
With its prime location in one of the most remote and preserved regions of the Amazon Rainforest, Juma Amazon Lodge is an intimate and inviting property harmoniously nestled into the forest environment which defines it. Juma Amazon Lodge features 19 intimate bungalows seamlessly nestled into the lush surroundings of the Amazon Rainforest. In order to accommodate the water levels of the wet season…
Royal Mansour Marrakech
The Royal Mansour can be counted amongst the few establishments in the world that defy hotel excellence. Just a few steps away from the famous Jemaa El Fna square beats the heart of the Marrakesh Palace, offering travellers the unique concept of a medina within a medina.
Each area has been designed to intuitively take guests on a sensory journey. Take a step into the secret and sumptuous history of one of the…
Azulik Tulum
In the heart of the Mayan jungle, a revolutionary project is about to redefine human evolution. A new vision of the future that is guided by ancestral knowledge and creates community is beginning to shape up.The VILLAS of AZULIK Tulum are built in harmony with the Mayan jungle and the Caribbean Sea. With no electric light, A/C, or television, we present nature as our main amenity, setting the perfect mood for a…
Cliveden House
Cliveden House is a privately owned 5 Red Star award-winning hotel, and sister to the world-renowned Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa in Hampshire. Our story is one of over 350 years of powerful personalities, iconic parties and scandalous affairs. Built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, as a gift to his mistress, Cliveden House has remained a pinnacle of…
Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery
In search for unique places, sometimes you need to get off the main roads. However, let them lead you to Bale, Istria. Then slow down and follow the road that gets narrower with every mile, as nature draws closer. Slow down even more, and then make a turn into the white road. As the iron gates of the Meneghetti estate open up in front of you, stop for just one moment – and realize that the magic actually appears off the…
Villa Principe Leopoldo Lugano
Live in a fairy tale, surrounded by prestige and nature. Imagine contemplating Lugano’s beauty in a princely residence. The former private home of German Emperor Wilhelm’s brother in law, the Villa is located on a picturesque promontory called the Collina d’Oro (Golden Hill), whose views and location are the best kept secret in town. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live in a legendary home, a stay…
Il San Pietro Di Positano
The San Pietro di Positano is more than a hotel. It is a journey within a journey, where memories are created and never forgotten. A haven of peace, immersed in nature, this elegant home harmonises old-world traditions of hospitality with contemporary, understated luxury. Escape to this small slice of paradise suspended between the sea and sky. Carved into the cliff overlooking the mediterranean Sea, our rooms are a…
Casa Casuarina Miami
Casa Casuarina was built in 1930 by Alden Freeman. Alden Freeman’s father, Joel Freeman was Treasurer of The Standard Oil Trust (also known as Rockefeller’s Company) and left Alden a fabulous wealth when he passed away. That gave the young and wealthy Alden the opportunity to retire at the age of 27 from being an architect and travel all over the world. Alden was also a descendent of the Mayflower on his mother’s side…
Aria Hotel Budapest
The Aria Hotel Budapest is a luxury boutique hotel with an exquisite design inspired by music. To compliment the musical concept, master designer Zoltan Varro’s vision was to simultaneously recreate the rich, lavish atmosphere of a historic Hungarian palace while also embracing visitors in the warmth and comfort of a private residence…
Palazzo Navona Rome
The innovative Palazzo Navona Hotel fully deserved of its role as being amongst one of the most qualified 4 star Hotels within the city “centro”, capable of fulfilling its own lifestyle qualities to satisfy even the most demanding guest. The intimate and charming ambience emits a feeling of almost magic by creating a special atmosphere which pervades this residence surrounded by its historical-art and ancient Roman…
Relais Borgo Santo Pietro
Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Relais Borgo Santo Pietro was once a healing stopover for medieval pilgrims. Today it continues to provide a sanctuary for modern souls, merging a 5 star luxury hotel and spa concept with a ‘farm to plate’ philosophy on a 300-acre estate. A sumptuous feeling of home pervades the 800-year-old luxury farmhouse hotel, with its worn leather armchairs pulled up around open fires, fresh flower…
Cocos Hotel Antigua
Perched on a lush green hillside, encircled by miles of heavenly blue sea and sandwiched between two gorgeous white sand beaches is COCOS Hotel, an all inclusive Antigua resort for couples and adults only. This rustic yet romantic and cozy boutique resort is located on the sunset side of the beautiful Caribbean Island of Antigua and comprises of a collection of 35 quaint wooden Cottages positioned on a pictoresque…
Gecko Hotel & Beach Club Formentera
In the beautiful and protected island of Formentera, Gecko Hotel & Beach Club was set out for like-minded individuals to unwind, connect with oneself and nature and above all celebrate life. Gecko brings to Formentera a new form of hospitality that unites our love for the island, the beach life and the elegance of a time in the past that continues to inspire us. Our clublike restaurant, in front of the Migjorn beach, offers a…
Kudadoo Private Island
Kudadoo’s renowned eco-consciousness and sleek design extend to the Maldives island’s 15 over-water residences where your uninterrupted enjoyment of the private island charm and the splendid natural surrounds are the norm….
