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This week's Photo of the Week was a challenge: 4 degrees of
bone-numbing cold; a night air charged with other worldly
suspense and armed with nothing more than an earthly flash
gun and a fellow ghost hunter with a torch and a spirit metre.
This image of Peter Clifford of Blue Mountains Mystery Tours
was captured as Peter and I scooted around the courthouse at
Hartley Historic Site on a cold night trying to avoid staring too
long at dark patches (well, I was anyway).
However, we managed to pull off this image of Peter in the
timber-lined cell showing a backdrop of historic graffiti. I like the
shallow depth of field, giving more prominence to Peter. The
brown, almost sepia tones, work well and Peter's eyes are
captivating.
David Hill, BMLOT Communications
8th May 2014
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Mountains Whispers
Guests can expect more than just a clean bed, instant tea and coffee and a mini bar when they stay in one of Lorraine Allanson's
four luxury Blue Mountains properties.
The sumptuous experience begins the moment they walk through the door and notice candles are lit, music is playing softly, the
kettle's boiled and the cottage has been warmed.
They could also be surprised by a trail of fresh flower petals and love notes leading to a bottle of chilled bubbly and their knight
on bended knee.
The hallmark of Lorraine's cottages - Varenna, Leura Rose Cottage and Strawberry Patch at Leura and The Gatsby at Katoomba
- is spas and luxury nestled in some of the most prime real estate in the Blue Mountains.
Lorraine said her aim was to ensure a full romantic luxury experience in each of her tastefully-themed properties.
''I can't guarantee the weather but I can guarantee your stay.
''You don't just get a room with a clean bed and a view here. I put together full breakfasts and guests cook it at their leisure with
the milk they want and the bread they want because they're questions I ask them when they book. People feel they are being
appreciated and it's a real experience for them.''
Lorraine sends personal letters to guests and prepares the cottages with bathrobes and slippers, fresh flowers and music
before greeting guests when they arrive for their minimum two-night stay.
''I'm up here every time people are here,'' she says. ''I don't leave it to anybody.''
Lorraine specialises in details, from the house fittings she has sourced from all over the world to the proposal packs she tailors
for men who have romantic intentions but lack the know-how of implementation.
''I did one recently where I set up the bathroom with rose petals and had a sign made up with 'Will you marry me'. I had the Moet
on ice and the specific song he wanted playing and a few little notes placed.''
(The lady said ''Yes''.)
''It's a real passion for me and it gives me a real high to know that's happened here. Hopefully they'll come back for their
anniversary.''
The Blue Mountains has always had a special place in Lorraine's heart. During her early 20s, much time was spent on
weekends horse riding in the picturesque Megalong Valley or bushwalking and housesitting in Leura.
In 1999, her now husband Roger proposed to her on Valentine's Day at the majestic Carrington Hotel.
Then, in 2006, Lorraine left the corporate world to pursue her dream of recreating yesteryear settings for the discerning luxury
traveller.
Today, the four cottages within the multi award-winning Mountain Whispers boutique collection provide the perfect base in which
to escape it all.
Varenna: a grand Edwardian residence just two minutes stroll from Leura village. Varenna is opulent in scale and style, with
stunning gardens and indulgent inclusions throughout. Accommodates up to three couples.
Leura Rose: a classic Blue Mountains weatherboard home with warm timber finishes, a gourmet kitchen and a stunning spa
bathroom complete with its own fireplace, is suitable for one or two couples.
Strawberry Patch: - a cute, intimate cottage hidden away in a lush garden yet just a few minutes stroll to Leura village is suitable
for one or two couples. Four poster beds, warm fires and a double spa promise cosy nights in.
The Gatsby: a character Katoomba home in a perfect location that has been restored in authentic art deco style, with luxurious
furnishings, spa bath and roaring gas log fire accommodates up to eight people.