Welcome to Kingsford Homestead – one of Barossa Luxury Retreats iconic properties set on the edge of the breathtaking Barossa Valley wine country. Luxurious accommodation with unique events venues – exudes style and elegance, yet maintains its rural charm.
Once the home to a wealthy nineteenth-century pastoralist and in more recent times, the set for McLeod’s Daughters – Kingsford Homestead offers the perfect retreat for you to indulge, discover, relax…and get lost in time.
We offer use of the homestead exclusively for up to 14 accommodation guests, and up to 300 guests for events on site in our beautifully renovated Shearing Shed or in a marquee under the stars. Ideal for weddings, family reunions, special occasions and corporate retreats.
A Remarkable History
In 1836, South Australia was ‘free-settled’ by British colonists who wanted freedom of worship and a chance at a prosperous life. Lincolnshire man Stephen King was one of these settlers, sailing aboard the ship Orleana in 1839.
After alighting in Adelaide, he joined a syndicate in acquiring a parcel of newly-sectioned land north of the Para River – the beginnings of a settlement called Gawler.
King was an educated man, a pastoralist and an entrepreneur. He built the town’s first steam-powered flour mill and settled a 500-acre parcel of land to the north on which he ran 3,250 sheep.
His first house was a small property of stone on the land known as ‘Mincalta’. Business was obviously good and in 1856 he commissioned the construction of a substantial two-storey house – one built to reflect his new status and success.
It’s believed King himself was influential in its design, working with a very able stonemason. Much of the house exterior you see today conforms to the original build, a sandstone structure in Georgian style.
The sandstone was thought to be brought out as ship’s ballast from Edinburgh, Scotland, and transported up to Kingsford on horse drawn carriages. Original features within include the splendid cedar staircase in Gothic style, the slate flagged entrance hall and the cedar ‘buffet’.
The large Gothic-style buffet feature opens to reveal steps down into the stone cellars, used to store produce (delivered through a chute) and said to have once held bushrangers who’d ‘bailed up’ the homestead.
The original coach way to the property came from the east, ultimately serving the entrance to what is now the Dining Room. When a track from the west became the preferred access, the turreted porch – also in Gothic style – was added to form the main entrance.
Kingsford was a watering point for coach companies, drovers and bullock teams passing through the region, but the property lays claim to a special part in Australia’s pioneering history. In 1861, John McDouall Stuart left on his third and final expedition in a bid to cross the continent from north to south.
The party went through Kingsford, for reasons other than water and rest: 19-year-old Stephen King Jr, one of Stephen and Martha King’s 11 children, joined the epic 3000km journey with Stuart, and William Billiatt.
South Australia’s history is very much one populated with boom and bust and the 1860s saw a severe drought. King was forced to sell the property, thereafter moving to the Northern Territory.
Kingsford was acquired by John Howard Angas, the son of South Australian founding father George Fife Angas, who raised Hereford cattle on the property. It then went to a syndicate of owners and back to the Angas family in 1924, this time under Sir Keith Angas, a great-grandson of George Fife Angas.
Subsequent owners continued to raise livestock and crops on the property, including Frederick Scarfe, and Tom Fotheringham who owned the property until 1998. Mr Fotheringham’s son, Tony, is a tremendous source of knowledge on the property and friend of the current owners.
Kingsford was bought from Mr Fotheringham by the government and run briefly as an Agricultural Research Facility, then as a Montessori Pre-School, before being sold on to Channel Nine under Kerry Packer. It then embarked the role of featuring as ‘Drover’s Run’ on the hit TV series, McLeod’s Daughters.
The set was closed off from the public for eight years of production and run like a working farm for the purposes of filming, complete with 100 cattle, 250 sheep, 15 horses, working dogs and a team of stockmen.
Interior scenes were all filmed inside the homestead; outbuildings on the property were also used, including ‘Meg’s Cottage’ originally referred to as ‘Hartley’s House’ next to the main homestead.
It’s not widely known, but the show was going to be called Drover’s Run until Packer vetoed the name for the one it went to air with. A total of 224 episodes of McLeod’s Daughters were viewed in 41 countries.
The Ahrens family purchased the property in 2009, carefully converting the property to the five-star retreat you are enjoying today. Kingsford is listed on the State Heritage Register and Register of the National Estate.
Luxury Boutique Accommodation
Kingsford is appointed in a style that is contemporary yet sympathetic with the original ambitions of the 1856 homestead. The original ambitions? To impress!
We hire the homestead out exclusively for groups of up to 14 guests who have their preference of any of the seven suites, including a self-contained cottage. Ideal for weddings, special occasions, family reunions, & corporate retreats.
The guest areas are generous, comfortable and in a few cases, unique to the historic property. We welcome families with children of all ages to Kingsford Homestead.
Accommodation
Kingsford Homestead sleeps up to 14 guests across seven luxurious suites. Each suite is uniquely styled and named in honour of a previous owner of the homestead.
There are five suites on the upper storey; Stephen King Suite, John Angas Suite, Frederick Scarfe Suite, Mincalta Suite & Kerry Packer Suite, a disabled access suite on the ground floor; Ahrens Suite and the Stonemason’s Cottage adjacent to the homestead, commonly referred to as our ‘honeymoon suite’ providing couples with an element of extra privacy.
King beds, all convertible to twin singles if required, are offered in five of the luxury suites, with a Queen bed in both the Ahrens Suite & Frederick Scarfe Suite. In addition to this, additional bedding for children can be arranged. Please enquire for further details.
Each suite has its own luxurious ensuite, five of which offer beautiful bath tubs. In addition to this, the property also offers a unique Riverside Bush Bath experience, ideal for any couples looking for an extra romantic experience during their stay. Suite Amenities Include:
- Robes & Slippers
- Luxurious bathroom amenities
- Flat-screen TV with all digital channels
- Free wireless internet access
- BOSE music station with iPod and USB connectivity
- Iron & Ironing board
- Hair Dryer
- In-Suite Safe
- Individual Air Conditioning Unit
Dining Room
Our spacious dining room overlooks the rolling hills – a place for deep conversations, fine wine with friends and family and quiet reflection. Awake to a hearty regional Barossa breakfast and the peaceful tranquility Kingsford Homestead has to offer.
Living Areas
The Lounge and Library are home to large comfortable sofas, open fires and a LCD TV. These are great spaces to relax and socialise after an enoyable day out. We have a selection of books and DVD’s to share with you.
Cellar
A charming, ambient space available for intimate dinners up to 14 guests. We offer ‘winemaker dinners’ throughout the year, Keep your eyes on our Event’s Calendar for these periodic special events.
You’re invited to inspect our extensive collection of fine wines, including vintages from the Barossa, Clare, Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale. These are available for purchase at any time.
Veranda
There are verandas to the East and South of the property, both enjoying sweeping views of lily-filled gullies and grassy knolls sure to stir the soul.
The spaces can be configured for dining, but during the day, seating is available for those who just wish to read, enjoy a glass of something or wile away the hours.
Shearing Shed
Our historic shearing shed lies to the west and you’re invited to explore them while wandering the property. These evocative and atmospheric buildings are also used for functions and weddings.
Pool
Relaxing next to our new pool is the ideal spot to spend a lazy afternoon. Dive into the cool depths after a day of Barossa exploring, or stretch out on one of the loungers and read your book. Enjoy a cold drink while soaking up the Australian sunshine and the sweeping countryside views that surround you.
Property
The 225-acres feature a river, walking trails and other natural attractions, alongside lawn space for events and weddings.
Riverside Bush Bath
This is a signature Kingsford Homestead experience – one of the world’s most beautiful al fresco baths, set in a beautiful and secluded corner of the property. And yes, it can fit two.
Extras
Whether taking advantage of staying in the fantastic Barossa Valley or indulging in some decadence at your luxury accommodation,
select from our wonderful options when you book with us today.
Seppeltsfield Estate – Centenary Tour
The ultimate tour at Seppeltsfield, the Centenary Tour is a once in a lifetime experience. Visit the Seppelt family homestead, followed by a private tasting of super-premium fortified wines.
Hot Air Ballooning
Enjoy this exhilarating experience and take in the early morning views of the exquisite Barossa Valley. An unforgettable adventure that will take your breath away – leaving you inspired and on cloud nine.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
Add a romantic touch to your stay at Kingsford Homestead and enjoy champagne and delicious chocolate dipped strawberries in your stunning suite.
Relaxing Massage
A one hour relaxing & revitalising experience for your body, mind & soul in the privacy of your own suite. Relax the nervous system, lower stress levels and refresh your wellbeing from the inside out.
Outdoor Bush Bath with French Champagne
This signature award-winning Kingsford Homestead experience – one of the world’s most beautiful al fresco baths, set in a beautiful and secluded corner of the property.
Hotel Transfer
Return transfers from Adelaide Airport to Kingsford Homestead. Subject to availability.
Impressive Events
Whether you want an intimate soiree, a fairytale wedding or a product launch for 300 people, we will create an event to remember. Kingsford has the place, the space and the means to cater for any size of event in a rustic yet opulent setting.
Exclusively Yours
Because we cater to just 14 guests, it is easy to secure Kingsford Homestead for exclusive use for your special occasion, executive corporate retreat or wedding. It is the perfect venue, one which ensures pure intimacy, privacy and personal attention.
Impressive. Inspiring. Innovative.
Whether you’re looking to impress your clients or inspire your people, Kingsford can pull out all the stops. Of course the handsome Homestead can make for a powerful AGM or a potent piece of corporate hosting.
But Kingsford can also accommodate events for up to 300 – events like product launches, conferences and conventions. We have almost limitless marquee space amidst some of Australia’s most beautiful natural settings.
We’ve got stone shearing sheds that bestow an evocative sense of history and some good old-fashioned individuality. And we’ve got an outstanding team to take care of all the canvas, catering and technicals.
If you’re looking for some creative input (a sound and light show among 100-year-old gumtrees perhaps?) we can provide that too.
Fairytale Wedding
And a memory you will cherish for a lifetime. With a strictly limited number of weddings each year, Kingsford Homestead is a truly unforgettable location. Romantic, elegant and secluded, just 45 minutes from Adelaide and on the edge of the Barossa Valley. What could be more special?
Our Wedding team tailor every aspect of your special day. Let us know a little more about your upcoming event, and our Wedding Co-ordinator will contact you to discuss all the details.
The Perfect Venue, The Complete Experience
You want this day to be perfect in every way. And so do we. That’s why we have a dedicated and experienced team to work with you to plan and deliver your dream wedding.
Every aspect of it – from the Invitations to the Wedding Cake and all items in-between. We offer more than just a stunning venue. We will deliver the complete wedding experience.
Tailor-made For You
Our exclusive Kingsford Homestead wedding team and our reliable group of partners will work with you. Together we will design and tailor-make a unique Ceremony and Celebration just for you.
Award-winning Menu Options
Based on carefully selected local and seasonal produce, together with an exquisite wine selection, Kingsford Homestead is fast gaining a strong reputation for its fine food.
Barossa Valley Journey
Kingsford Homestead is located on the edge of the breathtaking Barossa, a region of history and renowned for their unmatched food and wines. Follow in the footsteps of the pastoral pioneers on an early morning walk.
Try a little vintage wine-tasting in the slate-floored cellar. Explore the Barossa, mingle or journey inwards for self reflection. Take an outdoor bath in nature, inhaling deeply whilst listening to the birds and sipping on Champagne. Letting go.
With a customised itinerary for guests, your journey could include unforgettable culinary or wine experiences, hot air ballooning over the picturesque landscape, family fun activities, spa treatments, yoga onthe luscious lawns, cooking classes and much more!
Itineraries are customised based on your desires and requirements from involced corporate retreat itineraries to relaxed ones designed for family stays. Talk to our Property Hosts about putting together a proposed itinerary just for you.
About the Barossa
The Barossa is one of the world’s finest wine-growing regions, and is arguably home to the oldest vines in the world. Now at the heart of the Australian wine industry, the rolling valleys and fertile plains of the Barossa were first noted in the 1830s for their extraordinary potential.
In 1842 communities of Prussian émigrés were brought into the region to establish a little of the ‘old world’ in the new. As was their tradition, a few began to grow vines.
Today, their influence, their culture and indeed their extraordinary wine-making skills can still be seen in the historic settlements of this beautiful region – in towns like Bethany, Tanunda and Angaston. Not unrelated, the region supports an exquisite food culture and artisan production.
On Arrival
Kingsford Homestead caters to just 14 guests and we would love you to be among them. On arriving, you’ll be welcomed by your hosts Cassie Ferrett and Kyran Gardner. They’re ready to help you enjoy the very best of this magnificent property as well as the many attractions of the world-famous Barossa.
The Barossa Valley boasts some brilliant providores in the nearby charming historic towns, and we would be delighted to recommend some of these gems to you. Our luxury property is located only a short drive to nearby historic Tanunda, a village boasting a mecca of regional foodie delights.
Meander through the rolling hills of the Barossa Valley as you drop in to some of the best Wineries in the world, enjoying tastings and yarns with winemakers and local characters.
Barossa Attractions
Be sure to talk with your hosts Kathy and Kyran – they’ll be delighted to suggest some activities or tailor an itinerary to your interests so you can make more of your time in the Barossa.
Wine tours: If you’d like to self-tour we can provide a map marked with some famous historic local wineries (nearby Seppeltsfield is a must-see) as well as a few well-kept secrets where you can taste boutique wines. Alternatively we can arrange for you to tour the region by bike, or we can organise a chauffeur guide with all the local knowledge and connections.*
Ballooning: We’ll wake you before dawn and get you up, up and away in one of the most sensational balloon rides in the country. An amazing way to sample the Barossa wine country.
Gliding: Take to the air over the Barossa out of Gawler – it’s a wild ride and one to tick off the ‘must-do’ list.*
Golf: Tee off behind the Jacob’s Creek estate on one of South Australia’s most picturesque 18-hole courses*. Very popular with local winemakers!
Hidden Away – Easy To Find
Kingsford sits on the North Para River on the Western Ridge of the Barossa. Surrounded by 225 acres of stunning South Australian countryside, you will feel a million miles from city living. However, thanks to a brand new freeway the Homestead is just 45 minutes drive north from Adelaide International Airport.
If you are coming from interstate or overseas we will be delighted to arrange your return transfers (additional cost), although hire cars and taxi services are available at the airport. We use the airfield at Gawler for those arriving by charter aircraft (transfers can be arranged at an additional cost).
